Divisional signals

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  1. Trux

    Trux 21 AG

    DIVISIONAL SIGNALS

    Divisional signals units were standardised and provided communications down to infantry
    battalion, armoured squadron, artillery battery and the other divisional units. They were
    dispersed to, and fully integrated with the units they served. Most are also detailed with the
    units.


    DIVISIONAL SIGNALS

    Infantry Divisional Signals. War Establishment II/219/1. November 1943
    Infantry Divisional Signals. War Establishment II/219/2. March 1945
    Armoured Divisional Signals. War Establishment II/213/2. May 1944
    Armoured Divisional Signals. War Establishment II/215/1. February 1945
    79 Armoured Division Signals. War Establishment VIII/729/1. April 1944
    79 Armoured Division Signals. War Establishment XIV/1760/1. May 1945


    Divisional Signals units were large and complex. In the field the various sub units were dispersed throughout the division and were often very closely integrated with unit headquarters. The signals unit took the number and title of the formation that it served eg. 11 Armoured Division Signals.

    A key part of the communication system was that there should be a clear point at which units handed over responsibility to the Royal Signals and vice versa. This was the Signal Office. All messages would be routed through this office, usually an office truck. Units would deliver messages by motorcycle orderly, line telephone or wireless. Royal Signals would then decide how it would be forwarded according to the nature of the message and the level of priority assigned to it. Each Signal Office was supervised by a Signalmaster, usually not a permanent position but one undertaken in turn by junior officers. Communication might be by wireless (voice or Morse), by line telephone or by despatch rider.

    Royal Signals were also responsible for the first line maintenance of signals equipment and the batteries required by them, in units as well as those operated by the Royal Signals.



    INFANTRY DIVISIONAL SIGNALS
    War Establishment II/219/1. November 1943
    War Establishment II/219/2. March 1945

    The Royal Corps of Signals was responsible for all communications within an infantry division down to the following levels
    - headquarters of infantry battalions
    - headquarters of reconnaissance regiment
    - headquarters of artillery batteries
    - headquarters of engineer field companies
    Communications were also provided within headquarters, between headquarters and to flanking units. Communications with Corps Headquarters was the responsibility of Corps Signals.

    By the end of the campaign there had been relatively few changes to the organisation but there had been changes in the vehicle used. By 1945 the following changes, either on paper or in fact, were general
    - All 15cwt Office trucks and 3ton 4 X 4 GS for use as office were replaced by 3ton 4 X 4 Office.
    - Lorries listed as carrying 6KW generating sets towed a trailer with 6KW generating set instead.
    - Electrician, signals and instrument repairer, signals were now radio repairer or telegraph repairer.
    - Linesmen were classified as linesman field or linesman permanent.
    There were also some additional wire and linesman personnel and vehicles. All such changes are indicated in the text.

    Personnel
    Lieutenant Colonel, Officer Commanding
    3 X Major
    Captain, Adjutant
    8 X Captain
    12 X Subaltern
    Technical Maintenance Officer
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Company Serjeant Major
    Warrant Officer Cipher Operator

    company quartermaster serjeant
    company quartermaster serjeant, foreman of signals
    4 X serjeant cipher operator
    serjeant electrician, signals
    serjeant instrument mechanic, signals
    transport serjeant
    serjeant vehicle mechanic
    serjeant clerk
    21 X serjeant

    14 X lance serjeant, signalman class
    68 X corporal, signalman class
    88 X lance corporal, signalman class
    22 X lance corporal, driver class
    327 X signalman
    112 X driver
    Total 695

    Attached
    Captain, REME
    corporal shoemaker, RAOC
    3 X corporal cook, ACC
    13 X cook, ACC
    12 X orderlies from Divisional Headquarters (not included in total)
    18 X orderlies from Brigade Headquarters (not included in total)
    Total 710

    Tradesmen
    2 X carpenter and joiner
    7 X clerk
    57 X despatch rider
    draughtsman, signals
    46 X driver mechanic
    48 X driver operator
    53 X electrician, signals
    27 X instrument mechanic, signals
    61 X lineman
    249 X operator, wireless and line
    13 X vehicle mechanic
    3 X storeman (listed as assistant tradesmen and therefore presumably paid less.

    Non tradesmen
    Signalman class
    9 X corporal cipher operator
    6 X lance corporal cipher operator
    driver class
    butchery dutyman
    12 X batman
    27 X batman driver
    80 X driver
    7 X general dutyman
    4 X sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman

    Vehicles
    67 X motorcycle
    5 X car 4 seater 4 X 4
    56 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    16 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 15cwt Office
    1 X 15cwt water
    28 X 15cwt wireless House
    20 X 15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    32 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Cipher Office
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4 TEV Division
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Wireless I
    1 X 6 X 4 machinery
    4 X Scout Car
    14 X Lorry Command Vehicle LP
    5 X Lorry Command Vehicle HP
    3 X Armoured Car, stripped
    12 X 10cwt trailer
    1 X water trailer



    ORGANISATION
    Headquarters
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Commanding Officer, Adjutant, batman, driver mechanic
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    serjeant clerk, corporal clerk, signals draughtsman, batman, driver IC
    Equipped as Commanding Officers office
    Carries Bren lmg
    Security section
    15cwt office truck
    Captain Security Officer, clerk, batman driver
    3ton 4 X 4 Wireless I
    corporal operator, 7 X operator, driver mechanic
    In this role the Bedford QLR wireless lorry was equipped with four R107 receivers and was used for monitoring divisional signals traffic to ensure that correct procedures were followed.
    Note:
    All operators are listed as operator (wireless and line) but have been abbreviated here for convenience.

