The Fighting 69th

Flak, Volume 1, Issue 7, 11 June 1943, Page 6

The Fighting 69th

We of the 69th Battery were amazed (or some of us) to read in the daily press headlines recently that a movie titled “The Fighting 69th” was coming to the Civic Theatre. Everyone in the 15th A.A. Regiment will, no doubt, immediately conclude that the 69th Battery has again stolen a march. But, alas, we have to admit that this picture refers to a Regiment with a similar number in the United States of America. However, the title fits this battery very well indeed. As all know the birth of this battery occurred only about one year"ago, but its exploits already would make interesting history, and it-is rather a fitting coincidence that the local movie authorities should do us the honour of screening the story of the exploits of this famous U.S. unit on the occasion of our first anniversary. First . under Captain Cole (now overseas), and now under Captain Foot (returned from overseas) we have been well trained in all details of A.A. gunnery. . Our Waacs, too, would have proved their mettle in action, and proved themselves equal to the fine work done by the A.T.S. girls in England. Nowadays we earn the . name of the “Fighting 69th’s” by fighting to hold our officers, N.C.O.s, Gunners, and Waacs, but alas, our fame as a welltrained unit has spread far and wide, consequently we are losing personnel daily to other batteries —or should we say another battery? 69TH PARS One never knows what is wrapped up in khaki these days —people from all walks of life are in the services. Why,* only the other day a certain highly respected and popular gentleman of commissioned rank indulged in a game of football, and his team mates were really astounded to see the way he took punishment during a rather rough and tumble game—with both eyes heavily discoloured and lacerated ear. After the match he was heard to exclaim that he did not know that he had so many friends on the opposing side., Never mind, Smithy, the next round may go to you— on points too. Who said that the AEWS was not doing a grand job? Why, the “yearn-

ing to learn” craze has taken on well in this detachment of the Service. Ask the Waacs. Many are fitting themselves for post-war occupations, such as barbers, clothes-makers, etc. Even the male personnel are taking up studies and trades too. It is rumoured that plans are already being by some to start in business on their own account when this ‘ ‘ere bloomin’ fray’ is o’er.. Don’t be surprised to see signs hanging out bearing the following inscriptions: “Kerr’s. Koncrete Krafts,” “McGrevy’s —Manicurists,” “Smith’s Smart Frocks,” “Tyler’s Turf Tailors,” “Milne’s Mirthmakers,” “Carter’s Cute Cakes,” “Tong’s Toilet Tablets,” or “Mayn-Coxhead, Ltd.. —Building Contractors, Manufacturers of Doll’s Houses —Plans Submitted.” Now that the rain has arrived it is rather noticeable these evenings to see the various insects, grubs, snails, and slugs that make their appearance in the gardens of the home. A certain B.H.Q. bearing the name of a once famous Russian city, has its garden, insects and all chucked in, and many and devious are the methods employed to exterminate these pests, particularly at night. Quite recently a certain officer, resident therein, was espied making his way cautiously through, the undergrowth and trees towards the lighted street, and it was observed that he made a catch. After all, the early bird really does'catch the worm even if the worm, is dressed in feminine attire. ' Once again those Budgies at B.H.Q. have been talking, and they say that the concerts held at H.2 are of a “high” order, and the local talent real class. They say that the “striptease” act would compare favourably with anything put on (or should we say taken off) before a Sultan of the East. The birds whisper that there is a likelihood of orders for a command performance before long. The engagement of popular Gnr. Brooks, the first Waac to come to H.2. has created great interest among 69th Battery personnel. Her marriage to a New Zealand naval man is to take place very shortly, and we wish her all the best. Don’t forget our piece of wedding-cake.