Napier Barracks, Dortmund

Flugleitung

2011-12-23T12:28:00.000Z

The Control Tower before it was demolished as a result of an air raid on the airfield. Situated near the taxi ways, close to the entrance of the camp (by the old RSM's residence on the way to RAGTE)

Photo sourced from the internet and Fliegerhorste's excellent site

A view from the air looking south

2011-09-19T15:48:00.002+01:00

As you can see, Napier Barracks has gone and resigns to a long history. Only thing that remains from those days (or hanging on!) is the golf course of St. Barbara's

Photo courtesy of Peter Kronfeld

Flying Rapier!

2011-09-11T23:37:00.000+01:00

Towed Rapier underslung beneath a Chinook, whilst another awaits. After doing the basic Rapier course it wasn't unusual to finish the course by taking a flight from RAGTE and then bringing your launcher into action in another location.

Photo sourced off the internet

Old Flughafen

2011-09-11T23:28:00.001+01:00

Did the aeroplane crash? Found no records, but it looks like its in a steep dive and fast approaching the ground!

Photo sourced from the internet

The old Medical & Dental centre

2011-09-11T23:22:00.001+01:00

This building was probably built post war, due to the fact that it was outside the airfield's perimeter. Formally the Church of Scotland and latterly, the Medical and Dental centre. A queue could be seen from the phone box before mobiles were plentiful!

Sourced from John Walker's REME website

Dirty Harry cleans his Bofor!

2011-07-21T22:55:00.001+01:00

An old L40/60 Bofor, barrel removed for cleaning in Napier Barracks.

Photo sourced from the internet and with thanks to Harry, who's kneeling and cleaning the Gun.

Luftwaffe personnel in Richthofenkaserne

2011-07-21T22:50:00.001+01:00

Luftwaffe personnel during the eleven years they occupied Richthofenkaserne. Here, seen in one of their accommodation blocks and the 'Cookhouse'

Photos courtesy of Fliegerhorste site.

Sturmstaffel 1

2011-07-21T22:44:00.000+01:00

Sturmstaffel 1, the unit that was formed at the airfield in January 1944. Here we see Luftwaffe personnel with a Fw 190 in the background.

Photo sourced of the internet

Graf Zeppelin & Airport terminal

2011-07-21T22:33:00.001+01:00

The Graf Zeppelin lands on the airfield in 1930 and the Flughafen terminal and one of the hangars in 1934, when the Wehrmacht/Luftwaffe took over.

Photos sourced from the internet

Evidence of Air raid on Richthofenkaserne

2011-07-20T19:41:00.002+01:00

Photo sourced from the internet

Old Airport Terminal and Hangar c.1927

2011-02-02T12:26:00.005Z

The old Airport terminal and one of the hangars that was situated either side of the terminal on Flughafenstrasse, c.1927. All three were probably demolished in order to make way for the now Industrial Estate which was in close proximity of the barracks' perimeter fence and adjacent to the Rapier Domes of RAGTE

Photo sourced of the internet

Napier Cinema in 1950

2010-12-06T15:31:00.004Z

Click on the title to see a Pathe video of Napier Cinema being opened by Lady Napier in 1950.

It's falsley stating that it's in Detmold, but it's clearly Napier Barracks, Dortmund with a congregation outside the top NAAFI

The unit in the footage is of 23rd Field Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers of the 2nd Infantry Division, who constructed the cinema.

Sourced off the internet

Dortmund Brackel Aerodrome, Air Station (Flugplatz) and Airport (Flughafen) Timeline

2010-09-13T14:52:00.008+01:00

1910: Amateur flights from fields north of Brackel.
1912: Air Station (Flugplatz) established for pilot training.
Post WW1: Postal flights from airfield. Brackel becomes part of Dortmund.
1921: German Air Freight Service operates from Flugplatz.
1924: Aeronautique Militaire (French Army Air Service) Squadrons (Escadrilles) that had been occupying area, departs.
1925: Commercial flights begin.
1926: Dortmund Aviation Club founded and foundations laid for Flughafen terminal.
1929: Anchor tower built for airships.
1930: 10 Aug. LZ-127 Graf Zeppelin lands north east of airfield.

36th Heavy Air Defence Regt., RA. Disbandment Parade, 1977

2010-09-12T20:00:00.003+01:00

Courtesy of Keith Holderness, Webmaster of 36 Regt., RA

Old site in July 2010

2010-09-12T16:35:00.020+01:00

Welcome to St. Barbara's Golf Club
Welcome to BVB!
Looking from the entrance, down towards BVB 09 Borussia Dortmund's Football training ground

Where the entrance use to be
Looking along the entrance cobbles towards where the former Medical centre stood on the right

Photos kindly donated by Michael Murr

Progression!

2010-02-02T23:00:00.004Z

REME Workshop

2009-04-22T23:27:00.001+01:00

Click onthe title to reveal a painting by David Rowlands showing 12th Air Defence Regiment, RA Workshop, REME in 1989 at the Rapier Compound

Aerial shot in 2009

2009-04-16T22:12:00.003+01:00

Image sourced off the internet

Richthofenkaserne Timeline

2009-03-19T13:48:00.028Z

Stab(n): Staff or HQ(s),

Gruppe(n): Group(s)

Staffel(n): Squadron(s) 3/4 Sqdns. of 12/16 aircraft

Single engine Fighter (Hunting) Wing: Jagdgeschwader - JG
Twin Engine Destroyer Wing: Zestorergeschwader – ZG
Combat team for special use: Kampfgruppe zur besonderen Verwendung – KGzbV
Night Interception Wing: Nachtjaegersgeschwader – NJG

Storm Squadron: Sturmstaffel

Airfield Command: Fliegerhorst-Kommandantur

Anti-Aircraft: Flak.

