RootsChat.Com

General => Armed Forces => World War One => Topic started by: Bella55 on Sunday 09 November 25 23:28 GMT (UK)

Title: Why would a soldier transfer regiments/units during WWI?
Post by: Bella55 on Sunday 09 November 25 23:28 GMT (UK)

I am looking at World War One records* of Malcolm McLeod WHITE, and note that he has three service numbers:

Cameron Highlanders.  23030 (Private)
Gordon Highlanders   S/40536 (Private)
Royal Field Artillery   225967 (Driver)

Can anyone tell me why he served in different units?  Might he have been transferred after being wounded (one of the medical records notes 'GSW head attrib.' under 'Other Disabilities' section of form)?


*found on FindMyPast
Medical History (Army Form B178)
Pensioner's Record Card (Date of Board 19/9/1919)

Title: Re: Why would a soldier transfer regiments/units during WWI?
Post by: AllanUK on Monday 10 November 25 11:22 GMT (UK)

It was a common practice for a soldier to be transferred into a different regiment if he had been wounded, recovered and classed as fit for front line duty. This was more so after the heavy losses in 1916. The Army sent men to wherever they were needed to bring regiments up to strength.

Title: Re: Why would a soldier transfer regiments/units during WWI?
Post by: Bella55 on Thursday 13 November 25 16:38 GMT (UK)

Thanks AllanUK - that's really helpful.

best wishes
Bella

Title: Re: Why would a soldier transfer regiments/units during WWI?
Post by: Viktoria on Thursday 13 November 25 19:35 GMT (UK)

Perhaps, and I am open to correction - sadly regiments were often decimated, so very few soldiers left ,so survivors might be transferred to other regiments .
Viktoria.