Papers of Gen Sir Walter Mervyn St George Kirke GCB, CMG, DSO, (1877-1949)

Liddell Hart Centre for Military Archives

Copyright: The texts of the detailed catalogues are the copyright of King's College London and are made available for private research only.

Papers of Gen Sir Walter Mervyn St George Kirke GCB, CMG, DSO, (1877-1949)

KIRKE: 1 Papers relating to Kirke's service as Deputy Director of Military Operations 1918-1922;
1/1 Papers relating to discussions over the post war role of the RAF

KIRKE: 1/1/1 1921 Feb 10

Memorandum relating to a paper on the future role of the RAF and its relations with the other services. Prepared for Director of Military Operations through Kirke as Deputy Director of Military Operations by Lt Col Herbert Edmund Reginald Rubens Braine, General Staff, War Office. Typescript 5pp

KIRKE: 1/1/2 1921 Feb

Paper on the role of the RAF produced by the General Staff of the War Office discussing the creation of the RAF in 1918, the reasons for its creation and the conflict that had developed between the Air Ministry and the Army over the Air Ministry's plans to end the dual control of the RAF in peacetime by the Air Ministry and the Army. With the General Staff's proposals for improving relations between the War Office and the Air Ministry. Typescript 17pp

KIRKE: 1/1/3 1921 Mar 4

Memorandum from Kirke to Deputy Chief of Imperial General Staff, Lt Gen Philip Walhouse Chetwode regarding the Chief of the Imperial General Staff, FM Sir Henry Hughes Wilson's request for information on the allocation of responsibility for providing aircraft. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 1/1/4 1921 Mar 7

Memorandum from Deputy Chief Imperial General Staff, Lt Gen Philip Walhouse Chetwode to Chief of Imperial General Staff, FM Sir Henry Hughes Wilson relating to the proportion of aircraft required by both the Army and the Royal Navy. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 1/1/5 1921 Apr 5

Note by the General Staff on Committee of Imperial Defence paper 135 C of Mar 1921 'the part of the air force of the future in Imperial defence' in terms of defending against invasion from the sea, invasion from the air and maintenance of order in certain countries. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 1/1/6 1921 May 9

Memorandum prepared by the General Staff on the present and future role of the RAF in Imperial Defence and its relations in co-operation with the Army. Sections are general principles, characteristics of aircraft, points raised in air staff memorandum Committee of Imperial Defence paper 135 C of Mar 1921, defence against invasion from the sea, maintenance of order, defence in the air, disadvantages of the present system of air control, proposals for future organisation of the air force and the division of responsibility between the War Office and the Air Ministry, comparison of American and French systems with that of the British. With amendments, marginal notes and one page of manuscript notes. Typescript, 31pp

KIRKE: 1/1/7 [1921 May]

Notes on the memorandum on the present and future role of the RAF in Imperial Defence and its relations in co-operation with the Army. Typescript, 7pp.

KIRKE: 1/1/8 [1921 May]

Notes on the memorandum on the present and future role of the RAF in Imperial Defence and its relations in co-operation with the Army. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 1/1/9 1923

Recommendations of the National and Imperial Defence Committee upon the relations of the air force, the co-ordination of the defence forces (HMSO, London, 1923). 1 pamphlet

KIRKE: 1/2 Military Intelligence papers

KIRKE: 1/2/1 1921 Nov 5

Summary of information issued by the Military Intelligence Directorate, Turko-Greek relations in Asia Minor, 35th series no.3. Printed leaflet

KIRKE: 1/2/2 1921 Nov 10

Summary of information issued by the Military Intelligence Directorate, Greece, 35th series no.3. Printed leaflet

KIRKE: 1/3 Papers relating to a series of lectures by Kirke entitled 'Imperial defence as affected by the war' delivered by Kirke at the University of London, through the Military Education Committee. Feb 8-16 1922

KIRKE: 1/3/1 1922 Feb 8-16

Exchange of notes between Maj Gen William Thwaites, Director Military Intelligence, Director of Staff Duties and Kirke concerning a text by Kirke entitled 'Military responsibilities of the Empire as affected by war', particularly regarding Kirke's comments on the Territorial Army. Manuscript, 4pp

KIRKE: 1/3/2 1922 Feb 8-16

Synopsis and corrected typescripts for Kirke's lecture series on 'Imperial defence as affected by the war'. Typescript, 59pp

KIRKE: 1/3/3 1922 Feb 8-16

Part 1 of lecture series on 'Imperial defence as affected by the war', draft version. Typescript, 18pp

KIRKE: 1/3/4 1922 Feb 8-16

Part 2 of lecture series on 'Imperial defence as affected by the war' entitled 'Present military responsibilities', draft version. Typescript, 22pp

KIRKE: 1/3/5 1922 Feb 8-16

Part 3 of lecture series on 'Imperial defence as affected by the war' entitled 'Summary of our responsibilities in the Middle East', draft version. Typescript, 17pp

KIRKE: 1/3/6 1922 Feb 8-16

Speakers notes for lecture series on 'Imperial defence as affected by the war'. Typescript, 12pp

KIRKE: 1/3/7 1922 Feb 8-16

Tickets for lecture series on 'Imperial defence as affected by the war' Printed, 2 tickets

KIRKE: 1/4 1921 Sep 1

General Staff memorandum on disarmament relating to the British armed forces. With covering letter from Maj Gen Percy (Pollexfen de Blaquière) Radcliffe, Director of Military Operations, War Office to Lt Col Sir Maurice Pascal Alers Hankey, Secretary; Committee of Imperial Defence. Typescript. 4 pp

KIRKE: 1/5 1921 Oct 1

Text of lecture by Kirke on the international relations and the Pacific area discussing the countries with interests in the Far East and the balance of power in the area (for private circulation only). Printed 6pp

KIRKE: 2 Papers relating to Kirke's service as Col on the Staff, General Staff, Aldershot Command 1922-1924;
2/1 Papers relating to Officer training

KIRKE: 2/1/1-2 1922 Dec 30

Text of lecture by Maj Frederick Wilmot Barron, General Staff, War Office on 'The new responsibilities of the British Empire created by the assumption of Mandates in the Middle East and their strategic significance, with special reference to the defence of India' with notes on the lecture for the information of Staff College candidates at Aldershot command. Typescript, 19pp

KIRKE: 2/1/3 [1922-1926]

Text of lecture by Kirke on the 'experimental brigade' created in 1919-1920 that was intended to provide some troops with sufficient training to carry out experimental exercises and to focus attention on the organisation of an infantry battalion and the equipment of the infantry soldier. Typescript, 9pp

KIRKE: 2/1/4 1922 Jun 26

Memorandum on manpower available from Dominion troops in the event of war. Typescript, 18pp

KIRKE: 2/1/5 [1922]