Battery(ies): Batterie(n)

Unit titles, if given; are in italics

1934: Luftwaffe moves in to establish an airbase (Fliegerhorste) alongside the airport and is known as Richthofenkaserne.
1936: Apr. JG134 Horst Wessel (Stab, 1 Gruppe) arrives with Arado Ar 65, 68’E/Fs & Bf109 B/D’s
1938: Jul. JG134 Horst Wessel (4 Gruppe) arrives with Arado Ar 68's & Bf 109's. Oct. JG134 Horst Wessel re-titled JG142 Horst Wessel (Stab, 1 & 4 Gruppen) with Bf109 D’s
1939: Jan. JG142 Horst Wessel re-titled ZG142 Horst Wessel (Stab & 1 Gruppe) with Bf109 D’s
May ZG142 Horst Wessel re-titled ZG26 Horst Wessel (Stab & 1 Gruppe) with Bf109 D’s
Aug. ZG26 Horst Wessel (Stab & 1 Gruppe) departs and civil flights cease.
Nov. ZG26 Horst Wessel (Stab) returns with Bf109 D’s & Bf 110’s
Nov. JG26 Schlageter (Stab & 1 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 E’s
1940: Jan. ZG26 Horst Wessel (Stab) departs
Feb. JG26 Schlageter (1 Gruppe) departs. Feb. ZG26 Horst Wessel (3 Gruppe) arrives with Bf 109 D’s & Bf110’s
Mar. ZG26 Horst Wessel (Stab) returns with Bf110’s
Mar. ZG26 Horst Wessel (3 Gruppe) departs
May ZG26 Horst Wessel (Stab) departs
May JG26 Schlageter (Stab) departs
May KGzbV101, KGzbV104, KGzb106 arrives with Ju52’s & KGzbV105 arrives with Fw200’s, Ju90’s & JuG38’s
Jun. KGzbV101, KGzbV104, KGzb105 & KGzbV106 partially disband (Stabn remain with some staffeln till 1941). All aircraft to training schools
Jun. JG26 Schlageter (Stab) returns with Bf109 E’s
Jun. JG26 Schlageter (2 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 E’s
Jul. JG26 Schlageter (Stab & 2 Gruppe) departs
Jul. JG3 (3 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 E’s
Aug. JG3 (3 Gruppe) departs
Dec. JG54 Gruenhertz (Stab & 3 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 E’s
1941: Jan. JG54 Gruenhertz (Stab) departs
Feb. JG54 Gruenhertz (3 Gruppe) departs
Feb. JG26 Schlageter (1 Gruppe) returns with Bf109 E’s
May JG26 Schlageter (1 Gruppe) departs May Flak-Brigade z.b.V (Stab) formed
Jun. Flak-Brigade z.b.V (Stab) re-titled Flak-Brigade X (Stab) Jun. JG51 (4 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 F’s, then departs within a month Around 1,000 Wehrmacht/Luftwaffen troops are stationed
1943: Feb. Flak-Brigade X (Stab) departs. May 22 Flak-Division formed. Oct. Sturmstaffel 1 formed with Fw190 A’s
Dec. JG1 Oesau (1 Gruppe) arrives with Fw 190 A’s
1944: Feb. JG1 Oesau (1 Gruppe) departs
Feb. Sturmstaffel 1 departs
Apr. JG300 Wilde Sau (2 Gruppe) arrives with Fw190 A’s. Apr. Fliegerhorst-Kommandantur A (o) 4/VI formed
Jun. JG300 Wilde Sau (2 Gruppe) departs. Summer. Flak-Regiment 124 (10404 & 10405 Flak-Batterien) arrives
Sep. JG300 Wilde Sau (staffeln of 3 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 G’s
Sep. JG3 Udet (1 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 G’s, then departs within a week
Sep. JG4 (Stab) arrives with Bf109 A/G/K’s & Fw190 A’s
Sep. NJG1 (Stab: Ju88 G's & 4 Gruppe: Bf110's, He219's & Ju88 G's) arrives
Oct. JG300 Wilde Sau (Staffeln of 3 Gruppe) departs
Oct. JG77 Hertz As (Stab) arrives with Bf109 G’s
Nov. JG4 (Stab) departs
Dec. JG77 Hertz As (1 Gruppe) arrives with Bf109 G/K’s
1945: Jan. JG77 Hertz As (Stab & 1 Gruppe) departs
Mar. NJG1 (Stab) departs
Apr. All units that remain; surrender

Information sourced and researched from the internet and edited by the Blogmaster in a simplified way for researchers and other interested parties to understand. Groups from Sqdns. along with entire Sqdns. moved in and out of the airfield throughout WW2

