Traditions and Trophies

Raymond Guttridge CD, former Regimental Sergeant Major created this booklet on the Traditions and Trophies of the Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess that was provided to each of the members in order for them to understand the significance of each of the pieces of memorabilia present in the Mess.
Traditions & Trophies
15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA.
Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess.
By
CWO. (RSM) R. Guttridge CD (ret’d)
Printed with kind permission of:
The Commanding Officer
Lieutenant Colonel W.T. Wickett CD.
&
The Regimental Sergeant Major,
CWO Eric Tyldeley Gore CD
Published 1st April 1976
Traditions & Trophies
15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA.
Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess.
By
CWO. (RSM) R. Guttridge CD (ret’d)
Printed with kind permission of:
The Commanding Officer
Lieutenant Colonel W.T. Wickett CD.
&
The Regimental Sergeant Major,
CWO Eric Tyldeley Gore CD
Published 1st April 1976

THE AUTHOR
Raymond Guttridge was born in Kent in 1930. Educated at Holcombe Technical College, Chatham and entered the Royal Naval Dockyard as an apprentice in 1945.
From 1944 until the end of hostilities he served with the National Fire Service. ln 1947 he enlisted in the Royal Air Force and was medically discharged in1949, but continued to serve in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve until 1957 when he emigrated to Canada. From 1958 until his retirement in 1972 he served with the Canadian Militia, initially in the 8th Technical Regiment, Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers and latterly the 15th Field Artillery Regiment. He was awarded the Centennial Medal in 1967 for his service.
Mr. Guttridge is married and resides in Richmond, B.C. and is employed in the Social Services Field.
TRADITION
"There are many kinds of' conceit but the chief one is to let people know what a very great and gifted family one descends from."
Benvenuto Cellini (1500-1571)
Traditions in our society today seem all too often to be a matter of convenience rather than pride in our ancestry.
However, there are probably very few families, fraternities or organizations that have lost as much of their heritage in such a short time than the Canadian Armed Forces.
We all realize that economics, centralization and unification are words that have important meanings to all Canadians, but I do believe that the family or regimental system should not be foresaken in lieu of progress or modernization.
In the past relatively brief period of time, we have seen many changes take place and certainly most have been understandable and right. However, the continual erosion of the Corp Mess, as an intricate part of the Regimental Family system is a fate that we as Militia men should be proud to have avoided thus far.
Messes, and more importantly the Regiments Mess structure which we have so proudly inherited from our British ancestry fosters and maintains the family code of virtues, these virtues being wisdom, reason, and duty. Our three Mess system (Junior Ranks, Warrant Officers and Sergeants and Officers) is unlike even our American cousins, but in no way reflects snobbishness or any other petty difference. Instead it allows the Regimental family to continue to build within itself the kinship which can neither be shaken off or denied. Thus the expression: "Once a Gunner, always a Gunner" is a fact of life and reflects the family membership of past members as well as serving ones.
“LET US BE CONCEITED"
CWO (RSM) B.P. Cormier CD (Ret'd)
CHAPTER I
Only with great reluctance have Canadians provided themselves with any Army, or so one gathers from the opposition to the idea frequently expressed in the Press, and in Ottawa down over the years.
Often fears have been expressed that Government might use the Army against its own subjects, fears of course without foundation. When Canadian politicians were less gentle towards their opponents, and civil Police did not exist to curb over-enthusiastic demonstrators this may have been so.
At other times, the people's representatives proposing their own costly schemes of public betterment have managed to save the taxpayer's money by cuts in the Military Bill. With other priorities, which they claim to see around them, the Army was quite unnecessary.
Whatever the cause, today it is fashionable as always in times of peace to deride the Army as a ruffian crowd of social misfits. Later it is sent to fight wars and to serve the United Nations in situations which have been brought upon us by politicians, the Army criminally short of men, equipment and training, but with assurances of Government's respect for its heroism and its conduct. I often wonder how the Canadian Army (Militia and Regular) has survived over the past century. It has maintained throughout an honourable record of service to its country, and a fine spirit of comradeship within its ranks. These have been enshrined in the regimental tradition and has built up over the years, and handed on from one generation of serving soldiers to another. In spite of all official attempts to discourage them by reorganization, the Canadian Soldiers have endeavoured to hold onto their traditions as one of the certain sources of inspiration and strength.
When asked to write about the traditions and trophies of the Sergeants' Mess, I was initially flattered and then concerned. The reasons for flattery were quickly put aside, and energies were directed to the concerns that soon became apparent. What did the Mess want? A biography of those that had served the Regiment as Senior NCO's, a history of the Mess, or a gathering together of memories.
It did not take the writer long to realize what a tremendous task had been asked of him, however, what follows is a record of the Mess not obtainable from any other source because they are personal recollections that have been put into print. Their accuracy is not guaranteed, or errors apologized for.
It is with traditions in mind that this book is written, to inform the newly promoted Sergeants and also to acquaint the guests of the Warrant Officers and Sergeants as to the heritage of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess.
NOTE:
THE POLITICAL OPINIONS EXPRESSED HERETO ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHOR AND NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
CHAPTER II
The history of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment is not written in these pages, but is worthwhile recording that Bessborough Armoury, named after The Governor General The Earl of Bessborough and also officially opened by him on March 27, 1934, was built as a home for the artillery in Vancouver, and initially it shared that home with the British Columbia Hussars Regiment.
The first home of the artillery in Vancouver appears to have been on the site of the Shelley Building, which is located just west of Abbott Street on Pender Street. There is a plaque to commemorate that fact in the entrance to the building. But the Royal Regiment goes back many years to its British heritage.
The Royal Regiment came into existence in 1716. Before that date, Master Gunners were appointed for the various Royal Castles and civilians trained in gunnery. The Master Gunner of the Tower of London being the Master Gunner of England, an office which exists today.
Gunners have always been dressed in the Royal colours reversed: Blue coats or tunics with red facings. This uniform in the Canadian Armed Forces is now no more and has been replaced by the Canadian Armed Forces green uniform. Fortunately, the 15th Field Band is still dressed in the ceremonial Horse Artillery uniforms, and the Senior NCO's wear "Blues" to ceremonial Mess functions. The guns of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery are its colours. The battle honours of the Regiment are found in its two mottos: "Ubique" (everywhere) and "Quo fas et gloria ducunt" (whither right and glory lead). Early in its life, the Royal Regiment adopted St. Barbara as its patron saint, and it is re-printed here to acknowledge that patronage and to provide the story for new Gunners.
Raymond Guttridge was born in Kent in 1930. Educated at Holcombe Technical College, Chatham and entered the Royal Naval Dockyard as an apprentice in 1945.
From 1944 until the end of hostilities he served with the National Fire Service. ln 1947 he enlisted in the Royal Air Force and was medically discharged in1949, but continued to serve in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve until 1957 when he emigrated to Canada. From 1958 until his retirement in 1972 he served with the Canadian Militia, initially in the 8th Technical Regiment, Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers and latterly the 15th Field Artillery Regiment. He was awarded the Centennial Medal in 1967 for his service.
Mr. Guttridge is married and resides in Richmond, B.C. and is employed in the Social Services Field.
TRADITION
"There are many kinds of' conceit but the chief one is to let people know what a very great and gifted family one descends from."
Benvenuto Cellini (1500-1571)
Traditions in our society today seem all too often to be a matter of convenience rather than pride in our ancestry.
However, there are probably very few families, fraternities or organizations that have lost as much of their heritage in such a short time than the Canadian Armed Forces.
We all realize that economics, centralization and unification are words that have important meanings to all Canadians, but I do believe that the family or regimental system should not be foresaken in lieu of progress or modernization.