Typescript notes on 'Dominion governments and military forces' outlining the structure of government in Canada and Australia and directly comparing the two; summarising the structure and size of the military forces of Canada, Newfoundland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. 7pp

KIRKE: 2/1/6-13 1921- 1923 Mar 31

Examination question papers and answers with notes for admission to Staff College, Camberley. With pamphlet, 'Notes on Staff College entrance examination, 1921' Printed, typescript and manuscript, 7 papers with answers, 1 pamphlet

KIRKE: 2/1/14 1924 Mar 31

Papers relating to the recognition of Egypt as an independent state, consisting of copy of despatch relating to the status of Egypt sent by George Nathaniel Curzon, 1st Marquess of Kedleston, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, short summary of General Staff views as to the military requirements for safeguarding British Imperial communications in Egypt. With covering letter from Col John Edward Spencer Brind, War Office. Typescript, 7pp

KIRKE: 2/1/15 1924 Jan 11

Text of lecture by Kirke to officers of the Officers' Training Corps relating to the Staff. Typescript, 23pp

KIRKE: 2/1/16 1923 Jul

The Cardwell reforms - a retrospect, (War Office, London, 1923). 1 pamphlet

KIRKE: 2/1/17 1923 Dec 5

Training lecture on Imperial wireless and cable communication by Lt Col Frederic Arthur Iles, Chief Signal Officer, Aldershot Command (William May & Co., Aldershot, 1923). 1 pamphlet

KIRKE: 2/1/18 1925 Nov 14

Report on collective training, 1925 by Lieut Gen Sir Philip Walhouse Chetwode, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Aldershot Command (William May & Co, Aldershot, 1925). 1 pamphlet

KIRKE: 2/2 [1923-1926]

'The British soldier as I have known him' by F M Sir Henry Hughes Wilson. Leaflet, reprinted from The Democrat.

KIRKE: 2/3 1924 Jan 18

Letter to Kirke from Col Archibald Percival Wavell relating to claims of tactical innovation made by an unnamed party. Manuscript, 3pp

KIRKE: 2/4 1924 Sep 17

Committee of Imperial Defence list of standing sub-committees and ad-hoc committees showing their composition and terms of reference. Typescript, 14pp

KIRKE: 3 Papers relating to Kirke's work as head of the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland in 1924-1925 to reorganise the Finnish armed forces after World War One;
3/1 Official correspondence and documentation

KIRKE: 3/1/1 1924 Jul 16

Letter from ACM Sir Hugh Montague Trenchard, Air Ministry confirming that Kirke was to be the representative of the Air Ministry for the duration of the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/2 1924 Aug 5

Letter from Robert Gordon Finlayson, War Office referring to articles enclosed with a letter on War Office finance, the reception of the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland and the possibility of Kirke visiting the Baltic states on his return route. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/3 1924 Aug

Letter from Bde Maj Merton Beckwith Smith, War Office relating to question paper (enclosed with letter) for the Staff College entrance examination. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/1/4 1924 Aug 20

Letter from F P Unsworthy, War Office relating to arrangements for forwarding messages to Kirke in Finland and the likelihood that his proposed visit to Estonia would not be possible. Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/1/5 1924 Aug 30

Letter from Roger Keyes relating to a letter from Kirke about Brig Gen Robert Henry Twigg. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/6 1924 Sep 3

Telegram from War Office confirming that Kirke's Senior Administrative Staff was to be sent out to Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/7 1924 Sep 4

Letter from F P Unsworthy regarding the delay in sending a Senior Administrative Staff Officer to Kirke and about proposals for training Finnish Officers in England. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/8 1924 Sep 8

Letter from ACM Sir Hugh Montague Trenchard, Air Ministry relating to the return of Maycock and the possibility of sending another Officer to join the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/9 1924 Oct 8

Letter from Maj Robert Gordon-Finlayson, War Office relating to the grading of Kirke's senior Staff Officer. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/10 1924 Oct 20

Letter from Kirke to Maj Robert Gordon-Finlayson relating to their current work on peace and war establishments and signal organisation for the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland. With a copy of a letter to Col William Stirling Commandant School of Artillery about the organisation of survey detachments for the Finns. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 3/1/11 1924 Nov 1

Notes entitled, 'Summary of information given by a reliable official who has just left Leningrad' relating to the current political situation in USSR and the recent floods in Leningrad. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/1/12 1924 Nov 17

Letter from General Sir John (Theodosius) Burnett-Stuart, of Dens and Crichie, relating to proposed modifications to [financial] terms of the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland in favour of the Finns. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/13 1924 Dec 16

Letter from ACM Sir Hugh Montague Trenchard, Air Ministry relating to Trenchard's efforts to secure reduction in charges for Finns taking flying instruction in Britain. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/14 1924 Dec 8

Letter from ACM Sir Hugh Montague Trenchard, Air Ministry relating to the proposal to send out a British Officer to assist in training the Finns. Typescript, 1 p

KIRKE: 3/1/15-16 1925 Jan 10

Letter from Gen Sir William Eliot Peyton asking Kirke if he would be interested in acting as President of the Commission of Investigation for Hungary, under the Council of the League of Nations to investigate the adherence to demilitarisation of territory and military, naval and air clauses as set out in the Treaty of Versailles. With duplicate Typescript, 2p

KIRKE: 3/1/17 1925 Jan 13

Letter from ACM Sir Hugh Montague Trenchard, Air Ministry acknowledging receipt of letters from Kirke in Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/18 1925 Jan 15

Letter from Col Guy Charles Williams, Deputy Military Secretary, War Office regarding the contents of the gazette notice of Kirke's appointment as head of the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/19 1925 Jan 17

Letter from Kirke to Gen Sir William Eliot Peyton regarding the offer of the Presidency of the proposed League of Nations Commission of Investigation for Hungary, under the Council of the League of Nations to investigate the adherence to demilitarisation of territory and military, naval and air clauses as set out in the Treaty of Versailles and proposing that Peyton and General Sir John (Theodosius) Burnett-Stuart of Dens and Crichie decide whether or not he should accept the appointment. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/20 1925 Jan 19

Letter from Maj Robert Gordon-Finlayson relating to arrangements for proposed lecture by Kirke on Finland to War Office staff. Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/1/21 1925 Jan 23

Paper explaining the purpose of the League of Nations Commissions of Investigation for Hungary, under the Council of the League of Nations to investigate the adherence to demilitarisation of territory and military, naval and air clauses as set out in the Treaty of Versailles. With accompanying note by General Sir John (Theodosius) Burnett-Stuart of Dens and Crichie. Typescript,

KIRKE: 3/1/22 1925 Jan 27

Letter from A H Saastamoinen relating to Kirke's proposals for military reorganisation in Finland and to the military and political situation in Finland particularly the Skyddskai organisation and the President of Finland, K J Ståhlberg. Manuscript, 6pp.

