Non transport units rasc

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  1. Trux

    Trux 21 AG Patron

    NON TRANSPORT UNITS RASC


    Non transport units were largely those concerned with the handling of petrol and the baking
    of bread.

    The RASC was also responsible for the Printing and Stationary Service and for the NAAFI,
    which became the Expeditionary Forces Institute when overseas. RASC provided clerks and
    typists for headquarters.



    NON TRANSPORT UNITS

    Air Composite Platoon. War Establishment XIV/18321. January 1945.
    Mobile Petrol Filling Centre. War Establishment IV/102/2. November 1943.
    Petrol Depot Type A. War Establishment IV/29F/2. October 1943.
    Petrol Depot Type C. War Establishment IV/29H/2. June 1944.
    Petrol Tin Factory Operating Company. War Establishment IV/243/1. April 1944.
    Petrol Station Company. War Establishment XIV/1834/1. February 1945.

    Port Detachment. War Establishment IV/181/1. September 1943.
    Leaflet Unit. War Establishment IV/182/1. September 1943
    Control Centre, Forward Maintenance Area. War Establishment III/275/1. November 1943
    MT Inspection Branch. War Establishment III/35A/2. May 1944
    Detail Issue Depot. War Establishment IV/106/1. January 1942.
    Field Butchery and Cold Storage Depot. War Establishment IV/32/3. January 1943.

    Field Bakery, Mobile. War Establishment IV33B/3. December 1943.
    Station Maintenance Company. War Establishment XIV/1828/1. June 1944.

    Motor Boat Company Type D. War Establishment IV/229/1. January 1944.
    Motor Boat Company Type E. War Establishment IV/241/1. March 1944.
    Harbour Launch Company. War Establishment IV/274/1. January 1945
    Boat Stores Depot. War Establishment XIV/1829/1. June 1944

    Stationary Depot PSS. War Establishment IV/67/2. December 1943.
    Advanced Stationary Depot PSS. War Establishment IV/67A/2. November 1943.
    Publications Depot PSS. War Establishment IV/68/2. December 1943.
    No2 GHQ Printing Press PSS. War Establishment XIV/1490/1. June 1944
    Mobile Printing Section. War Establishment III/61/2. February 1943.

    EFI (NAAFI). War Establishment III/70/2. August 1943
    EFI (NAAFI). War Establishment III/70/3. November 1944


    AIR COMPOSITE PLATOON RASC
    War Establishment XIV/18321. January 1945.
    Consisting of a headquarters and two sections each capable of supervising air freight reception on a separate airfield.

    Headquarters
    Captain
    staff serjeant clerk
    batman driver

    1 X car 5cwt 4 X 4
    1 X 10cwt trailer

    Attached
    Subaltern RAOC
    serjeant storeman technical RAOC

    2 X Section
    Subaltern
    serjeant
    corporal clerk
    clerk
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    storeman (supplies
    batman driver
    2 X issuer

    1 X motorcycle for Subaltern
    1 X 15cwt 4 X 2 GS

    Attached
    clerk RAOC
    cook ACC




    A PETROL DEPOT TYPE A RASC
    War Establishment IV/29F/2 with an effective date of October 1943.

    This unit may be utilised as a base petrol depot or a field petrol depot capable of holding approximately 12,500 tons in packages. This includes oils and lubricants as well as petrol. All petrol will be in cans.

    Major, Officer Commanding
    Captain
    3 X Subaltern

    staff quartermaster serjeant clerk
    serjeant clerk for quartermaster duties
    4 X serjeant clerk
    serjeant issuer as duty NCO
    serjeant coppersmith or tinsmith and whitesmith
    3 X serjeant storeman (supplies) for duty as foreman

    Tradesmen
    corporal carpenter and joiner
    2 X carpenter and joiner
    4 X clerk
    2 X coppersmith or tinsmith and whitesmith
    2 X driver mechanic
    fitter
    2 X corporal storeman (supplies)
    10 X storeman (supplies)

    Non tradesmen
    15 X driver IC for duty as driver of vehicle
    3 X driver IC for duty as motorcyclist
    10 X issuers
    3 X issuers for duty as batman
    6 X issuers for duty as general dutyman
    2 X issuers for duty as orderlies
    corporal issuer for duty as regimental policeman
    issuer for duty as sanitary dutyman
    issuer for duty as storeman

    Attached
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    Transport
    3 X motorcycle
    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    5 X 15cwt GS
    2 X 3ton 4 X 2 petrol 800 gallons (for dealing with the contents of leaky or damaged packages)
    6 X tractor 6ton 4 X 2 semi trailer
    12 X 6ton GS semi trailer

    3 X Bren lmg
    3 X PIAT


    Headquarters
    Major, Officer Commanding
    Captain
    3 X Subaltern

    staff quartermaster serjeant clerk
    serjeant clerk for quartermaster duties
    2 X serjeant clerk
    serjeant issuer as duty NCO
    serjeant coppersmith or tinsmith and whitesmith
    serjeant storeman (supplies) for duty as foreman

    Tradesmen
    corporal carpenter and joiner
    2 X clerk
    2 X driver mechanic
    fitter

    Non tradesmen
    15 X driver IC for duty as driver of vehicle
    3 X driver IC for duty as motorcyclist
    3 X issuers for duty as batman
    6 X issuers for duty as general dutyman
    2 X issuers for duty as orderlies
    corporal issuer for duty as regimental policeman
    issuer for duty as sanitary dutyman
    issuer for duty as storeman

    Attached
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC


    2 X Section each
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant storeman (supplies) for duty as foreman

    Tradesmen
    carpenter and joiner
    clerk
    coppersmith or tinsmith and whitesmith
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    6 X storeman (supplies)

    Non tradesmen
    5 X issuers

    Note:
    In addition labour will be provided on a scale of one man to deal with 8tons in an 8 hour day. This may be increased to one man to deal with 5 tons in an 8 hour day if mechanical handling devices are not available. Labour would normally be provided by the Pioneer Corps.

    6 X private (issuer) in headquarters and 4 X private (issuer) in each section to be trained in fire fighting duties. A Fire Fighting Section WE IV/91/2 will normally be attached.

    2 X clerk and 2 X issuer will be trained to operate telephone switchboards and to fit the necessary extensions for internal communications.


    A PETROL DEPOT TYPE C RASC
    War Establishment IV/29H/2. June 1944.

    This unit can operate as a small field petrol depot or detail issue depot, capable of holding approximately 2,000 tons in packages. This includes oils and lubricants as well as petrol. All petrol will be in cans.