In the past relatively brief period of time, we have seen many changes take place and certainly most have been understandable and right. However, the continual erosion of the Corp Mess, as an intricate part of the Regimental Family system is a fate that we as Militia men should be proud to have avoided thus far.
Messes, and more importantly the Regiments Mess structure which we have so proudly inherited from our British ancestry fosters and maintains the family code of virtues, these virtues being wisdom, reason, and duty. Our three Mess system (Junior Ranks, Warrant Officers and Sergeants and Officers) is unlike even our American cousins, but in no way reflects snobbishness or any other petty difference. Instead it allows the Regimental family to continue to build within itself the kinship which can neither be shaken off or denied. Thus the expression: "Once a Gunner, always a Gunner" is a fact of life and reflects the family membership of past members as well as serving ones.
“LET US BE CONCEITED"
CWO (RSM) B.P. Cormier CD (Ret'd)
CHAPTER I
Only with great reluctance have Canadians provided themselves with any Army, or so one gathers from the opposition to the idea frequently expressed in the Press, and in Ottawa down over the years.
Often fears have been expressed that Government might use the Army against its own subjects, fears of course without foundation. When Canadian politicians were less gentle towards their opponents, and civil Police did not exist to curb over-enthusiastic demonstrators this may have been so.
At other times, the people's representatives proposing their own costly schemes of public betterment have managed to save the taxpayer's money by cuts in the Military Bill. With other priorities, which they claim to see around them, the Army was quite unnecessary.
Whatever the cause, today it is fashionable as always in times of peace to deride the Army as a ruffian crowd of social misfits. Later it is sent to fight wars and to serve the United Nations in situations which have been brought upon us by politicians, the Army criminally short of men, equipment and training, but with assurances of Government's respect for its heroism and its conduct. I often wonder how the Canadian Army (Militia and Regular) has survived over the past century. It has maintained throughout an honourable record of service to its country, and a fine spirit of comradeship within its ranks. These have been enshrined in the regimental tradition and has built up over the years, and handed on from one generation of serving soldiers to another. In spite of all official attempts to discourage them by reorganization, the Canadian Soldiers have endeavoured to hold onto their traditions as one of the certain sources of inspiration and strength.
When asked to write about the traditions and trophies of the Sergeants' Mess, I was initially flattered and then concerned. The reasons for flattery were quickly put aside, and energies were directed to the concerns that soon became apparent. What did the Mess want? A biography of those that had served the Regiment as Senior NCO's, a history of the Mess, or a gathering together of memories.
It did not take the writer long to realize what a tremendous task had been asked of him, however, what follows is a record of the Mess not obtainable from any other source because they are personal recollections that have been put into print. Their accuracy is not guaranteed, or errors apologized for.
It is with traditions in mind that this book is written, to inform the newly promoted Sergeants and also to acquaint the guests of the Warrant Officers and Sergeants as to the heritage of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess.
NOTE:
THE POLITICAL OPINIONS EXPRESSED HERETO ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHOR AND NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER.
CHAPTER II
The history of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment is not written in these pages, but is worthwhile recording that Bessborough Armoury, named after The Governor General The Earl of Bessborough and also officially opened by him on March 27, 1934, was built as a home for the artillery in Vancouver, and initially it shared that home with the British Columbia Hussars Regiment.
The first home of the artillery in Vancouver appears to have been on the site of the Shelley Building, which is located just west of Abbott Street on Pender Street. There is a plaque to commemorate that fact in the entrance to the building. But the Royal Regiment goes back many years to its British heritage.
The Royal Regiment came into existence in 1716. Before that date, Master Gunners were appointed for the various Royal Castles and civilians trained in gunnery. The Master Gunner of the Tower of London being the Master Gunner of England, an office which exists today.
Gunners have always been dressed in the Royal colours reversed: Blue coats or tunics with red facings. This uniform in the Canadian Armed Forces is now no more and has been replaced by the Canadian Armed Forces green uniform. Fortunately, the 15th Field Band is still dressed in the ceremonial Horse Artillery uniforms, and the Senior NCO's wear "Blues" to ceremonial Mess functions. The guns of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery are its colours. The battle honours of the Regiment are found in its two mottos: "Ubique" (everywhere) and "Quo fas et gloria ducunt" (whither right and glory lead). Early in its life, the Royal Regiment adopted St. Barbara as its patron saint, and it is re-printed here to acknowledge that patronage and to provide the story for new Gunners.

THE LEGEND OF SAINT BARBARA
"This beautiful legend shows us how appropriate was the choice of the Virgin and Martyr Saint Barbara as patroness of Artillerymen. Alypius, the Saint's Father, during Military service in the east became friendly with a certain Fakir from whom he learned the marvellous secrets as to the use of naphtha and saltpetre. From the same source he also learned the preparation of Bengal Lights.
Alypius, on his return to his native town, Hippo, devoted his life to the study of chemistry. Barbara received a liberal education, spoke several languages, and in addition became deeply interested in her father's research work. By their united efforts in the laboratory an explosive of extraordinary power was discovered.
The beauty of Barbara attracted many suitors, but she rejected them all and entered the Convent of Saint Perpetua, founded by Saint Augustine.
Africa was then a prey to invasions, and one evening in the summer of 430 A.D., the vandals arrived under the walls of Hippo. The town gates were closed and the siege began.
The Barbarians dug wide trenches round the city walls and threw therein the dead bodies of men and animals, the slain of their recent conflict. By this means they hoped to overcome the besieged by causing death from fever and plague.
Alypius, in this hour of need, summoned his daughter from the convent to assist in the defence of the city.
While they were placing large jars full of a mysterious substance in position, Alypius was killed by an arrow. Barbara, the sole possessor of her father's secrets, was called upon to continue the heroic combat. She ordered the contents of the urns to be poured into the enemy's trenches. In an instant the substance ignited, the putrified bodies were consumed and the pestilential miasmas were dispelled.
During the siege, which lasted fourteen months, all the surprise attacks of the enemy were frustrated by the frequent use of Bengal Lights, and at intervals incandescent globes of fire were hurled from catapults at the enemy. After an heroic struggle, the besiegers captured the city, and thirsting for revenge, they swarmed into the convent where Barbara had returned when the city was forced to surrender.
The Warrior Saint was prepared for emergencies and had accumulated a quantity of explosives in one of the subterranean passages of the convent. At the crucial moment a deafening explosion was heard and both the conquerors and vanquished were crushed beneath the debris of masonry. Thus did the Saint with her companions escape the outrages of licentious soldiery." (Extracted with acknowledgements from "The Journal of the Royal Artillery", July 4, 1944)
There are several legends attributed to Saint Barbara, but I prefer the one that is printed above, because it depicts the heroism of the Gunners and the Martyrdom of their Saint.
The red lightning stripe is accorded in honour to St. Barbara, not only on Regimental ties and cravats, but also it is evident on the frieze on the outside upper walls of Bessborough Armoury.
"This beautiful legend shows us how appropriate was the choice of the Virgin and Martyr Saint Barbara as patroness of Artillerymen. Alypius, the Saint's Father, during Military service in the east became friendly with a certain Fakir from whom he learned the marvellous secrets as to the use of naphtha and saltpetre. From the same source he also learned the preparation of Bengal Lights.
Alypius, on his return to his native town, Hippo, devoted his life to the study of chemistry. Barbara received a liberal education, spoke several languages, and in addition became deeply interested in her father's research work. By their united efforts in the laboratory an explosive of extraordinary power was discovered.
The beauty of Barbara attracted many suitors, but she rejected them all and entered the Convent of Saint Perpetua, founded by Saint Augustine.
Africa was then a prey to invasions, and one evening in the summer of 430 A.D., the vandals arrived under the walls of Hippo. The town gates were closed and the siege began.