    Headquarters squadron
    Headquarters
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Captain REME, batman driver
    Car 4 seater 4 X 2
    Captain, Regimental Serjeant Major, batman, driver IC

    Q troop (administration)
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Quartermaster, batman driver

    15cwt truck.GS 1
    2 X cook, driver IC
    Carries cooking set
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, driver IC

    3ton lorry GS 1
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant, clerk, corporal shoemaker RAOC,
    storeman, butchery dutyman, driver IC
    Carries quartermasters stores
    Carries a PIAT
    3ton lorry GS 2
    corporal cook ACC, 2 X cook ACC, 2 X general dutyman, driver IC
    Carries cooking equipment
    Tows a water trailer
    3ton lorry GS 3
    2 X cooks ACC, 3 X general dutyman, driver IC
    Carries technical and MT stores
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry GS 4
    storeman, driver IC
    Carries petrol in tins

    2 X general dutyman and 4 X sanitary dutyman are carried in the transport of headquarters No1 Company


    M troop (Technical Maintenance)
    Motorcycle
    Company Quartermaster Serjeant acting as foreman of signals
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Technical Maintenance Officer, batman driver

    15cwt truck.GS 1
    2 X vehicle mechanic
    Carries technical stores
    Carries a Bren lmg
    15cwt truck GS 2
    corporal vehicle mechanic, vehicle mechanic, instrument mechanic, electrician
    Carries charging set and spare batteries
    Carries Bren lmg

    3ton lorry GS 1
    serjeant vehicle mechanic, serjeant electrician, 6 X vehicle mechanic,
    2 X carpenter and joiner
    Carries PIAT
    Carries 6Kw charging set
    3ton lorry 6 X 4 machinery.
    serjeant instrument mechanic, corporal instrument mechanic, 4 X instrument mechanic, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is a House Type Machinery Lorry without PTO and equipped as a technical workshop.

    Note: By the end of the campaign the following changes had been made.
    - The Commanding Officers 3ton 4 X 4 GG for use as an Office had been replaced by a 3ton 4 X 4 Office
    - The Security Officers 15cwt office had been replaced by a 3ton 4 X 4 Office
    - The 6 X 4 Machinery lorry had been replaced by a 3ton 4 X 4 Machinery
    - Instrument mechanics (signals) had been replaced by radio mechanics
    - Electricians (signals) had been replaced by telegraph mechanics


    No1 Squadron
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    Company Serjeant Major
    Motorcycle
    company quartermaster serjeant
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, corporal clerk batman, driver IC
    3ton lorry GS
    2 X general dutyman and 4 X sanitary dutyman from Q section, driver IC
    Carries baggage and stores
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries PIAT

    A (wireless) section
    Motorcycle 1
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 2
    electrician
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Captain, batman driver
    15cwt 4 X 4 Personnel (White)
    2 X relief operator, driver IC
    For battery distribution

    3ton lorry GS 1
    corporal relief operator, 6 X relief operator, 4 X relief driver IC, batman, driver IC
    Relief operators and relief drivers IC are for the LCVs.
    3ton lorry GS 2
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is A1 and is for the Divisional Command net, RT (voice).
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is A2 and is for the Divisional Command net, CW (Morse and
    teleprinter).
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 3
    corporal operator, operator, corporal instrument mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries VHF Wireless set AM 1132 and Wireless set No19
    This vehicle is A3 and is Reserve and Tactical Reconnaissance (Air).

    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 4
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is A4 and is for links to flank formations.
    Lorry Command Vehicle HP 1
    corporal operator, operator, electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set 12 HP and Wireless set No 19 plus R.107
    This vehicle is A5 and is for the Main Corp net RT (voice).
    Lorry Command Vehicle HP 2
    serjeant, corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set 12 HP and Wireless set No 19 plus receiver R107
    This vehicle is A6 and is for the Main Corp net (CW) and acts as Signal Office
    Lorry Command Vehicle HP 3
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set 12 HP and Wireless set No 19 plus Receiver R107
    This vehicle is A7 and is for communication with Rear Division Headquarters.
    Lorry Command Vehicles are provided by Royal Signals for the use of Divisional Staff. There is accommodation for staff officers as well as the personnel listed and their wireless sets. A1 is the General Officer Commanding’s vehicle.

    Armoured Car 1
    operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No19 and no 19 HP
    Armoured Car 2
    operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No19 and no 19 HP

    A section also had the following
    - a lance corporal operator and a Wireless set No 22 carried in the Divisional Commanders Car 4 seater 4 X 4
    - 6 X R107 recievers are carried in any section as space allows.

    Note:
    By 1945 the following changes had been made
    - 3ton 4 X 4 GS 2 now towed a 1 ton trailer
    - Lorry Command Vehicle A7 now towed a 6Kw generator trailer

    B (Wireless) section
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    electrician
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Subaltern, batman driver

    15cwt Wireless House 1
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is for Main divisional net CW (Morse)
    15cwt Wireless House 2
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 3
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 4
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 5
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 6
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 7
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 8
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    This vehicle is for signals pool

    3ton lorry GS
    4 X relief operator, 2 X relief driver IC, driver IC
    Carries stores

    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is B3 and is for signals pool.
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is B4 and is for signals pool.
    Lorry Command Vehicle HP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set 12 HP and Wireless set No19 plus Receiver R 107.
    This vehicle is B1 and is for Main divisional and Brigade RT (voice).
    Lorry Command Vehicle HP 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set 12 HP and Wireless set No19 plus Receiver R 107.
    This vehicle is B2 and is for Rear Corps net.

