“AU REVOIR” B SQUADRON

 

B Squadron held a farewell party when the Regiment was about to be divided into two groups. The first group, which was to stay in Germany until demobilization, consisted of those people with early, or low demob numbers. These were joined by people from 4 RTR with similarly low demob numbers, the joint unit retaining the designation 9 RTR.

The remainder of 4 RTR and 9 RTR with high demob numbers became 4 RTR as regular soldiers. The plan was for 4 RTR to return to England, move to the USA, and then form up for the assault on the mainland of Japan, Operation Coronet.

This operation was cancelled when Japan surrendered after the atomic bombs were dropped, the cancellation being a matter for considerable rejoicing. The only regret was that the timing of the bomb-dropping did not allow us to get back to England and perhaps to America – although it was reported that one unit did reach England. It was promptly recalled to Germany.

The Farewell Party took the form of an “Au Revoir” concert. It was held on 16 June 1945 in the village hall of Mettingen, Westphalia. The village had one industry of great importance, a factory producing medicinal alcohol. The principal by-product was a Steinhager of unusual ferocity!

This segment of our website includes the program, a facsimile of the original program, and photos of some of the acts and the audience.