The Barbarians dug wide trenches round the city walls and threw therein the dead bodies of men and animals, the slain of their recent conflict. By this means they hoped to overcome the besieged by causing death from fever and plague.
Alypius, in this hour of need, summoned his daughter from the convent to assist in the defence of the city.
While they were placing large jars full of a mysterious substance in position, Alypius was killed by an arrow. Barbara, the sole possessor of her father's secrets, was called upon to continue the heroic combat. She ordered the contents of the urns to be poured into the enemy's trenches. In an instant the substance ignited, the putrified bodies were consumed and the pestilential miasmas were dispelled.
During the siege, which lasted fourteen months, all the surprise attacks of the enemy were frustrated by the frequent use of Bengal Lights, and at intervals incandescent globes of fire were hurled from catapults at the enemy. After an heroic struggle, the besiegers captured the city, and thirsting for revenge, they swarmed into the convent where Barbara had returned when the city was forced to surrender.
The Warrior Saint was prepared for emergencies and had accumulated a quantity of explosives in one of the subterranean passages of the convent. At the crucial moment a deafening explosion was heard and both the conquerors and vanquished were crushed beneath the debris of masonry. Thus did the Saint with her companions escape the outrages of licentious soldiery." (Extracted with acknowledgements from "The Journal of the Royal Artillery", July 4, 1944)
There are several legends attributed to Saint Barbara, but I prefer the one that is printed above, because it depicts the heroism of the Gunners and the Martyrdom of their Saint.
The red lightning stripe is accorded in honour to St. Barbara, not only on Regimental ties and cravats, but also it is evident on the frieze on the outside upper walls of Bessborough Armoury.

CHAPTER III
When one stands outside the door to the Sergeants Mess, you may notice a doorway to your left and to your right a small serving hatch. Prior to 1959, the Junior Ranks were served beer through this opening as they were allowed no bar of their own. The entrance to the Sergeants Mess was through the now sealed doorway on your Ieft. Upon entering the Mess through the anteroom, which was the bar prior to renovations, you are immediately faced with your own image. When the anteroom was remodelled it was felt necessary to locate the mirror facing the door to enable members and guests to check whether they were dressed in accordance with Mess regulations. On your right when standing in the doorway of the Mess proper, is the leather bound Guest Book hand tooled by Sgt. E.V. Wallington and presented to the Mess in 1961. Many Gunners and guests have signed themselves into the Mess including at least two Master Gunners, one of whom attended the Mess following an inspection of the Regiment by the Master Gunner of St. James in 1960 who came to Vancouver on behalf of our Captain General Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of Canada.
Above the Guest Book is a rogues gallery of former Commanding Officers and the Regimental Sergeant Majors who served them during the same period of time. You will no doubt notice that Regimental Sergeant Majors appear to outlast a number of Commanding Officers during their term of office. I would prefer to make no further comment on that fact. Above the rouges gallery is a picture of Vimy Ridge Monument presented to all Military Messes by the Government of Canada, as a special remembrance of Canada's step into greatness by its military valour. However, after studying the portraits you are no doubt thirsty, so left turn and up to the bar. While the Mess Steward is preparing your drink, a word or two about the bar itself. The attractive facility was made possible by a bequest from the Estate of S/Sgt. Jimmy Walker, who for many years after retirement from regular service with the Gunners was a member of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Band. He loved the Mess dearly, and wanted to continue his association even after he had died. The money he left in his will provided a complete remodelling and installation of all new equipment.
Now that you have a drink in your hand, look up over the Bar and you can read the commemorative plaque to S/Sgt. Wa1ker and notice the two pictures. Firstly on the left a photograph of an Honest John Missile presented by CWO B.P. Cormier CD.
This launching took place in June of 1974 when RSM Cormier was on a visit to our Sister Battery, the 21st (Gibraltar 1779-83) Missile Battery RA 50 Missile Regiment Royal Artillery, British Army of the Rhine at the Hohne Ranges in West Germany. To the right is an oil painting on velvet of a 25-pounder Gun/Howitzer in action. The acquisition of this painting is in some doubt, but it is believed to have been presented to the Mess by a Junior Sergeant whose girlfriend was the artist.
Around the corner you can admire a model of a 72pounder Napoleon Gun presented to the Sergeants Mess by the Ex-Artillery Sergeants Association of British Columbia. This model was made by Ret'd Sgt. Ken Brown. The small model of the L5 pack Howitzer 105 mm (British) was given to the Mess by the author upon retirement in 1972. On the wall above the mirror is a beautiful hand made silk embroidery of the Royal Coat of Arms surmounting the Royal Artillery Crest. This fine piece was presented to the Mess by Bombardier W.G. Palmer a year before he died in 1964 at the age of 89. He had encouraged his Chinese wash girl to do this embroidery from a hand drawn sketch while he was serving with the Royal Artillery in Hong Kong from 1897 to 1905. He eventually came to Victoria in about 1912 to assist in the installation of its shore Batteries around Esquimalt Harbour. At the time of the presentation, he was living with his son in Vancouver and wanted the piece kept safely in an Artillery Sergeants Mess.
When one stands outside the door to the Sergeants Mess, you may notice a doorway to your left and to your right a small serving hatch. Prior to 1959, the Junior Ranks were served beer through this opening as they were allowed no bar of their own. The entrance to the Sergeants Mess was through the now sealed doorway on your Ieft. Upon entering the Mess through the anteroom, which was the bar prior to renovations, you are immediately faced with your own image. When the anteroom was remodelled it was felt necessary to locate the mirror facing the door to enable members and guests to check whether they were dressed in accordance with Mess regulations. On your right when standing in the doorway of the Mess proper, is the leather bound Guest Book hand tooled by Sgt. E.V. Wallington and presented to the Mess in 1961. Many Gunners and guests have signed themselves into the Mess including at least two Master Gunners, one of whom attended the Mess following an inspection of the Regiment by the Master Gunner of St. James in 1960 who came to Vancouver on behalf of our Captain General Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of Canada.
Above the Guest Book is a rogues gallery of former Commanding Officers and the Regimental Sergeant Majors who served them during the same period of time. You will no doubt notice that Regimental Sergeant Majors appear to outlast a number of Commanding Officers during their term of office. I would prefer to make no further comment on that fact. Above the rouges gallery is a picture of Vimy Ridge Monument presented to all Military Messes by the Government of Canada, as a special remembrance of Canada's step into greatness by its military valour. However, after studying the portraits you are no doubt thirsty, so left turn and up to the bar. While the Mess Steward is preparing your drink, a word or two about the bar itself. The attractive facility was made possible by a bequest from the Estate of S/Sgt. Jimmy Walker, who for many years after retirement from regular service with the Gunners was a member of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Band. He loved the Mess dearly, and wanted to continue his association even after he had died. The money he left in his will provided a complete remodelling and installation of all new equipment.
Now that you have a drink in your hand, look up over the Bar and you can read the commemorative plaque to S/Sgt. Wa1ker and notice the two pictures. Firstly on the left a photograph of an Honest John Missile presented by CWO B.P. Cormier CD.
This launching took place in June of 1974 when RSM Cormier was on a visit to our Sister Battery, the 21st (Gibraltar 1779-83) Missile Battery RA 50 Missile Regiment Royal Artillery, British Army of the Rhine at the Hohne Ranges in West Germany. To the right is an oil painting on velvet of a 25-pounder Gun/Howitzer in action. The acquisition of this painting is in some doubt, but it is believed to have been presented to the Mess by a Junior Sergeant whose girlfriend was the artist.