Napier Barracks Timeline

2009-03-16T00:01:00.029Z

1945: 2879 Sqdn., RAF Regt. arrives
1946: May 2879 Sqdn., RAF Regt. disbanded & 2757 Sqdn., RAF arrives briefly, then departs. Aug. 1st Bn., Border Regt. arrives. Oct. 1st Bn., Border Regt. departs
1947: Feb. 157 Infantry Brigade re-formed as 5 Inf. Bde. Aug. 5 Inf. Bde. departs. Oct. 2nd Bn., Royal Scots Fusiliers arrives
1948: Feb. 2nd Bn., RSF departs. Jul. 2nd Bn., RSF returns. Oct. 1st Bn. cadre amalgamates with 2nd Bn. & re-titled 1st Bn. RSF.
1949: Feb. 1st Bn., RSF departs. Dec. 23 Field Engineer Regt., Royal Engineers (2, 5 & 38 Fld. Sqdns. & 21 Fld. Park Sqdn.) arrives
1950: Aero-Clubs e.V. formed by brothers; Theo & Hans Hengsbach. NATO prohibit powered flight
1955: NATO permits powered flight
1956: Aero-Clubs e.V. (Dortmund Aviation Club successor) departs for Dortmund-Wickede Airport
1957: Mar. 47 Guided Weapons Regt., Royal Artillery (3, 4 & 31 GW Btys.) arrives with 47 GW Regt. RA Signals Troop, Royal Signals in support
1958: 23 Fld. Engr. Regt., RE disbanded & 1 Army Group Royal Artillery Signal Sqdn., Royal Signals arrives
1959: 1 AGRA Sig. Sqdn., RS re-titled 218 Sig. Sqdn. (AGRA), RS & 26 US Army Missile Detachment arrives in support of 47 GW Regt., RA
1960: Jan. 31 GW Bty. departs from 47 GW Regt., RA. Sep. 218 Sig Sqdn. (AGRA), RS disbanded. Nov. 47 GW Regt., RA Sig. Tp., RS re-titled 256 Sig. Sqdn. (GW (Fld.)), RS in support of 47 GW Regt., RA
1961: 27 GW Regt., RA (6 & 23 Btys.) arrives with 257 Sig. Sqdn. (GW (Fld.)), RS in support of 27 GW Regt. RA and supported by 26 US Army Msl. Det.
1964: Mar. 47 GW Regt., RA re-titled 47 Missile Regt., RA. Mar. 27 GW Regt., RA re-titled 27 Army Missile Regt., RA
1965: Oct. 47 Msl. Regt., RA departs. Oct. 256 Sig. Sqdn. (GW (Fld.)), RS merges with 257 Sig. Sqdn. (GW (Fld.)), RS
1966: Dec. 27 Army Msl. Regt., RA departs with 257 Sig. Sqdn. (GW (Fld.)), RS
1967: Jan. 34 Light Air Defence Regt., RA (11 & 58 Light Anti-Aircraft Btys.) arrives. Jan. 36 Heavy Air Defence Regt., RA (56 & 60 HAD Btys.) arrives with 260 Sig. Sqdn. (Surface to Air Missiles), RS (654 & 655 Sig. Troops (SAM)) in support of 36 HAD Regt., RA . Feb. 26 US Army Msl. Det. Disbanded
1968: Mar. 36 HAD Regt., RA departs with 260 Sig. Sqdn. (SAM), RS. Apr. 12 LAD Regt., RA (9 & T LAA Btys.) arrives
1969: Dec. 34 LAD Regt., RA disbanded. Dec. 22 LAD Regt., RA (42 & 53 LAA Btys.) arrives
1970: Jan. 58 LAA Bty. to 12 LAD Regt., RA. Jan. 11 LAA Bty. to 22 LAD Regt., RA. Mar. 22 LAD Regt., RA departs
1971: Jul. 12 LAD Regt., RA departs. Jul. 36 HAD Regt., RA (10 GW & 111 HAD Btys.) returned with 260 Sig. Sqdn. (SAM), RS in support of 36 HAD Regt., RA
1977: Dec. 36 HAD Regt., RA disbanded with 260 Sig Sqdn. (SAM), RS. Nov./Dec. 22 Air Defence Regt., RA (11, 42 & 53 AD Btys.) returned
1985: Jan. 12 AD Regt., RA (9, 58 & T AD Btys.) returned. Mar. 35 AD Bty. for 22 AD Regt., RA re-formed. Oct. 12 AD Bty. for 12 AD Regt., RA re-formed. Nov. 1 Artillery Brigade re-formed
1992: Jul. 22 AD Regt., RA departs . Jul. 16 AD Regt., RA (11, 14, 30 & 32 AD Btys.) arrives
1993: Apr. 12 AD Regt., RA re-titled 12 Regt., RA (T Bty. re-titled T/Headquarter Bty.). Apr. 16 AD Regt., RA re-titled 16 Regt., RA (11 Bty. re-titled 11/Headquarter Bty.) & 1 Arty. Bde. disbanded
1995: Sep. 12 Regt., RA departs. Dec. 16 Regt., RA departs

(Accompanying REME Workshops to RA units throughout. Plus, other supporting units; APC, APTC, AGC, ACC, RAOC/RLC, Education, Chaplaincy, Medical & Dental Corps')

Information sourced from the internet and researched from other resources with sheer detective work!!

Royal Air Force Regiment 1945 - 46

2009-03-01T23:35:00.008Z

2879 Squadron, RAF Regt.

2757 Squadron, RAF Regt.

2879 Sqdn.: After forming in June 1943, this unit moved to the continent in November 1944 under the 2nd Tactical Air Force after converting to a rifle role. After serving in Vitry, Brussels and Eindhoven, the sqdn. finally moved to Dortmund in 1945, possibly at the end of the war and at Brackel-Dortmund airfield; whereupon the unit disbanded in May 1946.

2757 Sqdn.: This unit was also in Europe during WW2 as part of 2TAF and found itself briefly in Dortmund in 1946, possibly taking over from 2879 Sqdn. or alongside the unit until 2757 Sqdn. move onto Bonn?

Information sourced and edited from the internet

Napier under development c.2007

2009-02-27T11:14:00.004Z

Not a familair entrance!

' Come on, own up; who's artwork is this?'

Waterlogged celler after demolishment of the building

What was in its last days; 12 (Minden) BHQ

The old RAOC/RLC workshops.

BVB 09 Borussia Dortmund's training ground with the Air Defence Domes of RAGTE in the background.

Photos courtesy of Peter Kronfeld of Foto Community - Germany and sourced from the internet. Click on the title to view furthermore photos.

Aerial view of Napier April 2006

2009-02-26T10:42:00.009Z

Latest aerial view showing the training pitches of BVB 09 Borussia Dortmund FC. Since this latest view courtesy of 'Google', the buildings to the west of the camp have long gone; if not all throughout Napier now?

Days in Napier

2008-11-23T23:00:00.007Z

Members of C Troup, T Battery 12th LAD Regt., RA enjoying a break. Scary to see how young we all looked back then. Taken on the airfield. Circa 1969.
(22nd LAD Regt., RA in the background??)

Members of staff (military and civilian) working in the Officer's mess. Taken behind the Officer's Mess. circa 1968.

Gunner (at the time) Bott sitting on a 32 ton Layland Tractor. The gun being towed is the 40/70 Bofors. This picture was taken on the airfield apron . Circa 1969.

Photos courtesy of Bob Bott (12 LAD Regt., RA)

Tunneling from Battery Bar to Battery Bar and Sir Harry's disapearing cake!

2008-11-23T18:01:00.006Z

I was based at Napier from Sept. 1980 to Mar. 1988 with 11 (Sphinx) Bty., 22 AD Regt., RA.

