Happy Christmas! Here is the Special Order of the Day issued on 25 December 1939 to the Regiment with the Christmas message from Lietenant Colonel V R Krohn MC RA, the commanding officer of the 53rd Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment. It sheds some light on to the make up of the Territorial Regiment.

SPECIAL ORDER OF THE THE DAY

XMAS DAY - 1939

CHRISTMAS 1939, will long be remembered by the members of the 53rd (City of London) Anti-Aircraft Regiment, R.A. as the first they have spent Overseas on Active Service.

To many of you it is probably the first that you have ever spent away from your homes and families, and this may seem to be special hardship.

Your consolation lies in the fact that ours is one of the First Territorial Units to be sent Overseas, and in being thus selected we have been greatly honoured.

We have done, are doing, and shall continue to do our allotted task to the best of our ability. Whether it is being well done or not is for others to say.

For my part I want to take this opportunity to express to you all my very great appreciation of the whole hearted support you have always given to me.

There may be trying times ahead for all of us, but I am completely confident that we shall meet these with the same spirit which has enabled us to surmount the lesser difficulties of the past.

I cannot close this message without expressing to those of you who were Militiamen our special appreciation of the way you have absorbed the spirit of the Regiment. The first time I spoke to you I told you that you were to consider yourselves as full members of the 53rd A.A. Regiment, and not as being apart. That you have taken me at my word is gratifyingly apparent, and we older members of the Regiment are proud to have you with us.

I wish you all, Officers, Warrant Officers, N.C.O.'s and Men a HAPPY CHRISTMAS, and may we all look forward to a speedy return home.

Liet. Colonel R.A.
Commanding
53rd H.A.A. Regt. R.A.

B.E.F.
25/12/39

This is Frank's last letter of 1939. He mentions the first leave party departing that morning and this is also recorded in the Unit Diary. Frank expresses his hope of going on leave soon but although he didn't get home for Christmas he has clearly not been forgotten by family and friends judging from the number of parcels and presents he has received.

20/12/39 8.

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
British Expeditionary Force.

Dear Dad,

Another very hurried line just before the post goes.

I've written so many letters these last few days that I don't know which of yours I've replied to or if I've forgotten to thank you for anything. I've to write a lot because I've had so much post. Quite a good deal of it was parcels.

I've had Auntie Nellie's (Finchley) balaclava hat and Auntie Nellie's (U.S.A.) parcel in which was a cake and 200 'Camels' (cigarettes). Louise sent me a Beautiful scarf (not hand knitted), Uncle Frank and Auntie Bertha sent me a very natty line in cigarette cases. Granny Saunders, Lily and Betty sent 50 cigarettes, the Mullins family 5/-, Kidderminster sent a pair of socks and Mr. Fletcher enclosed a pair with them. Did I mention Mrs. Foskett sent me biscuits?

Everybody is talking about leave now that a few men have started the ball rolling. Eight of them went off this-morning and I believe a similar number will be going each week now. The number per week may increase later. However, I have good hopes of being among the early ones. That being so will you let me know immediately what duties you are on as I shall not be able to let you know when I'm coming home until I reach England. I must wire you then. Don't build up your hopes too much just in case things come unstuck.

Must close

In haste

Love to all and xxxxxxx to Anne

Frank

I have added some Christmas related documents to my web album. If you click on the link below you will be able to view the regimental Christmas Card mentioned in Frank's letter of 10 December 1939, a card from the King and Queen and a programme from a review put on by the Battery before Christmas 1939.

A short letter this time, but it is clear that Frank is receiving plenty of letters although he appears somewhat tired of writing replies. Also good to see he has been sent plenty of food.

16/12/39

881937 Gnr.Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
British Expeditionary Force.

NOTE Quit A.A.S.F.


Dear Dad,

This is only a brief line and is intended to reassure you that I'm o.k.

Really I have not had much time for writing lately but will do so in answer to your letter of the 6th and the parcels both of which arrived absolutely intact. Thanks very much for all your trouble (and Edie’s and Ernie's).

I've been extremely lucky just lately as regards mail. A parcel and letter from Auntie Nellie in New York, a letter from Jack Sulston, one from Mr Neville (G.E.C.) all make my head whirl when I think of the letters I have to answer.

My larder of tinned food, cake, and biscuits is enormous and I hate to think what would happen to it all if we had to move again. However, there is no suggestion of that just yet.

Well, that's all for now but will try and write in the next 24 hours but if not don't worry.

Love to you all

Frank

Chivers Major (censor)

This letter is from Frank's friend Jack Endacott to Frank's sister Edie (my Grandmother). There is another letter from Jack Endacott published on this blog on 19 September 1939. It is interesting to have another view from a territorial soldier posted to a different area of France - their experiences appear to be very similar.

16/12/39

1438475 Gnr.Endacott
169 AA Battery RA
60th AA Regt. R.A.
British Expeditionary Force.

Dear Edie and Ernie,

Very many thanks indeed for the lovely parcel which I received today. It is so jolly decent of you and you may rest assured was very much appreciated. The cake looks so nice I do not want to cut it! Which reminds me I believe that I have omitted to thank you for the little cakes which you gave Olive to send on to me. Really you know we fellows over here don't deserve the kind attention which we are getting. Life was a change, it is no use saying otherwise, but I am now quite settled down and I expect Frank is also. I do wish I could meet him or 'phone as you suggest, but for all I know he may possibly be many miles away from here. I had a chance to attend one of those concerts last Wednesday, but mainly because I didn't fancy the long journey in the back of a lorry I gave up my ticket. I thought it just possible that Frank may have been there and I should have seen him, but learned later how hopeless it would have been!

I heard from him last month and he appeared to be quite comfortable, sleeping on a camp bed not a common li-lo like me! Surely he should have a stripe for the job he is doing or of course, maybe he doesn't want it! Has the Louise affair broken down completely? He didn't mention her when last writing and I must say I have thought a lot about it. By the way do you realise that you packed my parcel in a Siemans Lamp box ex the North Met? and to think that I am using Exram paper on the walls to keep the whitewash from coming off onto my clothes!! It seems to indicate that our travelers are not doing their stuff! Olive, I suppose, tells you all my news, and I'm afraid there is very little to add, except that we now play football every afternoon. This is not so easy as it sounds when you realise that we play upon a ploughed-up field!!

I do a 'guard' about once in six days and we have the next day off. I was on last night - was it cold and black! - so instead of going out I am spending my time 'knocking' off letters by the fireside. There are sixteen of us in the 'stable' and we have, without doubt, the warmest and most comfortable billet of the sections.

Please thank Anne for her jolly Xmas Card - I have stuck it up on the wall. I shan't know her I expect when next I see her - bless her. Well, thank you both once again and I will take this opportunity of wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year. (I have recollections of last year) How is Mr. Faulkner? Please give him my best wishes etc.

Yours very sincerely,
Jack
xxx *

p.s. I don't bother to read back my letters so please excuse errors!

* For Anne, Mrs. Brown!

On 7 December 1939 4 of the guns were in action at Juvigny when 1 Dornier 17 was engaged at approximately 20,000 feet. The Dornier was in and out of range for around 20 minutes and was eventaully engaged by fighters. In total 119 rounds were fired and 3 magnesium rounds were fired to indicate the course and position of the Dornier for the fighters. This is the first record of the Battery engaging with the enemy.
On 8 December 1939 the King inspected one of the battery gun positions. BSM Vennison and 9 other ranks were inspected by the King. Frank mentions this in hs letter.

10/12/39 5.

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force.

Dear Dad,

Many thanks for your letter enclosing amusing cartoons from Daily Telegraph. There's no doubt the Nazis draw similar pictures of our statesmen and laugh at them as we do!

Have had no more "green" envelopes issued since the one I sent you. (two words crossed out) (my own censoring!)

You will be getting a Regimental Christmas Card probably by the same post and I've sent one to Edie and others. I only had twelve allotted to me. They are not at all bad, in my opinion, and the cost was negligible.

This letter will probably leave here tomorrow (11th) and I am hoping to get my presents off at the same time. Packing them is my main worry at the moment, having seen how some of the parcels arrive here.

I hope by the time you get this you will have complied with my request in my letter to Edie - re. £1. I've run myself a bit short and with the festive season coming along an empty pocket will put a brake on things! Normally I can live on my "income".

I went to the pictures again on Tuesday of last week and saw "Jamaica Inn". A good 'olde Englishe' bloodthirsty picture with ? (I've forgotten the actor's name) in the cast (Edie will know who). I also had the afternoon off, the first since I've been over here. It afforded a fine opportunity for looking round and doing some shopping. The shops were full of Army and Air Force men bent on buying presents.