KIRKE: 3/1/23 1925 Jan 28

Letter from to Lieut Gen Sir William Eliot Peyton informing Kirke of his nomination for the Presidency of League of Nations Commission of Investigation for Hungary. The commission, under the Council of the League of Nations, would set out to investigate the adherence to demilitarisation of territory and military, naval and air clauses as set out in the Treaty of Versailles. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/24 1925 Feb 2

Letter from Kirke to Maj Gen John (Theodosius) Burnett-Stuart regarding his nomination for the Presidency of League of Nations Commission of Investigation for Hungary which would set out to investigate the adherence to demilitarisation of territory and military, naval and air clauses as set out in the Treaty of Versailles and expressing his reservations about the position due to the timing of the appointment and his wish to return to a military position. Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/1/25 1925 Feb 12

Letter from Air Ministry to the Treasury regarding the request by the Government of Finland for an RAF Officer to be attached to the Finnish Army and the necessity of this being funded by the RAF. With covering letter from James Alexander Webster, Air Ministry sent with a copy of this letter to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Rt Hon (Joseph) Austen Chamberlain Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 3/1/26 1925 Feb 13

Letter from Kirke to Meiklejohn conveying his thanks for the hospitality he received in Reval, Estonia. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/27 1925 Feb 18

Letter from the Treasury to the Foreign Office regarding their acceptance of the loan of an RAF Officer to the Finnish Army. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/28 1925 Feb 20

Letter from the Treasury setting out the terms of the loan of the RAF Officer to the Finnish Army. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/29 1925 Feb 24

Letter from James Alexander Webster, Air Ministry regarding the appointment of Sqn Ldr Roger Martin Field as the RAF Officer to be loaned to the Finnish Army. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/30 1925 Mar 2

Copy of note giving details of telegram sent by Air Ministry to Kirke on 2 Mar with date of earliest possible date of Sqn Ldr Roger Martin Field's arrival in Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/31 1925 Mar 7

Letter from Kirke to Finnish Col Malmberg regarding the proposed contents of his lecture on Finland on Apr 1. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/32 1925 Mar 26

Letter from Ernest Amelius Rennie, member of the British legation in Helsingfors, Finland to Rt. Hon (Joseph) Austen Chamberlain, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs regarding the departure of Kirke and the high regard of the Finns for his work. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/1/33 1925 Apr 21

Letter from William Strang, Secretary, Foreign Office to the War Office conveying Rt. Hon (Joseph) Austen Chamberlain, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs' endorsement of Ernest Amelius Rennie's tribute to the achievements of Kirke and the mission. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/1/34 1925 May 7

Letter from War Office sent with copies of letter and enclosure from the Foreign Office relating to Kirke's services as Chief of the Military Mission to Finland with further comments by the Chief of the Imperial General Staff, Gen Frederick Rudolph Lambart, 10th Earl of Cavan. Typescript,1p

KIRKE: 3/1/35 [Apr 1925]

Text of Kirke's lecture on 'Modern Finland' given to the War Office Staff. Typescript, 7pp

KIRKE: 3/1/36-38 1931 Oct 10- 1932

Letters to Kirke informing him of the winners of a sports trophy donated by him while in Finland. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 3/1/39 1949 Sep 9

Telegram sent to Lilian Ethel Kirke, Lady Kirke (also deceased) from Finnish Generals Paalva Tavela, A E Martola, O Olenius offering condolences on Kirke's death. Telegram and note

KIRKE: 3/1/40 [1925]

Notes and portrait photograph (subject unknown). Manuscript (in Swedish), 3pp

KIRKE: 3/1/41 [1931]

Tribute by Kirke to Finnish Baron Carl Gustav Emil von Mannerheim. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/2 Kirke's personal correspondence relating to Finland between 1924-1927

KIRKE: 3/2/1-21 1924 Jun 28-[1924]

Letters from Kirke to his wife, Lilian Ethel Kirke. including his comments on the reception of the British Naval, Military and Air Force Mission to Finland and first observations on the Finns; tours made by the mission; military exercises; progress of the mission; Manuscript, 21 letters

KIRKE: 3/2/22 1924 Jul 26

Letters from J D Blatchley-Stennaby, regarding the arrival of lead tapes for a tennis court sent by Kirke. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/2/23 1924 Aug 17

Letter from Col Arthur Falkner Nicholson regarding lead tapes for a tennis court and the departure of Lilian Ethel Kirke from France. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/2/24 1925 May 29

Letter from A Marcuslouet relating to the political situation in Finland and relations with Sweden and USSR Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/2/25 1926 Jan 13

Letter from Eirik Hornborg, Chairman of the Revision Committee thanking Kirke for his work with the British Military Commission in Finland. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 3/2/26 1926 Jan 16

Letter from M Tollet regarding Kirke's posting to India as Deputy Chief of the General Staff and enclosing a press cutting relating to this from Hufuudstadsblade. Includes Tollet's comments on the political and military situation in Finland. Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 3/2/27 1927 Feb 27

Letter from Ernest Amelius Rennie, relating to mutual acquaintances in Finland and political changes in Finland. Manuscript 6pp

KIRKE: 3/2/28 [1924]

Letter to Lilian Ethel Kirke from Finnish Baron Carl Gustav Emil von Mannerheim sending best wishes and gifts on her departure and thanking her husband for some photographs. Manuscript, in French, 1p

KIRKE: 4 Papers relating to the Lessons of the Great War Committee, 1932

KIRKE: 4/1 1932 Apr 7

Memorandum from Maj Gen Charles Parker Deedes, Director of Personal Services to the Director of Staff Duties, Lt Gen Sir Ivo Lucius Beresford Vesey relating to the drafting of Field service regulations part 2, organisation and administration 1909 issued by the General Staff, War Office (Harrison and Sons, London, reprinted with amendments, 1913). Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 4/2 1932 May 17

Circular from Kirke to the members of the committee requesting papers for the next meeting of the Committee on Lessons of the Great War. Typescript, 2p

KIRKE: 4/3 [1932] May 18

Notes entitled 'Summary of Lessons of the Great War based on The history of the Great War, based on official documents (Macmillan, London, 1932-1947). Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 4/4 1932 May

Notes by Maj Gen Arthur Edward McNamara on training in peace time and in war. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 4/5 [1932 May]

Notes by Maj Gen Arthur Edward McNamara entitled 'Lessons of war on the western front from The history of the Great War, based on official documents (Macmillan, London, 1932-1947)' sections include readiness for war, command, information, communications, combined action, small arms fire, concealment and observation, mobility, entrenchments and wire, demolition areas. Typescript, 26pp

KIRKE: 4/6 [1932]

Report by Brig Richard Granville Hylton Howard-Vyse on Palestine 1917-1918 with sections on peace preparations, strategy and tactics, organisation and equipment, administration, training in peace, value of mechanised infantry as compared with cavalry. Typescript with duplicate, 10pp

