Memories of training in the New Forest
Author: Gareth Owen
An oral history interview with Frank Rosier. Interview Date 25/08/13
A Chelsea boy of 17, Frank Rosier joined the army specifically to be trained for the D-Day landings. He joined the 2nd Battalion Gloucesteshire Regiment, landing on Gold Beach on D-Day. Frank recalls being in Scotland on infantry training when the order came through that they were to report to Christchurch and undertaking the three week walk to get there. Frank’s battalion entered a sealed camp near Brockenhurst two weeks before D-Day. In this interview Frank recalls life as a 17 year old infantry man and his (mis)adventures in the New Forest.
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All material is ©2019 New Forest National Park Authority.
Full transcription of interview recordings:
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Interviewed by: Sue Jackson
Transcription by: Sue Newman
Checked by: John Martin
Audio Editor: Cosmic Carrot
Date: 1943