About a dozen men from our Battery were inspected, along with men from other Regiments, by the King at a place a few miles from here last Friday. One or two officers also went along and had the honour of shaking hands with him.

There isn't much news and nothing arising out of the "minutes" (your letter). Perhaps you will tell Edie that I have written to Olive and sent her a Christmas card.

Tried to get Anne's comic paper yesterday but went to the wrong shop, and there was no time to go elsewhere. I have not forgotten my promise, though.

I hope you will all like your presents - Ernie caused some head-scratching - and please let me know if they arrive safely.

Another thing for Edie's information is that I have no mending to be done - except boots and I'm hoping to get a new pair soon.

At the moment nothing has been settled about leave. Some of the Air Force men I've met are lucky enough to be leaving for home in time for Christmas and others get their leave soon after. Still, they've been out here longer than us. I shall think of you all just the same.

Fond love to you all, not forgetting Anne and her xxxxxxx.

Frank

7/12/39 4.

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force

Dear Edie,

Your parcel, sent on the 30th, arrived safely and undamaged yesterday together with Dad's letter of the 1st (post stamped 2nd). Thank (you) very much. The small cakes certainly made a change and a few which I gave away at teatime (just after they arrived) were certainly enjoyed. Fancy you still having apples in your store!

I also received your P.C. 3 days ago saying that you were busy with decorators in the house.

You mention leave in your letter but I am still unable to say anything definite on the subject. One thing is fairly certain and that is that married men will get preference. There seems a reasonable chance that a small percentage of the men will get Xmas leave but even if I am unlucky for that period I know I shall have quite as good a time when I do get leave. You'd better keep the paper-chains and balloons stored ready for the occasion!

To go back to cakes, perhaps a seed one would be nice. Fortunately the people of this country don't shrink from people picking their teeth! But you say that you and Anne are making me a Christmas cake so the seedy one may be expected in the New Year some time.

The weather turned warmer after the brief fall of snow but we've had a fair amount of rain and cloudy weather. Today has turned out fresh and sunny. Is Ernie keeping well in spite of the soakings he gets on his motorbike?

Sorry to hear about Anne's cold but you don't sound very worried so perhaps it wasn't too bad. I hope she is better now.

The scarf is very nice and I shall certainly keep it and look after it. I don't need slippers - thanks. I still have those I bought soon after our arrival in these parts but I don't wear them much now as it would mean changing into boots every time I go to meals (usually it's wet under-foot). The main billets are about 2/3 minutes walk from the Battery Office and we feed there.

The building we sleep in is not a factory. I don't know what it's used for normally. The building has large rooms which were completely bare when we arrived. Anyhow, we are in the dry and it's warm in the office where we have an iron stove.

I've bought some presents for you and will be posting them during the next few days. Nothing very expensive but it's something and I hope you will like them. Nevertheless, I could do with a £1 as Christmas is coming so perhaps you will ask Dad to take it out of my P.O. Book, please. Don't let him do anything rash because I'd rather it was my own money.

The ------------- are not around here but I'll keep my eyes open for John Rutherford.

I shall be writing to Dad in a day or two so anything I have forgotten will be included in that.

Thanks again for the parcel - I had the Mars while writing this.

Fond love to you all and xxxxxxx for Anne.

Frank

p.s. Am quite fit and well. F.

This is a newsletter from the GEC Well Wishers Club, set up by GEC to provide monthly parcels to their employees posted abroad in the armed forces. As mentioned in his profile Frank worked for GEC.

The G . E . C . WELL - WISHERS CLUB
Letter No.2

President: The Lord Hirst of Witton
Vice-President: M.J.Railing
Magnet House,
Kingsway,
London, WC2

1st December, 1939


881937 Gunner F. A. Faulkner

Had we had any doubts of the success of the G.E.C. Well-Wishers Club, they would by now have been completely dispelled. Everybody here, staff and directors alike, have been most helpful and their support has ensured our carrying out our plans to the full. Already in the first month forty eight parcels have been sent to G.E.C. people overseas. Our aim is, as you know, to send one every month, and the one you have just opened represents our second delivery.

You will find that the contents are somewhat different from the first parcel. There are, of course, a large number of articles that can be included, many of which have been put forward as suggestions, and many that are requests from those who have already received parcels. A certain amount of sorting out has to be done, and compliance with some of the suggestions made will have to deferred for future parcels.

One thing you will find included this month is a torch, for which there seems to be a general demand nowadays. Believe me, you are lucky to get it - torches are a rarity at present. Later on we shall, of course, remember that even G.E.C. batteries run out, and that you will need refills. These will be sent monthly in future as far as possible.

We are anxious to receive the reply post-card that is enclosed in each parcel, as much to confirm your approval of the contents, and to study your suggestions, as to receive confirmation that the parcel reached you safely.

The number of G.E.C. people overseas increases regularly. The latest list is given at the end of the letter#. In more than one instance G.E.C. people are in the same unit.

There is nothing very exciting to report from Kingsway. The blackout falls in the late afternoon, when all the blinds have to be pulled down. The journey from Magnet House, even to Holborn Underground, is almost hazardous and collisions with other pedestrians are quite frequent. What it will be like when a good old London fog drops down doesn't bear thinking of. The basement shelter is now completed, but so far has only been occupied by rehearsal. It covers practically all the fittings showrooms and receiving office. Thick brick walls, with large exhaust fans enclose one side, and the roof is strengthened with large baulks of timber. There is a loudspeaker installation and a control room complete with telephone switchboard etc.

This will be the last letter before Christmas. All the staff at Head Office wish you the happiest Christmas that circumstances allow and ingenuity can devise, and hope that 1940 will see you back in harness again.

for THE G.E.C. WELL WISHER CLUB.

H. Barrett


#The list contains 45 O/Rs and 5 Officers. Both Faulkner (sales) and his friend Jack Endacott (sales) are included in the list of O/Rs.

1/12/39 3.

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force

Dear Dad,

I have letters from you and Edie but I think it is your turn. Thanks to both of you anyway. I have written a short letter to Anne in answer to 'her' postcard. I must get her a French comic paper one of these days - she might be interested in the pictures.

So you had quite a good time with Miss Cutmore and her sister. You don't want too many visits like that, though, do you? Give the former my love when you write next.

You touched for a packet of trouble alright in the S.O. (Sorting Office) but by now I expect it is finished with so far as you are concerned.

I have heard from Louise again. This time she sent me 50 cigs and this writing pad and some envelopes. She tells me Nigel is engaged to a girl in his department of the I.C.I. in Scotland. He's not getting married yet as he has got to save up. What a surprise, though!

I was suspected of having sent P.C'S to the B.Q.M.S. and B.S.M. but I explained matters satisfactorily. They both asked me to thank you.

I have heard from Jack Endacott, one day after I wrote to him, so our letters crossed in the post. He claims they arrived in France 5 days before us. He sleeps in a cellar on a "Li-lo" so he's not so lucky as I am, and he also has to his share of 'guards' and fatigues.

Don't rush yourself to send the "Penguin" books. We now have a few here but there has been no rush on them yet. No doubt they will be used when the fellows get more time for reading. Any time will do. Thanks for your efforts.

A party of about 20 of us were taken by lorry last evening to see a show organised by Sir Seymour Hicks. The artistes were nearly all celebrities and gave a jolly good show. Such names as, Dorothy Ward, Clare Luce, Bertha Wilmot and Tom Webster were on the stage. The place - a cinema - was packed with R.A.F. and Army men, some of whom had traveled a long way to see the show. Josephine Baker was on at a place near here during the week but none of us saw her. Franklin*, a fellow named Wilmot* (curious!) and another chap were with me and we had seats about 6 rows from the stage. Uncle Frank's "Manikins" went down well!

Thanks for your Postal Order which I am changing to-day at the A.P.O. They change them at the rate of Frs.177/75=£1. I shall be able to buy a bottle of Champagne with the money.

The 3000 cigarettes arrived the day before yesterday and I immediately wrote to Percy to let him know and to thank him. B.S.M. Venison is distributing them to B.H.Q. staff for me at the rate of 40 per man. They are in packets of 20's and any over - and there should be some - I'll share with special friends.

I'm not particularly pally with anybody here, at least, not to the same extent as I am with Jack E. Franklin is a good sort but as my time off does not always coincide with his I don't see so much of him as I would.

