Boot and Saddle by JG GilberdBetween the Wars
From 1919-1939 the Army's fortunes varied. In 1921 Compulsory Military Service was resumed and continued until 1931 when it was suspended for economic reasons. The Army at this time relied on horses for mobility and operations. An establishment of 325 RNZA horses was maintained in permanent stables at Field Artillery stations throughout New Zealand. RNZA horses were used by other Corps at their annual camps and courses. Mounted riflemen provided their own mounts. The Veterinary Corps inspected these animals as to fitness for service. When embodied for training the Mounted Riflemen's expenses were met by the Army. This included the provision of saddlery, accoutrements and arms. Transport for men and horses to and from camp was by rail. Forage and other necessities required by mounted troops were also provided. Should an Officer or Trooper's horse be killed or injured while training the usual Court of Inquiry was held. Depending on the finding of the Court, compensation was paid. When RNZA horses were used by other units RNZA personnel travelled with them to ensure their wellbeing. With most of the 1930 depression over, 1934 saw recruiting for the Regular Force resume. Intakes of RNZA recruits assembled at Trentham. Nos 5 and 6 Wings (1934), 7 Wing (1935) and 8 Wing (1936) saw the Regiment's strength increase by 200 Gunners. Then in 1937 came No 10 Wing - the last RNZA recruits to do a full equitation course. Recruits joining after that date were given a shortened riding course where horses were on stations. Some long 'treks' were carried out by the horse soldiers at this time. In the South Island I understand the RNZA moved from Christchurch to Blenheim and return - quite a journey. In the Central Command I can recall an Army Service Corps unit 'trekking' from Trentham to Greytown - also the same year, the Signals under command of Captain 'Sammy' Allen NZSC (killed in action in the Desert War) laid field cable from Trentham to Martinborough in the Wairarapa. Six-horse teams drew the cable waggons with their drums of cable. Just imagine the many types of crossing the 'Sigs' had to contend with - across roads, streams and other hazards - then the return journey uplifting the cable! In 1935 the 2nd Mounted Rifle Brigade (three regiments) were in camp near Napier. This being one of the larger camps held that year - 1900 horses in camp. Major General J. Duigan was G.O.C. and he presented guidons to the regiments and later took the salute at a march-past. I was his mounted orderly complete with Cavalry Lance and the General's pennant on my lance. Horses were again used during the 1939-45 war. They were formed into Independent Mounted Squadrons and operated in various parts of New Zealand. Some mounted units of the Home Guard also flourished for a short time. Jim Gilberd, 1989 |