It brings a tear to the old eye to see what has become of home..........well what was home for so many years. Napier Barracks was such a great camp, lovely open fields, woods, ponds, stables and of course; the Golf Course. This, I was involved in upgrading from a 9 to 18 hole course in about 1982-83 under the watchfall eye of Dick Edgler (I think this was his name?). I was driving a dumper truck, shifting topsoil and turf and also helped lay some of the greens.

I remember one night whilst in the battery bar that was located in the cellar of Block 52 near the cookhouse; I found a small metal door leading to a small tunnel, so with the zippo in hand, off I went with one mate. There was only enough room in the tunnel to crawl and after what seemed ages, we came to a ninety degree turn to the right and then off again in a straight line. Eventually the zippo packed up so we were in total darkness, but on we went. After a short while we came up against a metal door and with a little bit of groping around, I found the door handle and tried it. BINGO!, it's wasn't locked so I gingerly opened the door and a small chink of light illuminated our nocturnal activities, but the door would only partially open because something was stopping it. But, peeking through the gap I could see what was another battery or squadron bar and it was occupied; bugger! Somehow they didn't notice, so at a great haste we withdrew along the tunnel back to the safety of our own battery bar.

The next day I decided to try again, so armed with the issued right angled torch and two hours after closing time I was off (by myself this time). I followed the same route to the metal door of the next bar and opened it and with a gentle push I was able to open the door just enough to squeeze through. Shining the torch around I found the light switch and put some light on the situation..........not a battery bar, a workshops bar. Therefore I had a little nose around, but my intention's were exploration and I eventually found another metal door exactly the same as the two previous ones. So, with same drill into the tunnel and off I go (I have by now lost my bearings and have no idea in which direction I am heading!). Eventually after many hundreds of metres and several ninety degree turns later; yet another metal door and guess what? - it's also open and the next room is in darkness. With a quick torch recce and its another bar and empty, well this is too easy, I'm going to be in Camp 10 by morning at this rate! With another look around I find the magic metal door again, but alas, this one is locked! Here was where the expedition ended, except for the journey back to my own battery bar and on my way, helping myself to a few cigars and some bottles of Becks!

On the way back to my own battery bar, the last door had a bench seat in front of it, but try as I did, I couldn't pull it back into place. That maybe why on a return trip with some of the other lads (for some free beer, fags and cigars), the door was locked - bugger!

On another occasion after a heavy night of drinking, I awoke to find my room mate Animal Jones; whom I hadn't been out with, was fast asleep in his pit covered in cake. Well, knowing my room mate isn't in the catering business and wasn't waiting on at the Mess or anything, I knew it couldn't be right all this cake. Taking a look around, I find more cake; great big chunks of the stuff and to my shock, all over the carpet was more cake!

It is now about 6.30am, so out I go into the corridor and it doesn't get any better on the cake front, so back into the room -
slap, slap: "Jonah; wake up". Slap, slap: "wake up"!
All to no avail. So back into the corridor to find the Hoover, plug vacuum in, get rid of evidence. Ten minutes in the corridor and sorted, then into the room - five minutes later sorted (OK a forensic scientist would have found him out, but not any BSM's or RSM's).
Now I collect up all the cake and the silver tray, for once it is nicely sat and off to the big Stadt bin outside.
"Oh no"!,
To my horror there is more cake on the landing and stairs leading out of our block. Talk about Hansel and Gretel, anyway it's still early on a Sunday morning, so get to the bin, take out the first few layers of rubbish and place the cake and tray into the bin. Then, replace the previously removed rubbish. Back into the block and grab a broom and quick as I can, I sweep down the landing and stairs removing all the crumbs into the area just outside the entrance. I then dig with my hands a small hole in the soil and deposit the remainder of the evidence. Or did I?
No, there is a trail leading away from the block. With broom in hand I follow the trail, franticly casting all the crumbs into the grass and ever watching for anybody in uniform, looking for a bolt hole to escape to. I realise very soon where this trail is leading to (the cookhouse) and knowing even on a weekend the cooks start early; I must be careful. After a while the cake trail disappears, this tells me where Jonah started eating. So ditching the broom into some bush I casually walk to the cookhouse by the most direct route and at the rear of the cookhouse I can see members of the guard and the ROS standing by a broken window....OH....SH*T! Luckily they were too interested in the scene of the crime, they hadn't noticed me and I wasn't hanging around. With lightning speed; I was off back to the block.

Back in my room, there was Jonah and still fast asleep, but now I mean business, so the slaps are harder and the voice is a whole lot louder! Within a few seconds I made it very clear that lying in bed covered in cake was not a good idea. So Jonah was off to the washroom, towel and soap in hand. I am so knackered by now all I want is my bed. So off with my kit and under the duvet, before Jonah could even get back from the washroom all hell was let loose! Banging, crashing and shouting
"Get out your beds. Stand by your beds "
Then ensued a very brief block inspection from God knows who, but they were in uniform? This is when I realised it wasn't just any old cake that had been stolen, because the sergeant was explaining to the block senior that somebody had stolen Sir Harry Secombe's cake and that he was visiting today and he used to be in the regiment!! Anyway, the only person that was thankful; was Jonah, because we couldn't tell anyone! However, I think If the BSM had ever found out, he would have been pleased for me diverting any unwanted trouble towards the battery.

However, that night, an extra guard was put on to guard the cookhouse. A 9 x 9 tent was place on each corner of the cookhouse and every night thereafter, the guard was doubled until the culprit owned up. This of course never happened and eventually the guard was dropped.

As for the cake the good soldiers of the Army Catering Corp, hastily baked a sponge in double quick time in order to replace the former fruit cake that had many hours of icing alone spent on it!!!!!!

I am not aware if Sir Harry was aware of the great cake theft? However, if he could of seen my side of things; I'm sure he would ofound it amusing as I hope you find it amusing?

Written by Ted Heath (22 AD Regt., RA)
Edited by Blogmaster

1960's sports in 12 LAA Regt., RA

2008-08-16T14:41:00.005+01:00

Shot Put and Rugby being played by 12 Light Air Defence Regt., RA during the 1960's

Photos kindly supplied by Ted Ledua (ex 12 LAA Regt.)

