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Royal Engineers
First World War
A Hereford family in the military
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Engineers - H.H. Sadler in Royal Engineers' uniform with 'Wilkie' - WW1 - 1917

Engineers - H.H. Sadler in Royal Engineers' uniform with 'Wilkie' - WW1 - 1917
My grandfather Howard Sadler, on the left, presumably in France or Belgium, in 1917, with a friend called Wilkie. He was a Sapper in the Royal Engineers, that was his rank. He was a signaller, as shown by the blue and white armband. He communicated between units and their commanders using Morse code.
This has been added to the Vintage Photos Theme Park for the 'pals, buddies etc.' theme.

Peter Castell, Annemarie, Alan Mays, have particularly liked this photo


Comments
 Alan Mays
Alan Mays club
Interesting! "Sapper" was new to me, and I was interested to read Wikipedia's long article on the topic.
5 years ago.
Phil Sutters club has replied to Alan Mays club
The Royal Engineers were originally called the Regiment of Sappers and Miners. Sapping was originally digging communication trenches and mining was digging tunnels under enemy lines to place explosives ready to blow them up. I think the terms probably come from the 17th century, but may be earlier. Mining was used to undermine castle or town walls way back.
5 years ago.
 RicksPics
RicksPics club
Interesting photo and background story, Phil.
5 years ago.
 Peter Castell
Peter Castell club
Thank you for your wonderful contribution to the Alphabet Group
11 months ago.

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