World War I in Pictures: Royal Army Medical Corps in Front of Bell Tent with Message to Mother

This photograph of members of The Royal Army Medical Corps was taken in 1914 and bears a touching message from a son to his mother.

Founded in 1873, the RAMC traveled with infantrymen and dealt with war wounds on the field and within military hospitals.

Members of the RAMC Standing in Front of a Bell Tent in World War 1

The RAMC wore military uniforms, but were not seen as combatants themselves. However, they would be seen within areas of combat with stretchers, ferrying wounded soldiers and the dying to a place where treatment could be administered. As can be appreciated, the RAMC officers faced challenging situations which were at times impossible. Often, these medical staff became casualties themselves.

This photo shows three members of the Royal Army Corps from Stanhope RAMC Barracks, Aldershot.

A Touching Message from a Son to his Mother

This photograph was salvaged from a flea-market in Warwickshire. On the rear was a half-penny stamp, franked with the date: 24 October 1914. The recipient is a Mrs. Geurnsy (I shall not give the entire address), Alexander Road, East Twickenham, Middlesex.

In pencil, the message reads:

“Dear Mother, a few lines to let you know I arrived back safely. How do you like my photo? I will write again in a few days to let you know more.

Love to all,

Alf.”

It can be worked out that one of the men pictured is ‘Alf’ who likely is an ambulance driver or medical officer.

A valuable artefact that needs preservation.