The O'Leary Collection—Medals of The Royal Canadian Regiment

P13066 Sergeant Harold Thompson

Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry
The Royal Canadian Regiment

By: Capt (ret'd) Michael M. O'Leary, CD, The RCR

Harold Thompson was born in Birmingham, Warwick, England on 19 May 1900. His father was Samuel Thompson, Spon Lane, West Bromwich, Staffordshire.

On 14 Oct 1916, Thompson enlisted in the British Army (Regular) at Birmingham on 14 Oct 1916 at the age of 16 years 148 days. Attesting for the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry (D.C.L.I.) in the rank of "Boy," he was posted to the Regimental Depot at Bodmin, Cornwall, on 16 Oct and then to the 3rd Battalion (Militia and Special Reserve) on 19 Oct 1916.

Thompson served at "Home" (i.e., in UK garrison locations) with the D.C.L.I, from 14 Oct 1916 to 7 Mar 1922. (5 years 145 days). His Military History Sheet notes that he attended the Duke of York's Royal Military School, the Royal Hibernian Military School, and the Queen Victoria School. All three of these schools were established to provide education for children of serving or deceased soldiers. The first two were merged at Shorncliffe in 1924.

On 15 Dec 1916, Thompson achieved a Third Class Army School certificate. Nine months later, on 14 Sep 1917, he was granted a Second Class Army School certificate. These certificates were the basis of efforts to increase the general education level of British soldiers over the preceding half-century. A.R. Skelley, in his work "The Victorian Army At Home: The Recruitment and Terms and Conditions of the British Regular, 1859-1899" (McGill-Queen's University Press, Montreal, 1977), described the basis of this system:

"In 1861 a new inducement towards learning was the army certificate of education. On the recommendation of the Council of Military Education three levels or standards were set out and were linked with promotion in the ranks. The third-class certificate specified the standard for promotion to the rank of corporal: the candidate was to read aloud and to write from dictation passages from an easy narrative, and to work examples in the four compound rules of arithmetic and the reduction of money. A second-class certificate, necessary for promotion to sergeant, entailed writing and dictation from a more difficult work, familiarity with all forms of regimental accounting, and facility with proportions and interest, fractions and averages. First-class certificates were a great deal more difficult and were required for commissions from the ranks."

On attaining the age of 18 on 19 May 1918, Thompson was raised to the rank of Private.

Thompson was posted to the 4th (Reserve) Bn of the DCLI on 4 Sep 1918. The 3/4th Bn, combined in 1916 with the 1/5th Bn, ended the war at County Donegal, Ireland. On 3 Dec 1918, Thompson was posted to the 3rd (Training and Reserve) Battalion. This was a training unit, raised at Bodmin and relocated on mobilization to Falmouth, was stationed at the Isle of Wight as part of the Portsmouth Garrison after May 1915.

On 28 Dec 1918, Thompson added a third education certificate when he completed the requirements of an Army School certificate in Map Reading.

Thompson was posted to the 1st Battalion, D.C.L.I., on 29 Aug 1919 when the remaining troops of the 3rd Battalion were absorbed by the 1st Battalion at Finner Camp in Ireland. Thompson was soon after appointed bandsman on 4 Oct 1919. This appointment would define his military employment for the rest of his career. The battalion moved to Ballykinlar in 1921 where the unit was engaged in internal security duties and, in the spring of 1922, to Lucknow, India.

The 1st Battalion, D.C.L.I. would remain in India until 1939. Thompson would spent over 3 1/2 years in the country.

On 8 Sep 1923, Thompson was appointed Lance Corporal, unpaid. This first step up the hierarchy of rank would not last. On 4 Apr 1925, he was deprived of his Lance Corporal stripe for misconduct.

On 6 Nov 1925, after 3 years 243 days in India, Thompson was transferred to the D.C.L.I. Depot in England. He was posted to the Army Reserve on 20 Nov 1925 at the "expiration of his period of Colour service, Para 362(i) K.R." Thompson served 80 days with the Depot before ending his final period of D.C.L.I. "Home" service on 24 Jan 1926.

Thompson would not be out of uniform for very long. As a trained soldier and an experienced military musician, he was a good candidate for recruiters working to fill positions with the Canadian Permanent Force. Recruited in England for Canadian service, Thompson signed a certificate on 10 Dec 1925 which stated: "I hereby certify that I have read the instructions regarding enlistment into the Band of The Royal Canadian Regiment, (RC. 24-1-10, d/11-8-24), supplied by Messrs. Hawkes & Son, Denman Street, Piccadilly, London, England, and am willing to enlist under those conditions."

