MALTA ARMED FORCES - PASSOUT PARADE

[Peter Laidler]

That was the FIX and UNFIX bayonet drill Bruce. I was taught it when I was a 'real' recruit at the end of my 3 year apprenticeship at Carlisle - and never had to use it thereafter, even at Sandhurst. Except for one solitary instance......... And that was as a member of the Quarter Guard during a royal visit in 1970. But we were all different units and all trained to an equally low standard. I think after the full dress rehearsal the day before, it looked such a shambles that we marched on and off with bayonets fixed. The problem was that UNfix bayonets was done without looking down, with the rifle between your legs - as you see and say. Our bayonets had a recessed catch and it was touch and go whether you even managed it.......... But at least it gave the RSM and a couple of CSM's a chance to really bawl and shout at everyone.

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[browningautorifle]

The problem was that UNfix bayonets was done without looking down

Never take your eyes off the enemy...

[Gil Boyd]

Jim,
Never met the man personally, but have walked in his shadow, but never knew it!!

He was a true legend of young British commanders in WW2, who was gifted the Bruneval Raid, of which he made a great success, and probably took us to a better understanding of radar by stealing the new technology right from under the Germans noses.

When you way up the cross winds and size of the DZ to do a drop near the cliffs at Bruneval, and rally his men, it all came together for him on the night, and he suceeded in his task, as he did getting to the Bridge at Arnhem 3 years later.
A real shame swifter movements by other units didn't materialise on their respective paths to Arnhem, it would have shortened the war incredibly. With all things Military it is always a great element of luck, right place at the right time, that gets you through IMHO!!!

[browningautorifle]

A real shame swifter movements by other units didn't materialize

Exactly, and remember what he told the Germans..."We don't have the room to take you all prisoner...Sorry!"