Around the corner you can admire a model of a 72pounder Napoleon Gun presented to the Sergeants Mess by the Ex-Artillery Sergeants Association of British Columbia. This model was made by Ret'd Sgt. Ken Brown. The small model of the L5 pack Howitzer 105 mm (British) was given to the Mess by the author upon retirement in 1972. On the wall above the mirror is a beautiful hand made silk embroidery of the Royal Coat of Arms surmounting the Royal Artillery Crest. This fine piece was presented to the Mess by Bombardier W.G. Palmer a year before he died in 1964 at the age of 89. He had encouraged his Chinese wash girl to do this embroidery from a hand drawn sketch while he was serving with the Royal Artillery in Hong Kong from 1897 to 1905. He eventually came to Victoria in about 1912 to assist in the installation of its shore Batteries around Esquimalt Harbour. At the time of the presentation, he was living with his son in Vancouver and wanted the piece kept safely in an Artillery Sergeants Mess.

To the left of the embroidery, the Armorial Bearings of the Dominion of Canada granted by Royal proclamation on the 21st of November, 1921. This was presented to the Sergeants Mess by the Canadian Club of the City of Vancouver in the same year. Below the Armorial Bearings, is a very fine water colour. This painting depicts Norman Ramsay's Guns at Fuentes d’Onor in Spain. This battle was fought on May 5th, 1811 and I Battery (Bull's Troop) Royal Horse Artillery distinguished itself. On the morning of the battle, Norman Ramsay was on pickett with two guns of his troop, when he noticed the advance of the French Cavalry in numbers exceeding 4,000. They were cut off and surrounded, and it was supposed by all that the guns were lost. Suddenly, however, a great commotion was observed among the French Squadrons, and to quote from Napier's History of the Peninsular War:
"Men and horses were seen to close with confusion and pursuit towards one point where a thick dust and loud cries and the sparkling of blades and the flashing of pistols indicating some extraordinary occurrence. Suddenly the multitude became violently agitated and English shout peeled high and clear, and Norman Ramsay burst forth sword in hand at the head of his Battery, his horse breathing fire stretched like greyhounds along the main, the guns bounding behind him like things with no weight, and the mounted gunners followed close with their heads bent low, and their pointed weapons in desperate career."
Terrific cheers from the whole British Army greeted the success of Norman Ramsay's brilliant action in thus saving the guns. His name became a by-word in the Peninsular Army, as a personification of all that was dashing and brilliant. Unfortunately, four years later, Norman Ramsay was killed at the Battle of Waterloo. He was buried at Inveresque near Edinburgh in the burial place of his family, and his memory is still guarded with much pride by the Royal Artillery Regiment.
This picture was presented to Sir Michael W.S. Bruce BT R.H_4 by the Officers of I Battery (Bull's Troop) Royal Horse Artillery in memory of his service with that troop during the 1914 - 1918 War. It is interesting to note that Sir Michael Bruce until his death in the late 1960's was a well-known writer of childrens’ books and also wrote a column for the Vancouver Sun. His widow presented the picture to the author in 1966. It was- felt that this picture would add a distinguishing mark to the Sergeants' Mess and has been on loan ever since. Sir Michael himself was an extremely interesting character. It was said of him that during the victory celebrations in London on November 11, 1918, that along with his troop officers, he rode his charger into the lounge of the Savoy Hotel in the Strand, certainly following in the footsteps of Ramsay.
Under the Bull's Run, the shelving carries some trophies. The Brigadier R.T. Du Moulin Trophy to the most efficient member of the Sergeants' Mess. The trophy represents some of the finest Senior NCO’s that have served the Regiment. Along with the Du Moulin Trophy, there is a framed Terms of reference dictating the rules in judging the most efficient member of the Sergeants' Mess. Also there is the Orienteering Trophy of the 68 Battery, a trophy for those teams exceling themselves in what used to be called map reading.
"Men and horses were seen to close with confusion and pursuit towards one point where a thick dust and loud cries and the sparkling of blades and the flashing of pistols indicating some extraordinary occurrence. Suddenly the multitude became violently agitated and English shout peeled high and clear, and Norman Ramsay burst forth sword in hand at the head of his Battery, his horse breathing fire stretched like greyhounds along the main, the guns bounding behind him like things with no weight, and the mounted gunners followed close with their heads bent low, and their pointed weapons in desperate career."
Terrific cheers from the whole British Army greeted the success of Norman Ramsay's brilliant action in thus saving the guns. His name became a by-word in the Peninsular Army, as a personification of all that was dashing and brilliant. Unfortunately, four years later, Norman Ramsay was killed at the Battle of Waterloo. He was buried at Inveresque near Edinburgh in the burial place of his family, and his memory is still guarded with much pride by the Royal Artillery Regiment.
This picture was presented to Sir Michael W.S. Bruce BT R.H_4 by the Officers of I Battery (Bull's Troop) Royal Horse Artillery in memory of his service with that troop during the 1914 - 1918 War. It is interesting to note that Sir Michael Bruce until his death in the late 1960's was a well-known writer of childrens’ books and also wrote a column for the Vancouver Sun. His widow presented the picture to the author in 1966. It was- felt that this picture would add a distinguishing mark to the Sergeants' Mess and has been on loan ever since. Sir Michael himself was an extremely interesting character. It was said of him that during the victory celebrations in London on November 11, 1918, that along with his troop officers, he rode his charger into the lounge of the Savoy Hotel in the Strand, certainly following in the footsteps of Ramsay.
Under the Bull's Run, the shelving carries some trophies. The Brigadier R.T. Du Moulin Trophy to the most efficient member of the Sergeants' Mess. The trophy represents some of the finest Senior NCO’s that have served the Regiment. Along with the Du Moulin Trophy, there is a framed Terms of reference dictating the rules in judging the most efficient member of the Sergeants' Mess. Also there is the Orienteering Trophy of the 68 Battery, a trophy for those teams exceling themselves in what used to be called map reading.

Another interesting item is a photograph of 31 Battery RCA at Sarcee Camp, Alberta in 1935. On the rear of the picture, you can read names of Senior NCO’s, some are still connected with the Regiment through the Artillery Sergeants Association of British Columbia. Between the windows on the west wall, you will observe a picture of L Battery Royal Horse Artillery at the Battle of Nery fought on the 1st of September 1914. Below is the graphic testimonial to this Battle. Below the picture is the graphic testimonial to this Battle. The following is an account of the action on the morning of August 31st, 1914, from the book "The First Seven Divisions" by Captain Ernest W. Hamilton, 11th Hussars, and on the staff of Sir John French: "The same morning witnessed a very heroic little action at Nery. During the preceeding night, the First Cavalry Brigade had billeted in the little village, together with L Battery RHA, which was now attached to the Brigade. The village lies low in broken hill country. To the South and East of it, the ground rises suddenly and very steeply forming a long ridge which juts out into the plain from the North. Along these heights, Lieut. Tailbv of the 11th Hussars was patrolling in the early morning, and in a very thick fog, when he suddenly bumped right into a column of German Cavalry. He had hardly' time to gallop back and warn the Brigade, before shot and shell began to fly thickly into the village, The German Force, as it afterwards turned out, consisted of no less than six cavalry regiments with two batteries of six guns, each attached and there is every reason to believe that they were just as surprised at the encounter as was the First Cavalry Brigade. However that may be, the advantage in position, as well as in numbers was greatly on the side of the Germans, who from the heights they were on, completely dominated the ground below. Even the sun favoured them, for when that broke through about five o'clock, it was at the back of the enemy and in the face of the defenders.
The lifting of the fog soon cleared up any doubts in the minds of all concerned, as to how matters stood. On the heights above, with the sun behind them, were the six German Regiments dismounted with twelve guns, down below in an open orchard on the western side of the village, there were the Bays and L Battery Royal Horse Artillery'. They were still in position in which they had been in the night previous. Beyond them was the 5th Dragoon Guards, the 11th Hussars were on the south-east side of the village nearest the enemy, but more or less hidden from view and protected from the enemy's fire by the lie of the land. Then began -one of those rare episodes which will live forever in history and romance.