    Note:
    By 1945 Lorry command Vehicle B1 tows a 6Kw generator trailer.

    C (Cable) section
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    lineman
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    Subaltern, batman driver
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    storeman, driver IC
    Carries a PIAT
    Carries cable and stores
    Detachment 1
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic.
    Carries a mechanical cable layer
    Detachment 2
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic.
    Carries a mechanical cable layer
    Detachment 3
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic.
    Carries a mechanical cable layer

    D troop (Despatch rider)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    corporal despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 5
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 6
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 7
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 8
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 9
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 10
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 11
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 12
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 13
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 14
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 2
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 3
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 4
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 5
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 6
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 7
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 8
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 9
    corporal vehicle mechanic
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    driver mechanic
    Carries stores

    O (operating) section
    Motorcycle
    Subaltern
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 1
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 2
    3 X lineman
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 3
    3 X lineman

    Operating sub section 1
    15cwt truck GS
    serjeant, 4 X orderlies (from Divisional HQ), driver IC
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator (for switchboard and telegraph), 2 X operator,
    despatch rider (for counter duties) driver IC
    Operating sub section 2
    15cwt truck GS
    serjeant, 4 X orderlies (from Divisional HQ), driver IC
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator (for switchboard and telegraph), 2 X operator,
    despatch rider (for counter duties) driver IC
    Operating sub section 3
    15cwt truck GS
    serjeant, 4 X orderlies (from Divisional HQ), driver IC
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator (for switchboard and telegraph), 2 X operator,
    despatch rider (for counter duties) driver IC

    A batman and 2 X PIAT are carried in the transport of the three sub sections.

    Cipher sub section
    15cwt Office 1
    3 X serjeant cipher operator, driver IC

    15cwt Office 2
    3ton 4 X 4 cipher office
    Captain
    WOII cipher operator
    serjeant cipher operator
    6 X corporal cipher operator
    batman
    2 X driver IC

    Note:
    By 1945 15cwt Office 1 had been replaced by a 3ton 4 X 4 Office and 15cwt Office 2 had been replaced by a 3ton Cipher Office.


    No2 Company (Communications for Royal Artillery)
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    Motorcycle
    vehicle mechanic
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, corporal clerk, driver IC

    E, F and G section (Field Regiments RA) each
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle w
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    lineman
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    Corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries a hand cable layer
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    15cwt wireless house
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle is for rear link and forward control.
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries 2 X Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for CO’s reconnaissance.

    3ton lorry GS
    instrument mechanic, relief operator, corporal electrician, cook ACC,
    driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry signal office
    2 X corporal operator, 4 X operator, 2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries PIAT

    3 X electrician, one operator, one wireless set No22 and 3 X 1,260 watt charging sets are carried in the transport of the Field regiment RA


    H section (Commander Royal Artillery)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    Subaltern, batman driver
    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon
    3ton lorry GS
    instrument mechanic, relief operator, electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg and PIAT
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle for CRA and staff. Provides rear link and forward control.
    Armoured car
    operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No19 and Wireless set No19 HP

    A wireless set No22 is carried in the CRA’s car.

    Note:
    By 1945 the following had been added
    Motorcycle 2
    radio mechanic
    3ton GS 1 now tows a 6Kw generator trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    3 X operator, 1 X relief operator, driver IC
    For use as Signal Office

    Anti tank regiment detachment
    15cwt truck GS
    corporal electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for rear link

    Note:
    By 1945 the 15cwt GS was replaced by
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal radio mechanic, driver mechanic
    Tows a 6Kw generator trailer.

    Light AA regiment detachment
    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for rear link

    A corporal instrument mechanic, 3 X electrician and 4 X 1260 watt charging sets are carried in the transport of the Light AA Regiment.


    No 3 Company
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    Motorcycle
    vehicle mechanic
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman driver, corporal clerk, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    For use as company office

    P section (Machine Gun Battalion)
    This section was added by 1945.
    Motorcycle
    corporal radio mechanic
    15cwt truck GS 1
    corporal radio mechanic, radio mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    corporal radio mechanic, radio mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1,260 watt charging set

    R section (reconnaissance regiment)
    Motorcycle
    serjeant

    15cwt truck GS 1
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 3
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt wireless house
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for rear link, voice
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 2
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for rear link, Morse

    3ton lorry GS
    corporal instrument mechanic, instrument mechanic, driver IC
    Carries 6 KW charging set and spare batteries
    Carries a Bren lmg
    By 1945 the 3ton 4 X 4 Gs towed a 6Kw generator trailer

    J, K and L section (Infantry Brigades) each
    Motorcycle 1
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 2
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 5
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 6
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 7
    corporal linesman

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 5
    electrician
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 6
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic
    Carries cable laying apparatus No3
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    15cwt wireless house 1
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 2
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 3
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle for Rear Link to Division, CW
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 1
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for infantry battalion rear net
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 2
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for infantry battalion rear net
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 3
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for infantry battalion rear net
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 4
    operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and No 19 HP
    This vehicle is for brigade commanders reconnaissance

    3ton lorry GS 1
    corporal electrician, batman, driver mechanic
    Carries 6 KW charging set and spare batteries
    3ton lorry GS 2
    corporal operator, 3 X operator, driver IC
    Carries 4 X orderlies from Headquarters Infantry Brigade
    Carries Bren lmg
    For use as signal office
    3ton lorry GS 3
    corporal cipher operator, 2 X lance corporal cipher operator, instrument
    mechanic, cook ACC, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X orderlies from Headquarters Infantry Brigade
    Carries a Bren lmg and a PIAT
    Carries Technical Stores
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for forward control and rear link to Main Division.
    Lorry Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    This vehicle is for service control and rear link to Rear Division.


