Not very smart
Within a few days of arriving at Brancepeth, the recruits were given ill-fitting uniforms and issued with an assortment of pouches and belts and all the other kit that they would need during training. All this had to be kept spotless and long evenings were spent whitening belts with 'Blanco' and polishing boots until they shone like mirrors, so that all was ready for inspection.
James Mann
James Mann's biography (PDF, 50.1kb)
James remembers being issued with his new Army uniform and equipment.
James Mann's transcript (PDF, 37.9kb)
Charles Turnbull
Charles Turnbull's biography (PDF, 50.9kb)
Charles remembers his mother's reaction when she saw his new Army uniform.
Charles Turnbull's transcript (PDF, 33.4kb)
William Roberts
William Roberts' biography (PDF, 50.4kb)
William remembers recruits swapping Battle-Dress blouses and trousers looking for a better fit.
William Roberts' transcript (PDF, 35.1kb)
James Watts
James Watts' biography (PDF, 47.6kb)
James remembers altering Battle-Dress uniforms with needle and thread.
James Watts' transcript (PDF, 32.8kb)
John Allen
John Allan's biography (PDF, 88.6kb)
John remembers an old soldier's trick to soften hard Army boots.
John Allen's transcript #1 (PDF, 31.9kb)
John remembers polishing his boots until they shone, even the soles.
John Allen's transcript #2 (PDF, 31.6kb)
Fred Cottier
Fred Cottier's biography (PDF, 100.9kb)
Fred remembers preparing his uniform and kit for inspection.
Fred Cottier's transcript (PDF, 32.9kb)
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