The position of L Battery had not been chosen with a view to action, except for the fog, it would have never been caught there, but having been caught there, it accepted the situation. Owing to the broken nature of the ground, only three of its guns could be brought to bear on the enemy’s position, but these three were quickly at work. The Bays who were the Regiment, chiefly in the line of fire, got their horses to safety and then joined in with the rifle and machine gun fire. Taking what shelter they could, but this did not amount to much, and the sun was in their eyes. None of these disadvantages made themselves felt in the case of the 11th Hussars, who from their sheltered position, were able to bring a most effective machine gun fire to bear on the flank of the German position. Their doings, however, we may pass by. The focus point of German attention was the Iittle Horse Artillery Battery down in the apple orchard. This now became the target for their practised, perfect tornado of shot and shell, and at the range of only 400 yards, two of the three guns were quickly' knocked out, and the fire of batteries, rifles and Maxims became concentrated on the one that remained. Men and Officers combined themselves on one gun, Captain Bradbury in command had one limb taken off by a shell, but he propped himself up and continued to direct the fire till he fell dead. Lieut. Campbell died as did the Brigade Major, who came up with orders from Headquarters. Lieut. Gifford and Lieut. Mundy both fell wounded, and Sgt. Major Derell took over command. With the support of Sgt. Nelson, Gunner Darbyshire and Driver Osborne, he cheerfully continued this absurd and unequal dual. In the meantime, the 5th Dragoon Guards had been ordered to work around to the north-east in order to make a diversion from that flank. This they were able to do to a certain extent, though at some cost. Col. Ansell being shot through the head, and killed at the very outset. The Regiment, however, were not strong enough single handed to make more than a demonstration, and the whole situation was far from promising. When by the mercy of providence, the 4th Cavalry Brigade most unexpectedly arrived on the scene from the direction of Compiegne. They lost no time in dismounting and joining up with the 5th Dragoon Guards, and the four combined Regiments poured a heavy fire to the flank of the enemy.
This new development entirely changed the aspect of the affair, and finding the situation getting too hot for them, the Germans made off hurriedly in the direction of Verrines, abandoning eight of their guns and one Maxim.
They tried in the first instance to man-handle their guns out of action, but the steady fire of the Cavalry on their flank supplemented now by the frontal fire from the Bays, who had by this time, installed their machine gun in the sugar factory to the west of the village, proved too much for them. They abandoned the attempt. The whole affair had lasted little over an hour, but the last word had yet to be said for the 11th Hussars jumped on their horses, galloped off in pursuit, captured fifty horses and a number of prisoners. The German casualties killed and wounded were also considerable, and on our side the troops in the open orchard suffered very severely. The Bays showed great daring activities throughout. Mr. De Crerpingny particularly distinguished himself; they lost seven Officers out of L Battery, only three men emerged unwounded. The survivors of this Battery, however, must forever be a source of gratification to reflect that the last shot in the most preposterous duel was fired by the Batteries blood-stained 13-pounder down in the apple orchard, and that was fired at the backs of the enemy. Captain Bradbury, Sgt. Major Derell and Sgt. Nelson were awarded the Victoria Cross, the former posthumously, the last two named were also given their commissions, Lieut. Gifford got the Cross of the Legion of Honour, and the entire Battery earned a name which will live as long as history Here is a sequel to this gallant little affair, in which is sufficient satisfactory to record, the 1st and 4th Cavalry Brigade billeted that night at Borest, and continued their Progress south next day through the Foret-o-Ermenonville here abandoned among the birch trees of the forest, they found two of the guns which the Germans had succeeded in getting away from Nery. It was a small incident, but very satisfactory as a finale."
It should also be noted that the Nery Gun is now in the Woolwich War Museum, where it is revered by all Gunners.
On the south wall, you will see the Artillery Crest which is also the crest of the Royal Artillery with the King's Crown rather than the crown worn by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll, the Captain General. However, this is understandable because it was put onto the wall in 1934 when the Sergeant's Mess was initially constructed. The Crest is maintained and hand painted by an appointed member of the Mess. Below the Crest is the trophy used in many Mess functions, which was presented to Lieut. Col. E. Bell Irving by the Officers of and affiliated with the 2nd Canadian Heavy AA Regiment RCA at Zeggerscappel, France on the 2nd of February 1945, and by him to the Artillery Sergeants Mess, Bessborough Armoury, Vancouver on the 8th of April 1957. It is interesting to note that this trophy is comprised of a 25-pounder shell casing, surmounted by Mills Grenade with two 40 mm. projectiles supported by projectiles and cases also from 40 mm. The badges on the casings of the 40 mm are those corps which supported the Artillery in action. On the left are the original cap badges of the Royal Canadian Electric and Mechanical Engineers, the Royal Canadian Ordinance Corp, the Royal Canadian Army Service Corp, the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corp, and on the right the Royal Canadian Corp of Signals the Royal Canadian Army Pay Corps, the Chaplains Corps, and the Dental Corps. The gong is primarily used to initiate newly promoted Senior NCO's into the Mess at which time they are required to buy a round for the house. The trophy is stood at a mean height and the recipient of the award is elevated horizontally to a firing position by four of his own rank, and fired towards the gong, which is held by the Regimental Sergeant Major, and released to coincide with his head at the appropriate time.
The two large 3.7" casings on either side of the gong were presented to the Sergeants' Mess by WO1 jimmy Sanders, who had affiliations with both the 28th AA Regiment RCA and the 15th (Vancouver) Coast Regiment RCA. The trophy on the right is the Headquarters of the 28th AA Regiment RCA Sergeants Mess Trophy listing the members of that Mess, and on the left, the 58th Coast Battery 15th (Vancouver) Coast Regiment RCA and the members of the Point Grey Sergeants' Mess October 1942, also listing those Senior NCO's who served in that Battery at that time.
The picture that hangs over the dart board was presented by the late Sgt. Paddy Adair, who served with the First Canadian Contingent in France in 1915. The picture depicts the landing of the Canadian Contingent at San Nazaire, France in 1915. The original of this picture now hangs in the Senate Chambers in Ottawa. Up on the east wall is the Caen-Falaise Map which was originally issued to Major Rev. Canon S.E. Higgs before landing on the beaches in Normandy in June of 1944. You will notice the map is very well worn, and if one examines it closely, you will be able to pick out crosses which the Padre had put onto the map to indicate references where the dead were buried. Padre Higgs landed with the Armoured Division as Chaplain. Below the map is a poem entitled "Strange Harvest" which was written by Padre Higgs in commemoration of the Falaise Gap Battle and was presented along with the map to the Sergeants' Mess on the 6th of June 1972.
The lifting of the fog soon cleared up any doubts in the minds of all concerned, as to how matters stood. On the heights above, with the sun behind them, were the six German Regiments dismounted with twelve guns, down below in an open orchard on the western side of the village, there were the Bays and L Battery Royal Horse Artillery'. They were still in position in which they had been in the night previous. Beyond them was the 5th Dragoon Guards, the 11th Hussars were on the south-east side of the village nearest the enemy, but more or less hidden from view and protected from the enemy's fire by the lie of the land. Then began -one of those rare episodes which will live forever in history and romance.