Incidentally, Major Chivers, Capt. Offord and 2/Lt. Alliston - the three officers at B.H.Q. - kindly accepted their "ration" of Percy's gift.

Dealing with the question in Edie's letter, bless her, I have already made suggestions re. parcels (like my cheek!) in letter No.2 - which I did not number. The 'Zubes' came in very useful when I had a nasty cold last week. They may have been responsible for preventing a cough which usually follows in my case. I'm o.k. now and the only worry I had with it was having to wash out handkerchiefs instead of waiting for the laundry to do 'em. Yes, arrangements have been made with a local laundress to wash pants, shirts, vests, towels, hanks, socks free of charge to us. Pansy life, isn't it?

I shall look forward to the Xmas pudding from Olive's mother. It was jolly nice of her to think of me.

I received Mrs. Clift's cake a few days ago and was in such a hurry to write and thank her that I omitted to thank her for the mittens. They fit me a treat. Will you or Edie please thank her for me and apologise for my omission. I've not cut the cake yet as Auntie Bertha's is not finished yet but it looks nice.

No, Ernie I have not been issued with 'Battle Dress' yet. Some of the fellows have it and I think it looks smart but unless ones uniform is worn out one can't get it at present. It saves a lot of button cleaning!

That's all for now. Fond love, as ever, to you all and xxxxxxx for Anne (you must tell me how she liked her special letter).

Frank

This is one of the few letters Frank sent to his neice, Anne Brown, although he always remembers her at the end of his other letters. Anne is my mum and the only person mentioned in these letters who is still around today.
The Unit Diary records the visit of the Inspector General R.A.F. to the 157th Battery gun position at Auberive on this day in 1939.

30/11/39

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force.

My Dear Anne,

Thank you very much for your funny postcard which made me laugh very much. I was very surprised to get a post-card from you because I did not think you could write yet. Did you write your name all on your own?

I am in another country now - the one that you came to with Mummy and Daddy and Grandpop and where Mummy bought you that pretty straw hat.

I will send you a French comic paper soon. Are you being a good girl? I hope so.

With lots of love and xxxxxxx from,

Uncle Frank

On 21 November 1939 the Battery Headquarters was moved from Villers Marmery to the village of Verzenay. Verzenay is only a few miles from Villers Marmery and was closer to to Epernay. This is the first letter written by Frank after the move.
I love the comment about the air-raid shelter workmen back in London and the fact that Hitler is to blame for the mess they made in my Grandma's house.

24/11/39

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force

Dear Edie,

Thank you very much for the surprise parcel. I couldn't think who it could be from as it was addressed in Ernie's writing and for the moment I didn't recognise it. The cake is perfect, just as I like it. Quite a lump has gone out of it as some of the office chaps had some too. There were no complaints or groans so it must have been to their liking. One or two even said so.

I enjoyed the "Maltsters" too. But may I suggest that if you think of sending them again you change them to Aero chocolate. Like most things you can have too much of a good thing and the originality wears off. I'm sure you understand. For your interest the parcel arrived on the 23rd and was quite undamaged.

We have seen nothing of the air- raids you mention but some of our chaps said they heard distant gun-fire early one morning last week. It was probably nothing to do with air raids and in any case one is suspicious of all tales and rumours as they usually prove false. It might interest you to read a column in last Thursdays Daily Telegraph (if you can get hold of one easily - if not, don't bother) which mentions the foolish rumours about parachutists etc., --- --- --- --- --

There don't seem to be any of those variety broadcasts from "Somewhere in France" in these parts so you won't hear my cough or whistle.

Am sorry to hear the air-raid shelter workmen made such a lot of work for you. You can only blame Hitler for that!

What are the decorators going to do in your house; I thought you'd already had them in once this year.

I've been going to ask you when I write how you got on after your fall in the garden. It must have been a nasty jolt and I immediately thought of the girl at Kidderminster (whose name I've forgotten) - oh, Jean Fletcher.

I have not heard from Kidder yet with the socks. By the way, whilst on the subject of knitting I'm feeling envious of some of the chaps who've got khaki scarves and balaclava caps which have appeared now that we are experiencing a cold snap. Some Society or other has sent out a lot of socks, scarves, b'clava hats, mufflers etc., but our share is comparatively small and consequently they are going to motor cycle riders (oh! says Ernie) and some of the lads who are in poor circumstances.

Now, there are some suggestions for Christmas presents I should like and would be very useful. Unfortunately I more or less turned down Dora Hunt's offer to knit such articles, mainly on the ground that I should feel indebted to her and I don't want to be tied up there either. For the same reason I turned down a very kind offer from one of the A.T.S. who wrote to me about 4 weeks ago. I have heard nothing from her since! I'm sure I was tactful and polite about it, too.

Apparently it has started snowing during the last hour. The fellows are coming in with it on their greatcoats.

I have written to Auntie Hilda and confirmed my share of the "best wishes" in the telegram you sent. That's something else I owe you for!

I know I shouldn't look a gift horse -- etc., but would you let Dad know we get a fair amount of tinned herrings in tomato sauce. Consequently the tin of pilchards he sent is still in my 'larder'.

We've had a move the last few days and although our office and sleeping accommodation is not so good we are comfortable. Particularly as regards sleeping; I have managed to be among the few lucky ones who have scrounged camp beds. The beds are made up of a steel framework with thick canvas lashed to it with thick cord. They're alright - as dad would say. Our new village is only a few miles away from our last. It is a bit bigger and also a bit nearer the main town in these parts.

It means a shorter journey for the men who get leave in the afternoon and for the cinema parties on Tuesdays and Wednesday. The French people are just as friendly as before.

I was glad to learn in your last letter that Anne had put on weight. She must be getting a big girl now and smart in her long stockings. I hope she will survive the winter without her usual colds and coughs.

What does Dad mean about his "earlier" bottle of whiskey? The only one he gave me was a flask when I was last on leave. This is hardly touched and is kept for medicinal purposes. Is it a leg-pull? Did I thank him for his letter of 17th?

Before I close, what do you all want for Christmas? Let me know in good time. Oh! and keep an Xmas pudding for me, won't you?

Well here's fond love to you all and I hope you are as fit and well as I am. xxxxxxx for Anne - one for each night of the week when you put her to bed.

Cheerio!

Frank

Chivers Major (censor)

20/11/39 1.

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force

Dear Dad,

Many thanks for your parcel which arrived safely and at the same time as one from Auntie Bertha. Though it was rather smaller it was none the less appreciated and I now have quite a considerable stock in my 'larder'.

I have written to Uncle Frank and Auntie Bertha to thank them and answer some of the questions in Uncle Frank’s letter. By the way, I forgot to mention in my letter to them that I did not find a line in their parcel - I hope that was alright.

I have just finished Edie's cake which was jolly good. Although I don't eat much cake at home it is handy to have one nowadays for middle morning or some other time to cut into.

The fruit salad was a good thought and will be treated as a luxury just when I feel like something different, though the food here is still good.

Edie will like to know that the Marmite is going slowly and will not be offended, I know, if I suggest that she does not send anymore just yet. It goes a long way and I will ask her when I want some more. Her apples are very nice but if her stock is getting low I don't want to rob her (or Ernie).

It is possible to buy fruit in a nearby town though not as cheaply as in England. I bought three pears and some mandarins the other day. The mandarins I enjoyed especially.

I understand that we are moving our billets to a village a few miles from here, not far though. If we find a place as comfortable as this we shall be very lucky. The only inconvenience I notice here is the washing facilities (not laundry). I've no doubt that had we been stopping this would have been improved but with arrangements being made for concerts from local 'talent' and for other recreation we shall not be badly off as far as I can see.

I forgot to mention before that I had been to the pictures a fortnight ago. Parties are taken to a cinema on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings where there are performances of English films free of charge to the Air Force and Army. English films are shown on other days of the week, also, if we like to pay to go in the cinema and have the time as well. An English newsreel is also shown.

With all these good things you will be wanting to come out and join us!

May I trouble you to make enquiries as to how and when the 3000 cigarettes were dispatched. These have not yet arrived and only yesterday I asked the A.P.O. about them. They said they could not help me and recommended that I had enquiries made by the sender. I have already mentioned the matter to Percy Bedford and I believe in an earlier letter to you.

You've certainly had a busy time lately with all your dinners. John Rich and I drank your health and that of W. Bro. Sulston as I said we would. I now have your note enclosing Menu Card (received yesterday) complete with umpteen autographs. It goes to show that those absent in the flesh are remembered and among the others in spirit.