KIRKE: 4/7 1932 May 22

Report by Brig Andrew Jameson McCulloch on Egypt and Palestine up to Jun 1917, includes sections on the defence of the Suez Canal, Egypt, the Turkish attack and British recapture of Katia, Egypt, Apr 1916, the Battle of Romani, Egypt, 4 Aug 1916, second Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 17 Apr 1917 and the specific lessons to be learned from these battles. Typescript 25pp

KIRKE: 4/8 1932 Jun 6

Note from Chief of the Imperial General Staff, FM George Francis Milne to Director of Staff Duties Lt Gen Sir Ivo Lucius Beresford Vesey with his suggestions that the Committee on Lessons of the Great War to consider the problem of holding defensive positions and methods of attack with reference to the retreat from Mons, 1914 and the Battle of the Somme, 1916. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 4/9 [1932]

Report by Maj Gen Arthur Edward McNamara entitled 'Lessons from the Great War on the Western from The history of the Great War, based on official documents (Macmillan, London, 1932-1947)', sections on readiness for war, tactical lessons, organisation and equipment, administration, training. Typescript, 35pp

KIRKE: 4/10 1932 Aug 29

Letter to Kirke from Maj Gen Henry Cholmondeley Jackson with his views on weapon training and the role of the infantryman. Typescript and manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 4/11 1932 Sep

Report by Kirke on military operations in Gallipoli, 1915 from The history of the Great War, based on official documents (Macmillan, London, 1932-1947) with sections on peace preparation, strategy and tactics, organisation and equipment, peace training. Typescript, 31pp

KIRKE: 4/12 1932 Sep 29

Letter from Kirke to the members of the Committee on the Lessons of the Great War requesting their remarks on the draft report of the committee before the final meeting. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 4/13 1932 Oct 4

Letter from Maj Gen Arthur Edward McNamara to Kirke with notes on the first instalment of his draft report on the conclusions of the Committee on the Lessons of the Great War. Manuscript, 5pp

KIRKE: 4/14 1932 Oct 10

Letter from Brig Andrew Jameson McCulloch to Kirke with notes on Kirke's draft report on the conclusions of the Committee on the Lessons of the Great War. Manuscript and typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 4/15 [1932]

Report by Brig Andrew Jameson McCulloch on Egypt and Palestine to Jun 1917 includes sections on the defence of the Suez Canal, Egypt, the Turkish attack and British recapture of Katia, Egypt, Apr 1916, the Battle of Romani, Egypt, 4 Aug 1916, second Battle of Gaza, Palestine, 17 Apr 1917 and the specific lessons to be learned from these battles. Typescript, 21pp

KIRKE: 4/16 [1932]

General notes with special reference to the Mesopotamian campaign, 1914-1918 by Maj Gen Bertie Drew Fisher includes comments on the problems caused by the reliance on water supply weakening the power of the defence, advantages of night operations, information and communications. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 4/17 [1932]

Joint report by Maj Gen Bertie Drew Fisher and Brig Charles Clement Armitage on the 'Mesopotamian Campaign, 1914-1918' with sections on peace preparations, strategical and tactical lessons, organisation and equipment, administration, training in peace. Typescript, 32pp

KIRKE: 4/18 [1932]

Notes on the 'Mesopotamian campaign, 1914-1918' by Brig C[harles] C[lement] Armitage including comments on the inter-dependence of policy and strategy, the maintenance of morale, strategy and tactics. Typescript , 2pp

KIRKE: 4/19 [1932]

Typescript notes on the BEF's advance and artillery support by Maj Gen Arthur Wollaston Bartholomew. With duplicate, 2pp

KIRKE: 4/20 [1932]

General notes on Mesopotamia, (from Official history vols 3 & 4) by Brig C[harles] C[lement] Armitage. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 4/21 [1932]

Report, 'Lessons of the war on the western front 1915-1916', from The history of the Great War, based on official documents (Macmillan, London, 1932-1947) with sections on readiness for war, tactical lessons, organisation and equipment, administration, training. Typescript, 45pp

KIRKE: 4/22 [1932]

Notes by J Kennedy on 'Points for consideration by the Committee on the Lessons of the Great War', including the question of command, peace exercises and whether they replicate war conditions, modern communications, the battle, the power of defences, casualties, timing, effect of covering fire, digging, machine guns, officers, training generally. Discussed with reference to France and Belgium 1915, Somme 1916. Typescript, 18pp

KIRKE: 4/23 1932 Jun

Notes by Kirke entitled 'Points extracted from notes on various campaigns up to 29 Jun 1932', includes comments on peace preparations, strategical and tactical lessons, organisation and equipment, administration, training in peace time. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 4/24-25 [1932]

Notes by Kirke on the form of the final report of the Committee on the Lessons of the Great War, with possible subject headings. Typescript and manuscript, 2p

KIRKE: 4/26 [1932]

List of official books and despatches on World War One. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 4/27 [1932]

Covering report of the Lessons of the Great War Committee, summarising the aims of the committee, the division of responsibilities and the general conclusions reached by the committee. Typescript, 26pp

KIRKE: 4/28 [1932]

Covering report of the Lessons of the Great War Committee, summarising the aims of the committee, the division of responsibilities and the general conclusions reached by the committee. Pages 1-11 missing. Typescript, 17pp

KIRKE: 4/29 [1932]

Notes by Kirke on the Dardanelles operation, 1915 outlining reasons for significant problems and failures in the operation. Manuscript, 12pp

KIRKE: 4/30 1932 Oct

Report of the Committee on the Lessons of the Great War (War Office, London, 1932) 1 Pamphlet

KIRKE: 5 Papers relating to Kirke's service as Director General of the Territorial Army 1936-1939, mostly texts of speeches promoting recruitment.

KIRKE: 5/1 1935 Jun 4- 1939 Jun 13

Texts and notes for addresses by Kirke to Officer Training Corps at schools in Sedburgh, Cumbria; Wellington, Berkshire; Glen Almond, Tayside; to the University of London; Newport Army Bands School; St Edward's School, Oxford; Public Secondary School's Cadet Association and 1 Cadet Battalion London Regt (The Queens). Speeches relate mainly to the value of military training. 1 file

KIRKE: 5/2 1936 May 2- 1939 Jun 1

Texts and notes for speeches by Kirke at the openings of Territorial Army Drill Halls at Shrewsbury, Shropshire; Dundee, Tayside; Framlingham, Suffolk; Gainsborough, Lincolnshire; Kings Lynn, Norfolk; Middlesborough, Cleveland; Chesterfield, Derbyshire; Flixton, Suffolk; Peterborough, Cambridgeshire; the opening of the Services Club Richmond. Speeches include comments on military developments particularly in the Territorial Army and political developments in Europe. 1 file