The position of L Battery had not been chosen with a view to action, except for the fog, it would have never been caught there, but having been caught there, it accepted the situation. Owing to the broken nature of the ground, only three of its guns could be brought to bear on the enemy’s position, but these three were quickly at work. The Bays who were the Regiment, chiefly in the line of fire, got their horses to safety and then joined in with the rifle and machine gun fire. Taking what shelter they could, but this did not amount to much, and the sun was in their eyes. None of these disadvantages made themselves felt in the case of the 11th Hussars, who from their sheltered position, were able to bring a most effective machine gun fire to bear on the flank of the German position. Their doings, however, we may pass by. The focus point of German attention was the Iittle Horse Artillery Battery down in the apple orchard. This now became the target for their practised, perfect tornado of shot and shell, and at the range of only 400 yards, two of the three guns were quickly' knocked out, and the fire of batteries, rifles and Maxims became concentrated on the one that remained. Men and Officers combined themselves on one gun, Captain Bradbury in command had one limb taken off by a shell, but he propped himself up and continued to direct the fire till he fell dead. Lieut. Campbell died as did the Brigade Major, who came up with orders from Headquarters. Lieut. Gifford and Lieut. Mundy both fell wounded, and Sgt. Major Derell took over command. With the support of Sgt. Nelson, Gunner Darbyshire and Driver Osborne, he cheerfully continued this absurd and unequal dual. In the meantime, the 5th Dragoon Guards had been ordered to work around to the north-east in order to make a diversion from that flank. This they were able to do to a certain extent, though at some cost. Col. Ansell being shot through the head, and killed at the very outset. The Regiment, however, were not strong enough single handed to make more than a demonstration, and the whole situation was far from promising. When by the mercy of providence, the 4th Cavalry Brigade most unexpectedly arrived on the scene from the direction of Compiegne. They lost no time in dismounting and joining up with the 5th Dragoon Guards, and the four combined Regiments poured a heavy fire to the flank of the enemy.
This new development entirely changed the aspect of the affair, and finding the situation getting too hot for them, the Germans made off hurriedly in the direction of Verrines, abandoning eight of their guns and one Maxim.
They tried in the first instance to man-handle their guns out of action, but the steady fire of the Cavalry on their flank supplemented now by the frontal fire from the Bays, who had by this time, installed their machine gun in the sugar factory to the west of the village, proved too much for them. They abandoned the attempt. The whole affair had lasted little over an hour, but the last word had yet to be said for the 11th Hussars jumped on their horses, galloped off in pursuit, captured fifty horses and a number of prisoners. The German casualties killed and wounded were also considerable, and on our side the troops in the open orchard suffered very severely. The Bays showed great daring activities throughout. Mr. De Crerpingny particularly distinguished himself; they lost seven Officers out of L Battery, only three men emerged unwounded. The survivors of this Battery, however, must forever be a source of gratification to reflect that the last shot in the most preposterous duel was fired by the Batteries blood-stained 13-pounder down in the apple orchard, and that was fired at the backs of the enemy. Captain Bradbury, Sgt. Major Derell and Sgt. Nelson were awarded the Victoria Cross, the former posthumously, the last two named were also given their commissions, Lieut. Gifford got the Cross of the Legion of Honour, and the entire Battery earned a name which will live as long as history Here is a sequel to this gallant little affair, in which is sufficient satisfactory to record, the 1st and 4th Cavalry Brigade billeted that night at Borest, and continued their Progress south next day through the Foret-o-Ermenonville here abandoned among the birch trees of the forest, they found two of the guns which the Germans had succeeded in getting away from Nery. It was a small incident, but very satisfactory as a finale."
It should also be noted that the Nery Gun is now in the Woolwich War Museum, where it is revered by all Gunners.
On the south wall, you will see the Artillery Crest which is also the crest of the Royal Artillery with the King's Crown rather than the crown worn by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll, the Captain General. However, this is understandable because it was put onto the wall in 1934 when the Sergeant's Mess was initially constructed. The Crest is maintained and hand painted by an appointed member of the Mess. Below the Crest is the trophy used in many Mess functions, which was presented to Lieut. Col. E. Bell Irving by the Officers of and affiliated with the 2nd Canadian Heavy AA Regiment RCA at Zeggerscappel, France on the 2nd of February 1945, and by him to the Artillery Sergeants Mess, Bessborough Armoury, Vancouver on the 8th of April 1957. It is interesting to note that this trophy is comprised of a 25-pounder shell casing, surmounted by Mills Grenade with two 40 mm. projectiles supported by projectiles and cases also from 40 mm. The badges on the casings of the 40 mm are those corps which supported the Artillery in action. On the left are the original cap badges of the Royal Canadian Electric and Mechanical Engineers, the Royal Canadian Ordinance Corp, the Royal Canadian Army Service Corp, the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corp, and on the right the Royal Canadian Corp of Signals the Royal Canadian Army Pay Corps, the Chaplains Corps, and the Dental Corps. The gong is primarily used to initiate newly promoted Senior NCO's into the Mess at which time they are required to buy a round for the house. The trophy is stood at a mean height and the recipient of the award is elevated horizontally to a firing position by four of his own rank, and fired towards the gong, which is held by the Regimental Sergeant Major, and released to coincide with his head at the appropriate time.
The two large 3.7" casings on either side of the gong were presented to the Sergeants' Mess by WO1 jimmy Sanders, who had affiliations with both the 28th AA Regiment RCA and the 15th (Vancouver) Coast Regiment RCA. The trophy on the right is the Headquarters of the 28th AA Regiment RCA Sergeants Mess Trophy listing the members of that Mess, and on the left, the 58th Coast Battery 15th (Vancouver) Coast Regiment RCA and the members of the Point Grey Sergeants' Mess October 1942, also listing those Senior NCO's who served in that Battery at that time.
The picture that hangs over the dart board was presented by the late Sgt. Paddy Adair, who served with the First Canadian Contingent in France in 1915. The picture depicts the landing of the Canadian Contingent at San Nazaire, France in 1915. The original of this picture now hangs in the Senate Chambers in Ottawa. Up on the east wall is the Caen-Falaise Map which was originally issued to Major Rev. Canon S.E. Higgs before landing on the beaches in Normandy in June of 1944. You will notice the map is very well worn, and if one examines it closely, you will be able to pick out crosses which the Padre had put onto the map to indicate references where the dead were buried. Padre Higgs landed with the Armoured Division as Chaplain. Below the map is a poem entitled "Strange Harvest" which was written by Padre Higgs in commemoration of the Falaise Gap Battle and was presented along with the map to the Sergeants' Mess on the 6th of June 1972.

To the left of the map and poem are three pictures taken from the London Sketch which were issued during the 1914 - 1918 War showing the guns in various forms of action. The shell casing hanging on the wall was presented by Lieut. Col. J.M. Reynolds CD RCA, to the 15th Field Sergeants' Mess on the 3rd of July 1963. The purpose behind this presentation was to give the Mess a gong so that names of its members could be recorded for posterity. The gong is rung only with the permission of the RSM or by the PMC and is also used by Senior NCO's upon promotion to signify a round at the bar.
Looking up to the left of the gong, you will observe the German Swastika emblem which was used in Germany during the 1939 - 1945 World War. This particular emblem was presented by Major J. Carmichael (Ret'd) who along with his Engineer Sergeant removed the emblem from the side of the locomotive which had pulled Adolph Hitler's personal train, and he presented it to the Mess in 1965. The Mess Committee president was WO2 Gary Angell, who's father framed this emblem and hermetically sealed it so that it would not tarnish. Below the Swastika emblem, are three pictures showing the use of the gong which had been inspected on the mantelpieces. To the left, Hon. Col. Graham Blyth promoted to W02, in the centre Brigadier General E.D. Danby, who was also promoted to WO2 by the then Regimental Sergeant Major WO1 D. Penman, and to the right of General Danby's picture Major General J.M. Rockingham, who was promoted to Staff Sergeant. Below the General Danby picture is the plaque in honour of the DOM's presented by Col. D.J. Anderson in April 1972 to selected members of the Mess. The story of this plaque should probably remain unwritten. The plaque to the left is from the l08th Field Battery Royal Australian Artillery which was presented to the Mess by Captain W.T. Chilton upon his return from his world tour following his retirement, and his visit to the Battery in Singapore. To the right is the First RCHA Garter Plaque which was presented to the author and Sergeant Darwin Harmon upon their visit to the 1st Regiment for the NATO exercises in Europe from June 1967 to November 1967.