Flying over Napier no-more

2008-07-30T23:56:00.006+01:00

Creedo flying in an old Luftwaffe Fokker over what use to be both a former Luftwaffe airbase and the home to many a Gunner regiment. Now home to Borussia Dortmund's training grounds.

Photos courtesy of Creedo

27 Army Missile Regiment, RA 1961 - 67

2008-02-04T10:26:00.000Z

6 Missile Battery pose with their Corporal missiles in 1966

6 Bty. once again pose with the nose of the Corporal missile in the early 1960's

An early 'Noddy' suit worn by members of the missile batteries.

Various vehicles of the regiment:

The regiment consisited of 6 and 23 (Gibraltar 1779 - 1783) Missile Btys. along with its supporting units. The regiment briefly became 27 Light Air Defence Regt., RA with L40/70 Bofors until the regiment was finally mustered into the Gym and shown its new equipment; 5.5 inch guns. This saw them re-roled as 27 Medium Regt., RA and they left Napier Bks in Jan. 1967.

All photos kindly supplied by former Gunner of the regiment and secretary of 27 Regiment Old Comrades Association; Terry St. Pierre.

Disappearing fast!

2008-01-03T22:34:00.000Z

Please click on the title for the link of the latest photos taken by Mick (Scouse) Hart, ex 12 AD Regt. whilst in Germany just before Christmas 2007

The Tunnels!

2007-12-30T00:13:00.000Z

I was fascinated by your site. I was very interested in the history of the Dortmund barracks when I was there, but information was hard to come by. The Internet has opened up all sorts of sources.

I was particuarly interested in the mention of the famous tunnels. I was involved in investigating these. It was probably 1979? The people involved apart from myself were, as far as I can remember:

Sgt John Barnes - Barney
Lt (or Capt?) Bob Delaney (BK T Bty?)
2Lt Greg Butt, Tp Comd in T Bty.

We did much exploring on the surface, and some digging, but did not come up with any evidence to suggest a tunnel between West Riding/Moore Barracks and Napier. The most interesting finds were when we explored the bunker which lay opposite the guardroom, by the gate of West Riding Barracks.

It seems to have been an air defence control bunker. The interior had been completely burned out and the floor of the main rooms were buried in debris, which explains why such interesting relics could be found so long after the end of the war.
Although the interior was completely burned out we found evidence of a ground glass plotting map with grids and even red and blue traces on them which rubbed off - perhaps the last raid?

We found chest microphones which were standard issue for auxiliaries in these types of bunkers, and spot projectors which would be directed on the ground glass screen to show friendly and enemy aircraft to the fighter controllers.
The only evidence of a tunnel was found shortly after the IRA bomb wrecked 26 Regt's RA Officers' Mess, which lay outside the camp. In the basement we found a walled up passage, which was probaby opposite the bunker? We were not of course allowed to break down walls, but we thought this would allow staff to reach it without coming to the surface? This tunnel would have been only 20 metres long.
There was a report in the BAOR newspaper (Sixth Sense) about our activities, and we were invited to Cologne for an interview on BFBS radio which Barney and myself attended.

We invited the old comrades association of Flak Regiment 4 to the barracks, and we had a really interesting day finding out what had changed since the late 30s (in fact very little). They couldn't tell us anything about the bunker, because it was not there when they left for France in 1940.

I have been told a scarcely believable story about this bunker. A couple of prisoners named 'Boddy' and 'Sole', escaped from the guardroom at West Riding Barracks and were never seen again (!).

Regards,
Paul Mitchell

(12 Lt AD Regt. RA, T Battery 1976-81: Troop Comander, I Troop, Command Post Officer (CPO) & Battery Captain (BK) & 22 AD Regt. RA, 53 Battery

1981-84 as BK & 11 Battery BK very briefly)

2007 Pre-demolition

2007-11-30T12:43:00.000Z

BVB 09 Borussia Dortmund's Training pitches are clearly visible and work is beginning to start to clear the site for demolition.

Photo sourced from the internet

The Future Look

2007-10-04T17:34:00.001+01:00

Supplied by Creedo from a local Dortmund newspaper

Napier Cinema

2007-09-02T14:39:00.000+01:00

Just thought that I would remind you that there were two AKC cinemas. One in Napier run by a Mr Porter (-1959) followed by a Mr Marshall(1960-). The projectionist was a German fellow who had knocked out two Russian tanks single handed with a Panzerfaust -somewhere in Germany. He had been a member of the HY at some time.

The second one was in Camp 7, run by a Mr Ashton (-1959-), he had an Italian wife from Triest. The Projectionists here were all squaddies, taking it in turn to run the show. Only when they were on a manoeuvres was I called in (1959/60). Both Mr Porter and Mr Ashton were ex-army, both deciding to stay in Germany when they were demobbed.

Well I think that is all, it`s just that I couldn`t find the cinemas on the Camp list.

Cheerio for now
John O`Meara (ex-AKC. 1959-1965)

T Battery, 1969

2007-09-02T14:16:00.000+01:00

T Battery outside the Gun Compound in 1969,

when they actually had Guns!

Photo sourced from 'Googie's' post on 12 Regimental's forum. Follow the associated links to access this forum.

WW2 Aerial photo of Dortmund airfield

2007-08-17T15:58:00.000+01:00

Click on image to enlarge and click on title for link to site with further photos (some are replicated from other sites)

Photo sourced from above site.

QE2 in Napier Barracks 23rd May 1984

2007-08-16T15:57:00.000+01:00

Click on either of the images above to enlarge.

Programme kindly supplied by Peter Harrison (Ex 22 AD Regt. RA)

Going, going........................................gone!

2007-07-31T23:10:00.001+01:00

Finally the entrance to Napier Barracks is no more.

Photos courtesy of Creedo, these may well be the last taken? After all; what will be left to photograph of Napier Barracks?

Sad, sad Napier!