On 24 Jan 1926, Thompson was formally discharged from the British Army, "His services being no longer required, having enlisted into the Dominion Forces. Para 484(x) K.R. Character, "Good."

Harold Thompson enlisted for three years' service with The Royal Canadian Regiment in the Canadian Permanent Force on 25 Jan 1926 at London, Ont. A 25-year-old musician, he claimed prior service with the D.C.L.I. from 14 Oct 1916 to 20 Nov 1925 (9 years, 1 month). On his attestation form, Thompson was described as 5 feet 7 inches in height, weighing 131 pounds, having good physical development, a fair complexion, brown eyes, and light brown hair. He identified his sister, Mrs. M. Wilcox, 24 Rawlins St., Ladywood, Birmingham, Eng., as his next of kin. Thompson was assigned the regimental number 13066.

As part of Thompson's enrolment, he was required to sign a waiver stating: "Any enlistment or re-engagement of members of the Permanent or Non-Permanent Active Militia will be allowed only on the understanding that the applicant for enlistment or re-engagement is willing to enlist or re-engage under such conditions as to pay and service as may be authorised and laid down from time to time by the Governor-in-Council. … I agree to enlist in The Royal Canadian Regiment under these conditions." The form was probably required after reductions in pay were made in 1924, during which serving soldiers had the option to remain or to take their discharge if they refused the new rates of pay.

On enlistment, Thompson was posted to Headquarters, The RCR, at Wolseley Barracks, London, Ont., and appointed Bandsman. Some of his prior service was permitted to count towards pension. The portion so counted was that during the official dates for wartime service, from 14 Oct 1916 to 31 Jan 1921 (4 years, 110 days). In recognition of his prior service and conduct, he was also awarded two Good Conduct Badges.

Four months after joining The RCR, on 24 May 1926, Thompson injured himself, badly spraining an ankle while playing soccer for the London Station at Wolseley Barracks. The injury resulted in a hospital stay of 37 days. A military Court of Inquiry was convened in order to ascertain the extent and liability for his injury. The court satisfied the C.O. that "Bandsman Thompson was on duty at the time of the accident in question and was not to blame for its occurrence nor for the resulting injury."

In peacetime, it is not uncommon for soldiers' names to appear in edition of regimental journals as a result of their sporting activities. Thompson's name appears in various issues of The Connecting File, the regimental journal of The RCR, during his service.

In the December 1926, edition of The Connecting File (Vol 4, No 4) a regimental team finished third in the Inter-Military Billiard League:

"The team entered by Headquarters in the Inter-Military Billiard League, for the Shield, donated by the London Free Press, has finished in third place in the first series, just concluded. The final positions were The Canadian Legion, The T.V.A., The R.C.R., and Westminster Hospital. The exact scores are not available at the time of this edition going to press. In the second series, however, our team has made a great start, for out of three of the four games of the first match, we have a lead of 189 points, and aggregate points reckon.

"The team consists of Serjt. L. Waters, Bandsmen Nicholls, Thomas and Thompson, with C.Q.M.S. Stirling and Corpl. Gillman as spares."

An Employment Sheet was maintained for each soldier of the Permanent Force on which their performance over the preceding year was summarized in one line. On 27 Sep 1927, the entry for Thompson reads "A good Solo B C Clarinet. Services very Satisfactory." For the next two years the entry simply reads "As above."

Thompson appears again in The Connecting File of December, 1927 (Vol VI, No 4):

"Garrison Leagues

"As usual, "C" Company is meeting with strong opposition in the various leagues conducted by the London Garrison Amateur Athletic Association, but barring accidents they should be near the top of the ladder at the finish of the Basketball, Indoor Soccer, Indoor Baseball and Bowling Leagues.

"Our most dangerous opponents are the 1st Hussars and the Canadian Fusiliers.

"The following players represent the Regiment in the different leagues:

"Indoor Soccer—Pte. G. H. Hunt (Captain), Pte. McRae (Manager), Cpl. O. Battle, L/Cpl. D.R. Tosdevin, Pte. R. Webb, Pte. L.C. Vahey, Bdsm. W. Melvin, F. Thomas and H. Thompson."