While I remember it please ask Edie to thank Mrs. Draper for the chocolate. I think I forgot to do so before.

This is being written with your "nice plain writing pencil". Is it better?

Am wearing the newly arrived pants now. After wearing the other long ones I didn't like changing back to short pants.

I'm going to number my letters so that you will easily know if any are not received. This one is 1. I have a feeling that the one in which I mentioned the non-receipt of all those cigs may have got lost as you have not mentioned the matter in your letters.

x x x x x x x

I have just received Dads' letter of the 17th - good going!

You say that you have seen Percy Bedford, by which I guess you mentioned the cigarettes.

As regards money, I am managing alright, but, once having broken into my £1 reserve fund it is difficult to make it up again. With a little care I could live on my army money so you'd better not encourage me to spend more by sending any. The remains of my reserve may last 2 or 3 weeks or I may blue it on a weak moment. Nowadays I believe in living for the day to a certain extent.

'Green' envelopes are just being issued so I shall probably enclose this with one or two others. As you know you may put up to 3 letters in the one envelope without them being censored by our officers. But, they are liable to be censored at the base.

I have had a letter from Mr. Heather (G.E.C. Sales Manager) who wishes to keep in touch with Sales chaps at home and overseas. It was posted 11th November and had been to two other Regiments in error before reaching me. One of them was Jack Endacott's crowd, funny isn't it.

I also had a letter from Margery Ricards (née Hardy) who was married 10th October and is living in Streatham. It was something to read and, I suppose, a kind thought but it means more writing for me. Yes, it’s worth it just to have a letter! Not that I don't get plenty from home because I do. I enjoy all your letters and they are always cheery and cheering.

I am on my eighth page and still have not dealt with Edie's letter of the 12th (posted 13th). It's a nice long one so I'm sure some answers will be wanted.

It's funny how Ernie has a hand in most things. I see he's on rugs now!

She mentions biscuits in Dad's parcel. I suppose they were the cheese biscuits which soon got polished off. There was a packet in his last parcel, too, so with 2 packets in Auntie Bertha's parcel I now have enough to start a shop.

We have had no air-raid warnings yet, although we read of planes coming over France from Germany. Am afraid I've had little time to read Dad's papers or Edie's journals yet but we get the Continental Daily Mail and other papers so with the wireless news as well we keep fairly well informed about the war etc.

No, we were not present at the all-star concert but some of the chaps heard Gracie Fields on the radio. Was that the same concert?

I owe Jack Endacott a letter so must write soon as it will look bad if I get his second letter before doing so.

As a matter of fact I spend quite a lot of time writing so don't expect one like this every time, please.

Oh, I had a letter from Auntie Hilda, or rather, two. Both in the same envelope but written on different week-ends. While wondering how to address the first one she heard from Edie giving my address so wrote a few more lines to tell me so together with a bit more news.

That’s all for now. I'm feeling very fit and making the best of things and I do hope you all are, too.

I must mention that I went to Communion on Sunday morning 7.30am and there was also a short service and address on Saturday evening which most of us went to.
Thank all the people who have sent kind wishes which I reciprocate. And tell Anne I think her 'writing' is improving.

Fond love to all

Frank

phew!!

p.s. am enclosing this in Green envelope to save time.

Again a letter that portrays life during the Phoney War period and expalins why it was such an apt phrase for this opening period of the war in Western Europe. The main concern of the soldiers appears to be the letters and packages from home.

14/11/39

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
British Expeditionary Force

Dear Edie,

This time I have three letters and a parcel to thank you for - 1 letter from Dad dated 7th, Edie's dated 5th and her letter included in parcel of 6th. It was a well thought out parcel and traveled well, too. A third of the cake has gone already and appreciated by myself and a few friends. By the way it arrived on the 12th.

Yesterday I collected 5 bags of parcels for the men but no letters. Maybe fog (I hope not worse) had possibly delayed them.

I still have not heard from Auntie Edie with the socks she is knitting but suppose as usual they are very busy!

I notice you are putting B.E.F. on my letters although I have always shown c/o A.P.O. Orders have now been issued that B.E.F. is now the correct address so you are right. I'm told that 'B.E.F.' was given out on the wireless, is that so?

The people in the office are now permitted to listen in to the news at 9.0pm on the officers' radio. I heard Winston Churchill the other night and thought his was a good speech. He returned in full all the mud slung at him by Hitler and his pals. As we don't get up to date newspapers the wireless does keep us in touch with home and other news. We also heard the Queen speak one evening followed by the English and French National Anthems.

The French and English soldiers then toasted the 'King' and 'Le President' in the café and infact wound up with a very convivial evening.

The French have now left the village and it seems quite deserted. All the same, it a change to have a drink and move about in comfort.

The weather remains quite fine and warm and as you can guess we have not moved from this place (11 words censored to the end of the paragraph)


As regards washing clothes and handkerchiefs. A woman in the village has been doing it for us but I must call and see her again soon as I have only one lot of laundry since arriving here. She charged 5 francs for washing 1 shirt, short pants and an under-vest. Not bad! I believe arrangements are being made now for our laundry to be done free of charge similar to the arrangement we had in England.

Dad 'chips' me about cups and plates but I'm sure he doesn't begrudge me a little extra comfort while there is a chance. Regarding church parades - we don't!

Have just been given the opportunity of having a bath so will finish up now in case I don't get a chance later.

Very many thanks again to Edie for the grand parcel and all of you for the newsy letters.

Am feeling very fit and have dodged the bad colds and coughs, flu etc, which others have had. It must be Anne's prayers!

Love to all and xxxxxx for Anne.

Frank
(Censor - Major Chivers)

Frank wrote this letter from the village of Villers Marmery to his sister Edie. He describes the autumn colours he saw on the journey to the the R.H.Q in Epernay. Villers Marmery is surrounded by vineyards for Champagne production and the red and yellow leaves on the vines must have been spectacular.
The almost relaxed atmosphere of the Phoney War is captured well with the description of the football match against the French soldiers.

8/11/39

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157 HAA Battery RA
53rd HAA Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
c/o Army Post Office

Dear Edie,

I really should be writing this to Dad to thank him for his letters and parcel but I think it’s your turn and, anyway, it's all in the family.

Dad's parcel arrived yesterday the 7th - just a week after it was sent. The letter enclosed was dated Nov. 1st but the postmark looked like Nov. 2nd. It was a very fine selection and I spent quite a time sorting it all out. Your cake I shared with two others at teatime and enjoyed it. It's a shame the cost of postage cannot be reduced to the troops - it is a lot to pay.

The cold spell we had recently has spent itself. Most days lately have been warm and sunny, showing up the autumn colours in the trees to perfection. We have a very pleasant run to our R.H.Q. via the Army P.O. and at the same time I see plenty of the countryside - more than I would at home of course.

We raised a team to play the French soldiers in the village a day or two ago. We got on well with them even after losing to the 'froggies' 2-4. I did not play and in any case it my turn to go out for the post at the time.

When I spoke of the weather just now I intended to mention the gloves Dad sent. As it's warmer now I'm not using them yet but I tried them on for size and they are jolly good in every respect - many thanks!

I hope Dad will read this letter before Saturday’s meeting because I would like him to know that I shall be thinking of the brothers that day - particularly at 7 o'clock. Being Installation Meeting I am sure he will drink my health appropriately as I will his and the others. I hope, too, that he will convey my congratulations to Bro. Sulston on this honour bestowed on him and for which he has worked hard, and my brotherly greetings to the lodge in general. Do I owe any money in this respect, and if so, is it urgent? I notice my second letter has been received; there are one or two others on the way.

I got Stimpson Lock and Vance's circular safely. It's about time they either struck my name off the mailing list or saw to it that the right initials are put in! If only they knew how far that one traveled for ½d!

The A.P.O. people are quite friendly, one in particular. He tells me delay in the receipt of outgoing letters is due to the fact that we have no 'censor' stamp yet. They are censored again at the Base (or somewhere) which probably takes some time. This could, I believe, be avoided if we had a stamp here.

I wrote to Percy Bedford two days ago to say the cigarettes had not arrived and yesterday made enquiries at the A.P.O. They told me such parcels are not coming through the post. I suppose they are so large that some other form of transport is employed. Could you find out how they were sent, please?

It will interest Dad to know that B.S.M. Moore has relinquished that rank at his own request, and Sgt. Venison is now our Sergt. Major. Sgt. Cowland has replaced Sgt. Blake as B.Q.M.S. Dad has met most of these people so thought he would like to know.