    Captain
    Subaltern

    staff serjeant clerk, chief clerk and to perform QM duties, including supervision of POL accounts
    serjeant storeman (supplies) for duty as foreman

    Tradesmen
    2 X corporal clerk
    clerk
    coppersmith, sheetmetal worker or tinsmith and whitesmith
    2 X corporal storeman (supplies)
    storeman (supplies)

    Non tradesmen
    batman driver
    driver IC
    2 X motorcyclist
    6 X issuers
    2 X general dutyman (one trained to operate telephone switchboard)
    sanitary dutyman
    cook ACC

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS

    Note:
    In addition labour will be provided on a scale of one man to deal with 8tons in an 8 hour day. This may be increased to one man to deal with 5 tons in an 8 hour day if mechanical handling devices are not available. Labour would normally be provided by the Pioneer Corps.

    A Fire Fighting Section WE IV/91/2 will normally be attached.



    PETROL TIN FACTORY OPERATING COMPANY.
    War Establishment IV/243/1. April 1944.

    Major
    Captain, Works Manager
    3 X Subaltern

    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    Company Serjeant Major
    company quartermaster serjeant
    staff serjeant clerk
    serjeant clerk
    2 X serjeant clerk, technical MT
    4 X serjeant machinist (metal) (experienced in press tool machinery)

    carpenter and joiner
    2 X corporal clerk
    4 X clerk
    2 X clerk technical MT
    driver mechanic
    2 X electrician
    7 X fitter
    6 X tinsmith and whitesmith
    2 X toolmaker (experienced in press tool machinery)
    turner

    corporal driver
    driver
    2 X motorcyclist
    6 X issuer
    3 X batman
    6 X corporal operative
    70 X operative

    officers mess orderly
    serjeants mess orderly
    mess orderly
    sanitary dutyman
    corporal regimental policeman
    regimental policeman
    officers mess cook ACC
    serjeants mess cook ACC
    corporal cook ACC
    2 X cook ACC

    2 X motorcycle
    1 X car 4 seater 4 X 2
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS

    When equipped for double line operation the following personnel will be added
    Fitter
    Tinsmith and whitesmith
    2 X corporal operative
    4 X operative

    Plus to each filling subsection
    Corporal operative
    6 X operative

    The following will be attached
    For single line operation, 4 X Pioneer Corps Section
    For double line operation, 6 X Pioneer Corps Section

    Locally enlisted labour may replace non tradesmen apart from NCOs.



    BASE PETROL FILLING CENTRE
    War Establishment IV/29B/2. June 1944.
    The Base Petrol Filling Centre consists of a headquarters and three sections, two for filling and one for maintenance and repair. It is designed to handle 100,000 gallons of petrol per day in 4 gallon returnable tins.

    Major
    Captain for pay and administration
    Captain, Workshop Officer
    4 X Subaltern (may be mechanists)
    Quartermaster

    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant
    Company Serjeant Major

    mechanist staff serjeant
    company quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant fitter
    7 X serjeant
    34 X corporal
    corporal driver
    188 X private
    6 X cook ACC

    Trades
    blacksmith
    butcher
    3 X clerk
    3 X clerk, technical MT
    fitter
    corporal millwright
    3 X millwright
    2 X corporal tinsmith and whitesmith
    6 X tinsmith and whitesmith

    administrative corporal
    3 X batman
    40 X inspection and viewing personnel
    2 X corporal leader
    28 X leaders
    2 X officers mess orderly
    2 X serjeants mess orderly
    2 X sanitary dutyman
    120 X washing, filling and sealing personnel
    6 X driver
    4 X motorcyclist
    provost corporal
    2 X regimental police

    4 X motorcycle
    2 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    1 X 15cwt
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS

    2 X Bren lmg


    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain for pay and administration
    Quartermaster

    Company Serjeant Major
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant
    3 X corporal
    corporal driver
    41 X private
    6 X cook ACC

    Trades
    butcher
    3 X clerk
    administrative corporal
    3 X batman
    2 X corporal leader
    28 X leaders
    2 X officers mess orderly
    2 X serjeants mess orderly
    2 X sanitary dutyman
    6 X driver
    4 X motorcyclist
    provost corporal
    2 X regimental police


    2 X Filling Section each
    Headquarters
    Subaltern
    2 X serjeant

    5 X subsection each
    2 X corporal
    10 X washing, filling and sealing personnel


    Repair and Maintenance Section
    Headquarters
    Captain, Workshop Officer
    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    2 X serjeant

    Sub Section A (Inspection and Viewing)
    Subaltern
    8 X corporal
    32 X private

    Sub Section B
    Subaltern
    Mechanist Quartermaster Serjeant
    mechanist staff serjeant
    blacksmith
    3 X clerk, technical MT
    serjeant fitter
    corporal millwright
    3 X millwright
    2 X corporal tinsmith and whitesmith
    6 X tinsmith and whitesmith

    One NCO and 3 men will be trained in anti gas duties and decontamination work
    One NCO and 8 men will be trained in the use of the AA lmg

    A Fire Fighting Section WE IV/91/2 will be attached.



    MOBILE PETROL FILLING CENTRE RASC
    War Establishment IV/102/2. November 1943.
    A Mobile Filling Centre was equipped with collapsible petrol storage tanks which were replenished from petrol tanker lorries. Hoses were used to fill petrol cans. Personnel were provided for the repair of petrol cans.

    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant Clerk
    Mechanist Staff Serjeant

    serjeant clerk
    serjeant for supervisory duties
    clerk
    4 X coppersmith trained in sheet metal work, including a corporal
    2 X driver mechanic
    2 X vehicle mechanic
    3 X welder including a corporal

    11 X driver including a corporal
    2 X motorcyclist
    2 X batman
    3 X general dutyman
    3 X gas freeing and testing personnel
    16 X operatives and inspection personnel
    3 X cook ACC

    3 X motorcycle
    1 X car 2 seater
    2 X 15cwt GS
    8 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS

    1 X Bren lmg

    Labour for handling and stacking tins will be provided as required.
    Local enlisted personnel may replace non tradesmen.
    Four men will be trained as firemen

    Headquarters
    Captain
    Subaltern
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant Clerk
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant for supervisory duties
    clerk
    driver mechanic
    11 X driver including a corporal
    2 X motorcyclist
    batman
    3 X general dutyman
    15 X operatives and inspection personnel
    2 X cook ACC


    Maintenance and Repair Section
    Subaltern
    Mechanist Staff Serjeant
    4 X coppersmith trained in sheet metal work, including a corporal
    driver mechanic
    2 X vehicle mechanic
    3 X welder including a corporal
    batman
    3 X gas freeing and testing personnel
    operative and inspection person
    cook ACC



    PETROL STATION COMPANY
    War Establishment XIV/1834/1. February 1945.
    To operate 24 petrol stations
    Consisting of a headquarters, six platoons and 24 sections.