On 18 Jun 1928, Harold Thompson married Eva May Carter at London, Ont. Born in 1906 at Orpington, England, to Henry "Harry" and Ellen Carter, Eva was working as a "Cigar Store Machinist" (i.e., she used a machine to create the cigar "core" that then went to the "roller" to wrap and finish) when she married Thompson. The ceremony was conducted by Rev. L.N. Tucker. The Reverend was the Rector of St. Paul's Cathedral and Dean of Huron. He had also written to the Commanding Officer to vouch for Eva's character prior to the marriage. Up until their marriage, Thompson was living at Wolseley Barracks and Eva was living at 484 Pall Mall St., London, Ont.

Thompson was awarded one additional Good Conduct Badge on 16 Dec 1928. The following month, on the anniversary of his enrolment, he re-engaged for a further three years service. He would do so on each three-year anniversary throughout his service.

After one year of marriage, on 6 Jun 1929, the Thompsons were added to the Married Roll. King's Regulations and Orders for the Canadian Militia, 1917, set the allowed number of Bandsmen allowed on the married establishment at 30% of strength. As a soldier on the married establishment, Thompson was entitled to an allowance of 70 cents per diem in addition to his pay. This was to support the provision of "rations, fuel, and light" for his dependent(s). The Thompsons welcomed the arrival of their first child, Ronald Harold, in 1930.

The April, 1930, edition of The Connecting File (Vol IX, No 2) includes a list of the 25 members of the band. All but two are prior serving bandsmen of the British Army. Of these, seven had served with the D.C.L.I., including Thompson, who is shown as "Bb Clarinet, H. Thompson (late) 1st Btn. D.C.L.I."

Thompson's Employment Sheet entry on 24 Oct 1930 stated "Services very satisfactory. Solid in every way. Very Reliable." The next year, it read "As above."

In 1931, the Thompsons welcomed a second child, Leonard Henry.

In 1932, Thompson qualified as Stretcher Bearer and Medical Assistant. This was a traditional military role for bandsmen. His Employment Sheet entry later that year, on 30 Sep 1932, read: "Solo playing excellent. Services are all that could be desired." In December, Thompson was awarded one additional Good Conduct Badge, his fourth.

Thompson's Employment Sheet entries continue to show him as consistently good soldier. On 14 Nov 1933, his entry read: "Has undertaken Solo Clarinet work with great credit, nice tone, very reliable, fine reader. Very willing. Quiet disposition." The next year, on 3 Oct 1934, it simply stated "Services highly satisfactory."

Major & Brevet Lt.-Col. M.K. Greene completed a brief document on Thompson titled "Statement as to Character" on 17 Dec 1934. It read: "This is to certify that No.13066, Bandsman H. Thompson, The R.C.R., is eligible for the assessment of an "EXEMPLARY" character in the event of his immediate discharge." The document was possibly prepared in view of Thompson not re-engaging, but on 25 Jan 1935, he re-engaged for The RCR at London for another three-year term of service.

Thompson was awarded the Canadian Medal for Long Service and Good Conduct (Military), the announcement of which was published in Militia General Order No. 25 of 1935. On 8 Mar 1935, the medal was sent to the District Officer Commanding, Military District No. 1, London, Ont. to be presented to Thompson.

Thompson's Employment Sheet entry on 19 Oct 1935 read: "Excellent soloist, good at Cadenza work. Solid, respectable, fine reader. Very willing. Quiet disposition." (A cadenza is an improvised or written-out ornamental passage for a soloist, it is usually in a free rhythmic style, and often allows virtuosic display.) Thompson's Employment Sheet entry on 21 Sep 1936 was "As before."

The Canadian Contingent for the Coronation of King George VI in 1937 included a composite military band formed from member of the Permanent Force bands of the R.C.H.A., The RCR, and the P.P.C.L.I. Bandsman Thompson was one of the selected Royal Canadians for the Contingent. The Connecting File edition of July, 1937 (Vol. XVI, No. 3), includes a detailed description of the bandsmen's experiences on the Coronation trip, it is reproduced below:

"The Coronation
"By Bandsman W. Armstrong

"Being chosen to go overseas as members of the "Coronation" Band was only the start of our troubles, for it was only after numerous kit and clothing inspections, and having been found medically fit several times, we finally found ourselves on the Montreal Flyer "en route" to Quebec on the 18th of April.