KIRKE: 5/3 1936 Jun 13- 1938

Texts (and some notes) of speeches and interviews given by Kirke to publicise the work of the Territorial Army and encourage the military training of civilians. Includes speeches at the Cornwall Small Bore Rifle Association and the Old Haileyburian Society Dinner; draft letter to Rt Hon Herbert Stanley Morrison on opportunities for the training of cadets; notes on the Territorial Army for the Royal Military College Journal; proof of an article for the Observer on the new model Territorial Army and regular Army organisation, draft text and notes for the interview with Capt Ernest H Robinson; text of speech at a meeting of press representatives at the War Office, 13 Jun 1936. 1 file

KIRKE: 5/4 1936 Oct 8- 1939 Jul 4

Texts (and some notes) of speeches by Kirke at functions held by large London firms and employers associations promoting the Territorial Army and encouraging support. 1 file

KIRKE: 5/5 1937 Jan 20- 1939 May 25

Texts (and some notes) for speeches by Kirke at Territorial Army Dinners relating to the expansion and recent developments in the Territorial Army and its importance in the defence of the country, particularly the anti-aircraft units. 1 file

KIRKE: 5/6 1938 Feb 23- 1939

Texts and notes for speeches given by Kirke relating to the work of Territorial Army Sport Board. Includes recruitment speech at the Saracens Football Club dinner, 23 Feb 1938; speech regarding the work of Col Charles Francis Hill Greenwood for the Territorial Army Sport Board; suggested recruitment speech for football club representatives drafted by Mr Smith, sports editor, Sunday Express; The Kings Challenge Cup, rules and results 1939 (cup competed for by units taking part in events controlled by the Sport Board). 1 file

KIRKE: 5/7 1946 Sep 3

Article by Kirke on the Territorial Army 1937-1946 written for the Encyclopaedia Brittanica. With a letter from the editorial director thanking Kirke for the article. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 6 Papers relating to other speeches and broadcasts by Kirke between 1936 and 1954 (excluding the war years)

KIRKE: 6/1 1936 Sep 6-[1954]

Texts (and some notes) of speeches given by Kirke to the British Legion, Witley and Guildford branches, Surrey; Royal Artillery Association, Birmingham; Home Guard, 2 sector, Croydon; Queen Mary's Army Auxiliary Corps Old Comrades Association; 2/5 Bn Queen's Royal Regt, (West Surrey). Speech to the Witley British Legion relates to Kirke's visit to South Africa [1948-1954], his views on the country and its political situation. The other speeches deal mainly with the Territorial Army and the political and military situation in Europe in the late 1930s. 1 file

KIRKE: 6/2 1936 May 24- 1939 Aug 10

Texts (and some notes) of speeches given by Kirke at Church Parade, 23 County of London Bn London Regt, Battersea, 1936; Inspection of Voluntary Aid Detachment Camp, Sparsholt, Oxfordshire, 1937; Church parade, Cambridgeshire Regiment, 1937; Presentation of medals on Horse Guards Parade to the London Div Royal Artillery; Presentation of Territorial Decoration to the Lord Mayor of London, 1939; address to 2/5 Bn Queens Royal Regt, (West Surrey) at Wannock, Sussex, 1936. Speeches relate mainly to the contribution of the Home Forces. 1 file

KIRKE: 6/3 1936 Apr-[1940]

Notes, articles and speeches by others used as reference material for speeches and addresses by Kirke mostly relating to the Territorial Army. Includes 'Defence or attack?, The Times articles (a review)' by Maj Gen Henry Rowan-Robinson, cutting from The Army Quarterly, Jan 1938; 'Back to the army again' by Herbert Bryan, press cutting from the National Review, Jan 1938; notes of speech delivered by Rt Hon Leslie Hore-Belisha, Secretary of State for War, Oct [1937-1940]; memorandum on the functions of a Territorial Army County Association; notes on the Territorial Army in peace; notes for speeches for ministers on the territorial army; notes on the Territorial Army as a field force. 1 file

KIRKE: 6/4 1936 May 18- 1939 Jul

Texts of speeches given by Kirke to the House of Commons relating to the Territorial Army and its growth 1936-1939 and the importance of this expansion for the security of the country with regard to the increasing possibility of war in Europe. 1 file

KIRKE: 7 Papers relating to Kirke's activities during World War Two, 1939-1945;
7/1 Papers relating to radio broadcasts for the BBC Home Service and World Service made by Kirke during World War Two, 1939-1945.

KIRKE: 7/1/1 [1940 Jun]

Message of sympathy and support by Kirke for Finland during the invasion by USSR, not delivered Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/1/2 1940 Jun 8

Letter from Ronald Turnbull, Overseas News Editor, BBC to Kirke explaining that the opening of negotiations between USSR and the British Government would prevent the broadcast of Kirke's proposed message to Finland. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/1/3 [1939-1942]

Notes on the strategic significance of India and its role in wartime, 2 copies. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/4 1940 Jun 12

Text of broadcast by Kirke, for BBC World Service, relating to garrisons overseas and surveying their locations, nature and purpose. Typescript, 7pp

KIRKE: 7/1/5 1940 Aug 8

Text of broadcast by Kirke, BBC Home Service, 'War Commentary', relating to the war in Europe and North Africa. Typescript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/1/6 1940 Aug 29

Text of broadcast by Kirke, BBC Home Service, 'War Commentary', relating to the war in North Africa, particularly Abyssinia and the need to intensify war production in Britain. Typescript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/1/7 1940 Sep 26

Text of broadcast by Kirke, Overseas transmission , 'War Commentary', relating to the German bombing of London. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/8 1940 Sep 26

Text of broadcast by Kirke, BBC Home Service, 'War Commentary', relating to German bombing of Britain, home defence, morale and the strategic significance of the Royal Navy. Typescript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/1/9 1940 Sep 26- Oct 1

Letters to Kirke regarding his broadcasts. Manuscript, 4 letters

KIRKE: 7/1/10 1940 Oct 17

Text of broadcast by Kirke, BBC Home Service, 'War Commentary', relating to the relationships between the leaders of the Axis powers of Germany, Italy and Japan. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/11 1940 Nov 28

Text of broadcast by Kirke, BBC Home Service, 'War Commentary', relating to the invasion of Greece by Italy, the increasing strength of the Allies and the importance of the Allied navies. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/1/12 1941 Jan 2

Text of broadcast by Kirke, BBC Home Service, 'War Commentary', relating to the invasion of Greece by Italy and the difficulties faced by the Italians in Abyssinia, Albania and Libya , German bombing campaign against Britain and the threats to Allied shipping. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/13 1940 Dec 6- 1941 Jan 11

Letters to Kirke relating to his 'War Commentary' broadcasts including some from the BBC Home Service thanking Kirke for his work for them. 7 letters