    Major
    6 X Captain
    7 X Subaltern

    staff serjeant
    30 X serjeant
    clerk
    48 X corporal storeman (technical)
    6 X fitter (petroleum)
    7 X batman driver
    24 X driver
    motorcyclist
    72 X issuer
    8 X cook ACC

    13 X motorcycle
    6 X light utility
    1 X car 4 seater 4 X 2
    24 X 15cwt 4 X 4 GS

    Company Headquarters
    Major
    Subaltern
    staff serjeant
    clerk
    batman driver
    motorcyclist
    8 X cook ACC
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X car 4 seater 4 X 2

    Platoon Headquarters
    Captain
    Subaltern
    serjeant
    clerk
    fitter (petroleum)
    batman driver
    2 X motorcycle
    1 X light utility

    Section.
    serjeant
    2 X corporal storeman (technical)
    driver
    3 X issuer
    1 X 15cwt 4 X 4 GS



    PETROLEUM MOBILE LABORATORY
    War Establishment XIV/1835/1. April 1945
    Capable of exercising quality control in a bulk petrol port with a daily intake of 5,000 tons or for supervising a packed holding of 30,000tons.

    Major (petroleum chemist)
    serjeant (chemical laboratory assistant) (petroleum)
    corporal (chemical laboratory assistant) (petroleum)
    batman driver

    1 X light utility
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 petroleum laboratory.
    This was an Austin K6 with a house type body.


    PETROL SUPPLY
    Petrol was distributed to units in cans. However transporting petrol in cans is not economical in labour and shipping space. It was therefore usual to transport petrol to the theatre of operations in bulk and then transfer it to cans either at the port or at railhead. Since it would be difficult for sea going tankers to unload bulk petrol through the Mulberry harbour several alternative methods were used:
    - Initially petrol was landed in cans. Unit transport carried reserves in cans and more cans were landed as cargo in follow up and reserve vehicles.
    - Specially designed petrol carrying ships were used as soon as possible. These were small ships which had tanks that could double as cargo holds. At first they beached at unloaded canned petrol into trucks. Later they could carry bulk petrol and discharge into road tankers.
    - The Pipeline under the Ocean (PLUTO) was laid to allow bulk petrol to be pumped direct from the United Kingdom. The first pipeline was laid under the Channel from The Isle of Wight to Cherbourg (codename Bambi with Isle of Wight being Bambi Near and Cherbourg Bambi Far). This was operating from 18th September 1944. When the Allied troops advanced further it was possible to use a more direct, and shorter, route from Dungeness to Boulogne (Dumbo, Dumbo Near and Dumbo Far. This pipeline operated from the end of October 1944 until after the end of the campaign. Some million gallons a day were delivered by this means. Construction of the pipeline was undertaken by the RE but RASC Bulk Storage Companies operated it, 7 Company at the UK end and 8 Company at the Continental end.
    - PLUTO was supplemented by tankers using ports. Ostend accepted small petrol tankers from the end of September and Antwerp eventually accepted petrol tankers in December. Bulk petrol could then be forwarded by pipeline and by barge using the excellent canals of Belgium and Holland.

    The Base Filling Centre consisted of
    - A bulk storage area with prefabricated 4000 ton storage tanks. This area was surrounded by a moat and a firewall. A pump lifted petrol into a number of smaller elevated tanks which supplied petrol by gravity to the filling area.
    - A can factory where cans were tested and inspected, washed and if necessary repaired and painted.
    - A can filling area to which cans were delivered on a rollerway. A number of filling measures automatically deliver the correct amount of petrol into the cans which are then checked and sealed. Cans then go on a rollerway to a store. There may also be bulk loading areas where road tankers can be filled.
    - Similar but smaller areas could fill cans with lubricants, paraffin etc.



    Up to D+18 fuel was packed in UK and delivered in jerricans. From D+18 onwards packed POL would continue to be imported as the best way to deliver jerricans to the theatre but increasing quantities of bulk petrol were delivered. By D+1 there were two Petrol Depots type "C" in each of the beach sub areas to receive and issue fuel.

    The small port of Port en Bessin was used for bulk petrol storage. By D+6 the construction of Tombolas, which were pipelines running some hundreds of yards from the water edge to permit deep draught tankers to discharge off-shore, was started. By the end of July:
    Two ship-to-shore lines had been completed.
    Six tanker berths were in operation with pipe connections laid.
    Tanks, balance tank installations and pumps had been completed for MT and aviation spirit.
    Three 6" pipelines were laid to Blary in No 2 Army Roadhead and one 6" aviation fuel pipeline had been completed to Coulombs.

    In early July there was one petrol depot type "A", nine type "B" and nineteen type "C" working within the beach-head to issue packed fuel. Units to handle bulk fuel were also necessary and the first Mobile Petrol Filling Centre arrived on 30 June and the first Bulk Petrol Transport Company on 5 July. Pipelines were being laid in the RMA.

    The original Pluto coming ashore at Cherbourg was not a great success. Work connected with it was in the hands of US Army engineers since it was in the US area. A short crossing entitled Dumbo from Dungeness to Boulogne with a pipeline to Calais was very successful. The cargo of a tanker discharging into the system at Liverpool was now pumped across England and under the Channel and finally emerged on the Continent. The following works services were completed from September:-
    Eight three-inch HAIS cable petrol lines (Pluto) had been brought in through Boulogne, and connected to three 1,200-ton tanks and rail and road facilities were provided.
    Three six-inch pipelines were laid from Ostend to Ghent by 1 November and 7,200 tons of tank storage were constructed with road, barge and rail distribution facilities at both places. 3,600 tons of tank storage and twelve pumps were also constructed at an intermediate station at Beernem between Ostend and Ghent.
    Four 1,200-ton tanks and one 600-ton tank were erected at Calais in November and three six-inch lines with pumps were laid from Boulogne to Calais.

    Jerricans were in short supply as a great many had been issued in the advance and not returned. Special arrangements were made to collect them from units and in a month more than a million were returned. Petrol stations were set up along the L of C to refuel transport columns. They were staffed with personnel from the composite platoons of the bulk transport companies and replenished from bulk petrol transport and so no cans were needed.

    The pipeline was progressively extended from Calais to Ghent and thence to Antwerp, then to Eindhoven. At the end of April the pipe was extended across the Rhine to Emmerich. The filling area was at Bocholt from where it was transferred to containers and then railed to No 14 Army Roadhead.

    The RAF was also supplied with 100 octane fuel through army pipelines. FIDO, dispersing fog by creating an updraught by burning petrol through burners along the whole length of the runway, was operating at Epinay and proved very effective but its consumption was in the neighbourhood of ninety thousand gallons a night. Early in January 616 Squadron operating from BRUSSELS was equipped with jet propelled aircraft which needed kerosene for fuel.

