2nd 1st Pioneer Battalion Colour Patch Australia

[Mike Cecil]

Can't comment on the seller - try not to use Evil Bay, so have no idea.

The header is '2/1st AIF Battalion', but as you say, the text at the bottom says 2/1st Pioneer Bn, which does not correspond with the patch shown (2/1st Inf Bn). Probably an error, but at least Lionel now knows the patch isn't what he's after.

Mike

[Lionelgee]

Hello Mike and Tony,

Thanks for the clarification.

Mike the last time I checked the 2/1st Pioneers' did not have the "war diaries" online - unlike other battalions that are available through the AWM site. Are they getting around to putting it online; or do you think that since is has not happened by now that it won't be happening?

What TAC plates and features would have appeared on the 2/1st Pioneers trucks in 1940?

I found this link which shows the triangle http://www.pioneerbattalion.com.au/styled/styled-5/

Kind Regards
Lionel

[Mike Cecil]

Hi Lionel,

I've been away from the AWM for 5 years now (doesn't time fly?) so am well out of the loop regarding priorities. The best bet is to contact the Research Centre by email at info@awm.gov.au and ask if AWM52 8/6 Pioneer Battalions -are on their digitisation program and if so, when they are scheduled for completion and release to the website. I see they have already got an RCDIG number (RCDIG1019052) which might mean they have been done already, just not released yet. Worth asking.

The only other alternatives are buy a copy or visit the AWM and read/copy on site. I'd suggest it might be cheaper to buy a copy than make the pilgrimage to Canberra.

According to AMF HQ SM2809 of 15 July 1940 (the earliest marking ref I have for 2/1st Pioneers) they were allotted to 1 Aust Corps. Their unit sign was a red background with the numbers '37' superimposed in white. Across the top of the sign plate was a 2 inch deep white band, indicating Corps Troops (1 Aust Corps did not have an approved Formation sign at that time). It was the same sign as on 18/1/1941, but by 5/12/1941, the number had changed to 261, and the background colour to black. Still allotted to 1 Aust Corps.

Best regards

Mike