Catalogue

Interview
2280, LR/08
Leicestershire Regiment

Speaker: Cheney, Leonard Vincent, 1924 - 0, Interviewee, Male, Soldier
Speaker: Hyde, C, Interviewer, Male

Summary of interview item: Outlines family background of grandparents, father posted to India in First World War, meeting mother whose father was judge who retired to Bangalore, India. Explains death of father while living in Kettering in 1930s caused mother to take family back to India. Brief description of terraced home in Kettering. Talks about school for Europeans in Nelgris area of India, home and servants, socialising mainly with 'educated' Indians, Indian class system, European communities not mixing, learning to haggle in shops. Explains 'Army Hindustani', a hybrid language used in Army. Recalls that Indians resented British being in India, varying attitudes of British to Indians. Mentions dealing with riots between Hindus and Muslims. Talks about adapting to Indian climate, way of life, food - talks particularly about curries. Outlines joining 1st Battalion Royal Norfolk in Bangalore. Talks in detail about service with Chindits in Burma, describing rations, harsh treatment of prisoners. Comments on lack of contact with Indian soldiers, popularity of sports, attending social functions. Reflects on soldiers' attitudes to civilian life, discipline.
Place of birth: Barelli, India
Education:
Marital Status: Widowed, Children:
Father's Occupation: Soldier; Railway worker
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County:
Location: Town/Place:
Periods Covered: 1930s, 1940s
Language: English

Recording Date: 3/5/2005
Playing time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Access Restrictions: Full clearance Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: Yes
Cross Reference:

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.