Franklin is still at B.H.Q. and yesterday received a parcel from the G.E.C. 'Well Wishers' Club. It includes soap, a candle, biscuits, a magazine, 2 pencils, socks and many other useful things. There was also a list of other G.E.C. blokes who are known to be over here but as my name is not there I must write them and share in the 'spoils'. Franklin is getting a bit anxious as his wife is expecting a 'happy event' very soon.

I also received a parcel yesterday (two in one day!) from Louise. She has knitted me a pullover which fits a treat and will keep for colder weather. Her letter is 'friendly' - nothing more - and tells how she is sharing a flat now at Welwyn with two other girls. She likes it better than the 'digs' at Digswell Park and, in fact, is completely wrapped up with the question of furnishing it at the moment. Unfortunately I still wish she would change her mind.

I must write to her, also Jack Sharman from whom I had a long letter. He wants to know if he can contact Dad at some time to have a chat with him as he feels that I shall not have a chance to keep in touch with him personally - only irregularly, which I am afraid will be the case.

Whilst I remember it please note the new address for letters to me. It will help the P.O. as the old address is liable to lead to confusion and consequently possible delay.

The F2.40 Dad put in the parcel was spent as I wrote this letter on a 'Cinzano' to drink his and your healths. The parcel was packed jolly well and arrived absolutely intact. He tells me you are sending me a cake next week - whoopee!

It has been suggested that the men ask for books when writing home. Something in the nature of the 'Penguin' Series is wanted to start a library which will be useful 'during the long winter evenings'. If you have something like that will you please send them? There is one on my dressing table, or was when I left home.

How's Anne getting on with her needlework and dress making which Dad mentions? Is she taking to it better than her mother did in her youth?

The French-English book sent in the parcel is the one I had in mind. It will be useful and it was interesting to know that it had been sent to Dad by Mother in 1919 in Turkey.

That's all for now (thank God says the censor). Fond love to you all and xxxxxx for little Anne.

Frank

In this letter Frank makes reference to collecting the post from the nearest large town. This town was Epernay and on 1 November 1939 Frank was provided with a written authority from Major Chivers to act as Postal Orderly for 157th Battery. He was authorised "to collect mail and generally to fulfill the duties of Postal Orderly".

By this time the battery guns had been located in the following villages around Epernay:
Juvingy - 4 guns (400 rounds HE, 50 shrapnel)
Auberive - 4 guns (400 rounds HE, 50 shrapnel)

2/11/39

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157/53 ANTI AIRCRAFT
Regt. R.A.
A.A.S.F.
c/o Army Post Office

Dear Dad,

Very many thanks for your letter and 25 cigs. which I received on the afternoon of the 31st October, plus beer labels (you’ll get me a bad name! ) and a mild rebuke for neglecting to write.

I can only think mail has been delayed going from here as I have written twice since we made our first move in France. The men are writing a lot of letters and naturally there is a small delay in getting such numbers censored by our officers, even so there must be a further delay after leaving the Regiment.

I have also to acknowledge a letter from Ernie. Good chap! I know what a nuisance and effort letter writing is to him in the ordinary way. It is, therefore, all the more appreciated.

Being in the Post Office you will be particularly interested to know that as from yesterday I am sharing the job of Post Orderly with Gunner Saunders ('Sandy'). As I told you in a previous letter 'Sandy' and I are working shifts on a job in the office so as we each get every other afternoon off we are using this time to fetch and dispatch mail.

Yesterday I started the ball rolling by going to the nearest large town where our Regimental H.Q. are, leaving the outgoing mail at the Army P.O. on the way. It was arranged for me to go on a lorry which is the usual practice but as Capt. Offord was going to the same place he took me in his car. He recalled the weekend you spent with me and the lift he gave us in his car on that occasion.

On Monday I did the same trip but on a lorry so that I could get some light shoes. The army boots are a bit hard on the floor of the room we are using in the large house where our B.H.Q. are. At the same time I bought a plate, cup and saucer, soap, writing paper and various other things and consequently am very short today, tomorrow being pat day. I still have one £1 treasury note which I hesitate to change. I prefer to keep it for a rainy day, If needed.

After being on duty today from 6.0am to 9.0am I am off until lunchtime and off again at 5.30pm. Tomorrow I work the same times as I have off today, probably being in the office until 11.0/11.30pm.
This morning I have also replied to Dora Hunt's letter in which she kindly offered to do some knitting for me. I told her I only needed khaki gloves which I believe Edie is knitting for me, is that right?

Incidentally, I'd like my other pair of long pants, the other pair I am wearing are cumbersome but comfortable and warm.

Gunner Franklin is now at B.H.Q. so I have a G.E.C. pal with me.

I've had a lot of letters to write lately and possibly I’ve missed some of the news. If there is anything you want to know, ask me and I’ll let you have an answer, if it can be allowed.

Had a letter from Percy Bedford and was staggered on reading the number of cigarettes he is sending me. Of course, I shall distribute a large part of them, if they arrive. They haven't come yet although he posted them on the 26th Oct. Am waiting for there arrival before writing, but if not here tomorrow will acknowledge his letter and write again when they arrive.

We are issued with 50 cigarettes each week (I had a second issue on Tuesday) and 2 boxes of matches. They don't last long at the rate I smoke now. Both issues have been Players but I don't think they are the same quality as the English "20 for 1/1½". Who cares though, they're free!

It's nearly lunchtime so I'll close now as I want you to get this letter as soon as possible in case the other letters have gone astray.

Thanks for all your letters, Edie's parcel is not quite finished - 2 biscuits left and some cheeses. Although we are fed well there are occasions when a little extra grub goes down well so the fromage will meet the need.

Ernie mentions the wireless news re. the T.A. Battery in France. Yes, it certainly sounds like us.


I've got nothing to grumble about and am feeling quite fit apart from smoker's cough.

Would like to see Anne in her new outfit but maybe it won't be so long before I get the opportunity, though nothing has been said about leave.

I hope you are all well and send my fond love including the usual xxxxxx for Anne.

I think I shall really get drunk when I get home!

Frank

p.s. Have missed the outgoing post today so will wait and see what is brought back by the other Post Orderly about 5.0pm.
F

p.p.s. Nothing in the post today - better luck tomorrow, maybe. F.


L. Higgens(censor)

Settling down to life in Villers-Marmery

This is the second part of the letter started on 27 October 1939 and written in the village of Villers-Marmery.
It is a great scene setter of life in the Phoney War.



As you can see at the beginning of the letter I started this on the 27th but hope to finish it of today 28th.

You would be surprised to see my surroundings while writing this second installment. 2 fellows are playing billiards, others playing cards or writing letters like me. The scene is the 'local' where we have come for warmth and recreation in our spare time. I've just had a jolly good dinner and now have a café cognac to keep it down. What luxury!

Nowadays the Serjeant Major does not seem to require an assistant as there has been some re-shuffling of the office. So I now share the job of dealing with incoming and outgoing letters and messages with a chap named Saunders. Dad may remember 'Sandy' from ----. (could be 'Bramley' as his father visited Frank at Bramley)

We work shifts between us so I manage to get definite time to myself which is a blessing even though I feel that I've been relegated (necessarily) in my work.

The apples Edie sent will be very nice. I can imagine Ernie bending the top most bows down to get them - what a hero. Yes, the seeds I sowed were a bit close I agree but I'm a novice at gardening and will benefit by experience. Bonfires and hedge clipping are my favourite jobs and always will be, I think.

I've had letters from all sorts of unexpected sources. 100 cigarettes from Auntie Louie Lyndsell and family, a short letter from Dora Hunt offering to do knitting and to correspond if I wish it, and a line from one of the A.T.S. who was at ---- (probably 'Bramley') and who wants to knit and write.

So Don and Audrey are married at last and a quiet wedding at that. Please give them my best wishes when the first opportunity arrives.

We now appear to have settled down after our second move this side. We are very comfortable, having straw-filled palliasses to sleep on, a 'pukka' cookhouse and eating room and last but not least a fine big room in the largest house in the village where we have our office. In some respects we are no worse off than in England and in some cases very much better off.

Incidentally in the café there is a good wireless set on which some of us have heard the news from England the last two evenings.

Edie asks if there is a censorship on letters to the troops but as far as I can tell there is not.

Many thanks again for all your letters. They are very welcome.

Fond love to you all and xxxxxx for Anne.

