I've just come across the details on the attached scan and would appreciate any information or better interpretation of the name. Its from a Christmas 44 aerogram Thanks in advance.
I read it as: Gnr Line ? 2053435 28/76th Batt 9th Field Reg RA South East China Although from an RA researcher - He appears to have enlisted in the Royal Engineers prior to a transfer to the RA TD
I'd go with an "L", ie: Gnr Line L. I'm rejecting the possibility of "S" as this can be seen in "South East Asia" and is not even close, and the same deduction for not being"F" either, as this is seen in the word "Field", again not even close. Of course, I could be totally off base, but my 2p worth.
Based on his service number on enlistment, It may be worth contacting the Royal Engineers museum archive when it re-opens at the beginning of June. If they hold the RE enlistment books they will find his name? Research | Royal Engineers Museum
OK, many thanks, and I really appreciate the suggestions. Regarding the location, I think it is South East Asia. For the initial, from the (very unclear) name at the bottom of the card, I was tempted to go for a J but I will keep an open mind. The suggestion that the service number (2053435) indicates that he enlisted in the RE is very interesting and I must admit I had not spotted the similarity to that of my fathers, T/2043280 who I know started in the Territorials in 1937 as a searchlight operator which were then organised by the Royal Engineers. Can someone confirm that his number fits with him having joined the army via the RE?. Some further research is required. Can anyone say if the proximity (about 10,000) indicates anything such as a geographical area or timescale between enlistments? Finally, what does the 28 in front of the Battery number indicate? I can see there appear to be two diaries at Kew for a 28/76th Bty but only for December 42 and 43 respectively and possibly one for 9th Fd Regiment for 1943. Some further research is needed!
