John Guthrie – signing up

Attestation

This is the front page of John’s TA Attestation confirming that he was over 17 and wished to volunteer. It is dated 24th August 1939.
 

Calling Out

He was then served with a Calling Out Notice, assigning him the rank of Sapper in the City of Edinburgh (Fortress) Royal Engineers, under the terms of the Reserve and Auxiliary Forces Act 1939.

He was required to report to 28 York Place Edinburgh on 30th August 1939.
 

Bringing the following items:

1 Suitcase containing 1 overcoat; 1 change of underclothing; Washing and Shaving Kit; One Knife, Fork and Spoon; 1 strong pair of boots or shoes.
If possible N.H.I. (National Health and Pensions Insurance) and U.I. (Unemployment Insurance) cards and Army Book 3 (we have not been able to identify what this was.)

Army Paybook

All soldiers were issued with a Paybook

This was effectively their army passport and will.