April 10, 2013 at 7:42 pm
I am researching what the RAF called ‘Aid Boxes’ during the war. These were small survival boxes carried by all air crew on operations, They contained Benzedrine tablets, water purifying tablets, bar of chocolate, Horlicks malted milk tablets, matches, Rubber water bladder, compass and a hacksaw blade.
There were around six variants, from a cigarette tin in 1940 to a number of Acetate plastic boxes issued until 1945. But I am struggling with the chronology and would appreciate your help. The first three boxes were the tin one, a 2 part plastic ‘match box’ type, a 3 part plastic type with a tray and two sliding covers. Then there was a one piece plastic box domed on one side and convex on the other to allow comfortable carriage in the pocket. Finally, two types with large screw port hole-like front covers and a neck with a sealed stopper, which allowed the rations to be taken out of the large opening, the cover to be replaced and screwed tight, then the box could be filled with water and used as a water bottle. Any documented dates or personal knowledge of the order these six boxes were issued in, would be very welcome please.
By: Truebrit - 10th April 2013 at 20:40
Aids Boxes
Thanks Vacb,
Will do.
TB
By: VACB - 10th April 2013 at 20:07
Hi Truebrit
I would recommend that you post your enquiry on the following forum too. It covers RAF collecting and re-enacting and contains some very knowledgeable people on such things: –
http://www.network54.com/Forum/180748/
Best of luck