    Early in 1945 the bulk transport companies were reorganised with the eight three-platoon companies forming six companies each of four platoons. The 150 vehicles held by them surplus to establishment were used to equip a further company. From the composite platoon personnel of these companies, one Petrol Station Company, consisting of six platoons each of four sections, was formed for the L of C. It was estimated that each section, with the help of Pioneers or local civilians could operate a petrol station issuing ten thousand gallons per day.

    The Belgian and French canal systems were extensively utilised with ten thousand tons of bulk POL barges being available.




    HEADQUARTERS PORT DETACHMENTS. RASC
    War Establishment XIV/1845/1. January 1945.
    To command not less than six port detachments.

    Major
    Subaltern
    Company Serjeant Major
    serjeant clerk
    corporal clerk
    2 X clerk
    2 X batman driver
    motorcyclist

    2 X bicycle
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X light utility
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS


    PORT DETACHMENT RASC
    War Establishment IV/181/1 with an effective date of September 1943.
    This detachment was for RASC Movement Control at a port.

    Captain
    serjeant storeman (supplies)
    serjeant clerk
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    5 X storeman supplies)
    corporal clerk
    3 X clerk
    driver IC
    cook ACC

    Transport
    1 X bicycle
    1 X car 2 seater 4 X 2


    LEAFLET UNIT RASC
    War Establishment IV/182/1. September 1943
    corporal
    private
    driver IC

    1 X 15cwt GS


    CONTROL CENTRE, FORWARD MAINTENANCE AREA
    War Establishment III/275/1. November 1943
    Major
    Captain RASC

    batman
    batman driver
    corporal clerk RASC
    cook ACC
    driver IC RASC
    serjeant (for company quartermaster serjeant duties)
    water dutyman
    Total 9

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS


    MT INSPECTION BRANCH RASC
    War Establishment III/35A/2. May 1944
    Designed for an Army Group of two armies and consists of a headquarters and a number of inspection teams as follows
    GHQ and L of C troops 2 inspection teams
    Army troops each 1 inspection team
    Corp troops each 1 inspection team

    Headquarters
    Lieutenant Colonel
    2 X Major
    3 X Captain
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant
    mechanist serjeant major
    mechanist quartermaster serjeant
    4 X mechanist staff serjeant (includes two spare for relief of inspection team staff serjeants)
    2 X staff serjeant clerk (technical MT)
    serjeant clerk (technical MT)
    5 X corporal clerk (technical MT)
    6 X clerk (technical MT)
    corporal draughtsman (mechanical)

    5 X batman
    6 X driver
    2 X general dutyman
    transport corporal

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    2 X car 4 seater 4 X 2
    2 X 15cwt GS

    Each inspection team
    Major
    Captain
    2 X mechanist staff serjeant
    clerk
    driver

    1 X car 4seater 4 X 2



    DETAIL ISSUE DEPOT
    War Establishment IV/106/1. January 1942.
    Consisting of three self contained operating sections each capable of working independently and dealing with foodstuffs, petrol and lubricants for a mixed force of 2,500 men. (A brigade group).

    There were 80 Detail Issue Depots in 21 Army Group.

    The three sections are almost identical except that A Section has some higher ranks and has some administrative responsibility for the other sections. Sections will normally be attached to other RASC units.

    A Section
    Captain
    staff serjeant
    corporal clerk
    clerk
    carpenter and joiner
    butcher
    batman driver
    corporal issuer
    3 X issuer
    cook ACC
    1 X 15cwt GS


    B and C Section
    Subaltern
    serjeant
    corporal clerk
    clerk
    carpenter and joiner
    butcher
    batman
    corporal issuer
    3 X issuer
    cook ACC

    Labour will be allowed on the basis of one man dealing with 3 to 5 tons per day.

    When operating as a railhead detachment one corporal RE and one sapper RE will be attached for postal duties from the divisional postal unit.


    FIELD BUTCHERY and COLD STORAGE DEPOT.
    War Establishment IV/32/3. January 1943.
    Captain
    Quartermaster
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant, Butcher
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant, Chief Clerk
    staff serjeant butcher
    staff serjeant clerk
    staff serjeant storeman, supplies, as company quartermaster serjeant
    3 X serjeant butcher
    5 X corporal butcher
    6 X lance corporal butcher
    12 X butcher
    corporal clerk
    3 X clerk
    corporal storeman, supplies
    4 X storeman, supplies
    batman
    16 X issuer
    sanitary dutyman
    serjeants mess orderly
    2 X cook ACC

    This establishment is based on the assumption that facilities for intake are of the most direct kind and that berthing facilities etc are adjacent to the store.

    Operation and maintenance of the cold storage plant is the responsibility of the engineer works service and this will be arranged by the CRE base sub area as required.

    Should it be necessary to kill and issue fresh meat there are sufficient butchers in this establishment to provide for 30,000 men. They will need to be replaced by personnel to operate the store.



    FIELD BAKERY (MOBILE) RASC
    War Establishment IV33B/3 with an effective date of December 1943.

    This was a basic establishment which could be modified in a number of ways according to circumstances. The organisation allows for 3 shift working which enables 28,000lb of bread a day to be produced. No later establishment seems to have been issued but changes were made in 21 Army group. All the variations are listed below.

    1943, MOBILE, 3 SHIFT WORKING
    Headquarters
    Captain
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant (baker)
    2 X staff serjeant baker
    serjeant clerk
    driver mechanic
    electrician
    fitter
    4 X driver of vehicle
    motorcyclist
    batman
    9 X general dutyman
    2 X cook ACC

    3 X Shift each
    serjeant baker
    corporal baker
    2 X lance corporal baker
    8 X baker
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    2 X storeman (supplies)
    4 X issuer

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS
    4 X 6ton 4 X 2 GS
    1 X water trailer
    2 X generating trailer, 22Kw
    2 X 4 wheel 3ton baking dough trough trailer
    3 X 4wheel 3ton bakery oven trailer
    1 X 4wheel 3ton bakery machinery trailer

    1 X Bren lmg
    1 X PIAT

    Notes:
    One NCO and 8 men will be trained in anti gas duties and decontamination work.
    Six men will be trained in the use of the Bren lmg
    Two men will be trained in water duties.