Having made the tour of the Mess, meander back to the bar and refill your glass. On the rear wall of the bar, you should see two shell casings which are both 105 mm. The one with the handles is the Mobile Command Cup, which was inadvertently presented to the Mess by WO Alan Yelland CD, who was the PMC in 1968. The RSM at the time on viewing this beautiful piece of work decided that it was much too nice a piece to decorate the WO's home, and encouraged him to present it to the Mess providing that a tradition grew up around the Cup. At Regimental Mess Dinners, the cup is filled with a punch concocted by the BSM of the Mobile Command Battery and passed around to toast the Mobile Command. The names of the original Battery Senior NCO s are engraved upon the casing. The other casing is to commemorate Canada's Centennial Birthday on the 1st of July 1967 by the 15th Field Artillery Regiment. The one hundred gun salute was fired at Hallelujah Point in Stanley Park and this casing is from the Fiftieth round. The first round is in the Officers Mess and the Hundredth round in the Junior Ranks Mess. The large silver bowl on the shelf is the General Efficiency. Competition Trophy presented by the Royal Canadian Artillery Association to the 15th Field Artillery Regiment in 1965 when the Regiment was the Western Command Winner. The small silver bowl with the handles is the 28th AA Regiment General Efficiency Challenge Cup which is no longer used as a trophy. Also behind the bar is the 158th Battery Efficiency Trophy which was presented to 158th Battery by Lance Bombardier D. Avery in 1966, at the time Bombardier Avery left the Regiment to join the regular force. The other casing is used by the President of the Mess to control Mess Meetings.
ln the centre of the Mess is a large beam, and on the north side of the beam is the Dominion of Canada Flag which was removed from its position of honour at the fireplace in 1967 when Canada received its new flag. The Dominion Flag was re-consecrated by the Padre, framed and placed on the wall. The opposite side to the Dominion Flag is a painting presented to the Sergeants Mess by the Ladies Auxiliary to the Regiment in October 1963. The four chandeliers in the main part of the Mess were presented by Mr. Hienz Barsnick, an associate member of the Mess. The piano was presented to the RCA Sergeants Mess on the 13th of January, 1956, donor unknown. Oak tables and chairs were obtained refinished from the Provincial Jail in Burnaby. The large carver chair is strictly for the use of the Regimental Sergeant Major, and one of the traditions of the Mess is that if anyone other than the Regimental Sergeant Major sits in this chair, he will entertain the RSM during his presence in the Mess that evening. The other furnishings in the Mess belong to the Department of National Defence. The dart board was presented to the Mess by the Artillery Sergeants Association in January 1967.
Probably the most prized possession of the 15th Field Regiment Sergeants' Mess are its troop of four miniature live-firing 12-pounder Napoleon Guns. These guns were manufactured by Lieut. Col. W.T. Wickett CD., Commanding Officer of the Regiment. The guns are made of brass, finished to scale. They are used not only as ornaments and symbolic of the tradition of the guns, but are fired on ceremonial occasions such as Mess Dinners, Special Parades, etc. Together with the four guns of the Officers' Mess, the Regiment can provide a two troop Battery of eight guns. Each gun is appointed a detachment by the RSM and the detachment is responsible for proper maintenance of its gun at all times. These miniature field pieces are usually kept secure behind the bar, and may be examined upon request.
On your way out of the Mess, look above the door, and you will find that the EXIT sign is displayed upside down. This goes back to 1968, when two British Missile Destroyers were visiting Vancouver, H M S Fife and H M S Glamorgan. The Fife, because she was a senior ship tied up close to the dock and the Glamorgan tied up along side the Fife. After the ship had been in port a few days, the Commander of the Fife complained to the Commander of the Glamorgan that his seamen in crossing the deck of the Fife were making a mess of it. The Chief Petty Officers decided that from that day forward, all Petty Officers and Chief Petty Officers of the Glamorgan would cross the Fife walking on their hands. The Petty Officers and chiefs of the H M S Glamorgan were invited to the 15th Field Sergeants' Mess and upon entering the Mess, very quickly jumped from their feet to their hands and entered the Mess in that manner and then complained that they could not read the sign because it was upside down. Since that time, this EXlT sign has been displayed in the inverted position.
Looking up to the left of the gong, you will observe the German Swastika emblem which was used in Germany during the 1939 - 1945 World War. This particular emblem was presented by Major J. Carmichael (Ret'd) who along with his Engineer Sergeant removed the emblem from the side of the locomotive which had pulled Adolph Hitler's personal train, and he presented it to the Mess in 1965. The Mess Committee president was WO2 Gary Angell, who's father framed this emblem and hermetically sealed it so that it would not tarnish. Below the Swastika emblem, are three pictures showing the use of the gong which had been inspected on the mantelpieces. To the left, Hon. Col. Graham Blyth promoted to W02, in the centre Brigadier General E.D. Danby, who was also promoted to WO2 by the then Regimental Sergeant Major WO1 D. Penman, and to the right of General Danby's picture Major General J.M. Rockingham, who was promoted to Staff Sergeant. Below the General Danby picture is the plaque in honour of the DOM's presented by Col. D.J. Anderson in April 1972 to selected members of the Mess. The story of this plaque should probably remain unwritten. The plaque to the left is from the l08th Field Battery Royal Australian Artillery which was presented to the Mess by Captain W.T. Chilton upon his return from his world tour following his retirement, and his visit to the Battery in Singapore. To the right is the First RCHA Garter Plaque which was presented to the author and Sergeant Darwin Harmon upon their visit to the 1st Regiment for the NATO exercises in Europe from June 1967 to November 1967.
Having made the tour of the Mess, meander back to the bar and refill your glass. On the rear wall of the bar, you should see two shell casings which are both 105 mm. The one with the handles is the Mobile Command Cup, which was inadvertently presented to the Mess by WO Alan Yelland CD, who was the PMC in 1968. The RSM at the time on viewing this beautiful piece of work decided that it was much too nice a piece to decorate the WO's home, and encouraged him to present it to the Mess providing that a tradition grew up around the Cup. At Regimental Mess Dinners, the cup is filled with a punch concocted by the BSM of the Mobile Command Battery and passed around to toast the Mobile Command. The names of the original Battery Senior NCO s are engraved upon the casing. The other casing is to commemorate Canada's Centennial Birthday on the 1st of July 1967 by the 15th Field Artillery Regiment. The one hundred gun salute was fired at Hallelujah Point in Stanley Park and this casing is from the Fiftieth round. The first round is in the Officers Mess and the Hundredth round in the Junior Ranks Mess. The large silver bowl on the shelf is the General Efficiency. Competition Trophy presented by the Royal Canadian Artillery Association to the 15th Field Artillery Regiment in 1965 when the Regiment was the Western Command Winner. The small silver bowl with the handles is the 28th AA Regiment General Efficiency Challenge Cup which is no longer used as a trophy. Also behind the bar is the 158th Battery Efficiency Trophy which was presented to 158th Battery by Lance Bombardier D. Avery in 1966, at the time Bombardier Avery left the Regiment to join the regular force. The other casing is used by the President of the Mess to control Mess Meetings.
ln the centre of the Mess is a large beam, and on the north side of the beam is the Dominion of Canada Flag which was removed from its position of honour at the fireplace in 1967 when Canada received its new flag. The Dominion Flag was re-consecrated by the Padre, framed and placed on the wall. The opposite side to the Dominion Flag is a painting presented to the Sergeants Mess by the Ladies Auxiliary to the Regiment in October 1963. The four chandeliers in the main part of the Mess were presented by Mr. Hienz Barsnick, an associate member of the Mess. The piano was presented to the RCA Sergeants Mess on the 13th of January, 1956, donor unknown. Oak tables and chairs were obtained refinished from the Provincial Jail in Burnaby. The large carver chair is strictly for the use of the Regimental Sergeant Major, and one of the traditions of the Mess is that if anyone other than the Regimental Sergeant Major sits in this chair, he will entertain the RSM during his presence in the Mess that evening. The other furnishings in the Mess belong to the Department of National Defence. The dart board was presented to the Mess by the Artillery Sergeants Association in January 1967.