Frank

p.s. 50 cigarettes issued free with box of matches this week. It is said we will get these regularly each week.

p.p.s. I really forgot about paying the butcher, in any case you can't be in my debt, sister. We were paid 60 francs last week but 120 francs for simple gunners this week. I should be able to manage but last week I over spent. Who cares!
Frank

Tell Dad the Army Field Post Office is some way away from us and I don't see how I shall get an opportunity of contacting the R.E.P.S.
F

L. Higgens (censor)

By 27 October 1939 Frank had moved with the Battery HQ from Epernay to the village of Villers-Marmery.
The Unit Diary records that the Battery was ordered to leave all its stores behind when it left Bramley in Hampshire on 8 October 1939. As a result no cooking utensils were avaialble which as the Diary records resulted in"inadequate feeding of the men." As of 27 October 1939 cooking utensils were still not available and whilst on route across France the facilities are described as "difficult and on many occasions nil." The diary entry concludes by saying that there have been no complaints as the troops have supplemented their rations at their own expense.
This letter was started on 27 October 1939. The final part will be posted shortly.


27/10/39 Started

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157/53 ANTI AIRCRAFT
Regt. R.A.
c/o Army Post Office

Dear All,
During the last day or two I have had no less than 4 letters and 1 card either from Edie or Dad and I don't know how to thank you for such an array. Both Dad and Edie mention a parcel which I am pleased to say arrived safely this-evening. It is a fine assortment and I can assure Edie that the contents will be and the thought is much appreciated. Two or three of us devoured a packet of those 'Maltese' chocolates before you could say Jack Robinson. Not that we were hungry, having just had tea, but just that it was something different.

I must also mention how surprised I was getting a SIX-page letter in with it, too, after receiving all the other correspondence. A letter which Edie wrote me on the 12th October and post marked '13th' arrived yesterday: I think it was written the day before I had my 24 hrs. leave! The rest of the post is arriving o.k., usually 3 days after it is posted.

This letter describes the journey made by Frank across France. Having commenced their train journey from Cherbourg on 21 October 1939, the main body of Battery personnel arrived in Epernay (in the Champagne Region of France and the area where the Advanced Air Striking Force was based) at 1730 hours on 22 October 1939. They were all taken to billets in Epernay. His letter adds great personal detail to the bare bones described in the Unit Diary.

This is the first letter where the censor has struck words out and they are shown as -----.



23/10/39

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157/53 ANTI AIRCRAFT
Regt. R.A.
c/o Army Post Office


Dear All,

It seems such along time since I last wrote to you and as we are not permitted to say exactly where we are I think it is in Order for me to say that I am in France.

I wrote to you soon after we landed here last Monday but of course you had not received that when Dad wrote on the 18th. Since then we have made a very ---- railway journey lasting about -- hours. The train was so slow that I feel sure it could have been accomplished in about -- hours on a good train. It meant ----- ---- ---- on the train and at one or two of the stops we were given coffee or hot soup by members of the French equivalent to our Red Cross. We had seven in our 3rd class compartment - not cattle wagons - and slept on one another’s shoulders. It wasn't too bad, though, and made quite an interesting trip.

On our arrival last night we were taken to a large ------- factory to sleep. There was plenty of straw and I enjoyed the most comfortable and warm sleep I've had for a week.

Mail, which I think came on the train with us, was distributed late last night. I was very glad to get Dad's letter and thank him for writing.

This last week has been a comparatively lazy one. Washing in the duck-pond every morning was not so good but like many other things it was just another experience which we will all laugh about later on.

One cannot say how long we will be in our new billets but as we have come all this way to do a real job of work I cannot see us wasting our time in such a 'heavenly' spot as this for more than a day or two.

Am sorry to hear Edie has had such a bad cold and can only hope that by now she will have shaken it off. I'm glad to hear the rest of you are o.k., however, and pleased to say that I'm perfectly fit, too.

We might as well be in England for all the excitement there is here. They certainly do seem a bit more careful about 'blacking-out' here compared with the place we've just come from.

So far I have nothing to grumble about so there is no reason for you to worry about me. We don't hear the wireless or see any newspapers so I don’t know how this peculiar war is going on.

Thank for his offer of money or other necessities but there is nothing I want just yet. Cigarettes can be bought for about half the price of those in England so please don't trouble to send them. One of these days when we are settled down a cake would be appreciated. I'll let you know when. Do you think a cake would travel alright?

I've just bought an English-French dictionary but I think Dad has got a book giving French-English as well. Can he spare it? It would be taken good care of.

Have not heard from Kidderminster yet nor from any one else for that matter. Thank the Fisher's for there kind wishes; I'm afraid that if Mrs. Fisher wrote I would find difficulty in answering it so perhaps it would be better that she didn't.

I believe Jack Endacott's Regiment are over here somewhere. I must look out for him.

I'm still in the Battery Office. The last week, though, there has been nothing for me to do.

The weather has been grand so far but not so warm since our recent move. By the way, if Edie can knit gloves I would love a pair of brown wooly ones; I'm sure I shall need some ere long.

No more just now; only my best wishes and again to ask you not to worry.

Fond love to all with xxxxxx for Anne.

Frank

p.s. I have a ------- as a souvenir!

"First of all I am not permitted to say where I am." Frank's first letter home from France.

This letter is the first from overseas and was written in the Battery rest billets in Sideville, about 4 miles south of Cherbourg. The channel crossing was completed overnight on 15/16 October 1939. The Battery traveled as part of a convoy betwween Southampton and Cherbourg. The Battery disembarked at 10.30am on 16 October 1939 and joined up with the advanced party which had left on 12 October 1939. The advanced party was led by Major J A Chivers RA.
You will see from the end of the letter that it was signed by an officer acting as a censor. Whilst on active service abroad all Frank's letters were checked by censors before posting.

19/10/39
7.30pm Tuesday

881937 Gnr. Faulkner
157/53 ANTI AIRCRAFT
Regt. R.A.
c/o Army Post Office


Dear All,

First of all, I am not permitted to say where I am. Naturally all letters are censored now but as long as you know how I am I'm sure that's all you worry about or expect.

In the circumstances I'm sure Dad's holiday will be no change or rest for him. If he has gone to Brighton and the weather is any-thing like we have just now he will be lucky. When we left England it was pouring with rain but since our arrival we have not had a spot - sunny nearly all the time.

Bully beef and biscuits have been our main diet the last two days. Meat, bread and vegetables arrived tonight, however, so we should do well for grub now.

B.H.Q. are billeted in a farm and all but the officers are sleeping in a sort of attic. It's dry and we have electric light, some even have mattresses but I'm not so lucky. Next time perhaps!

After the sea trip which, incidentally, was as smooth as anyone could want, we had to march about 4 miles having first been relieved of our pack. This was carried in lorries, thank the Lord.

Today has been probably the easiest day I've had since putting on uniform and believe me I was glad of it. Like the rest I was tired out last night and stiff today after the unusual marching so we were all glad of a much needed rest. You would have laughed to see several of us cooling our feet off in the little duck-pond in farmyard here just before dinner-time. After dinner we summoned up enough energy to go blackberrying! This is too good to last don't you think?

You will gather, I hope, that we are as happy as can be expected so don't worry.

I'm in the best of health and sincerely hope you all are to.

Fond love to all not forgetting xxxxxx for little Anne.

Frank

(Censor - Jacks 2/Lt R.A.)

"Still don't know where we are off to." The Battery starts its journey to France

The station referred to in this letter was Wokingham Station in Berkshire about 4 miles by road from Arborfield Garrison. Although Frank does not know where he is going the Unit Diary shows that the train was heading for the "port of embarkation Southampton and proceeding overseas in convoy."  The sea crossing from Southampton to Cherbourg was completed during the night of 15-16 October 1939.

It is good to see from the letter that a short embarkation leave was allowed prior to this following Frank's fears in the letters of 11 October 1939 that there would be no leave before going to France.

This postcard was post marked Richmond Surrey 6pm 15 October 1939

15/10/39

Sunday 8.00am

Dear Dad,

Just leaving the station as I write this but still don't know where we are off to. Coaches from Camp to railway, thank goodness. Packs are heavy and plenty of rain to start off. Everyone is pretty cheerful though. If there is another chance of writing I'll do so. Thanks to all for making my short leave so enjoyable. I'm in all your debt but hope to have a chance to put that right soon. Keep smiling!

Love.

