Deciphering WW2 Service Record

[K8T]

Thank you MaxD.  The information you have given is great.  Maybe I'll have to get a copy of the diaries from the National Archives.

[K8T]

Have you got any idea what CDS means.
He was posted to 257 CDS - I know FDS is Field Dressing Station but not sure what the 'C' stands for.

[MaxD]

While FDS does mean Field Dressing Station, in this context the abbreviations are:
FDS - Forward Delivery Squadron
CDS - Corps Delivery Squadron

These were different levels of Royal Armoured Corps units that provided men and tank reinforcements.  Men would sometimes “stage” in such a unit between unit postings.  In this case, he leaves 3 CLY and is “parked” with 217 FDS as 1st reinforcement, goes to North West Europe with them and later leaves them for the Royal Scots Greys.  Later leaves the Greys and goes to 257 CDS on the X iv list, may have been sick or simply awaiting transfer to another unit.  Other parts of the record may explain that.

MaxD

[K8T]

Thanks MaxD that makes much more sense.  In that case does FAP mean something other than First Aid Post then?
'Att FAP'

[MaxD]

I was waiting for that - sorry 

For all purposes - context again, he was being attached (att) for pay. food, accommodation - all purposes to the second unit.  Not posted to them, attached is a temporary thing and unless he was going to be part of the permanent staff of the FDS, while with them he was attached.

MaxD

[MaxD]

I was waiting for that - sorry 

For all purposes - context again, he was being attached (att) for pay. food, accommodation - all purposes to the second unit.  Not posted to them, attached is a temporary thing and unless he was going to be permanently posted to 2 HLI (in this case), while with them he was attached.

Later in his record we find him att FAP 271 FDS and the reverse comes later  - CTBA 271 FDS Ceases to be attached.

MaxD

[K8T]

Thanks MaxD, you have been so helpful and have cleared up the confusion.  It is much appreciated.

[MaxD]

you are most welcome. 

MaxD

[Doods28]

Hello, I'm wondering if you ever got the the bottom of 40th SQN and Marakel - I'm working on my grandfathers record at the moment and they have these same activities and dates.

Thanks.