    A corporal operator, 3 X relief operator (one for office and two for command vehicles) are carried in the section transport.

    A wireless set No22 is carried in the Brigade Commanders car.
    Note:
    By 1945 jeep 3 had replaced motorcycle 7 as a despatch rider’s transport. Two jeeps were added as follows
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X linesman (field), linesman (permanent line), driver mechanic
    Carries a cable layer
    Tows a 10cwt trailer.

    N section (Royal Engineers)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    electrician
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    Subaltern, batman driver
    15cwt wireless house 1
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for forward control
    Carries a relief operator for LCV
    15cwt wireless house 2
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for engineer company
    15cwt wireless house 3
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for engineer company
    15cwt wireless house 4
    2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for engineer company

    Lorry Command Vehicle LP
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle for CRE and staff. Provides rear link and forward control

    A wireless set No22 is carried in the CRE’s car.



    ARMOURED DIVISION SIGNALS
    War Establishment II/213/2. May 1944
    War Establishment II/215/1. February 1945

    Personnel
    Lieutenant Colonel, Officer Commanding
    4 X Major
    Captain, Adjutant
    7 X Captain
    10 X Subaltern
    Technical Maintenance Officer
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, Foreman of Signals
    4 X Squadron Serjeant Major
    4 X Warrant Officer Cipher Operators

    4 X squadron quartermaster serjeant
    company quartermaster serjeant, foreman of signals
    4 X serjeant cipher operator
    serjeant electrician, signals
    serjeant instrument mechanic, signals
    transport serjeant
    serjeant vehicle mechanic
    serjeant clerk
    21 X serjeant

    14 X lance serjeant, signalman class
    75 X corporal, signalman class
    78 X lance corporal, signalman class
    13 X lance corporal, driver class
    312 X signalman
    154 X driver

    Total 714

    Attached
    corporal shoemaker, RAOC
    3 X corporal cook, ACC
    13 X cook, ACC
    12 X orderlies from Divisional and Brigade Headquarters (not included in total)

    Total 730

    Tradesmen
    carpenter and joiner
    9 X clerk
    40 X despatch rider
    draughtsman, signals
    57 X driver mechanic
    41 X driver operator
    56 X electrician, signals
    24 X instrument mechanic, signals
    57 X lineman
    217 X operator, wireless and line
    13 X vehicle mechanic
    5 X storeman (listed as assistant tradesmen and therefore presumably paid less).

    Non tradesmen
    Signalman class
    10 X corporal cipher operator
    4 X lance corporal cipher operator
    driver class
    butchery dutyman
    9 X batman
    16 X batman driver
    80 X driver
    3 X general dutyman
    2 X sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman

    Vehicles
    51 X motorcycle
    6 X car 4 seater 4 X 4
    44 X car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    27 X 15cwt GS
    6 X 15cwt Office
    1 X 15cwt water
    32 X 15cwt wireless House
    14 X 15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    44 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Cipher Office
    5 X 3ton 4 X 4 TEV Division
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Wireless I
    1 X 6 X 4 machinery
    4 X Scout Car
    12 X Armoured Command Vehicle LP
    6 X Armoured Command Vehicle HP
    1 X Armoured Car, stripped
    11 X 10cwt trailer
    1 X water trailer
    4 X 1ton trailer


    Organisation
    Headquarters
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Commanding Officer, Adjutant, batman, driver mechanic
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    serjeant clerk, corporal clerk, signals draughtsman, driver IC
    Equipped as Commanding Officers office
    Carries Bren lmg
    Security section
    15cwt office truck
    Security officer, clerk, batman driver
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 Wireless I
    corporal operator, 7 X operator, driver mechanic
    In this role the Bedford QLR wireless lorry was equipped with four R107 receivers and was used for monitoring divisional signals traffic to ensure that correct procedures were followed.
    Note:
    All operators are listed as operator (wireless and line) but have been abbreviated here for convenience.


    Headquarters squadron
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Captain, clerk, batman, driver IC

    Q troop (administration)
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Quartermaster, batman driver

    15cwt truck.GS 1
    2 X cook, driver IC
    Carries cooking set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    butchery dutyman, driver IC
    Carries rations for main headquarters
    Carries Bren lmg
    15cwt truck GS 3
    general dutyman, driver IC
    Carries rations for rear headquarters
    15cwt truck water
    water dutyman, driver IC

    3ton lorry GS 1
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant, clerk, corporal shoe maker, storeman, driver IC
    Carries quartermasters stores
    Carries a PIAT
    Tows a 1ton trailer
    3ton lorry GS 2
    corporal cook ACC, 4 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries cooking equipment
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Tows a 1ton trailer
    3ton lorry GS 3
    transport serjeant, corporal operator, clerk, batman, driver IC
    Carries technical and MT stores
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 1ton trailer
    3ton lorry GS 4
    general dutyman, 2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries spare wireless sets
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for forward stores delivery
    3ton lorry GS 5
    sanitary dutyman, driver IC
    Carries petrol in tins for main headquarters
    Tows a 1ton trailer
    3ton lorry GS 6
    storeman, driver IC
    Carries petrol in tins for rear headquarters
    Tows a 1ton trailer