Frank

This is the last letter of 11 October 1939 and was included in the parcel of "civvy" articles that Frank sent home in preparation for service overseas. He also confirms that they will not be leaving on 12 October 1939 as he thought earlier in the day; only the advanced party was to leave on 12 October. This is confirmed in the Unit Diary.
Not sure who "Gorgeous" is!

11/10/39

66th Militia Camp
Arborfield
Berkshire

Dear Dad,

'Gorgeous' is posting this for me as I am not sure what arrangements have been made for sending 'civvy' articles home.

I may find a few things later to post.

Wrote 2 letters to you today. Expect they will arrive before this parcel.

Since lunch I hear we may not leave here tomorrow. Only the advance party are going. I hear it is to an already prepared base. Sounds like a French port.

All the Best

Frank

p.s. 'Gorgeous' is calling at Bramley today for post so may get your registered letter on his return.

Will 'phone you if I get a chance, Easton 4204!!!

This is the second letter Frank wrote on 11 October 1939 and was written about an hour after the first letter. Although this letter is a bit calmer than the first, he is still not sure where they are going but is certain they will move off on 12 October 1939. The lack of embarkation leave is clearly a sore point!
Frank mentions leaving White City on 10 October 1939. The Unit Diary confirms this and shows they arrived at White City from Bramley on 8 October 1939. Whilst at White City all members of the Battery were innocualted ready for the move overseas.

11/10/39

66th A.A. Militia Camp
Arborfeild
Berks

Dear All,

I scribbled a hasty note to you about 1 hour ago and am trying to settle down to something more detailed.

Nobody knows where we are going but it seems certain we are leaving here tomorrow so don't write to me here.

All letters in future should be addressed to:

881937 Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A.A. Battery
53rd (City of London) H.A.A. Regt. R.A.
c/o Army Post Office.

This is a big camp community mostly of large huts. We are all in huts with beds so although it was 11.30 before I turned in last night and up at 6.30 a.m. this morning I had a really comfortable and restful nights sleep.

The camp is new and consequently there is plenty of mud about following recent rain. We miss 'Jack', our cook, but even so grub is not too bad. They dished our fellows out with steel plates and basins for eating and drinking and they were in a filthy rusty condition but I have kept my porcelain plate and mug so have no grouse in that direction.

Unless arrangements are changed, and you know they sometimes are, we shall get no draft leave. Army life is said to be a hard one but giving us no leave is really cruel.

As I was writing this one of the officers was talking and I heard him say we are being issued with anti-tank ammunition. He went on to say that the guns will be used for 'local' protection. Does that mean 'local' (pub) or estaminet.

We left White City at about 2.0pm yesterday and arrived here at 4.30pm. After a hot meal of stewed steak, peas (hard) and boiled spuds we were taken to the M.O. for inoculation for anti-tetanus.

Just going to lunch now and expect to be busy after so cheerioh to you all.
Love,

Frank

157th Battery moved from Bramley, Hampshire on 10 October 1939 to Arborfield near reading in Berkshire, as shown in the change of address at the top of the letter. This move was in preparation for a move overseas. The entry from the Unit Diary says "Stores and equipment being drawn and loading onto transport."

The uncertainty about the timing of the next move and going overseas is reflected well in this letter.

11/10/39

Arborfield

Dear Dad,

Just a hasty line to let you know we are going from this place tomorrow. What a rush! I'm not sure if our next move will be abroad but at any rate it will be soon and leave is out of the question. We all think it's very unfair.

They are making arrangements for our civilian clothes to be sent home in our kit bags but when and how I don't know. Some of the clothes are clean and some need washing. Will you please sort it out and save any letters that are enclosed.

I must try and write to Louise but if you get a chance, or Edie, perhaps you will let her know what I am doing. I promised her I'd let her know.

No more time now but if I get another chance of writing during the day, I will.

Fondest love to you all, xxxxxx for Anne.

Frank

Rumour just come in that arrangements have been mucked up re. our move, so don't worry until you know something definite. Will try and keep in touch as often as I can
F

This is the telegram (wire) referred to the letter sent on 7 October 1939 below.

7/10/39

6.00pm

Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A. A. Battery R.A.
Central Ordnance Depot
Bramley. Basingstoke
Hants.

Dear Dad,

Am going to wire you tonight to say all leave has been cancelled.

We are going back to Gunnersbury Park tomorrow prior to going abroad - we don't know where. I'm sure you will all be as disappointed as I am about the leave.

At any rate they will be sure to give us 48 hours draft leave before we go.

Excuse the haste,

Love to all

Frank

Click on the link below to see four pictures of Frank in the 157th Heavy Anti Aircraft Battery.

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This message is on a blank post-card, post marked Bramley 5/10/39.

5/10/39

Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A. A. Battery R.A.
Central Ordnance Depot
Bramley. Basingstoke
Hants.

Dear Dad,

Many thanks for sending parcel and for letter enclosed. Apparently it crossed mine in the post. Re leave - the train is due at Paddington at 11.12 am or if we miss the connection the next train arrives 12.00 noon, on Monday next 9th.

Looking forward to seeing you all and hope you will be on a suitable duty to spend some time with me.

Love to all,

Frank

p.s. Rain all night but warmer today. Will write Bedford.

3/10/39

Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A. A. Battery R.A.
Central Ordnance Depot
Bramley. Basingstoke
Hants.

Dear Dad,

Welcome news!

Another leave roster has just been decided on, in fact, so hurriedly that I thought at first we were due for overseas, particularly when inoculation was mentioned.

It appears that a new officer (Capt. Gibson) who has come from one of our Gun Stations to H.Q. has pressed the Major for another 48 hours leave with success. The inoculation is a matter of course and since we have to pay our own fares it is quite obvious they don't expect us to be sent abroad just yet. Otherwise we would of had a free Railway Warrant.

Again I am among the early ones on the leave schedule. My turn begins on Monday next 9th October starting at 9.30 a.m. and returning here at 10.45 a.m. on Wednesday. 8.55 a.m. train from Paddington gets me in in time. The 9.59 a.m. train from Bramley, with a change at Reading, reaches Paddington at * a.m.

*Not known at present but will advise you later should anyone like to meet train.

If you have not sent my winter woollies please wait till I get home. And whilst on the subject thank you for sending parcel of clothes as requested, on your return from your stay here. I'm wearing the pyjamas (at nights!) now and the other pair have been washed by one of the A.T.S. Pants and vest I'm also wearing so your efforts were not entirely wasted.

I'm told now that we go to Cheshunt after all on 16th October but as I've heard so many tales which have proved false, though emanating from reasonably authoritative quarters I shall not believe it until we move.

Gnr. Badham is going up to London right away so will finish up so that he can take this.

Fond love to you and all at '37' with xxxxxx for Anne.

Frank

This brief letter is written on a plain post-card which was post marked in Hammersmith at 5.15pm on 29/9/39.

29/9/39
9.30am

Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A. A. Battery R.A.
Central Ordnance Depot
Bramley. Basingstoke
Hants.

Dear Edie,

I've been such a long time thanking you and Ernie for sending the parcel of apples which I and the others have appreciated very much. Well packed, too, but paper still in reserve!

Had hoped to write you a letter but must try later on. We are still here have heard no later news since Dad was here. It was very nice to see him but far too short. I think he enjoyed himself as well and it made a pleasant change for him.

Received Dads parcel of clothes safely. Please thank him. Am wondering now if I should have asked for warm pyjamas, vest and pants now it's getting colder. It can be left for a day or two, anyhow.

Trust you are all well, as I am. But regards to all including Dad and xxxxxx for Anne.

love

Frank

This is the second half of the letter of 19 September 1939 (see below) to Frank from his friend Jack Endacott.

Monday Sept. 25th

I've made repeated efforts to finish this off but things have been happening! First of all I had another 23 hrs. leave on Tuesday evening which was very enjoyable apart from a lousy cough which kept me, sorry us, up all night. I called in at the office and saw Ashman but M.R.N. was at lunch and I couldn't afford valuable time waiting his return. Well, I duly reported back to Dartford where we proceeded to make the place shipshape. It was a filthy place and I was not sorry when at 6.30am on Saturday we were told that we were to be all packed up and out by 8.30am! We moved over to Hilly Fields, Brackley where there are now no guns as the workmen are making a static site of it. That fact alone made us think but when we heard that the complete Regiment was going to assemble our worst fears were realized. Well we were duly vaccinated on Sat. and inoculated on Sunday so our passages appear to have been booked! I have 48 hrs. leave on Tuesday, but although the whole place is full of rumours we still don't know where we are off to.