    1943, MOBILE, 2 SHIFT WORKING
    On this establishment 21,000lb of bread per day could be produced. One shift was removed but six bakers and one issuer were retained as reliefs.
    Headquarters
    Captain
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant (baker)
    2 X Staff Serjeant baker
    serjeant clerk
    driver mechanic
    electrician
    fitter
    4 X driver of vehicle
    motorcyclist
    batman
    9 X general dutyman
    6 X baker (relief)
    issuer (relief)
    2 X cook ACC

    2 X Shift each
    serjeant baker
    corporal baker
    2 X lance corporal baker
    8 X baker
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    2 X storeman (supplies)
    4 X issuer

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS
    4 X 6ton 4 X 2 GS
    1 X water trailer
    2 X generating trailer, 22Kw
    2 X 4 wheel 3ton baking dough trough trailer
    3 X 4wheel 3ton bakery oven trailer
    1 X 4wheel 3ton bakery machinery trailer

    1 X Bren lmg
    1 X PIAT


    1943, IMMOBILE, 2 SHIFT WORKING
    The equivalent of one shift was removed together with transport personnel. Six bakers and one issuer were retained as reliefs.
    Headquarters
    Captain
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant (baker)
    2 X Staff Serjeant baker
    serjeant clerk
    electrician
    fitter
    driver of vehicle
    batman
    9 X general dutyman
    6 X baker
    issuer
    2 X cook ACC

    2 X Shift each
    serjeant baker
    corporal baker
    2 X lance corporal baker
    8 X baker
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    2 X storeman (supplies)
    4 X issuer

    Transport
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X water trailer
    2 X generating trailer, 22Kw
    2 X 4 wheel 3ton baking dough trough trailer
    3 X 4wheel 3ton bakery oven trailer
    1 X 4wheel 3ton bakery machinery trailer

    1 X Bren lmg
    1 X PIAT


    1944, MOBILE, 3 SHIFT WORKING
    It was realised that it was not practical to move the unit in three lifts on the crowded roads of NW Europe. Also this establishment did not work well in the case of a retreat. It was also realised that for a full three shift, 24 hours a day, seven days a week working for long periods required extra personnel. An extra dough trailer was also added.

    The following organisation is not from an establishment table but from documents in the RASC Museum (as was).
    Headquarters
    Captain
    Staff Quartermaster Serjeant (baker)
    2 X Staff Serjeant baker
    serjeant clerk
    driver mechanic
    electrician
    fitter
    10 X driver of vehicle
    motorcyclist
    batman
    9 X general dutyman
    2 X cook ACC

    3 X Shift each
    serjeant baker
    corporal baker
    2 X lance corporal baker
    16 X baker
    corporal storeman (supplies)
    2 X storeman (supplies)
    4 X issuer

    Transport
    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt water
    10 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS
    2 X generating trailer, 22Kw
    3 X 4 wheel 3ton baking dough trough trailer
    3 X 4wheel 3ton bakery oven trailer
    1 X 4wheel 3ton bakery machinery trailer

    1 X Bren lmg
    1 X PIAT



    STATION MAINTENANCE COMPANY RASC
    War Establishment XIV/1828/1. June 1944.
    Consists of headquarters and from 3 to 6 workshop sections.

    Each section is self contained and can be detached from the company headquarters. Each is capable of maintaining 100 lorry units.

    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain Administrative Officer
    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    Company Serjeant Major
    company quartermaster serjeant
    staff serjeant clerk, technical MT
    serjeant driver IC
    corporal
    lance corporal
    2 X private
    6 X driver
    cook ACC

    Trades
    clerk technical MT
    administrative corporal
    2 X batman driver
    2 X motorcyclist
    clerk
    sanitary dutyman

    4 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X car 4 seater


    Workshop Section each
    Subaltern
    mechanist staff serjeant
    serjeant
    2 X corporal
    2 X lance corporal
    15 X private
    2 X driver
    cook ACC

    Trades
    blacksmith
    carpenter and joiner
    2 X electrician
    sheet metal worker
    turner
    coach painter
    coach trimmer
    10 X vehicle mechanic
    clerk technical
    storeman, technical
    driver IC
    batman driver

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 Breakdown

    The following may be added only if there are no static facilities available.

    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Workshop
    1 X 3ton stores

    All tradesmen and drivers may be civilian.



    MOTOR BOAT COMPANY TYPE D RASC
    WE. IV/229/1 effective date 7th January 1944.
    (Designed to operate 25 powered military oil barges, in 1 flotilla of 5 divisions, each of 5 craft).
    14 X officer
    249 OR

    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    Company Serjeant Major
    company quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant clerk
    5 X serjeant waterman,
    5 X corporal
    corporal, driver class
    7 X lance corporal
    lance corporal, driver class
    18 X private
    12 X driver

    plus
    officers mess cook
    corporal cook
    5 X cook

    Trades
    8 X barge engineer (IWT)
    corporal clerk
    clerk
    4 X corporal waterman
    7 X lance corporal waterman
    9 X waterman
    2 X batman
    lance corporal driver of vehicle
    3 X driver of vehicle
    duty corporal
    2 X motorcyclist
    2 X general dutyman
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman
    water dutyman


    4 X motorcycle
    1 X Car 4 seater 4 X 2
    1 X 15 cwt GS
    2 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS

    3 X dumb barge for water and fuel
    4 X dinghy
    1 X tug for salvage work
    7 X launches

    Notes:
    Motorcycles include one for the Captain, one for the Subaltern and two for motorcyclists
    Launches are pooled but include on for each division and two for headquarters.

    Division (X5)
    Captain
    Subaltern
    batman

    5 X serjeant waterman
    5 X corporal waterman
    5 X corporal barge engineer (IWT)
    5 X barge engineer (IWT)
    10 X waterman

    5 X military oil barges

    Workshop section
    Captain
    2 X mechanist staff serjeant
    2 X vehicle mechanic

    2 X barge engineer
    2 X blacksmith
    corporal clerk, technical (MT)
    clerk, technical MT
    2 X coppersmith
    electrician
    rigger
    corporal shipwright
    2 X shipwright
    2 X storeman, technical (MT)
    2 X turner
    corporal vehicle mechanic
    lance corporal vehicle mechanic
    corporal waterman
    2 X waterman
    batman
    motorcyclist

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Machinery Type M
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Stores, binned
    1 X tractor 6 X 4 breakdown
    1 X Landing barge (engineer) (complete with workshop machinery and charging plant).

    26 X twin Bren lmg. One per barge and one for headquarters.




    MOTOR BOAT COMPANY TYPE E.
    War Establishment IV/241/1. March 1944.
    Designed to operate 28 fast motor boats in one flotilla of four divisions, each of seven craft, for the control of DUKW,s.