    M troop (Technical Maintenance)
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Technical Maintenance Officer, batman driver

    15cwt truck.GS 1
    quartermaster serjeant (foreman of signals), 2 X instrument mechanic, driver IC
    15cwt truck GS 2
    serjeant, 3 X electrician, driver IC
    Carries charging set and spare batteries
    Carries Bren lmg

    3ton lorry GS 3
    serjeant vehicle mechanic, corporal vehicle mechanic, 3 X vehicle mechanic, carpenter and joiner, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry GS 4
    serjeant electrician, 2 X electrician, vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries 6 Kw generating set.
    Carries a PIAT
    3ton lorry 6 X 4 machinery.
    serjeant instrument mechanic, corporal instrument mechanic, 7 X instrument mechanic, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is a House type machinery lorry without PTO and equipped as a technical workshop.


    No1 Squadron
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    Squadron Serjeant Major
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, driver IC
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Captain, batman driver
    15cwt truck Office
    corporal clerk, driver IC
    3ton lorry 4 X 4 GS
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, storeman, 3 X driver IC, driver mechanic
    Carries baggage and stores
    Carries PIAT

    A troop (Advanced Divisional Headquarters)
    Motorcycle
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle
    electrician

    15cwt 4 X 4 Personnel (White)
    2 X relief operator, driver IC
    For battery distribution

    3ton lorry GS 1
    corporal relief operator, 7 X relief operator, relief cipher operator, relief driver IC, driver IC
    CarriesBren lmg
    Relief operators and relief driver IC are for the ACVs. Relief cipher operator is for cipher section O troop.
    3ton lorry GS 2
    batman, electrician, driver IC
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries a Bren lmg

    Scout car
    Captain, batman driver

    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is A1 and is for the Divisional Command net, RT (voice).
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is A2 and is for the Divisional Command net, CW (Morse and
    teleprinter).
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 3
    corporal operator, operator, corporal instrument mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries VHF Wireless set AM 1143 and Wireless set No19
    This vehicle is A3 and is Reserve and Tactical Reconnaissance (Air).
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 4
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is A4 and is for links to flank formations.
    Armoured Command Vehicle HP 1
    corporal operator, operator, electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set RCA and Wireless set No 19 plus R.107
    This vehicle is A5 and is for the Main Corp net RT (voice).
    Armoured Command Vehicle HP 2
    serjeant, corporal operator, operator, 2 X cipher operator (from O troop)
    driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set RCA and Wireless set No 19 plus receiver R107
    This vehicle is A6 and is for the Main Corp net (CW) and acts as Signal Office..
    Armoured Command Vehicle HP 3
    corporal operator, operator, 2 X cipher operator (from O troop), driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set RCA and Wireless set No 19 plus Receiver R107
    This vehicle is A7 and is for communication with Rear Division Headquarters.
    Armoured Command Vehicle HP 4
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set RCA and Wireless set No 19 plus Receiver R107
    This vehicle is A8 and is for communication with RAF Airfield.

    Armoured Command Vehicles are provided by Royal Signals for the use of Divisional Staff. There is accommodation for staff officers as well as the personnel listed and their wireless sets. A1 is the General Officer Commanding’s vehicle.

    A troop also had the following
    - a lance corporal operator and a Wireless set No 22 carried in the Divisional Commanders Car 4 seater 4 X 4
    - a lance corporal operator and an operator carried in a command tank at Divisional Headquarters.


    B troop (Wireless)
    Motorcycle
    serjeant
    Motorcycle
    electrician

    15cwt Wireless House 1
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 HP
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for Main divisional net CW (Morse)
    15cwt Wireless House 2
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 HP
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 3
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 HP
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 4
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 HP
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 5
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 6
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 7
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 8
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 9
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool
    15cwt Wireless House 10
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 22
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for signals pool

    3ton lorry GS
    4 X relief operator, electrician, 3 X relief driver IC, driver IC
    Carries stores

    Scout car
    Subaltern, batman driver

    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is B3 and is for signals pool.
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No 19 HP
    This vehicle is B4 and is for signals pool.
    Armoured Command Vehicle HP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set RCA and Wireless set No19 plus Receiver R 107.
    This vehicle is B1 and is for Main divisional and Brigade RT (voice).
    Armoured Command Vehicle HP 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set RCA and Wireless set No19 plus Receiver R 107.
    This vehicle is B2 and is for Rear Corps net.

    C troop (Cable)
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    lineman
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    Subaltern, batman driver
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    storeman, driver IC
    Carries a PIAT
    Carries cable and stores

    Detachment Motorcycle
    serjeant
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic.
    Carries a mechanical cable layer

    Detachment Motorcycle
    serjeant
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic.
    Carries a mechanical cable layer

    Detachment Motorcycle
    serjeant
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    3ton 4 x 4 GS
    corporal lineman, 3 X lineman, driver mechanic.
    Carries a mechanical cable layer

    D troop (Despatch rider)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    corporal despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 5
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 6
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 7
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 8
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 9
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 10
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 11
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 12
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 13
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 14
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 2
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 3
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 4
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 5
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 6
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 7
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 8
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 9
    corporal vehicle mechanic

    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries stores

    O troop (operating)
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    3 X lineman (jeep)
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4
    3 X lineman
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    serjeant, 6 X orderly, driver IC
    Orderlies are from Divisional Headquarters and Headquarters Infantry Brigade and are not on the establishment of Divisional Signals.
    Scout car
    Subaltern, batman driver

    Operating section
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Operating section
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Operating section
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Cipher section
    15cwt Office and 3ton 4 X 4 cipher office
    Captain, 2 X WOII cipher operator, 4 X serjeant cipher operator, 3 X corporal
    cipher operator, batman, 2 X driver IC
    Five cipher operators are carried in the transport of A troop, Divisional Headquarters.



