RAOC Gazette - page 51
Image details
| Corps | RAOC |
|---|---|
| Material type | Journals |
| Book page | |
| Chapter head | |
| Chapter key | |
| Chapter number | |
| Full title | RAOC Gazette |
| Page number | |
| Publication date | 1978 |
| Real page | |
| Colour | No |
| Grey | No |
| Early date | 1978 |
| Late date | 1978 |
| Transcription |
A \: M Q V K o c c A S I (> N WHEN Her Majesty The Queen named the Bicester Military Railway locomotive "Conductor" 1 during her recent visit to the Corps, the route to the platform was lined by eight Serving Conductors RAOC, A nice thought and a tribute to this unique rank. A PRESENTATION Advertiser The earliest record of the office of Conductor is contained in the Statute of Westminster 1327 when Edward III decreed that the wages of Conductors of Soldiers from the Shires to places of assembly would no longer be a charge upon the Shire. 11 Conductor" became a military rank in 1879 when two new warrant ranks were introduced into the Army, these were 'Conductor of Supplies and Conductor of Stores,' the latter was appointed to the then Ordnance Store Corps. The appointment of 'Conductor' is the Senior Warrant Officer appointment in the Army and their position in the Army in 1879 was described as ' inferior to all commissioned officers and superior to all non-commissioned officers/ The Conductors present were: WOl (Conductor) Denis Bradley, Peter Atkinson, Tom Williams. Gary Graves, Jack Hall, John Bullock, Dougie Dow and David King* CYPRUS SERGEANT FRANK GREANEY was presented with the British Empire Medal by Major General Taylor, for services in a clerical capacity in Northern Ireland. The photograph shows General Taylor having an informal drink and chat with (from left to right) Corporals Tom McCallion and Keith Cammack* Mrs Nora McCallion and Mrs Linda Flannagan with her husband John, as well as the man of the moment Sergeant Frank Greaney BEM. THEATRE Photo The Bicester IN IN BLACKDOWN SCANDAL in the Officers Mess has long been a favourite sub- ject of playwrights and there is no better example of this than Barry England's thrilling drama * Conduct Unbecoming * chosen s by the Blackdown Players as their entry in the British Army Drama Festival. The play is set in the Officers Mess of a Regiment of the Army in India at the latter part of the last century; it is an exciting ' whodunnit' which exploits the tensions and passions smouldering beneath the surface of regimental life. The plot is woven around attempts to defend the honour of the Regi- ment, attempts which become so distorted as to become them- selves, a source of disgrace. Producer Fiona Dennis on certainly provided a production both stylish and compelling. Alex Sturdy in the key role of Second Lieutenant Arthur Drake gave a moving performance. Mike Murphy as the spoiled and bored General's son, Second Lieutenant Millington, un- justly accused of assaulting a lady at the Regimental Ball was excellent. Arthur Sutton brought great charm and dignity to the part of the Commanding Officer and Ruth Wilkinson, as his wife, contributed a sensitive and convincing picture of a mature relationship. Ken Collins' interpretation of the Senior Subaltern was right as was Mike Willis's characterization of the Adjutant— very true to form. Philip Inman is the kind of actor who fills a stage with his presence. He was well cast as Major Wimbourne VC, giving a portrayal which was, to say the least, robust. George Beaumont as the Doctor had an important part and he made the very most of it. His performance in the court scene was full of guile and showed an exemplary sense o£ timing. The main ladies part in the play is that of Mrs Hasseltine, widow of the Regimental hero. Ann Hedley-SmitrTs portrayal was a highlight and she looked the part in her beautiful period costumes. A workmanlike interpretation was that of Bob Hussey as Major Roach. His final scene which is vital to the success of the play was beautifully concentrated and held the audience to the last second, Much of the plays authenticity and pace came from small details of production—for example the way the Indian servants moved or rather glided about the stage. Indeed it would be nice to mention all the supporting cast by name, they certainly deserve it, however, mention must at least be made of the competent and delightful portrayal, by Pam Brown, of the difficult role of Mrs Bandanai. Her incredibly authentic delivery native tongue, her graceful movements and expressive face ,as most convincing. As was Brian Dent's Pradah Singh. 35 — |
| Book number | R0247 |