    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    Company Serjeant Major (waterman)
    company quartermaster serjeant
    3 X serjeant waterman
    corporal clerk
    clerk
    butcher
    5 X corporal waterman
    10 X waterman
    2 X batman
    corporal driver
    5 X driver
    2 X general dutyman
    medical officers orderly
    2 X motorcyclist
    sanitary dutyman
    storeman
    water dutyman
    issuer

    plus
    officers mess cook
    corporal cook
    5 X cook

    3 X motorcycle
    1 X light utility
    1 X Car 4 seater 4 X 2
    4 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS

    3 X dumb barge for water and fuel
    5 X dinghy
    3 X launch
    2 X fast motor boat
    1 X 61 foot motor fishing vessel

    Motorcycles include one for the Captain, one for the Subaltern and two for motorcyclists

    Division (X4)
    Headquarters
    Captain
    Subaltern
    staff serjeant waterman
    2 X batman

    7 X Fast Motor Boat each
    serjeant waterman
    corporal waterman
    corporal barge engineer (IWT)
    waterman
    1 X fast motor boat
    1 X dinghy

    Motor Fishing Vessel
    serjeant waterman
    corporal waterman
    corporal barge engineer (IWT)
    3 X waterman
    1 X motor fishing vessel
    1 X dinghy

    Note: 31 of the 32 craft in the four divisions each have a corporal and a lance corporal. One craft in the four divisions had no corporal but two lance corporals.

    Workshop section
    Captain
    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    2 X mechanist staff serjeant
    2 X vehicle mechanic
    serjeant waterman
    2 X barge engineer
    blacksmith
    corporal clerk, technical (MT)
    clerk, technical MT
    2 X coppersmith
    6 X electrician
    rigger
    6 X shipwright
    4 X storeman, technical (MT)
    2 X turner
    10 X vehicle mechanic
    2 X corporal waterman
    5 X waterman
    welder
    batman
    motorcyclist

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Machinery Type M
    1 X 3ton 4 X 4 Stores, binned
    1 X tractor 6 X 4 breakdown
    1 X Landing barge (engineer) (complete with workshop machinery and charging plant).
    1 X motor fishing vessel



    HARBOUR LAUNCH COMPANY RASC
    War Establishment IV/274/1. January 1945
    This company was designed to operate 40 harbour launches in one flotilla of 4 sections of 10 craft each.

    Major
    6 X Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    Warrant Officer Navigator
    company quartermaster serjeant
    mechanist staff serjeant
    3 X artificer serjeant
    serjeant clerk
    6 X serjeant navigator
    53 X corporal
    178 X private
    12 X cook ACC

    Trades
    2 X clerk
    2 X clerk technical MT
    2 X blacksmith
    2 X electrician
    3 X rigger
    9 X shipwright
    storeman technical MT
    2 X turner
    8 X vehicle mechanic
    44 X marine engineer including two corporal and thirteen lance corporals
    47 X navigator, corporal
    90 X waterman including 29 lance corporal
    6 X batman
    batman driver
    5 X driver
    2 X general dutyman
    storeman, lance corporal
    sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman

    8 X motorcycle
    1 X car 4 X 2
    1 X 15cwt GS
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 Machinery X
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 stores, binned
    2 X 3ton 6 X 4 light breakdown
    1 X 6ton 6 X 4 GS
    1 X water trailer
    1 X generator 22 Kw trailer
    1 X 5ton 4 wheeled trailer

    41 X harbour launch
    2 X motor fishing vessel
    1 X light launch
    6 X dinghy


    Headquarters
    Major
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    Warrant Officer Navigator
    company quartermaster serjeant
    serjeant clerk
    serjeant navigator
    4 X corporal
    23 X private
    2 X cook ACC

    Trades
    2 X clerk
    44 X marine engineer corporal
    2 X navigator, corporal
    6 X waterman
    2 X batman
    5 X driver
    2 X general dutyman
    storeman, lance corporal
    sanitary dutyman
    water dutyman

    3 X motorcycle
    1 X car 4 X 2
    3 X 3ton 4 X 4 GS
    1 X 6ton 6 X 4 GS
    1 X water trailer

    1 X harbour launch
    1 X motor fishing vessel
    1 X dinghy


    4 X Section each
    Headquarters
    Captain
    serjeant navigator
    corporal marine engineer
    batman
    2 X cook ACC
    motorcycle
    dinghy

    10 X boat each
    corporal navigator
    marine engineer
    2 X waterman
    1 X harbour launch


    Workshop section
    Captain
    Mechanist Serjeant Major
    mechanist staff serjeant
    3 X artificer serjeant
    serjeant navigator
    5 X corporal
    31 X private
    2 X cook ACC

    Trades
    2 X clerk technical MT
    2 X blacksmith
    2 X electrician
    3 X rigger
    9 X shipwright
    storeman technical MT
    2 X turner
    8 X vehicle mechanic
    marine engineer
    navigator, corporal
    4 X waterman
    batman driver

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 Machinery X
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 stores, binned
    2 X 3ton 6 X 4 light breakdown
    1 X generator 22 Kw trailer
    1 X 5ton 4 wheeled trailer

    1 X motor fishing vessel
    1 X light launch
    1 X dinghy



    BOAT STORES DEPOT RASC
    War Establishment XIV/1829/1. June 1944

    Captain
    Warrant Officer II Clerk Technical MT
    serjeant clerk technical MT
    corporal clerk technical MT
    lance corporal clerk technical MT
    3 X clerk technical MT
    corporal storeman
    lance corporal storeman
    4 X storeman
    batman driver
    cook ACC

    1 X 15wt GS
    2 X Bren lmg



    PRINTING AND STATIONARY SERVICES
    This service supplied all stationary including forms, booklets and the wide range of stationary items required by any organisation. Yes, even paper clips. It also supplied and maintained typewriters and duplicators. Personnel were RASC.

    A STATIONARY DEPOT, PSS
    War Establishment IV/67/2. December 1943.
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    Company Serjeant Major
    staff serjeant clerk
    serjeant clerk
    5 X corporal
    31 X private
    2 X driver IC
    2 X cook ACC

    Trades
    8 X clerk
    4 X typewriter mechanic
    2 X corporal issuer
    14 X issuer
    corporal packer clerk
    7 X packer clerk
    batman (may be of low medical category)
    driver

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS


    AN ADVANCED STATIONARY DEPOT, PSS
    War Establishment IV/67A/2. November 1943.
    Captain
    2 X Subaltern
    Company Serjeant Major

    Trades
    corporal clerk
    lance corporal clerk
    6 X clerk
    typewriter mechanic
    corporal issuer
    lance corporal issuer
    6 X issuer
    corporal packer clerk
    lance corporal packer clerk
    5 X packer clerk
    batman (may be of low medical category)
    driver

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X 15cwt GS


    A PUBLICATIONS DEPOT, PSS
    War Establishment IV/68/2. December 1943.
    Subaltern
    serjeant clerk
    corporal clerk
    2 X clerk
    4 X issuer
    2 X corporal packer clerk
    8 X packer clerk
    batman (may be of low medical category)