    No2 Squadron (Communications for Royal Artillery)
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, corporal clerk, driver IC
    15cwt truck GS
    2 X vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries petrol in tins

    E troop (Field Regiment RA)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    lineman
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries a hand cable layer
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    15cwt truck GS 1
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 3
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt wireless house
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon

    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 1
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle is for rear link and forward control.
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 2
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries 2 X Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for CO’s reconnaissance.

    3ton lorry GS
    instrument mechanic, operator, corporal electrician, cook ACC, driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry signal office
    2 X corporal operator, 4 X operator, 2 X lineman driver IC
    Carries PIAT

    A lance corporal operator and a wireless set No22 are carried in the truck of the regimental second in command.


    F troop (Field Regiment SP RA)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    Subaltern, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    lineman
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries a hand cable layer
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    15cwt truck GS 1
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 3
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt wireless house
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon

    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 1
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle is for rear link and forward control.
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 2
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries 2 X Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for CO’s reconnaissance.

    3ton lorry GS
    instrument mechanic, operator, corporal electrician, cook ACC, driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry signal office
    2 X corporal operator, 4 X operator, 2 X lineman driver IC
    Carries PIAT

    A lance corporal operator and a wireless set No22 are carried in the truck of the regimental second in command.


    H troop (Commander Royal Artillery)
    Motorcycle
    serjeant
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Subaltern, batman driver
    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon
    3ton lorry GS
    corporal instrument mechanic, operator, electrician, relief driver mechanic,
    driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg and PIAT
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle for CRA and staff.
    Armoured Car
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No19 and Wireless set No19 HP

    A wireless set No22 is carried in the CRA’s car.

    Anti tank regiment detachment

    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for rear link
    3ton lorry GS
    corporal instrument mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg

    2 X electrician and 2 X 1260 watt charging sets are carried in the transport of each self propelled anti tank regiment.

    Light AA regiment detachment

    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    Carries a Bren lmg
    This vehicle for rear link

    A corporal instrument mechanic, 3 X electrician and 4 X 1260 watt charging sets are carried in the transport of the Light AA Regiment.


    No 3 Squadron
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    squadron quartermaster serjeant
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, corporal clerk, driver IC
    15cwt truck office
    corporal clerk, driver IC
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    2 X vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Petrol in tins

    J troop (Infantry Brigade)
    Motorcycle 1
    Subaltern
    Motorcycle 2
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 3
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 5
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 6
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 7
    corporal linesman

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    electrician
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 5
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries cable laying apparatus No3
    Tows a 10cwt trailer
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 6
    2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries cable laying apparatus No3
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    15cwt truck GS 1
    corporal electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    corporal electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 3
    corporal electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries a 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 4
    cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries cooking equipment
    15cwt Office
    corporal cipher operator, 2 X lance corporal operator, driver IC
    15cwt wireless house 1
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 2
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 3
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 4
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle for Rear Link to Division, CW
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 1
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for infantry battalion rear net
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 2
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for infantry battalion rear net
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 3
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for infantry battalion rear net
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 4
    lance corporal operator, driver operator
    Carries Wireless set No 19 and No 19 HP
    This vehicle is for brigade commanders reconnaissance
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 5
    driver IC
    This vehicle is for battery distribution
    The above transport carries relief corporal operator, 3 X relief operators for office, 2 X relief operators for ACV

    3ton lorry GS 1
    corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver mechanic
    Carries cable laying apparatus No 3
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry GS 2
    corporal electrician, batman, driver mechanic
    Carries 6 KW charging set
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton lorry GS 3
    instrument mechanic, relief driver IC, driver mechanic
    Carries 2 X orderlies from Armoured Division Headquarters and Headquarters Infantry Brigade
    Carries Bren lmg

    3ton 4 X 4 TEV Division
    corporal operator, 3 X operator, driver IC
    Carries 4 X orderly from Headquarters Armoured Division and Headquarters Infantry Brigade
    Carries Bren lmg
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for forward control and rear link to Main Division.
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    This vehicle is for service control and rear link to Rear Division.

    A wireless set No22 is carried in the Brigade Commanders car.


    N troop (Commander, RE)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    electrician

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Subaltern, batman driver
    15cwt truck GS
    relief operator, driver IC
    Carries stores
    15cwt wireless house 1
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    15cwt wireless house 2
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    15cwt wireless house 3
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22

    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Accommodation for Commander RE and his Staff.
    This vehicle is for forward control and rear link.

    A wireless set No22 and lance corporal operator are carried in the Commanders RE’s car.

