Arborfield Old Boys Association
AOBA
Arborfield Life
Regimental Sergeant Majors
The training of army apprentices not only as tradesmen but also as soldiers was recognised as having the greatest significance from the very beginning. So it came to be that all the School and College RSMs, with just one exception, were drawn from the ranks of the Brigade of Guards.
Anyone who witnessed or took part in any of the Passing out Parades all agree the standards achieved by all those on parade was as high as that achieved on the annual Trooping of the Colour on Horse Guards Parade.
Ex-
It is hoped that between us all we can write up the stories of each of these RSMs. You are invited to send in your memories of ‘your’ man to be included in the history of the Arborfield Boys’ School.
THE RSM
He strides, like God, upon the Square, there's apprehension in the air.
An
awesome figure, carved in stone, he stands erect, aloof, alone.
The eagle eye surveys
the scene, nostrils flare, and from between
His lips comes forth a strident roar.
Hundreds flinch, and then, before
The next executive command, they, in expectation
stand
Anticipating the loud blast, to propel them into fast
Reaction, and the moment
when the expletive explodes again
Into their ears, they'll act as one, boots raise
the dust -
With pace stick swirling to and fro, he marches them round,
fast and slow.
Berating all who fail to match his standards, or, not up to scratch
With
drill or dress, they'll pay the price, and in the future will think twice
Before they
carelessly perform and face his wrath, endure the storm
Of his displeasure, loud and
clear, extremely painful to the ear !
Yes, he's the Master of the Square and woe betide
all those who dare
To desecrate the sacred ground, by slouching or playing around.
They'll
find they're sweeping it all day, as punishment fits the crime, they say,
And learn
the lesson taught to them -
© TeeCee
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Arborfield Old Boys Association 1999 -