Squadron Line Books

[Dave Homewood]

Does anyone know when the wonderful idea of Squadron or Unit Line Books began in the RNZAF? I used to enjoy reading line books when I was in the RNZAF, they're great.

The earliest I have seen personally is from No. 2 (BR) Squadron in 1944, which is in the Wigram archives. Even not knowing the men that the lines are quoted from, they're still quite funny and wonderful bits of social history.

Did the Line Books precede WWII? Do they go back maybe even to WWI?

Did/Does the Army and Navy have Line Books? Or are they just an RNZAF thing?

To the uninitiated, a Line Book is a special book where if a member of your squadron, unit or team makes a funny or in some cases arrogant or wierd statement, he or she would be quoted - the 'line shoot' being written down and signed by the line shooter and the witness who recorded it, with the date and sometimes some background to set the scene. They are great fun. A while back I initiated one for my best mate's garage bar where we all drink, and it took the civvies longer to catch on but now it's well accepted as a great attribute to the scene.

[baz62]

I started a linebook for us Sunday volunteers at the Museum in the early 80s. Photos too!
One of my favourite ones was George Jaunzemis (Sgt) storming round one Sundaylooking for his socket set, complaining to all of us about not putting things back finally storming off to his little office (in the old barracks that were in the hangar) He then reappeared from his little office looking all sheepish as he had left it in plain sight...............on his desk! ;D

[davidnzl]

489 Squadron has an unofficail photo history cum line book at the RNZAF Museum at Wigram. It can be seen at the Research Section, by appointment