    No2 GHQ PRINTING PRESS (PSS).
    War Establishment XIV/1490/1. June 1944

    RASC
    Major
    Captain
    Subaltern

    6 X bookbinder including
    serjeant
    2 X corporal
    3 X private
    4 X bookbinders assistant
    carpenter and joiner
    7 X clerk including
    staff serjeant
    2 X corporal
    4 X private
    electrician
    18 X printer, compositor, hand including
    Warrant Officer Class II
    serjeant
    5 X corporal (includes one for proof reading)
    10 X private (includes three for proof reading)
    6 X printer, compositor, machine (linotype operators) including
    serjeant
    3 X corporal
    2 X private
    40 X printer, machine minder including
    3 X Warrant Officer Class II
    2 X serjeant
    4 X corporal
    31 X private
    6 X stereotyper including
    serjeant
    corporal
    4 X private
    corporal technical storeman
    technical storeman
    driver mechanic
    2 X batman
    batman driver
    6 X issuer for duty as labourer

    RE
    Captain
    Subaltern
    2 X helioworker
    2 X serjeant lithographer (draughtsman)
    2 X corporal lithographer (machine minder)
    8 X lithographer (machine minder)
    2 X photographer (cartographic)
    storeman technical

    officers mess cook ACC
    corporal cook ACC
    3 X cook ACC

    1 X motorcycle
    1 X light utility
    2 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 heavy printing, letterpress.
    1 X 22 Kw generator trailer.


    MOBILE PRINTING SECTION.
    War Establishment III/61/2. February 1943.
    Subaltern
    serjeant clerk
    batman
    corporal clerk
    2 X lance corporal clerk
    3 X clerk
    2 X driver IC
    electrician
    cook ACC

    1 X 15cwt GS
    1 X 3ton 6 X 4 for generating set and duplicating plant.



    The Order of Battle of Printing and Stationary Services on D-day was as follows:-
    British GHQ Printing Press
    Mobile Printing Section
    2 X Mobile Duplicating Sections
    2 X Publications Depots
    Stationery Depot
    2 X Advanced Stationery Depots

    One mobile duplicating section was allotted to HQ 21 Army Group and one to HQ Second Army. The two British advanced stationery depots served Second Army and L of C. The remaining units worked as GHQ installations.

    Demands for P & SS stores were met by express coaster consignments until the Advanced Stationery Depot for Second Army began to function on 7 July. By 16 July the depot was functioning to capacity but the unprecedented rate of consumption of certain items especially those used in the production of fire plans necessitated the shipment of a considerable quantity of stores by express coaster after that date. On 20 July the depot which was to serve L of C arrived.

    The only printing unit in the theatre at this time was the mobile duplicating section attached to HQ Second Army. It arrived on 2 July when it produced the first issue of "Second Army Troops News" which was produced daily thereafter. All other printing required by the force was produced in UK and all military publications, including the weekly 21 Army Group General Routine Orders, C-in-C's messages etc., were distributed from UK.

    In order to keep pace with the advance of Second Army a mobile detachment of the Advanced Stationery Depot was formed which moved forward to each of the corps areas in turn. Units could collect from the mobile detachment at an agreed point. 10 Special Heavy Mobile Printing Section and a mobile detachment of 2 GHQ Printing Press arrived in the theatre on 6 August and were set up at Rear HQ 21 Army Group. An undamaged printing works was discovered in Caen on 18 August and the main body of 2 GHQ Printing Press was brought out on 6 September to operate it.

    As the army moved into Belgium the Advanced Stationery Depot serving Second Army was in Brussels, the Canadian depot was in Antwerp and the other British advanced depot was serving L of C from the Rear Maintenance Area, moving to Brussels in January.

    There was a steady increase in demands for printed matter and the static plant taken over by 2 GHQ Printing Press in Brussels, plus the mobile press which worked alongside it, could not handle the volume of work. Therefore two further plants were taken over, one at the end of October and the other in December, and both were operated with civilian assistance. A considerable amount of printing work as well as repairs to office machinery and the manufacture of rubber stamps was placed with local contractors.

    Throughout this phase the consumption of PSS stores generally increased, the average weekly intake of PSS stores into the theatre eventually reaching approximately two hundred tons. To cope with the additional work a new WE for a Base Stationery Depot was approved on 21 March increasing the total personnel from forty-six to sixty-eight. Additional depots were requested from Central Mediterranean Forces under Goldflake and these arrived at the end of April.






    R.A.S.C./E.F.I. (NAAFI)
    War Establishment III/70/2. August 1943
    War Establishment III/70/3. November 1944

    The Expeditionary Force Institute was a branch of the NAAFI (Navy, Army and Air Force Institute). The NAAFI was a non profit making corporation governed by representatives of the forces and a civilian Board of Management. In wartime the Treasury backs the work of the NAAFI.

    In overseas theatres the NAAFI becomes an EFI. All NAAFI personnel become members of the armed forces and have army ranks. In the army the RASC was responsible for the EFI and a small number of RASC personnel were attached to it. There was an EFI Liaison Officer at GHQ.

    The NAAFI/EFI purchased bulk stores and kitchen supplies and sold them to units at retail prices. Any profits were returned to the services in the form of regimental funds, entertainments, sports equipment and canteens. Canteens were set up in permanent buildings where possible but could be set up in tents. Each canteen provided beer (no wine or spirits), snacks and refreshments, a games room and a retail shop. The shop stocked items not available on issue or rations such as books, magazines, comics, sweets, medicines, stationary, toiletries, cigarettes, biscuits etc. Mobile canteens were more limited. They supplied tea, cakes, biscuits etc and some of the retail goods to be found in the canteen shops.

    Overseas EFI personnel wore military uniforms and rank badges. They were not however armed or trained in the use of weapons. They were militarised partly to bring them under military control but also to safeguard them in case of capture, they would be regarded as prisoners of war rather than enemy aliens or agents.

    Headquarters
    Personnel
    Lieutenant Colonel, Officer Commanding
    Major, Second in Command
    Major for discipline
    Major in charge of accounts
    Major in charge of transport
    Major in charge of works
    Captain in charge of administration
    Captain in charge of inspection of accounts
    Captain in charge of supplies
    Warrant Officer Class I for discipline
    Warrant Officer Class II, Cashier
    Warrant Officer Class II, Chief Clerk

    4 X batman
    5 X serjeant clerk
    5 X clerk
    4 X driver
    runner
    3 X motorcyclist
    officers mess cook
    serjeant officers mess steward
    corporal, postal duties
    serjeant for quartermaster duties
    3 X stenographer

    Total 41

    Vehicles
    3 X bicycle
    4 X motorcycle
    4 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    Note:
    All the personnel are provided by the NAAFI
    The bicycles and motorcycles are provided by the NAAFI
    The cars are provided by the War Department but are maintained out of NAAFI funds.