"We arrived early on the morning of the 19th and were met at the station by Captain O'Neill and Band Sjt. Arthur of the Royal 22nd Regiment. They escorted us to the Citadel Barracks and there we were introduced to the various other members of the band. There were nine musicians from the P.P.C.L.I. of Winnipeg, twelve from the Royal 22nd Regiment of Quebec, one from the R.C.H.A. of Kingston and twelve from the R.C.R. of London. Those from the R.C.R. were: Band Sjt. J. Maule, A/Sjt. Wright, L/Cpl. Bocock and Bandsmen Armstrong, Proderick, M.M.; Thompson, Thomas, F. C.; Thomas, W.; Simpson, Tomlinson and Dredge.

"Losing no time in getting down to business, we commenced rehearsals that same morning. Most of our time in Quebec was spent in band practice and marching drill. We found a little difficulty in marching eight abreast after being used to the ordinary method of marching in fours.

"Our stay in Quebec was pleasant enough, and those who were interested in ancient history enjoyed themselves prowling around the points of interest. We noted particularly the wealth of churches, most of them very beautiful in appearance. The almost overwhelming predominance of the French language prevented a few of us from feeling at home in the city. Luckily for us, "Jock" [Stirling] brushed up his French before leaving London and he got us out of many a jam.

"During the week in P.Q. we were kept busy enough, for we played on a route march through the city, attended a Roman Catholic Church parade, rendered a short programme of music to the troops, gave a concert in the Capitol Theatre and, finally, a broadcast over the N.B.C. Chain. This last was given from the magnificent ballroom of the Chateau Frontenac. Most of us were a little disappointed that the Canadian Broadcasting Commission, who had arranged to broadcast the programme, found it necessary to cancel their agreement.

"On the evening of the 28th April, we boarded the R.M.S. Montcalm, all of us looking forward to the time when we could retire to our cabins and relax for several days. Our hopes were short lived, however, for our Director, who was nothing if not persistent, had arranged for us to play twice a day, complete with boots and puttees. Just outside the St. Lawrence the boat began to misbehave slightly and some of us enjoyed the doubtful privilege of being absent from the band concerts. By the time we had our "sea legs" we were nearing the English Channel, and there were no regrets when we docked at Le Havre on the afternoon of the 6th May. In order to create an atmosphere, we played a few French marches, and so picturesque did Le Havre look that we felt like donning our berets and spending the weekend in France. Needless to say, we were not allowed to leave the boat, so had to content ourselves with a copy of La Vie Parisienne (borrowed from the cabin library).

It was approximately 11.30 p.m. that same evening when we tied up at Southampton, and we went to bed happy in the knowledge that on the next day we would be able to set foot on solid land.

"On the morning of the 7th we formed up on the quay side and played a few marches, then marched the Contingent to the station, where we were formally welcomed by His Worship the Mayor of Southampton and a representative of the G.O.C. Southern Command. Soon afterwards we entrained for Pirbright Camp, which is about 30 miles south of London. Here we did a little more rehearsing and marching drill. We were a little dismayed on seeing the hard beds and the exceedingly hard pillows, and were even more dismayed after a vain attempt to sleep on them.

"Such things are without a doubt sent to try us, and we were glad to move on to London by train on the morning of the 10th May. We "detrained" at Addison Road Station and played the troops into the Olympia, the home of so many horse shows and military tournaments. Lyons & Co. did a creditable job with the catering in the Olympia, which housed about 7,000 troops including the Dominion and Colonial Contingents, the Brigade of Guards and 2,000 men from the Navy and Marines. On the day after our arrival there the O.C. the Gloucestershire Regiment paid us a visit and very kindly extended an invitation to visit the Regiment which was stationed at Plymouth. We were unfortunately unable to accept, for our time was limited to a great extent.

"The next day was the 12th and, of course, the all-important one. Reveille for the troops who were to take part in the procession to the Abbey and lining the route, etc., was at 3 a.m. The noise as they marched off with drums banging and bugles blaring was terrific and although we did not stir, it was amusing to hear them shout: "Come on, you bunch of foreigners, get out of bed."

"Our turn came at 10 am. when we marched off, immediately behind the "Aussies" and just in front of the "Mounties." This placing was rather an unfortunate one for our own Militia, for they were unable to hear the band during the march.

