Dates: 1870 -

The origins of the Corps of Signals date back to 1870, when Captain Montange Lambert founded the ’C’ Telegraph Troop, Royal Engineers. It was the first troop to provide communications to a field army through the use of telegraphs, visual signalling and mounted orderlies.

In 1879, the troop first saw action during the Anglo-Zulu war. In May 1884, the group was amalgamated into the Telegraph Battalion Royal Engineers. The Telegraph Battalion was responsible for singalling until 1908, when the Royal Engineers Signal Service was set up. It provided communications during the First World War. New developments also occured during this period as motorcycle despatch riders and wireless sets were brought into service.

On 29th June 1920, a Royal Warrant was signed for the creation of a Corps of signals by Secretary of State for War, Winston Churchill. Just six weeks later, it was issued with the ’Royal’ acolade and became the Royal Corps of Signals.

Memories of Corps Signals

Corps Signals, Isle of Man in 1945
Written by Leslie Allan "Buzz" Gullick
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"I have a photo of "0" Squad in Douglas, Isle of Man and wonder if any of you are still around?? The Heavenly Twins, Ron & Cecil Gedalla One of the Best, Jock Imrie Lol, Lawry Marsh Pinocchio, Pete Harman Belsen, Derek Sugden Fats, Charlie Maltby Roddy, Geoff Rodwell Agility, Pete Oliver Toilet, Pete Tull Smiler, Phil Walker Bull, Jock McKenzie Moose, Stan Smart Young Jimmy, Jim Harrison Woody, Tommy Marshall"

Forces Reunited Forum Posts involving Corps Signals

"Does anyone know of a Group Captain who was held at Halfaya Pass at the end of 1941 and was liberated in January 1942. I was with 30 Corps Signals. He and I were held and when ill were looked after by an RAMC who hid us behind a rock to avoid shelling from Navy. I would like to get in touch with either of these men or their families. "

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