Hi there, Haven't posted in a while, but wondered if anyone out there can tell me if the Royal Engineers 101 Field Company were sent to North Africa at any time during WW11. Also, what is the likelihood of someone enlisting in the Royal Fusiliers in 1937 but by 1944 were with the Royal Engineers? Would/could this have happened? How can I find out more about the Royal Engineers involvement in WW11 and perhaps a timeline? Many thanks.
Nicola, Yes it would be possible for a RF to become a RE for a variety of reasons. For example if he'd come out of Dunkirk in 1940 he may have requested a transfer out of the Infantry as I've read some men did. They'd seen too much. He may have had a skill that was required in the RE and wasted in the Infantry. ***Deleted comment*** These are just some ideas. I'm not really a Sapper expert so hope some other members can help.
May have been medically downgraded and sent to the RE. Your other suggestions are possibilities, but medically downgraded and transfered to the Engineers isn't really viable. RE work with the Infantry, sometimes in front of the Infantry. Even if they didn't many tasks that the Engineers cover involve hard physical labour, so is no place for anyone who's not 100% fit. Just thought I'd point that out. :mellow:
Sorry I knew I'd upset a Sapper with that one. But what about a Home Service unit? Then again he could have stayed with RF for that.
Sorry I knew I'd upset a Sapper with that one. But what about a Home Service unit? Then again he could have stayed with RF for that. Mo worries, but you try a bit of bridge building, build field defences, route clearance, mine laying/clearance, set up a water point or prepare a bridge for demolition..... then tell me if you want someone with a sick chit in your section. I know what the answer would be.
Thanks for your replies, you have answered my question inasmuch that you have confirmed that there were possibilities as to why someone may have transferred from RF to RE and I will look into this further? Regards