"The first halt was in Kensington Gardens, just after passing the Albert Memorial. This was the starting point, where all the preliminary forming up had to be done. The next stop was on Constitution Hill near Buckingham Palace, and it was here that we began to realize the immensity of the crowds of people who had flocked to London for the Coronation. Loud speakers were placed at intervals along the route and at our next halt in Regent Street, and this was the longest and final stop, we were able to listen to the service being broadcast from Westminster Abbey. At the halt in Regent Street the people began to take a personal interest in the troops and donations of fruit, chocolates and candies, etc., began to come in. Our haversack ration for lunch consisted of two bars of marching chocolate and two lumps of sugar, so there was very little likelihood of us suffering from indigestion. We were fortunate in being able to secure some drinking water from the "first aid' men, when they were not engaged in carrying off people who had taken ill. Immediately after the completion of the Abbey service the procession began to move, and this time we kept on till the finish. We were perhaps a little unfortunate in that, being a part of the procession we did not see as much as those who lined the route; however, we had the thrill of listening to the continued cheering of the thousands of people (when we stopped playing and that wasn't very often) and seeing London as it is seldom seen in all its magnificence and glory. A highlight of the route was on the Embankment, where the Educational Authorities had arranged for 37,000 children to witness the procession. It was a revelation to see how wholeheartedly enthusiastic they were, and they enjoyed themselves as only children can. Continuing on our way, we marched through miles of streets until eventually the crowds became noticeably thinner and it seemed as if our long day was over. About 4 p.m. the rain commenced to pour and our brand new scarlet uniforms began to look rather sorry for themselves; it was with a great feeling of relief that we marched into Chelsea Barracks and saw several busses waiting to take us back to the Olympia. As we had marched a distance of approximately 13 miles, playing our instruments most of the time, we were a tired band when we arrived in the Olympia. Most of us wound up the day by a visit to the local theatres and there we listened to the broadcast of the King's speech.

"Thursday morning the 13th of May found us once again on Waterloo Station, where we entrained for Pirbright and arrived there about 3 p.m.

"Friday the 14th was another big day for us; parade was at 6.30 a.m. and at 7 a.m. we embussed for Wellington Barracks, London. Shortly after our arrival there we were formed up for inspection by the Minister of National Defence, who congratulated us on our appearance in the Coronation Procession. Inspection over, we were paraded on the square in front of the barracks along with the other Dominion and Colonial Contingents. Colour was lent to this by the various representatives from India and Africa, in their native dress. The band of the Welsh Guards headed the line of march, and off we went to Buckingham Palace. In the Palace Grounds we were formed up in three sides of a square and in four ranks. The presentation of medals then took place; His Majesty the King taking the front rank; Her Majesty the Queen, accompanied by the Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret Rose, the second rank, and the Dukes of Gloucester and Kent, the third and fourth ranks, respectively. After the presentation we marched past, His Majesty the King taking the salute. Her Majesty Queen Mary and the Duchess of Gloucester remained in the background on the terrace. From Buckingham Palace we marched through cheering crowds to Green Park and there we had lunch. Busses awaited us at the park gates and so we bade official farewell to London. We arrived in Pirbright late in the afternoon and immediately commenced to pack up to go on leave for nine days.

"Monday, the 24th May, saw us back in Pirbright once again, after a busy time visiting our relatives and friends in different corners of the British Isles.

"Tuesday evening we left by bus for London and gave a band concert in the Embankment Gardens. This was our final appearance as a concert band in the Old Country, for next morning, aided by the splendid band (drums and fifes) of the Grenadier Guards, we played the Contingent to the station, and at 1 p.m. we sailed from Southampton aboard the R.M.S. Montclare.

"We stopped at Cherbourg to pick up some mail and then "heave ho, my hearties," we were soon on the high seas, bound for Canada and home. The seas were higher than usual and the Montclare responded in gallant fashion; so much so that several of our "old salts" were "hors de combat" for a few days. The twelve members of the Royal 22nd Regiment and the Director of Music, Captain O'Neill, left us at Quebec, and thus the Coronation Band was no more. The remainder of the Contingent disembarked at Montreal and we of The R.C.R. arrived in London on the 4th June, glad indeed to be back home in dear old London-in-the-Bush.