Probably the most prized possession of the 15th Field Regiment Sergeants' Mess are its troop of four miniature live-firing 12-pounder Napoleon Guns. These guns were manufactured by Lieut. Col. W.T. Wickett CD., Commanding Officer of the Regiment. The guns are made of brass, finished to scale. They are used not only as ornaments and symbolic of the tradition of the guns, but are fired on ceremonial occasions such as Mess Dinners, Special Parades, etc. Together with the four guns of the Officers' Mess, the Regiment can provide a two troop Battery of eight guns. Each gun is appointed a detachment by the RSM and the detachment is responsible for proper maintenance of its gun at all times. These miniature field pieces are usually kept secure behind the bar, and may be examined upon request.
On your way out of the Mess, look above the door, and you will find that the EXIT sign is displayed upside down. This goes back to 1968, when two British Missile Destroyers were visiting Vancouver, H M S Fife and H M S Glamorgan. The Fife, because she was a senior ship tied up close to the dock and the Glamorgan tied up along side the Fife. After the ship had been in port a few days, the Commander of the Fife complained to the Commander of the Glamorgan that his seamen in crossing the deck of the Fife were making a mess of it. The Chief Petty Officers decided that from that day forward, all Petty Officers and Chief Petty Officers of the Glamorgan would cross the Fife walking on their hands. The Petty Officers and chiefs of the H M S Glamorgan were invited to the 15th Field Sergeants' Mess and upon entering the Mess, very quickly jumped from their feet to their hands and entered the Mess in that manner and then complained that they could not read the sign because it was upside down. Since that time, this EXlT sign has been displayed in the inverted position.

”THE SCREW GUNS"
(Tune - Eton Boating Song)
Verse:
SMO-KIN' MY PIPE ON THE MOUNT-IN'S
SNIF-FIN' THE MOR-NIN' DEW
I WALKS IN MY OLD BROWN GAI-TORS
A-LONG WITH MY OLD BROWN MULE.
WITH SE-VENTY GUN-NERS BE-HIND ME
AND NE-VER A BEG-GER FOR-GETS
THAT IT'S ON-LY THE PICK OF THE AR-MY
THAT HAN-DLES THE DEAR LIT-TLE PETS
Chorus:
FOR WE'LL
ALL LOVE THE SCREW GUNS
THE SCREW GUNS WE'LL ALL LOVE YOU
AND WHEN WE GO BY WITH A FEW GUNS
MY GOD WE'LL KNOW JUST WHAT TO DO.
JUST SEND IN YOUR CHIEFS AND SUR-REN-DER
IT'S WORSE IF YOU FIGHTS OR YOU RUNS
YOU CAN CLIMB UP THE TREES
YOU CAN GO WHERE YOU PLEASE
BUT YOU CAN'T GET AWAY FROM THE GUNS
By Rudyard Kipling
CONCLUSION
It is hoped that you have enjoyed this booklet as much as I have enjoyed writing it, and that knowledge of the Sergeants' Mess has been gained from it. The completed product is of course less than I had hoped for. Most of us anticipate great things from ourselves, whatever the task, and they never really come to a conclusion that is perfect or satisfactory to oneself. However, perfection only comes from trying; I have tried to play the author, and only you, the reader, can, judge the value of the effort.
REGIMENTAL SERGEANT MAJORS OF THE 15TH FIELD ARTILLERY REGIMENT RCA
1920* WO1 MINTER
1922* WO1 SORENSEN, MC
1928" WO1 BERT HANKINS
1935* WO1 WILLARD PURDY
1939* WO1 ROBERT JAMES WATSON, EM
1946* WO1 GEORGE COOK
1948* WO1 PETER TRAPPITT
1950* WO1 ERNEST RICHARDSON
1959-65 WO1 DAVID PENMAN, CD
1966-68 WO1 PATRICK H. SMITH, CD
1958-72 CWO RAYMOND GUTTRIDGE, CD
1972-75 CWO BRIAN PHILIP CORMIER, CD
1975- CWO ERIC C. TYLDESLEY-GORE, CD
*approximate date only
THE LAST WORD
I will make mine, in the form of a heartfelt, sincere "Thank You" from myself and all of the Gunners of the Warrant Officers and Sergeants' Mess to the author, CWO Ray Guttridge CD DOM for what will become a cherished part of the "Traditions and Trophies" of our Mess, This Booklet.
CWO EC Tvldesley-Gore CD DOM RSM
(Tune - Eton Boating Song)
Verse:
SMO-KIN' MY PIPE ON THE MOUNT-IN'S
SNIF-FIN' THE MOR-NIN' DEW
I WALKS IN MY OLD BROWN GAI-TORS
A-LONG WITH MY OLD BROWN MULE.
WITH SE-VENTY GUN-NERS BE-HIND ME
AND NE-VER A BEG-GER FOR-GETS
THAT IT'S ON-LY THE PICK OF THE AR-MY
THAT HAN-DLES THE DEAR LIT-TLE PETS
Chorus:
FOR WE'LL
ALL LOVE THE SCREW GUNS
THE SCREW GUNS WE'LL ALL LOVE YOU
AND WHEN WE GO BY WITH A FEW GUNS
MY GOD WE'LL KNOW JUST WHAT TO DO.
JUST SEND IN YOUR CHIEFS AND SUR-REN-DER
IT'S WORSE IF YOU FIGHTS OR YOU RUNS
YOU CAN CLIMB UP THE TREES
YOU CAN GO WHERE YOU PLEASE
BUT YOU CAN'T GET AWAY FROM THE GUNS
By Rudyard Kipling
CONCLUSION
It is hoped that you have enjoyed this booklet as much as I have enjoyed writing it, and that knowledge of the Sergeants' Mess has been gained from it. The completed product is of course less than I had hoped for. Most of us anticipate great things from ourselves, whatever the task, and they never really come to a conclusion that is perfect or satisfactory to oneself. However, perfection only comes from trying; I have tried to play the author, and only you, the reader, can, judge the value of the effort.
REGIMENTAL SERGEANT MAJORS OF THE 15TH FIELD ARTILLERY REGIMENT RCA
1920* WO1 MINTER
1922* WO1 SORENSEN, MC
1928" WO1 BERT HANKINS
1935* WO1 WILLARD PURDY
1939* WO1 ROBERT JAMES WATSON, EM
1946* WO1 GEORGE COOK
1948* WO1 PETER TRAPPITT
1950* WO1 ERNEST RICHARDSON
1959-65 WO1 DAVID PENMAN, CD
1966-68 WO1 PATRICK H. SMITH, CD
1958-72 CWO RAYMOND GUTTRIDGE, CD
1972-75 CWO BRIAN PHILIP CORMIER, CD
1975- CWO ERIC C. TYLDESLEY-GORE, CD
*approximate date only
THE LAST WORD
I will make mine, in the form of a heartfelt, sincere "Thank You" from myself and all of the Gunners of the Warrant Officers and Sergeants' Mess to the author, CWO Ray Guttridge CD DOM for what will become a cherished part of the "Traditions and Trophies" of our Mess, This Booklet.
CWO EC Tvldesley-Gore CD DOM RSM