2007-07-17T19:11:00.000+01:00

Click on the title above for photos of Napier prior to its demolishment, courtesy of Peter Kronfeld

Walls Come Tumbling Down

2007-07-10T22:44:00.001+01:00

The start of things to come as the RHQ near the barrack's entrance is demolished. The former NAAFI has already succumbed to that fate. The barrack block is soon to follow.
Photos kindly supplied, with thanks by Creedo

The sad state of Napier Barracks

2007-04-20T19:04:00.000+01:00

Please click on the above title for photos of Napier, kindly supplied by Tobias Dziadzin. Be warned though, it's not the place we were accustomed to!

G Troop, T (Shah Sujah's Troop) AD Bty.

2007-03-07T11:37:00.000Z

G Troop, T (Shah Sujah's Troop) AD Bty., 12 AD Regt. RA pose for the camera in Napier's Gym, prior to a tour of Omagh, Northern Ireland - OP FONDANT 1988.

Photo courtesy of Colin 'Smudge' Smith (Ex T Bty.). Cheers Smudge.

23 Field Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers

2007-02-08T14:30:00.000Z

2nd Infantry Division Insignia.

23 Field Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers of the above Division, moved into Napier Barracks from Hameln in July 1950 until May 1958, when they disbanded with the re-organisation of BAOR.

ORBAT:

2 Field Sqaudron

5 Field Sqaudron

14 Field Survey Sqaudron (Joined Oct. '53 and possibly indenpedant from the regt., but under local command?)

21 Field Park Squadron (Went independant in 1954, but under local command of regt.)

38 Field Squadron (2 Oct. '57, run down to a Cadre and went to Berlin. Insignia, white 38 on a red triangle)

The Napier Cinema (photo taken in 2007) was built by 23 Fd. Engr. Regt. RE within the far end of the barracks, opposite what later became the 'Rapier Club', NAAFI shop.

This information was sourced from the Royal Engineers Museum website/unit history section, but was initiated by former Sapper Peter Bridge, (ex 23 Fd. Engr. Regt., RE) who served in Napier Barracks doing his National Service from 1951 - 1953.

12 (Minden) Bty. on Minden Day

2007-02-05T14:11:00.000Z

12 (Minden) AD Bty./ 12 AD Regt. RA on their regimental parade square for Minden Day,

c. 1986/7.

Photo courtesy of Taff Morgan.

Sturmstaffel 1 Artwork

2007-01-31T23:06:00.000Z

Fw 190 A6 'White 7' Flown by Maj. Erwin Bacsila, Jan.'44.

As shown in the artwork further down.

Artwork from the internet

Flughafen Dortmund

2007-01-30T09:14:00.000Z

Postcards of Dortmund-Brackel, Dortmund's first Airport (Flughafen), possibly 1926/7?

The airport's terminal in 1927.

Possibly the opening of the airport?

These buildings were situated on the Flughafenstrasse leading up to where the Industrial Estate is now, near RAGTE. They were demolished around the late 1950's or 60's; possibly to make way for the estate?

Postcards courtesy of Creedo.

12 Regiment RA November 1994

2007-01-27T19:06:00.000Z

Regimental line-up and flanked by their colours: HVM 'Starstreak'.

Photo courtesy of Creedo

Wehrmacht/Luftwaffe ranges and bunkers

2007-01-27T18:47:00.000Z

Different views of the two different length ranges and bunkers used by the Wehrmacht/Luftwaffe.

Photos taken by John in NZ whilst with 47 GW Regt. in 1959

1959 - Gunners move in.

2007-01-27T01:51:00.000Z

The entrance to the barracks in 1959, the year the first Royal Artillery Regiment moved in: 47th Guided Weapons Regiment, RA. Near the entrance, was the Offices and possibly accommodation of 26th US Army Missile Detachment, who were in support of 47 Regt. and their Corporal Missiles.

Accommodation within the camp for HQ, 3 & 4 (Sphinx) Btys. Plus, 256 Signal Squadron, Royal Signals and other supporting units.

Officers Mess and accommodation.

The MT Garages. (REME Workshop)

What later became the RAOC (RLC) yard.

The old rail platform terminus (NAAFI)

No diving!

Accommodation of possibly HQ Bty.?

Photos kindly sent to me from John O'Meara, now living in Wellington, New Zealand.

Last two photos sent to me with thanks, from Jeff (mollyjeff@talktalk.net), who was a driver in HQ Bty.

Did you know each other?

9 (Plassey) AD Bty. off to Cyprus

2007-01-26T11:14:00.000Z

The Master Gunner talking to G Troop, 9 (Plassey) AD Bty. before the strat of their UN Cyprus Tour (Dec. 88 - Jun.89).
The other three btys. from the regt. (12 AD) were on OP Fondant, Northern Ireland. It would be a total of 10 months until the whole regt. would be reunited!

Photo taken from 12 AD's Regtl. N.I. Tour Magazine 1988.

1970's Northern Ireland Training for 36 HAD Regt. RA

2007-01-15T19:23:00.000Z

Heli training on the former airfield close to the entance of the barracks. 260 Signal Squadron, RS are in force as 'Riflemen'

Photos courtesy of 36 HAD website.

A Troop 12 (Minden) Bty., RA HVM Conversion

2007-01-15T18:57:00.000Z

From 'Rapier' Surface-to-Air Missiles to 'Starstreak' High Velocity Missiles. Conversion course held in Napier's RAGTE. (12 Regt.)

Bty. insignia from the internet. Photo courtesy of 'Creedo'

10 (Assaye) HAD Bty., 36th HAD Regt 's Thunderbirds

2007-01-12T13:37:00.000Z

Parading their colours on the old airfield for a special visit during the 1970's.

Bty. insignia from the internet. Photos courtesy of 36 HAD Regt.'s website.

32 (Minden) Bty., 16th Regiment RA Guard bid farewell

2007-01-09T23:26:00.000Z

Battery insignia from the internet. Photo courtesy of 16 Regiment OCA.

Aerial changes of Napier

2007-01-05T13:14:00.000Z

Before any changes and whilst the barracks are occupied by both 12 & 16 Regts. c. 1994.

Summer 2005 and the clearing of the barracks has begun.