    Attached to GHQ
    Personnel
    Major, Liaison Officer
    serjeant clerk
    driver

    1 X car 2seater 4 X 2
    Note:
    The personnel are provided by the NAAFI
    The car is provided by the War Department but maintained out of NAAFI funds.


    A Base Canteen Depot
    Personnel
    Major, Officer Commanding
    Captain, District Officer
    Captain, Transport Officer
    Subaltern, Assistant District Officer
    Subaltern, Supply Officer
    2 X Warrant Officer Class II, Inspectors
    Warrant Officer Class II in charge of docks
    Warrant Officer Class II in charge of garage

    serjeant in charge of records
    3 X batman
    serjeant cashier
    3 X clerk for accounts
    6 X clerk for general duties
    clerk for works
    serjeant fitter
    2 X motorcyclists
    serjeant secretary-stenographer
    2 X telephonist
    typist
    4 X batman
    5 X serjeant clerk
    5 X clerk
    4 X driver
    runner
    3 X motorcyclist
    officers mess cook
    serjeant officers mess steward
    corporal, postal duties
    serjeant for quartermaster duties
    3 X stenographer

    Warehouse
    staff serjeant manager
    serjeant assistant manager
    5 X clerk
    2 X checker
    12 X general hand

    Equipment
    serjeant manager
    4 X clerk
    8 X general hand

    Transit camp
    serjeant manager
    serjeant in charge of mess
    5 X assistant
    4 X cook
    2 X waiter/batman

    Garage
    8 X issuers RASC for duties as loaders
    8 X drivers IC RASC
    2 X driver
    Total 98

    Vehicles
    3 X bicycle
    2 X motorcycle
    2 X car 2 seater 4 X 2
    2 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS
    6 X 6ton 4 X 2 GS
    1 X water trailer

    Note:
    All the personnel except RASC are provided by the NAAFI
    Eight issuers and eight drivers are provided by the War Department but are paid out of NAAFI funds.
    The bicycles and motorcycles are provided by the NAAFI
    The vehicles are provided by the War Department but are maintained out of NAAFI funds.

    A Base Canteen Depot is established at each port used by the Army Group.


    A Main Canteen
    Personnel
    serjeant, manager
    8 X assistant
    2 X beer barman
    corporal chergehand
    2 X cook
    2 X kitchenman
    recreation room attendant
    serjeant retail shop manager
    2 X retail shop assistant
    Total 20

    A Branch Canteen
    Personnel
    serjeant, manager
    4 X assistant
    2 X beer barman
    corporal chergehand
    2 X cook
    kitchenman
    recreation room attendant
    corporal retail shop manager
    retail shop assistant
    Total 14

    An Airfield Canteen
    Personnel
    serjeant, manager
    2 X assistant
    2 X beer barman
    corporal chergehand
    2 X cook
    kitchenman
    recreation room attendant
    serjeant retail shop manager
    retail shop assistant
    Total 12

    A Bulk Issue Store
    Personnel
    staff serjeant, manager
    corporal chergehand
    2 X clerk
    4 X storeman
    issuer RASC for duty as loader
    driver IC RASC
    Total 10

    1 X 3ton 4 X 2 GS

    Note:
    All the personnel except RASC are provided by the NAAFI
    One issuer and one driver are provided by the War Department but are paid out of NAAFI funds.
    The vehicle is provided by the War Department but is maintained out of NAAFI funds.

    A Bulk Issue Store normally supplies 10,000 troops.


    A Mobile Canteen
    Mobile canteens are supplied on a basis of one mobile canteen and a staff of two per 10,000 troops.

    Mobile canteen lorries were supplied by the NAAFI. Usually they were vehicles similar to those used by the forces, partly to simplify maintenance and supply of spares and partly because that was what were available.



    The first EFI personnel were landed on D+17 and on the following day they established the first Base Canteen Depot (BCD) under canvas. To supply troops who arrived up to D+30 issues of NAAFI/EFI special packs were made. These packs were designed to provide cigarettes, matches, stationery, razor blades, soap etc for thirty men for twenty-one days and were in addition to 17,500,000 cigarettes and 3,140 lbs of tobacco issued free during the early stages of the campaign. By the end of July eight Bulk Issue Stores were opened and twenty mobile canteens were on the road.

    As the armies moved forward towards Belgium EFI began to feel the lack of sufficient transport for taking even the essential supplies forward. In July the first draft of ATS/EFI arrived. During September 11 HQ EFI moved to Brussels.

    In October the Home Canteen Service arrived and took over the NAAFI supply work in the rear areas. Thus NAAFI supplies were provided through HCS and EPI in all areas from the base at Caen forward to the mobile canteens and advanced canteen posts operating with troops close to the borders of Holland. The mobile canteens formed an important part of the activities of EPI in the theatre. Mobile canteens were carefully routed so as to ensure a regular supply and service to as many troops as possible. Vans were posted to corps and routed by the formation to which they were attached. They drew supplies from the nearest
    mobile canteen depot or bulk issue stores as it was sometimes necessary to stock for periods of up to seven days to cover long advances. The stock carried consisted of tea, milk, sugar, biscuits, cigarettes, lemonade powder, soap, tooth-paste, laces and stationery. Mobile vans were also used extensively on air strips to provide free snacks to ex PW being evacuated to UK by air.

    For Christmas quantities of tinned turkey, pork, Christmas puddings and oranges were added to the normal army issue. In addition large quantities of slab cake, sweets, pears, apples, cigars and a small quantity of captured enemy wines were manufactured or procured locally in liberated territories.

    While preparations for the crossing of the RHINE were carried out suitable premises for use as depots had to be found in forward areas and these were inspected and if necessary repaired by EFI workshops branch. The special NAAFI packs used for the distribution of cigarettes etc. had been improved in accordance with suggestions made by the troops, and were stored in readiness for the major advance.

    An emergency call on NAAFI resources was made when liberated allied Prisoners of War began to pass through on the first stage of their journey home. Free supplies of such commodities as tooth brushes, shaving soap and tooth paste in addition to a complete range of all items on the same scale as issued to the troops, were made available for a total of up to 250,000 liberated prisoners. This demand was in addition to the supply and distribution arrangements for 180 static and 200 mobile canteens serving the troops of 21 Army Group including the Montgomery Club in Brussels, which was capable of handling ten thousand troops daily.

    Splendid work was done by the WVS attached for special duty to NAAFI/EFI. These ladies undertook the supervision of the amenities in all clubs, organised sight-seeing tours, concerts, libraries, games, etc., and operated mobile canteens at airstrips serving liberated PW being evacuated to UK. By the end of the campaign 155 officers and 1,950 men were employed in the various branches of EFI in BLA and the supplementary force of ATS/EFI had grown to 13 officers and 727 ORs. In addition a total of 5,199 local civilian staff was employed in EFI establishments.
     
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