Scottish Borderers in Palestine (post-1945)

[Matt R]

Hello all,

I am seeking information regarding my grandfather who served in Palestine in the 1946-8 timeframe. I have done some political research so I know the issues surrounding the area at this time but I am wondering if anybody has done any research into the regiments that were placed there at the time.

My grandfather, 19012178 Pte. W. McCartney, according to his service card that I have inherited, was in the "G.S.C" from 18.07.46 until 28.06.1946, and was then put into the King's Own Scottish Borderers wherein he served from 29.08.1946 until 09.10.1948. I understand by this point the mission in Palestine was over after British withdrawal and the regiment were in Edinburgh.

Does anybody now exactly where the KOSB did in Palestine? My mother talks about my grandfather being able to visit Bethlehem (he was a Roman Catholic) and obviously this was before Israel became a state in mid-1948. I have done some research and have gained general information such as the British Armed Forces searching villages for weapons and on security initiatives in Jerusalem.

Any information would be appreciated,

Thanks,

Reayboy.

[GR2]

An uncle of mine went out to Palastine as a Gordon, was transferred to the Argylls as the Gordons were leaving, then was transferred to the KOSB for the remainder of his time there. Much time was spent on guard duty. At one time he was part of the guard for the residence of the High Commissioner, Sir Alan Cunningham. He also guarded the courts etc. The King David Hotel bombing took place when he was there and he heard it.

Graham.

[Iban Kepala]

I suggest that you drop a line to

Nick HILL, PVA Administrator,
C/O. Eden Camp, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO16 6RT.

George.

[CaroleW]

Which post does this reply belong to?




Moderator Comment: topics now merged

[Iban Kepala]

Looks as tho the gremlins are at work again.

I was responding to a query found on page 1 of recently unread items in which someone was making enquires re some relative who have served in the KOSB between the period 1946 and October 1948.

He referred to 'having been to Bethlehem....' bur as that was within the Military Prohibited Zoning of the time there would be no units based in that area - hence my recommendation for potential contact.

I wondered why there was such a delay in clearing it ??

Apologies,
George.

[Matt R]

Last night I watched a programme called "The Promise" and the King David bombing was dramatised in that. I am not sure if my grandfather heard it also but I imagine he s some unpleasant things.

He may have even known your uncle through some coincidence or through knowing someone else!

Thanks,

Reayboy.

[maidmarianoops]

.. long link from google search ..

bit more info

sylvia


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See tips here, to avoid this:
Topic: Shrinking Very Long Website Links / Topic: Post too W--I--D--E!

[GR2]

If you let me know your grandfather's Christian name and where he was from, I'll ask my uncle if he remembers him.

Graham.

[Matt R]

Hello all,

I am a bit confused re the topic merge but I will answer best I can.

Thanks George for the details of Nick at Eden Camp. Can I ask hat this contact deals with specifically, please?

Graham, in regards to your question, my grandfather was William McCartney who was born in Rutherglen, Scotland in 1928. He may also have told people he was from Corby in Northamptonshire, England. He was known as Bill to his family and to some friends he was "Ginger". His father and brother moved there in 1930's and I am not sure if my grandfather and his mother had moved by the time he was sent to Palestine. I presume he did his National Service there and then chose to stay in the army?

Regards and thanks again to all contributors so far I am grateful for your help!

Reayboy.