Winter 2006 and the Garrison ammo dump has gone and made way for the golf course to be extended. Groundwork excurvasion is still underway. Buildings can clearly be seen through the leafless trees.
Top photo courtesy of Fliegerhorste website, others courtesy of Google Earth.

Thunderbirds are Go!

2007-01-05T12:41:00.000Z

Sportsmen from 36 HAD Regt. with their Syrena Cups, with a Thunderbird SAM in the background to keep them company!

Photo courtesy of Keith Holderness.

12 AD Regt. Sergeant & Warrant Officers Mess - 1987

2007-01-05T11:47:00.000Z

Flanked by regimental colours: Towed Rapier and their Warrant Officers and Sergeants are: CO Lt. Col. Smith RA and WO1 (RSM) Francis.

Photo courtesy of 'Taff' Morgan & 12 Regimental Forum.

T (Shah Sujah's Troop) AD Bty. RA - 1986

2007-01-05T11:37:00.000Z

The Battery from 12 AD Regt. line up with their colours: Tracked Rapier and support vehicles at the regimental 'Gun' Compound; the former airfield runway.

The Battery Boxing Team.

Photos courtesy of Graham 'Taff' Morgan, bottom left & the 12 Regimental Forum.

BVB start training at former barracks

2007-01-04T23:43:00.000Z

The new training facilities in Dortmund - Brackel, the former barracks. After the return to Dortmund from the training camp in Turkey, the BVB players could for the first time use the new training facilities. The first pitch was ready and the heated surface gave the team a chance to practice under ideal circumstances despite the cold temperatures in Westfalen.

Photos courtesy of BVB.

Click on link for photos of training ground. In the distance you can see the former RAGTE Rapier Domes. http://www.indianfootball.com/specials/wc2006/pics/2006wc/2006wc-28/2006wc-28.html

Jagdgeschwader 1 'Oesau'

2007-01-02T17:42:00.000Z

Jagdgeschwader 1 'Oesau' (JG 1 - Fighter Wing 1 'Oesau', in honour of Oberst Walter 'Gull' Oesau).

1 Gruppe (Group) stationed at Richthofen Kaserne, Dortmund: 6 Dec. 43 - 16 Feb. 44.

In both photos above, can be seen the former 9 (Plassey) BHQ when 12 Regt. was stationed there. The above photo shows a large hangar in the distance, this was near the RQMS and HQ (T/HQ) Bty. building. The JG 1 aircraft is outside the hangar that was situated where 12 RHQ would later stand.

Top photo, courtesy of FELDPOST. JG 1 FW 190 illustrations, insignias & other photos from other sources on the internet.

Further Fire Training by Creedo in 2006

2007-01-02T12:12:00.000Z

Top right: One of the many accommodat-ion blocks.

Above photo: Outside the old Cinema opposite the Rapier Club.

Right and bottom photos: HQ Bty. (T/HQ Bty.) offices/MT Garages.

Thanks Creedo for photos.

1938 Lufwaffe Officers in Dortmund

2007-01-01T13:24:00.000Z

Photo supplied by Creedo with many thanks.

Jungle Napier!

2006-12-30T21:28:00.000Z

The former Officer's Mess. In the foreground you can just make out the lion statues that sat proudly in front of the entrance to the mess, overlooking the lawn.

The photo on the right is of the former RHQ. 12 Regt. being the last to occupy this reletively new building.

Looking accross from the former 9 BHQ bulding, on the corner you can see the former NAAFI and further up the road, lined with vegitation like elsewhere; you can catch a glimpse of the former 12 BHQ.

Photos courtesy of Creedo who took them in late 2006 upon completing his training on becoming a full professional firefighter - well done mucker!

Royal Signals attached to 47 Guided Weapons Regt. RA

2006-12-28T00:27:00.000Z

Members of the Royal Signals, possibly 256 Signal Squadron at the MT in 1961

attached to 47 GW Regt.

Photo from the internet

BHQ then and now

2006-12-24T02:56:00.000Z

The old Feuerwehr (Fire Station) during the Luftwaffe days. Here, either in the late 80's, early 90's, it was then the Battery Headquarters of 9 (Plassey) Battery. On the first floor was the BHQ and sports changing rooms on the ground floor. Annexed, was the HQ Battery (T/HQ) Signals Store.

Now, like all the other buildings, it is derelict and awaits its fate - to be demolished.

Photos courtesy of Bernhard Weiss & John Creedon

Golf Course

2006-12-15T21:15:00.000Z

Royal Saint Barbara's Dortmund Golf Club. 18 hole course that will survive the re-development of the former barracks. The entrance is near the former RAGTE golf balls!!

Photo courtesy of 16 Regt. OCA Website.

BVB Development

2006-12-15T20:47:00.000Z

Fussball in Napier! There's always been football played at a competive level within the barracks, but the site, just beyond the entrance; is to be developed into five training pitches for the local professional side: BVB 09 Borussia Dortmund.

Photo from the internet

From T AD Bty. RA to T/HQ Bty. RA

2006-12-11T19:11:00.000Z

31 October 1991, the last drive past by Tracked Rapiers of T (Shah Sujah's Troop) Air Defence Battery.

The parade was to mark the end of the battery's role as an equipment battery and the start of its new role within 12 AD Regt. as T (Shah Sujah's Troop) Headquarter Battery.

Brig. J I Johnston, the Honrary Regimental Colonel of 12 AD Regt. took the salute with a fly past by Harriers of No.4 Sqdn, RAF.
Gunner Magazine, January 1992 . Bty. insignia courtesy of 12 Regt. Website.

22 Air Defence Regt. RA

2006-12-11T16:20:00.000Z

St. David's Day Parade 1992. 22 AD Regt. await the arrival of the Inspecting Officer, the Comd. 1 Arty. Bde., Brig. M G Douglas-Withers.

Gunner Magazine, May 1992.

36 Heavy Air Defence Regt. RA

2006-12-11T16:03:00.000Z

The Main Gate of Napier Barracks whilst 36 HAD Regt. were in residence.

Photo reproduced with kind permission of Keith Holderness (ex 36 HAD Regt. and webmaster).