"Despite the fact that we had such a busy time in the way of band work, not one of us but was proud to have been chosen to represent Canada and the Regiment on an occasion so unique as the Coronation of His Majesty King George the Sixth."

In the fall edition of the regimental journal, The Connecting File (Vol XVI, No 4), Oct 1937, the Regiment published the names of the recipients of the Coronation Medal.

"We are pleased to note that the following have been awarded His Majesty's Coronation Medal:

"S.M.I. (W.O.I.) H. M. Bevis; Serjt. J.E. Maule; Bandsmen A. Wright; W. Armstrong; H. Bocock; A.W. Dredge; H. Lewis; J. Proderick, M.M.; W. Thomas; F.C. Thomas; H. Thompson; A. Tomlinson; G.E. Simpson."

That same month. Thompson's Employment Sheet entry, dated 14 Oct 1937, read: "Is taking all Solo work and doing it well." The following year's entry, dated 7 Oct 1938, read: "Excellent Solo and 1st B C Clarinet player. Conscientious and hard working."

Thompson appeared again in the January, 1938, edition of The Connecting File (Vol. XVII, No. 1) for his participation on one of the regimental teams in the District-level Mary Otter Trophy first aid competition:

"Headquarters Notes

"Congratulations are extended to L/Cpl. Bocock, Bandsmen Lewis, Proderick and Thompson, who constituted the No. 2 R.C.R. team which won the Mary Otter District Trophy. Having won the District Champion ship six times and the Dominion Cup on one occasion, we have no doubt that the "Ace" team of the band, will perform very creditably when they again represent the District in the coming Dominion Championship."

Published in Militia General Order No. 225 of 1939, Thompson was identified as having completed the requirements for a First Class Army Certificate Education.

In the days prior to Canada's formal declaration of war on Nazi Germany, the small Permanent Force was already beginning to mobilize. Effective 1 Sep 1939, Thompson was re-attested and transferred to the Canadian Army (Active) with The RCR, Canadian Active Service Force (CASF). With his change to active service status, Thompson's regimental number changed to P-13066.

As part of his change of status to Active Force service, Thompson was required on 4 Oct 1939 to sign a Supplementary Declaration to complement his Permanent Force terms of service. The declaration read:

"I, Harold Thompson, having been enlisted in the Canadian Militia, and by my Declaration dated the tenth day of September, 1939 having engaged to serve in the Canadian Active Service Force as set forth in said Declaration, do further declare that I hereby engage to serve on active service in the Canadian Active Service Force anywhere in Canada, and also beyond Canada and Overseas, for the duration of the present-war, and for the period of demobilization thereafter, and in any event for a period of not less than one year, provided His Majesty should so long require my services."

In the final months of the First World War, Thompson had found himself remaining on Home Service duties as a bandsman and never entered the Theatre of War. Having continued to serve almost continuously between the wars, in British and Canadian service, he might have expected that the declaration of war, the mobilization of his regiment, and his conversion to active service status might mean that he would finally see operational service. But it was not to be.

When The RCR sailed for England as part of the 1st Canadian Division. The band remained behind, to spend the next five years playing for parades, ceremonies, dinners and recruiting events at Camp Borden and at Wolseley Barracks. The band would be renamed as the No. 1 District Depot Band.

While the most experienced bandsmen in the Regiment played for the District Depot, The RCR overseas was finding the lack of its band to be a shortfall needed remedy. On 10 Feb 1940, the Regiment's Part I Regimental Orders included a notice titled "BAND." It read: "All those interested in the formation of a band and orchestra will attend a meeting to be held in the Ante-room of the Sgts. Mess at 1600 hrs., Monday, 12th. February, 1940." By mid-April, announcements for "BAND and DRUMS" in the Regimental Orders were protecting the overseas band's twice-weekly practice times and detailing the evenings on which the new "Drums" would sound retreat.

As a soldier in Canada on active service, Thompson qualified for the award of the Canadian Volunteer Service medal (CVSM) and was entitled to wear the ribbon. The authority for his award was recorded in his records on 15 Jan 1944, but his eligibility was backdated to 1 Mar 1941. Thompson also elected to draw Active Force rates of pay from 1 Feb 1942.

Back at the District Depot in London by early 1942, Thompson was classified Bandsman Group "C" and authorized to draw Trades Pay Musician Group "C" from 1 Jun 1942. Shortly after a furlough from 13 to 26 Jul 1942, he ceased drawing the Trades Pay when he was promoted to A/Corporal (with pay) on 1 Aug 1942.

