Introduction

The 51st (Highland) Division's recruitment practices during World War II provide a fascinating insight into the complex interplay between local traditions, the regimental system, and the exigencies of wartime demands. This article explores the recruitment patterns of this division and the broader context of British Army recruitment during the 1940s.

Theoretical vs. Actual Recruitment

The idea that the 51st Highland Division recruited exclusively from specific parts of Scotland is a simplification.

Regimental System and Recruitment

The British Army has historically relied on a regimental system, which dates back to the Cardwell reforms of the 1870s. Each regiment maintains a headquarters and depot in a specific location, where it recruits and trains personnel. Trained soldiers are then dispatched to the active service battalions serving overseas, a practice intended to foster a strong esprit de corps and community among the troops.

The 51st Highland Division Composition

The 51st Highland Division in 1939 was comprised of nine infantry battalions drawn from five regiments, all based in Scotland:

Seaforth Highlanders in Inverness Queens Own Cameron Highlanders in Inverness Gordon Highlanders in Aberdeen Black Watch in Perth Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders in Stirling

Under normal circumstances, individuals would typically enlist with the regiment in their local area. For instance, someone from Fife would likely join the Black Watch, and someone from Caithness would join the Seaforth Highlanders. This practice was not strictly enforced, however, as people could choose to join different regiments based on personal connections or preferences.

War-Time Realities and Pressure

While the regimental system was designed to ensure a strong sense of local identity, the realities of war often disrupted these plans. Conscription, full mobilization, and wartime manpower shortages forced the War Office to adopt more flexible recruitment and allocation practices.

Centralized Recruitment and Training

Starting in 1940 and becoming more streamlined in 1942, the recruitment and training processes were centralized. The War Office could post recruits to any unit where they were needed, rather than to their preferred regiment. This meant that a recruit from Essex might serve with the Essex Regiment, or be transferred to the Terriers, Sherwood Foresters, or other regiments.

Local vs. National Recruitment

By the middle of the war, the Army's primary focus shifted to ensuring that each soldier served where they were most needed, rather than their local regiment. This was especially evident in casualty statistics. For instance, out of 1,198 men from Essex killed in action, only 236 were from the Essex Regiment. Many were from other regiments across the United Kingdom.

Efforts to Maintain National Identity

While the Army couldn't always ensure that soldiers served in their local regiments, they did make an effort to allocate recruits to units that would provide a sense of national identity. For example, a recruit from Aberdeen would not necessarily be assigned to the Gordon Highlanders, but the Army would likely ensure they served in a predominantly Scottish unit, such as the Black Watch or Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.

Conclusion

The recruitment practices of the 51st Highland Division during World War II highlight the balance between maintaining local traditions and meeting the needs of the rapidly evolving war effort. While there were efforts to preserve a sense of local and national identity, practical necessities often required a more flexible approach. This case study provides valuable insights into how the British Army adapted to the challenges of a global conflict while attempting to maintain the esprit de corps and community spirit that are hallmarks of the regimental system.