    R troop (armoured reconnaissance regiment)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    electrician
    15cwt truck GS 1
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS 2
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt truck GS
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1,260 watt charging set
    15cwt wireless house
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No19 HP
    Carries a Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for A echelon
    15cwt 4 X 4 armoured personnel
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No19 HP and a Wireless set No19
    Carries a Bren lmg
    This vehicle is for command and rear link

    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    2 X instrument mechanic, driver IC
    This vehicle acts as technical workshop
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal electrician, relief operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries 6KW charging set

    One operator is carried in rear link at Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment headquarters


    No 4 Squadron
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    Squadron Serjeant Major
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, corporal clerk, driver IC
    15cwt truck GS
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, corporal vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries stores

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    corporal cook ACC, 2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries cooking equipment
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries petrol in cans for main headquarters
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    vehicle mechanic, driver IC
    Carries petrol in cans for rear headquarters
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 4
    company quartermaster serjeant (foreman of signals), serjeant, corporal instrument mechanic, storeman, general dutyman, relief driver IC, driver IC
    Carries PIAT
    This vehicle acts as technical workshop
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 5
    2 X electrician, sanitary dutyman, driver IC
    Carries 6KW charging set
    Scout car
    Subaltern, driver batman

    W troop (armoured brigade headquarters)
    Motorcycle 1
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 2
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 4
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    lance corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries cable laying apparatus No3
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    15cwt truck office
    corporal cipher operator, 2 X lance corporal cipher operator, driver IC
    15cwt wireless house 1
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon command and rear link
    15cwt wireless house 2
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for A echelon command and rear link
    15cwt wireless house 3
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 4
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle for mobile replenishment and ammunition point
    15cwt wireless house 5
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries a Wireless set No19 HP
    This vehicle for Rear Link to Division, CW
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 1
    corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver mechanic
    Carries cable laying apparatus No 3
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel 2
    electrician, driver IC
    This vehicle is for battery distribution

    3ton lorry GS
    serjeant, 5 X relief operator, relief driver IC , driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV Division
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Carries Signal Office Equipment

    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 1
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No19 and Wireless set No19HP
    This vehicle is for forward control and rear link
    For the use of the Brigade Commander and his staff.
    Armoured Command Vehicle LP 2
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No19 and Wireless et No19HP.
    This vehicle is for service control and rear link to Rear Division.

    3 X operator are carried in three command tanks of Armoured Brigade Headquarters.


    X, Y and Z troop (armoured regiments) each
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    electrician
    15cwt truck GS
    serjeant electrician, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries batteries and expendable stores
    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle is for A echelon
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    instrument mechanic, relief operator, driver IC
    This vehicle acts as technical workshop
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal electrician, 2 X electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries bren lmg
    Carries 6KW charging set
    One operator is carried in a tank at Armoured Regiment headquarters

    V troop (motor battalion)
    Motorcycle
    serjeant
    15cwt truck GS
    electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries 1260 watt charging set
    15cwt wireless house
    lance corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No22
    This vehicle is for A echelon
    15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    corporal operator, operator, driver operator
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No 19
    This vehicle is for Rear Link.
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    corporal electrician, instrument mechanic, driver mechanic
    Carries a Bren lmg
    Carries a 6KW charging set.
    This vehicle acts as technical workshop




    79 ARMOURED DIVISION SIGNALS
    War Establishment VIII/729/1. April 1944
    War Establishment XIV/1760/1. May 1945

    Personnel
    Lieutenant Colonel, Officer Commanding
    4 X Major
    Captain, Adjutant
    4 X Captain
    Captain or Subaltern
    17 X Subaltern
    Technical Maintenance Officer
    Quartermaster

    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    Quartermaster Serjeant, Foreman of Signals
    2 X Squadron Serjeant Major

    4 X squadron quartermaster serjeant
    Company Quartermaster Serjeant, Foreman of Signals
    4 X serjeant cipher operator
    serjeant electrician, signals
    serjeant instrument mechanic, signals
    5 X transport serjeant
    serjeant vehicle mechanic
    serjeant clerk
    17 X serjeant

    lance serjeant, signalman class
    61 X corporal, signalman class
    292 X signalman
    133 X driver

    Total 563

    Attached
    corporal shoemaker, RAOC
    corporal cook, ACC
    12 X cook, ACC


    Tradesmen
    carpenter and joiner
    9 X clerk
    33 X despatch rider
    draughtsman, signals
    60 X driver mechanic
    16 X driver operator
    88 X electrician, signals
    23 X instrument mechanic, signals
    26 X lineman
    122 X operator, wireless and line
    9 X vehicle mechanic
    8 X storeman (listed as assistant tradesmen).

    Non tradesmen
    Signalman class
    18 X cipher operator
    driver class
    butchery dutyman
    6 X batman
    13 X batman driver
    49 X driver
    2 X general dutyman
    sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman

    Vehicles
    44 X motorcycle
    3 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    6 X car 4 seater 4 X 4
    22 X jeep
    20 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 15cwt Office
    1 X 15cwt water
    13 X 15cwt wireless House
    5 X 15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    60 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Cipher Office
    6 X 3ton 4 X 4 TEV Division
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Wireless I
    1 X 4 X 4 machinery (less machine tools and power take off)
    3 X Lorry Command Vehicle LP
    5 X Lorry Wireless HP
    3 X Armoured Command Vehicle HP
    3 X 10cwt trailer

    ORGANISATION
    Note that this is the organisation for a signals unit in a normal armoured division with additions and (mainly) deletions as indicated in the 79 Armoured Division Signals establishment. The actual establishment document does not give an organisation.

    Headquarters
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Commanding Officer, Adjutant, batman, driver mechanic
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    Subaltern, serjeant clerk, corporal clerk, signals draughtsman, driver IC
    Equipped as Commanding Officers office
    Carries Bren lmg

    Security section
    15cwt office truck
    Captain Security Officer, corporal clerk, batman driver
    Carries Bren lmg
    3ton 4 X 4 Wireless I
    corporal operator, 7 X operator, driver mechanic
    In this role the Bedford QLR wireless lorry was equipped with four R107 receivers and was used for monitoring divisional signals traffic to ensure that correct procedures were followed.