Thompson was interviewed by a Personnel Selection Officer at D.D. No. 1 on 1 Dec 1942. After recording his educational and military background, the interviewer noted the following:

"Interested in all games but does not play them now. Hobbies, music, woodworking, gardening, typing.

"Weight 145 lbs. and height 5' 7 1/2" … married … 2 children. Member of a church and regular in attendance. Teetotaler … moderate smoker; a man very fond of his home life. He plays the clarinet and saxophone. Enjoys the work in the band very much. He has been with the band ever since joining the army. This man is in his correct place in the army … "the band."

In July of 1943, Thompson enjoyed another furlough, from 19 Jul to 1 Aug 1943. The following month, he had another Personnel Selection interview on 24 Sep 1943 and his interview sheet was updated with the following:

"T.O.S. R.C.R. 1 Sept. 39 and transferred to #1 D.D. 31 Aug. 40. He was classified as Bandsman Group "C" and drew pay for musicians Group "C" 1 June 42. Appointed A/Cpl. with pay 1 Aug 42, when he ceased to draw Bandsman Group "C" pay. T.O.E.T. were taken 24 May 43. Suitably employed in R.C.R. band."

Thompson was granted Privilege Leave with ration allowance from 17 to 30 Jul 1944. On his return from leave, his rank of Corporal was made substantive. He also saw a Personnel Selection officer again on 28 Sep 1944 in what had become an annual process. His interview sheet was again updated:

"Still employed as Section Leader in band. Is a little peeved about losing trades pay as the result of this appointment. Really he is losing 5¢ a day for the appointment. He is keeping up to date on his First Aid as well. In spite of all this he is as happy as might be expected and should continue as at present."

On 1 Nov 1944, Thompson was promoted to Acting Sergeant. The promotion would later be made substantive effective the same date. Thompson was granted Privilege Leave with ration allowance from 18 Jun to 1 Jul 1945. That fall, he was not interviewed by a Personnel Selection officer. Instead, he had an interview with a Veterans Affairs counsellor on 8 Oct 1945 as part of the general process for discharge from Active Service. Notes from the record of that interview include:

"Dischargee's Own Statement Of Future Plans (If Any):— "I plan to continue in music work and take further instruction under D.V.A."

"Basis For Counsellor's Recommendations:— Thompson is a very well preserved man of 46. He has been a professional soldier, enlisting as a boy in England. Came to Canada as a recruit for the R. C. Reg't. in 1926, and has been employed as a bandsman to discharge. Had normal promotion to the confirmed rank of Sgt 1 Nov 44. He is a soloist on the clarinet and saxophone. In his off duties hours he has carried concert and orchestra work.

"His future plan is to continue in this work and to further his musical education.

"He appears to be a steady, conscientious man, well motivated in his work. He owns his own home, is retiring on a substantial pension and it is felt that his future is reasonably secure. His educational and musical background seems to indicate his ability to future his musical training.

"Action Recommended:– Classification: Vocational Training. Recommendation: Employment orchestra work supplemented by musical training."

On 24 Apr 1946, Thompson was authorized to draw a clothing allowance as part of his discharge benefits. Two weeks later, on 7 May 1946, he received a rehabilitation grant.

For his Active Force service from 1 Sep 1938 until 31 Mar 1946, Thompson was eligible to receive a War Service Gratuity of $592.50. From this amount was deducted a Victory Loan Purchase of $304.44 for the Ninth Victory Loan program. The remaining $288.96 was paid to him in four monthly instalments.

The July, 1946, edition of The Connecting File (Vol. XVIII, No. 3) included the following mention of the original Royal Canadians still playing with the District Depot band:

"Major Ian Hodson reports from Ipperwash that the Western C.O.T.C. are in camp with Jimmie Johnson as Training Officer and Bill McBean as Adjutant. They had an exceptionally smart D.O.C.'s inspection and March Past. The Depot Band was in attendance and amongst the old sweats in the band were the following: Bandmaster WO I Bocock, H.P,; Sgt. Graham, P.R.; Sgt. Chappell, F.S.; Sgt. Thompson, H.; Sgt. "Pop" Morton, G.C. (on the big drum); Bandsman Eberts, R.A.; Bandsman O'Leary, G."