I will try and drop you a line again when I know something definite. One thing about this place it is a rest cure from filling sandbags etc. They just don't quite know what to do with us. The inoculation business made some of the lads feel pretty rough and the rest of us are still trying to 'swing it'. We've got release from parade and a route march this morning so our efforts appear to have been for nothing.

Please give my regards to any of the lads you have with you or may run into.

I'm sorry that paper is so dirty etc. but I always carry a small supply around in my pocket just in case! Also the scrawl which I hope you will be able to decipher.

All the best pal and may we soon meet again.

Yours etc.

Jack

Incase you want to know the contractors are Burgess of Southall! Elec just not specified!
JE

Postcard stamped 21 September 1939.

21/9/39

Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A.A. Battery R.A.
Central Ordnance Depot
Bramley. Basingstoke
Hants.


Dear Dad,

This is to let you know that you can be put up at the farm for the period you mentioned.

Let me know what time train arrives at Bramley and I will almost certainly be able to meet you. The owner of the farm is a Mr. Jacobs.

Looking forward to seeing you.

Regards to all,

In haste,

Frank

P.S. Parcel of apples from E. arrived safely, thanks.

This letter is from Jack Endacott, best friend of Frank and new husband of Olive who wrote the letter posted below on 15 September. Frank and Jack were colleagues at the GEC offices in Kingsway, London. This letter was not completed on 19 September 1939 and the other half will be posted separately 70 years on from the date it was eventually finished.

19/9/39
Tuesday

60th City of London
R.A. A.A. T.A.
No.2 Section
169 Battery
Artillery House
Bromley Road S.E.6

My dear Frank,

Well firstly I must thank you very much for your good wishes etc. expressed in your letter to Olive. It was nice of you to write such a lengthy letter when I know, from first hand experience now, you are so busy. I was very sorry to hear your news about Louise, especially just now when things are so difficult. Never mind old son, don't take it to heart too much for I feel that there is plenty of time and opportunity available yet. Still, I do know how you must feel and believe me I do feel sorry.

They say "join the Army and see the world" and believe me we are seeing it. Firstly we went to our S.P. at Foots Gray and having dug ourselves well in made the site something like, we were moved last Tuesday to Eltham. The whole Battery are here but we are off again tomorrow to Dartford Heath! Still, as long as it is not France I shall be thankful! Olive has been coming down on Saturdays and Sundays and I am now about due another 24 hrs. leave.

I'm very sorry that we couldn't get you to do your stuff on Sept. 9th especially after promising you the job, but Olive's elder brother carried it through very well. I understand that Olive has written you 12 pages, so I expect you have heard all about it. It was tough having 6 hrs. leave on my wedding day but was lucky getting the 24 hrs. so soon after. We both thought of getting married immediately war was declared, but it was not until the following Thursday that I got the o.k. for leave. Frank, it doesn't seem possible what has happened all under a month does it - I never really thought that we should go to war. Messrs Mercer, Stubbs, Pearce, Mills and Calyer (A.S.B.) are here and we keep more or less, as far as possible, together. We tried a little advertising ('O for an Osram') on our tin hats but this did not meet with approval! The Osram lads have had a nice letter from F.Y.J. together with 100 cigarettes, but so far I've not heard a word from T.W.H. I've managed to sort out a nice little job for myself as telephonist on the Command Post. Actually it saves me a considerable amount of sandbag filling!

The following letter is from Olive Endacott the wife Jack Endacott a work colleague at GEC and old friend of Frank. As you can see from the letter Olive and Frank got married on the declaration of war, whilst Frank was less lucky. The turmoil caused by the declaration of war is captured well in this letter.

15/9/39 Friday

132, Fairview Road
South Tottenham
N15

My dear Frank,

Thank you very much for your letter - I was so pleased to hear from you - and I am sure Jack be when I give him your letter when I see him tomorrow.

We were ever so sorry that you were not with us on our day of days as also we had reckoned on you being our "best man". It has always been a great source of joy to me that Jack has such a good pal - and me too for that matter. Please forgive me for not having let you know but honestly Frank it was an awful rush at the finish. We got a license on Wednesday and Jack said that he wouldn't get leave for at least a couple of weeks. Then on Thursday he phoned me to say that they were giving him 6 hours on the Saturday, so as you can see I had to rush around to arrange things. I wrote to Edie but unfortunately she was too far away to come along. I was so sorry because I have always wanted young Anne as a bridesmaid. What different ideas we had for the Event! - but still that can't be helped and we are so happy now that those regrets soon pass away. I do hope however that you will understand and forgive us for not letting you know beforehand.

I was upset at having missed you on Monday but on Sunday night Jack arrived home for 23hrs leave. I promptly took the day off. We called in at the office so we must have missed you by minutes. We got there at 12.20 and left about 12.45pm - we would have been so pleased to have had you to lunch with us. We spent must of the time doing some shopping at Mappin & Webb's and then had lunch at Tottenham Court Road Corner House. We left Charing X about 5.10pm to get Jack back again at 7.0pm. Whilst waiting in Sidcup High Street on my way back I met Roger Sharp. He is at the Vicarage there and is well - looked after. Of course he isn’t pleased with life and Brenda is a bit fed up - but I suppose poor girl she would be - they should move into their new place on Monday.

We are very busy at the office - don't know which way to turn. My staff has increased considerably that we are having to consider taking larger premises. Sales Dept. on the other hand is very deserted. You were probably amused to see all the remaining Travellers, either behind the counters or filling sandbags! Gosh! they have had to work and probably no expenses.

Well I expect you think I have written enough for now - but anyway it will be another great moment for you when your name is called out.

Frank I was so sorry after reading your p.s. Being so happy myself it makes me sad to think of you being more unhappy just now. I am afraid there isn't much I can say to help you but anyway I will write you regularly if you would like me to do so. I suppose I've got the two of you on my hands again now!

Well old pal I suppose I must close down now. It's a lot of natter that perhaps won't interest you very much but anyway it does make something to read. I'm sorry that I couldn't make it for lunch but perhaps you will look us up when you get some more time off.

Keep cheerful and hope to be home soon. How I long for the day when we can welcome our first visitor - You - in our own home.

Well cheerio and the very best wishes from us both,

God bless you,

Olive

8/9/39

Gnr. Faulkner F.A.
157th A. A. Battery R.A.
Central Ordnance Depot
Bramley, Basingstoke
Hants.


Dear Dad,

Am trying to find a few minutes before breakfast to send you a line as I cannot be certain what time I shall have later.

The above is as far as I got before breakfast!

Thanks for your long letter which arrived with one from Louise and the St. M. Porchway circular.

In future correspondence may be addressed as above. This should save quite a considerable time in letters reaching me.

The weather is really wonderful - thank goodness, almost too hot for some of the manual jobs I've had to do since arrival here. Today is the first day I've had in the office at Bramley.

Yes I've certainly had some bad luck trying to get hold of you on the 'phone. Perhaps you would let me know whenever you write what duties you are on should I get the opportunity to 'phone.

When I rang you from Guildford I was on my way back from Hookwood Ordnance Depot near Reigate. It was a magnificent day out on the front of our lorry and being seated high up in it I had a fine view of the country through which we passed. It was a cushy job, I'm supposed to be the spare driver and as I don't drive there is nothing for me to do.

Another trip I did was to Aldershot and Farnborough yesterday which followed the route of the previous journey as far as Farnham. These rides get one away from camp atmosphere and make a nice change. It also gives one a chance to have a beer in some country pub which may take ones fancy.

Yesterday the driver and I were invited into the private parlour at a pub so that we could hear the news. Kind wasn't it?

It has been whispered to me that 24 hours leave will be granted to each individual. Leave will be granted to compassionate (?) cases first, then N.C.O.s followed by other ranks as they can be spared in order of good conduct. This is welcome news but has to be kept quiet so if you send a post-card be careful how you word it.

I'm wondering if 24 hours will be enough to see all the people I want. Will Edie be back in London soon? If not I must speak to her on the 'phone. I'll wire you as soon as I know when I get my leave.

There is such a lot of news but no time spare just now. I'll have alot to tell you when I see you.

Am feeling very fit and reasonably happy but hope this blinkin' war won't last very long.

Have not received parcel of clean laundry yet but expect it is on the way. I hear there is a lot of mail at White City and a lorry has gone up to fetch it today.

Would you do me a favour by 'phoning Edie to say I'm o.k. and give her the news. I got her letter but have not been able to reply.

Hope she and Anne are keeping well, you to and Ernie, and my love to all.

Frank