    Headquarters squadron
    Headquarters
    Motorcycle
    Regimental Serjeant Major
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Captain, clerk, batman, driver IC

    Q troop (administration)
    Note that this troop does not correspond to the normal armoured division signals unit so organisation cannot be given.
    Subaltern
    Regimental Quartermaster Serjeant
    transport serjeant

    2 X clerk
    operator
    2 X storeman
    batman
    batman driver
    butchery dutyman
    7 X driver of vehicle
    2 X general dutyman
    sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman

    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 15cwt water
    5 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS

    M troop (Technical Maintenance)
    This troop differs from the normal armoured division troop only in having one less serjeant and one less electrician.

    No1 Squadron
    Headquarters
    This differs from the normal armoured division signals in not having a 15cwt office truck and driver. It is assumed that the corporal clerk travels in the 3ton GS.
    Motorcycle
    Squadron Serjeant Major
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, driver IC
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Captain, batman driver
    3ton lorry 4 X 4 GS
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, storeman, corporal clerk, 3 X driver IC,
    driver mechanic
    Carries baggage and stores
    Carries PIAT

    A troop (Advanced Divisional Headquarters)
    A troop varies considerably from that of a normal armoured division signals. It appears to be a condensed and amalgamated A and B troop. While signals vehicles did not vary much in the crew that they carried it is not possible to say with certainty how this troop was organised.

    Captain
    Subaltern
    Company Serjeant Major, Foreman of Signals
    serjeant instrument mechanic

    12 X driver mechanic
    4 X driver operator
    2 X electrician
    instrument mechanic
    35 X operator
    2 X cipher operator
    2 X batman driver

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    4 X 15cwt wireless house
    5 X 15cwt 4 X 4 personnel
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    2 X 3ton 4 X 4 Wireless HP
    3 X armoured command vehicle HP

    C troop (Cable)
    This is identical to that of a normal armoured division signals of the period.

    D troop (Despatch rider)
    This is identical to that of a normal armoured division signals of the period. By 1945 the number of motorcycle despatch riders was reduced from 15 to 11 and the number of jeep despatch riders increased from 5 to 11.


    O troop (operating)
    This is sufficiently similar to that of a normal armoured division signals to be certain of its accuracy.
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep)
    Subaltern, batman driver
    3ton 4 X 4 GS
    transport serjeant, driver IC

    Operating section
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Operating section
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Operating section
    3ton 4 X 4 TEV (division)
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Cipher section
    15cwt Office and 3ton 4 X 4 cipher office
    Captain or Subaltern, Squadron Serjeant Major Cipher Operator, 3 X serjeant
    cipher operator, 7 X corporal cipher operator, batman driver, driver IC


    Brigade Signals Squadron
    Each Brigade in the Division had its own similar signals squadron.
    1 Assault Brigade RE Signal Squadron
    30 Armoured Brigade Signal Squadron
    These were identical except for
    1 Assault Brigade RE had one extra vehicle and crew per signal troop as shown below.
    30 Armoured Brigade W troop had one corporal replaced by a lance corporal.

    Other brigades when attached brought their own standard armoured brigade signal squadron.

    Headquarters
    Squadron Headquarters was smaller than in the normal armoured division signals.
    Motorcycle
    electrician
    Car 4 seater 4 X 4 (Humber FWD).
    Major, batman, clerk, driver IC

    15cwt truck GS
    2 X cook ACC, driver IC
    Carries cooking equipment

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    squadron quartermaster serjeant, storeman, driver IC
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    company quartermaster serjeant (foreman of signals), serjeant, instrument
    mechanic, driver IC
    Technical workshop

    W troop (brigade headquarters)
    Motorcycle 1
    serjeant
    Motorcycle 2
    despatch rider
    Motorcycle 3
    despatch rider

    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 1
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 2
    despatch rider
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 3
    Captain, batman driver
    Car 5cwt 4 X 4 (jeep) 4
    lance corporal lineman, 2 X lineman, driver IC
    Carries cable laying apparatus No3
    Tows a 10cwt trailer

    3ton 4 X 4 TEV Division
    corporal operator, 4 X operator, driver IC
    Carries Signal Office Equipment

    3ton 4 X 4 Wireless HP
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver mechanic
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries Wireless set No19 and Wireless set No19HP
    3ton 4 X 4 Command LP
    corporal operator, 3 X operator, corporal cipher operator, 2 X cipher operator,
    driver mechanic
    Carries Wireless set No19


    X, Y and Z troop (one per regiment)
    Motorcycle
    electrician

    15cwt truck GS
    serjeant, electrician, driver IC
    Carries Bren lmg
    Carries batteries and expendable stores
    15cwt wireless house
    corporal operator, 2 X operator, driver operator
    Carries a Wireless set No 22

    3ton 4 X 4 GS 1
    corporal instrument mechanic, driver mechanic
    This vehicle acts as technical workshop
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 2
    2 X electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries bren lmg
    Carries 6KW charging set
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 3
    2 X electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries bren lmg
    Carries 6KW charging set
    3ton 4 X 4 GS 4
    2 X electrician, driver mechanic
    Carries bren lmg
    Carries 6KW charging set

    Note: One 3ton 4 X 4 with charging set is provided per squadron. 1 Assault Brigade RE had four squadrons and therefore an extra vehicle per signal troop.
     
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