KIRKE: 7/1/14 1943 Dec 10-11

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the meeting of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, US President, Rt Hon. Winston (Leonard Spencer) Churchill, Prime Minister and Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, Chinese President to discuss the future of the Far East at the Cairo Conference. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/15 1944 Jan 7-8

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to Allied progress in Italy and the USSR and the bombing campaign on Germany. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/1/16 1944 Jan 11

Letter to Kirke from Tahu Ronald Charles Pearce Hole featuring an extract from a German radio broadcast in which Kirke and his comments on German morale are discussed. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/1/17 1944 Jan 28-29

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to operations around the Garigliano River, Italy and the failure of German counter attacks in USSR. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/1/18 1944 Feb 25-26

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to operations in Nettuno and Salerno, Italy, the German escape from the pincer movement around Luga, USSR, Allied progress in the Hukwang valley and Arakan front, Burma. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/19 1944 Mar 17-19

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the capture of the Dnieper bend by the Soviet Army and Allied progress in the Hukwang valley and Arakan front, Burma. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/20 1944 Mar 20

Text of broadcast by Kirke to Canada relating to the Russian advance in eastern Europe and the weakness of the German defensive position. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/21 1944 Apr 7-8

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, North American, General Overseas, Central Overseas and Pacific Services relating to developments on the Eastern front, capture of the Admiralty Islands in the South West Pacific, the advance on Myitkyina, Burma. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/22 1944 May 19-20

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the BBC and on African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the capture of Odessa and the Crimea by the Soviet Army, German counter attacks, developments on the Italian front and the battle of Cassino, successes in Burma. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/23 1944 Jun 9

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review', broadcast on the BBC and on African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the Allied capture of Rome, the Normandy landings and progress in Burma. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/24 1944 Jul 7

Text of broadcast by Kirke relating to the Allied positions in Normandy, the Rome campaign, progress in Burma. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/1/25 1944 Jul 27

Text of broadcast by Kirke relating to the V-1 flying bombs, 21 Army Group, the Eastern Front and the possibility of capturing the Philippines. Typescript, 5pp, missing

KIRKE: 7/1/26 1944 Jul 27-28

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the V-1 flying bomb attacks on London, Allied progress in Normandy, Italy, USSR and Burma. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/27 1944 Aug 23

Text of broadcast by Kirke to Fiji consisting of a tribute to the 1 Regt of Fiji with an account of its formation and participation in the war against Japan. Typescript, 7pp

KIRKE: 7/1/28 1944 Aug 21-24

Text of broadcast by Kirke relating to Allied successes in Normandy, the German V-1 flying bombs campaign and progress in the Far East. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/1/29 1944 Sep 14-15

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the failure of the V-1 flying bombs to make a decisive impact on the war and Allied advances in France and Italy. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/30 1944 Oct 12-13

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the Allied positions in Netherlands, Italy and the progress on the Eastern Front and the Allied policy of lengthening the fronts to overstretch the German armies. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/31 1944 Nov 2

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to Operation MARKET GARDEN, the Allied operation to establish a bridgehead across the Rhine in the Netherlands, progress of the Allies in Latvia, Hungary, Italy and the Philippines. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/32 1944 Nov 30-Dec 2

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to fighting in the area around Aachan, Germany, Allied advance into Faenza, Italy, Allied progress in Burma and Japanese losses in the Phillipines. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/33 1944 Dec 28-30

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to German successes in the Ardennes area under the command of German FM Karl Rudolf Gerd von Rundstedt, developments in Burma. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/34 1945 Jan 23

Text of broadcast by Kirke for the BBC relating to Soviet successes in their winter offensive in Poland and East Prussia. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/35 1945 Jan 25-27

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the progress of German FM Karl Rudolf Gerd von Rundstedt's offensive on the Western front, the improvement in communications in Burma and the positive effect of this on the Allied advance. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/36 1945 Feb 2

Text of broadcast by Kirke to South Africa relating to the role of the climate and communications in the campaign in Burma. Typescript, 7pp

KIRKE: 7/1/37 1945 Feb 15-17

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the success of the Russian winter offensive and the extent of their advance into Germany, problems with the weather on the Western Front, preparations for the Battle of Mandalay, Burma. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/38 1945 Mar 1

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'Far Eastern War Commentary' relating to communications in Burma and preparations for the Battle of Mandalay. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/39 1945 Mar 15-16

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the capture of the Remagen bridge in Germany and the German retreat behind the Rhine, the advance to Mandalay and march to Rangoon in Burma. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/40 1945 Mar 29

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'Far Eastern War Commentary' relating to the containment of the Japanese in Burma to an area between Mandalay and Meiktila. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/41 1945 Apr 12-13

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to Allied successes on all fronts and possible locations for future advances on the Western front. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/1/42 1945 Apr 26

Text of broadcast by Kirke to Latin America relating to the Allied victory at the Battle of Mandalay and the advance to Rangoon, American and Australian efforts against the Japanese. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/43 1945 May 17

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'South American war Commentary' relating to the build up to and Battle of Mandalay and the subsequent capture of Rangoon. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/44 1945 May 16-17

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the Allied capture of Rangoon and the role of air transport in this success. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/45 1945 Jun 7

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to the Japanese naval strategy and the campaigns against the Japanese in Burma, New Guinea, the Phillipines and the Japanese islands. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/46 1945 Jun 13

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'Far Eastern War Commentary for South America' relating to the campaign in Burma and proposed campaigns in Singapore and Malaya and the importance of ideology to the Japanese. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/47 1945 Jul 5-6

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to prospects and likely tactics for a total defeat of Japan. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/48 1945 Jul 11

Text of broadcast by Kirke for Latin America relating to Allied tactics for defeating Japan. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/49 1945 Jul 26-27

Text of broadcast by Kirke, 'War Review' broadcast on the General Forces Programme, African, North American, General Overseas and Pacific Services relating to operations in Burma, Australian progress in the South Pacific and attacks on the Japanese Islands. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/1/50 1945 Aug 9

Text of broadcast by Kirke for Latin America relating to the efforts of Japan to continue the war against the Allies and the factors favouring an Allied victory. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/1/51 [1941]

Statement by Kirke read at the end of final 'War Commentary' broadcast. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/2 Papers relating to speeches and addresses by Kirke at functions during World War Two, 1939-1945

KIRKE: 7/2/1 1939 Dec 12

Text of speech by Kirke at a meeting relating to the welfare of troops held at the Mansion House, London. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/2 1940 Apr 9

Text of speech by Kirke at an inspection prior to their departure on overseas service of 2/5 Bn Queens Royal Regt (West Surrey). Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/3 1940 Oct 12

Text of an article entitled 'The offensive spirit' discussing the role that an offensive strategy could play in shortening the war. Intended for publication in the Gunner, the journal of the Royal Regiment of Artillery initialled EGB. Typescript, 7pp

