E Linstrum
My Time in the ATS during WW2 from 1942 to 1946
People in story: Mrs E.Linstrum
Location of story: Leicester, Helensburgh, Abbey Wood near Woolwich ,
Crayford, Dartford in Kent
Unit name: ATS
Background to story: Civilian Force
My Time in the
ATS during WW2 from 1942 to 1946
by
Mrs E.Linstrum
I was called up in February 1942, and reported to Leicester for training, and
then to Helensburgh ACK-ACK Battery prior to being posted to Kent for active
service on a gun site at Abbey Wood near Woolwich, then later to Crayford and
Dartford, also in Kent.
My duty on the Ack-Ack site was a telephonist in the Command Post, plotting
aircraft movement and receiving messages from RAF Recognition Units regarding
the approach of enemy aircraft, en route to bomb Britain, during which time we
had a few narrow escapes.
When off-duty we would leave the camp providing that we were not on stand-by,
which meant staying in camp dressed for quick response if required.
For recreation we danced to records and a group of us arranged concerts, and
spent our time rehearsing and making costumes in Hawaiian skirts from tissue
paper, and Can-Can clothing from black-out material. It was surprising how many
people showed talent when providing and performing a stage show.
I am very pleased that I was able to help win the war.
PR-BR