12 Air Defence Regt. RA Drive past

2006-12-11T15:52:00.000Z

12 AD Regt. drive past for 36 HAD Regt's. disbandment parade, Syrena Day, May 1977. 12 AD Regt. were stationed at Moore Bks. on the B1 in Dortmund at the time.

Photo reproduced with kind permission from Keith Holderness.

12 AD Regt. RA L/Bdr. Leadership Course

2006-12-11T14:44:00.000Z

April '92 and its a NBC exercise on the athletics track.

Other regiments held Leadership courses in Napier Bks.

Who's who????

Gunner Magazine, July 1992.

34 Light Air Defence Regt. RA Farewell Parade

2006-12-10T18:35:00.000Z

Click on the extracts above to enlarge Gnr. H Thomas' 34 LAD Regt's.
Farewell Programme. (58 Bty. 34 LAD Regt. 68 - 69 & 12 LAD Regt. 69 -72).
Kindly sent to me by Michael Mortimer,
Secretary of 42 Regt. RA OCA.
Bty. insignias from the internet.

Graf Zeppelin

2006-12-10T00:37:00.000Z

The Graf Zeppelin lands at Dortmund - Brackel on 10 Aug 1930.

Photos from the internet.

Storm Chasers by Nicolas Trudgian

2006-12-08T13:21:00.000Z

JG1 aircraft taking off from Dortmund ready to intercept USAAF bombers. Sturmstaffel 1 aircraft taxi ready for take off: 10 February 1944.

Image from the internet .

QE2 arrives in Napier, 1984

2006-12-07T23:38:00.000Z

Who remembers Her Maj. on parade in Napier and which regiments were present?

Photos from the internet.

Richthofen Kaserne

2006-12-07T19:14:00.000Z

Map of the old airfield when in 1939 it became known as Richthofen Kaserne during its Luftwaffe days. (Flughafenstrasse for this duration, was renamed Richthofenstrasse)

Many of the original buildings were utilised by the Royal Artillery when they moved in. The aircraft hangars were demolished on orders, by the Wehrmacht as Germany fell.

The rest of these buildings will be demolished when the site is redeveloped.

Map courtesy of FELDPOST.

Fire Training in Napier

2006-12-07T14:48:00.000Z

During 12 Regt's residence, these photos are of:
Ground Floor: 12 (Minden) BHQ, BQMS, Sigs. and Armoury.
1st Floor: Accomodation
2nd Floor: Training Wing.

HQ Bty. MT, BQMS, Sigs. Store (briefly), Bty. Bar & Tally's Games Room (1980's)

Swimming Pool near the Stables, where the horse flies bit you!

Outside the old Rapier Club/NAAFI and Juniour Ranks Club.

Photos supplied by John (Creedo) Creedon, ex 12 Regt. Now Dortmund Firefighter. c.2006.

Did tunnels run from Napier to Camp 10?

2006-12-07T14:36:00.000Z

From John (Jock) McGowan (Ex 12 AD Regt.)

The [12th] Regt. has a dossier somwhere of when we were in Moore Bks. on the B1 in the 70's. Sgt. John Barnes, T Bty., lead a team to explore tunnels which supposedly went from Moore Bks. to Napier Bks. some 10 miles plus as the crow flies? They received permission from the German authorities to go so far and eventually met with a tunnel closure some miles in. However, when permission was asked to break through the wall to continue, all access was denied, fueling speculation as to what was beyond the wall? Rumour has it that there were barracks, ammo dumps, a vehicle pool and even a hospital?
I used to have contact with Barney, but haven't spoken to him for years and can't remember who else was involved with him? But, remember he made a full written report on the whole Op and its findings...John

Artillery Regiments that have served in Napier Barracks

2006-11-21T22:45:00.001Z

Courtesy of RAA - Germany Website

Aerial photo of Napier before its demise

2006-11-21T16:49:00.000Z

Great photo sent to me from my former 12 BSM, now Maj. Dai Ransom, RA (12 Regt. RA). Many thanks.

Taken in 1994 before 12 & 16 Regts. moved elsewhere and BAOR ceased to exist due to the end of the Cold War.

The Future of Napier

2006-11-21T15:32:00.000Z

What Napier is to become. Housing at the former entrance and throughout the camp, which surrounds numerous training pitches for BVB Borussia Dortmund. The Golf Club remains, which has also been extended. Most, if not all original Napier buildings demolished. That's progress folks!

Map from a source on the internet.

9 (Plassey) Air Defence Battery, RA - 1985

2006-11-21T15:19:00.000Z

9 (Plassey) AD Bty. outside BHQ in 1985. Me, I'm just to the right of the left lamp on the back row. Where are you?

If you look at the old Luftwaffe photo, you'll see the BHQ in the background! Back then it was the Feuerwache (Fire Station).

Photo supplied, with thanks by Pete Taylor - Webmaster, 12th Regiment, RA. Bty. insignia courtesy of 12 Regt. Website.

Sturmstaffel 1

2006-11-21T00:01:00.000Z

Pilot exits his FW 190 A and the groundcrew attend to the aircraft

Luftwaffe crew pose with one of their aircraft.

Sturmstaffel 1 (Storm Squadron 1). Formed at Dortmund on 19 Oct 43, leaving on 29 Feb 44.

Photos and Sturmstaffel 1 insignia, courtesy of FELDPOST.

Dortmund Airport/Aerodrome in the 1930's

2006-11-20T23:56:00.000Z

On the aerial photo, the terminal is the center building. These may of been destroyed at the end of the war by the Wehrmacht ?

Photos courtesy of Bernhard Weiss - Fliegerhorste Webmaster.

British Cap Badges that have served in Napier

2006-11-20T23:27:00.003Z

Badges and cypher that have graced Napier over the years. Some have amalgamated to create a new badge and others are no more. On the RE's cap badge, it has changed due to Monarch's Reign. Thanks to 'Taff' Morgan who states that the stables were under the RHA cypher, Intelligence Corps were housed in a Block near the main entrance and not to forget the WRVS who also doned a cap badge.
Cap Badges from the internet.