KIRKE: 7/2/4 1940 Nov 30

Text of an address by Kirke at church parade in Godalming, Surrey to all services. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/5 1940 Nov 30

Text of an address by Kirke at church parade in Godalming, Surrey to the guard of honour formed by 29 New Zealand Regt. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/2/6 1940 Dec 14

Notes for a speech by Kirke at the opening of the church army hut for the forces at Witley, near Godalming, Surrey. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/2/7 1940 Dec 17

Text of speech by Kirke at lunch of the Public Interest Committee relating to the recruiting for National Defence and the campaign led by Col Harry Louis Nathan, Chairman of National Defence Public Interest Committee. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/8 1941 Feb 8

Text and notes for speeches by Kirke at ICI plant in Grangemouth, Scotland relating to the role of the Home Guard and to the importance of the factory's production to the war effort. Typescript and manuscript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/2/9 1941 May 10

Text of speech by Kirke at the opening of War Weapons Week in Amesbury, Wiltshire promoting National Savings. Typescript, 6pp

KIRKE: 7/2/10 1941 May 19

Text of speech by Kirke at the Mansion House, London in connection with War Weapons Week and promoting National Savings. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/11 1941 May 22

Notes by Kirke for an address at Winnington, Cheshire relating to the importance of industrial products to the war effort. Typescript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/2/12 1941 Jun 4

Letter to Kirke from Robert (Molesworth) Kindersley, 1st Baron Kindersley of West Hoathly, President of the National Savings Committee thanking Kirke for his help during War Weapons Week. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/2/13-14 1941 Nov 29- Dec 6

Programme for National Savings Movement Warship Week in Winchester, Hampshire. With printed appeal letter.

KIRKE: 7/2/15 1941 Dec 9

Notes for address by Kirke to staff at Cunard, Liverpool summarising the latest developments in the war in the USSR, in Libya and in the Far East. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/2/16 1941 Dec 1

Text and notes for speech by Kirke for War Weapons Week in Winchester, Hampshire relating to the reliance of the armies on supply of equipment and the role of National Savings in providing funds. Typescript and manuscript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/2/17 [1941]

Text and notes for speech by Kirke for War Weapons Week in Grangemouth, Scotland relating to the way National Savings will help the war effort. Typescript and manuscript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/18 1942 Jan 22

Text of speech by Kirke to members of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, Woolwich prior to overseas posting. Typescript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/2/19 1942 Feb 20

Text of speech by Kirke at the opening of Warships Week in Horley, Sussex relating to the importance of increasing British Naval strength. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/20-25 1942 Feb 21-28

Programmes for the Warships Week in Reigate, Surrey and Horley, Sussex. With correspondence between H H Ashley, chairman of Horley Warships Week committee and Sir (John) Malcolm Fraser, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey relating to proposal that Fraser open ceremony and his suggestion that Kirke replace him. Typescript, 5 letters

KIRKE: 7/2/26 1942 Mar 10

Text of speech by Kirke to officers and men of the 70 Anti-Aircraft Regt prior to posting overseas. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/27 1942 Apr 7

Text of speech by Kirke at an inspection of no.1254 (Godalming) Sqn Air Training Corps relating to the vital role of air forces in attack and in defence. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/28 1943 Feb 12

Text and notes for speech by Kirke to F Company, 42 Bn, Home Guard, Clifton Junction, near Manchester relating to the importance of home defences. Typescript and manuscript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/29 1943 Jul 22

Text for a speech by Kirke on 'the reconquest of Burma'. Typescript and manuscript, 9pp

KIRKE: 7/2/30 [1943]

Text of speech by Kirke to the anniversary meeting of the Richmond Services Club, relating to his expectation of an Allied victory. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/31 [1943-1944]

Text of short speech by Kirke welcoming French soldiers to the town (not identified). 2 copies, in French. Manuscript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/32 [1943-1944]

Text of speech by Kirke to workers at ICI, Crescent Wharf, Silvertown and Clyde Wharf, London relating to the German bombing of London and the importance of ICI's products to the war effort. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/33-34 1944 Mar 25- Apr 1

Programme for 'Salute the Soldier Week' in Chelsea. With Kirke's notes for a speech at this event. Manuscript, 1p

KIRKE: 7/2/35-37 1944 Apr 22-29

Programme for Salute the Soldier Week, Milford on Sea, Lymington and Pennington, Hampshire. With letter sent to Kirke giving times of opening ceremonies; notes for Kirke's speeches at the ceremonies. Manuscript and Typescript, 15pp

KIRKE: 7/2/38 1944 May 1

Notes entitled 'Are we making the best use of our armed forces'. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/39 1944 Oct 16

Text of speech by Kirke at the Salute the Soldier plaque presentation, Battersea, congratulating the residents for their fund raising efforts. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/40 1944 Nov 13

Letter, article and sketch map on Bhamo, Burma sent to the editor of the Evening Standard. With press cutting. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/41 1944 Nov 17

Text of speech by Kirke to ICI sub-contractors at Witton near Birmingham explaining the importance of their work in developing new weaponry. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/42 [1944]

Text for speech at 'Salute the Soldier Week' Barnsley, South Yorkshire promoting National Savings. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/43 [1944]

Notes on Russia outlining the work of the British Military Mission to USSR between Apr 1943 and Feb 1944. Typescript

KIRKE: 7/2/44 1944 Dec 9

Text of speech by Kirke at the opening of a Christmas fair in Wimbledon in aid of the Mayor's resettlement fund. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/45 1944 Dec 13

Text of speech by Kirke at presentation of plaques at Buxton, Derbyshire for success during 'Support the Soldier Week'. Typescript and manuscript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/46 1945 Feb 9

Text of speech by Kirke at the founding of Victory Clubs for ex-servicemen in Manchester. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/2/47 [1940-1945]

Memorandum sent to Kirke with notes on the formation of the Auxiliary Territorial Service relating to pay, conditions, training, numbers serving and origins of organisation. Typescript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/48 1945 Feb 9-26

Correspondence between Eileen Bigland and Kirke and Guy William Lambert, War Office relating to Kirke's preparation of a foreword to Bigland's book on the Auxiliary Territorial Service, Britain's Other Army. The story of the A.T.S. (Nicholson & Watson: London, 1946).. Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/2/49 [1945]

Text of foreword written by Kirke for the publication Britain's Other Army. The story of the A.T.S, Eileen Bigland (Nicholson & Watson: London, 1946). Typescript, 5pp

KIRKE: 7/2/50-51 1945 Jun 17

Order of Service for Old Contemptibles Association Godalming, Surrey branch, annual parade service. With text and notes for speech by Kirke at the parade. Typescript and manuscript, 8pp

KIRKE: 7/2/52 1945 Sep 6

Menu for Old Contemptible Association, Guildford branch re-union Victory Dinner and concert. With text of Kirke's speech at the dinner. Typescript, 4pp

