Posts
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
Monday, 30 November 2009
Tuesday, 24 November 2009
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)
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)
Friday, 20 November 2009
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.
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.
Saturday, 14 November 2009
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)
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)
Sunday, 8 November 2009
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
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
Monday, 2 November 2009
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)
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)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)