Thompson's discharge process moved quickly after that. On 8 Jul 1946, he was issued his War Service Button, General Service Class (#1085575). On 15 Jul 1946, he was granted Privilege Leave with ration allowance from 15 to 28 Jul 1946. A few weeks after his return to duty, on 22 Aug 1946, he was confirmed for the award of the War Medal 1939-45.

On 25 Sep 1946, Thompson was struck off strength of the Home War Establishment (H.W.E.) to the Depot's Holding Establishment (Rehab. Wing).

Harold Thompson was retired to Pension on 14 Dec 1946 at the age of 46. He received Pay and Allowances in lieu of Annual Leave covering the period 15 to 30 Dec 1946.

At the time of his discharge, Thompson and his family were living at 499 Piccadilly St., London, Ont. His discharge documents note that his PULHEMS assessment was all "1"s and his character on discharge was "Exemplary." (The PULHEMS physical assessment measured the subject's Physique, Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity, Hearing And Ears, Eyes And Vision, Mental Capacity, and Emotional Stability. A score between "1" and "8" was assigned to each category, with "1" being considered excellent.)

Harold Thompson was also discharged from the Permanent Force of Canada on 14 Dec 1946. His Discharge Certificate notes his entitlement to the "King George VI Coronation Medal, 1939-45 War medal, C.V.S.M., and Canadian Medal for long service and good conduct (Military)." His conduct and character while in the service was noted as "Exemplary." Under special qualifications for employment, a hand-written note on his certificate states: "Instrumental Soloist (Clarinet and Saxophone) for over 20 years of Canadian Army service. Military Band, Dance Band and Orchestra. Honest, Sober and reliable."

The Connecting File (Vol. XIX, No. 1), published January, 1947, noted:

"The following, having completed their service with the Regiment, are proceeding on retirement:

"P-13066 Sgt. Thompson, H."

His service complete, the administration of the Army continued to intrude on Thompson's retirement.

Thompson was sent a registered letter by the Director of Pay Services on 12 Nov 1947. This letter identified that Thompson had an outstanding debit balance at the time of his discharge in the amount of $34.22 and remittance to clear the debit was requested. Replying through a Service Bureau Officer of The Canadian Legion of the British Empire Service League on 18 Nov 1947, Thompson arranged for the repayment of the debt at a rate of $5.00 per month until it was settled.

On 27 Dec 1947, a meeting of the Treasury Board considered Thompson's entitlement to a pension. A minute, signed by the Clerk of the Privy Council to the Department of National Defence, reads:

"The Board recommend that No. P13066, Sergeant Harold Thompson, The Royal Canadian Regiment, who, having claimed his discharge, was discharged on December 14, 1946, after having completed not less than twenty years' service in the British Army and the Permanent Force, be granted a pension of $1216.95 per annum; such pension to commence on December 15, 1946. The Board further recommend that Order in Council of March 22, 1947, P.C. 98/1050 be cancelled. (P.C. 77/5311)"

Requiring a minimum of 20 years service for a pension, Thompson had completed a total of 25 years, 69 days, of eligible service in the British Army and Canadian Permanent Force. His pension consisted of 30/50ths of the average of his last three years' pay plus his annual allowances at the time of his retirement.

The above amount of Thompson's pension was based on a recalculation of his allowances at the time of his discharge. His pension had previously been set at $1130.55 (P.C. 98/1050), but this had failed to take into account an increase in his Dependents Allowance at the time, when his son had returned to school a few months before Thompson's discharge date.

For his service in the Second World War, Thompson was eligible to receive the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and the 1939-45 War Medal. These were despatched to him at 918 Oxford St., London, Ont., in November, 1952. Annotations in his service record appear to indicate that a replacement pair of medals was sent out on 7 Nov 1961, but were returned on 15 Nov 1961.

Notably, Thompson's Coronation and Long Service medals are mounted together and show signs of wear in that grouping. It is not clear if he chose to wear his Second World War medals as a separate pair, of if he chose not to wear them at all. For display, the pairing of his Coronation and Long Service medals have been completed with a Second World War pair of medals with similar wear as he would have worn the full group.

Harold Thompson died on 18 Feb 1980 at Victoria Hospital, London, Ont., at the age of 79. He is buried in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, London, Ont.

Pro Patria

Visit a randomly selected page in The O'Leary Collection (or reload for another choice):

QUICK LINKS