KIRKE: 7/2/53 1945 Sep 10

Letter from Kirke to the editor of The Times relating to criterion for awarding the Territorial Decoration. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/54 1945 Sep

Notes for a speech by Kirke at Cadets Week, Guildford, Surrey. Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/55 1945 Oct 12

Notes for a speech by Kirke at Annual Meeting of the British Legion. Manuscript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/56 1945 Oct 27

Text of speech by Kirke at the opening of Thanksgiving Week, Witley, Surrey relating to the continuation of War Savings. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/57-59 1945 Nov 14-16

Programme for speech day at Surrey County School, Sutton, text and notes for Kirke's speech at the presentation. Typescript and manuscript, 7pp

KIRKE: 7/2/60 [1944-1945]

Notes on operations in Arakan, Burma by Maj Gen Stephen Fenemore Irwin. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/61 1946 Mar 19

Text of lecture by Kirke at the Royal United Service Institution relating to a lecture by Brig Augustus Klingner Ferguson on the British Troops in Burma. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/62 1948 Jul 16

Text of lecture by Kirke at Magistrates dinner, Guildford, Surrey. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/63 1948 Jul 18

Text of speech given at a dinner for the female members of the West Surrey Golf Club. Typescript, 2pp

KIRKE: 7/2/64 [1941-1942]

Notes for a speech by Kirke intended for the workers at ICI Billington, Staffordshire relating to Germany's war aims in the Mediterranean. Manuscript, 3pp

KIRKE: 7/2/65 1946 Jun

Strength and casualties of the armed and auxiliary services of the United Kingdom 1939-1945 (HMSO, London, 1946)

KIRKE: 7/3 1946 Aug

Report by Kirke for Imperial Allied Industries Ltd on the military defence of ICI factories during the war, and on related matters (excluding passive air defences). Printed, 37pp

KIRKE: 8 Kirke's personal correspondence, 1935-1949

KIRKE: 8/1 1935 Oct 25- 1949 Sep 26

Letters sent to Kirke from Gen Sir Cyril Deverell, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Command relating to a possible posting for Kirke to Malta; Rt Hon Leslie Hore-Belisha, Secretary of State for War and President of Army Council relating to Territorial Army recruitment; FM Sir Henry Maitland Wilson, Head of British Joint Staff Mission in Washington relating to Kirke's congratulations on his promotion to Field Marshal; Gen Sir John Claude Eyre Auchinleck, Commander-in-Chief in India relating to his work in India; and FM Archibald Percival Wavell, 1st Viscount of Cyrenaica and of Winchester, Viceroy and Governor-General of India relating to the Victory Club Appeal. 1 file

KIRKE: 8/2 1938 Dec 5

Letter from Kirke to Mrs Burleigh Leach regarding the possibility of her employment within the Territorial Army Directorate. 1 letter

KIRKE: 9 Autobiographical notes, [1940-1949]

KIRKE: 9/1 [1940-1949]

Narrative autobiographical account of Kirke's life and career until summer 1939. Typescript and photocopy, 20pp

KIRKE: 9/2 [1940-1949]

Notes by Kirke covering his experiences as Inspector General and Commander-in-Chief Home Forces between mid 1939 and 25 May 1940. Typescript, 16pp and manuscript 14pp

KIRKE: 10 Press Cuttings, 1936-1945

KIRKE: 10/1 1936 Feb - 1944 Feb 2

Press cuttings mostly relating to Kirke's work with the Territorial Army. Taken from local and national press. 1 file

KIRKE: 10/2 1939 Jun - 1945 Sep 27

Press cuttings relating to Kirke's work as Director General of Territorial Army and as Commander-in-Chief of Home Forces. Taken from journals and local and national press. 1 volume

KIRKE: 11 Photographs, 1924-[1949];
11/1 Photographs relating to visits by Kirke to Finland in 1924-25 and 1939

KIRKE: 11/1/1 1924-1925

Album of photographs taken during Kirke's stay in Finland 1924-1925; including photographs of Helsingfors, Dromsö, Viborg, Sortavala, Hansa Brandenburg sea-plane, Skyddskai training centres, Perkjaris Artillery Camp, Renault tanks. With some press cuttings and postcards. 1 vol

KIRKE: 11/1/2-4 1924-1925

Portrait photographs presented to Kirke of Finnish Baron Carl Gustav Emil von Mannerheim; Paalva Talvela, Finnish Aide de Camp; A H Saastamoinen. 3 photographs

KIRKE: 11/1/5-29 1939 Jun

Photographs relating to Kirke's visit to Finland in 1939. Includes photograph of Kirke with Finnish Baron Carl Gustav Emil von Mannerheim on Kirke's departure from Finland. 25 photographs

KIRKE: 11/2/1-9 1922- 1939 Aug 24

Photographs of Kirke including Kirke on his appointment as Chief of Staff, Aldershot Command, 1922; as Director General of the Territorial Army, 1939; arrival at the War Office during the International crisis, 1939; with Lilian Ethel Kirke at banquet; with Hon Col William Jackson Perkins; at presentation of colours to Kings Shropshire Light Infantry by HRH Prince Albert Frederick Arthur George Duke of York (also shown), 1935. 9 photographs

KIRKE: 11/3/1-15 1936-1939 May

Photographs relating to Kirke's service as Director General of the Territorial Army Director General of Territorial Army, 1936–1939. Includes photographs of Kirke at a parade of Territorial Army units in Hyde Park, London during his first recruiting drive, 1936, at the opening of new drill hall at Framlingham, Suffolk, May 1938, at the Old Comrades Association Parade in Horse Guards Parade, London 1939 and at a parade in Birmingham, 1936. 15 photographs

KIRKE: 11/4/1-18 1935-1945

Photographs relating to Kirke's service as Commander in Chief of Home Forces 1939–1940 and his other activities during World War Two. Includes Kirke at a meeting at the Mansion House, London to inaugurate the new welfare scheme for troops also featuring William Richard Morris 1st Viscount of Nuffield and Rt Hon Leslie Hore Belisha; visit to ICI works Huddersfield, West Yorkshire ; Wings for Victory week at Billingham, Cleveland; Parade at Surbiton, 1944; lunch for Victory Club, 1945; Kirke with Arthur Henderson, Rt Hon Clement Richard Attlee, Edward Hugh John Neale Dalton and Arthur William James Greenwood at Aldershot inspecting 2 pounder anti-tank gun. 18 photographs

KIRKE: 11/5/1-5 1935-[1949]

Photographs of Lilian Ethel Kirke, Lady Kirke at a trophy presentation to the Surrey Army cadets; Gen Sir Hugh Jamieson Elles; Sir Andrew Sheene, Lt Gen Sir Richard Harte Keatinge Butler. 5 photographs

Last modified: Monday, 08-Aug-2005 13:19:54 BST