I was invited by the Royal Logistic Corps Museum to view their latest attraction alongside the rest of their museum.
Taking the 86 bus from Winchester high street, I made my way up to Worthy Down where I discovered the beautiful scenery surrounding the museum.
After a short wait in the reception, I was greeted by the commercial manager of the museum, Gemma Ingason where she warmly welcomed me to the establishment.
The Royal Logistic Corps Museum tells the story of logistic support to the British Army from Agincourt in 1415 to the modern day.
It is one of six military museums in Winchester, each with their own story to tell.
READ MORE: D-Day landings vehicle on display at Royal Logistic Corps Museum
I was first shown their new exhibit, the amphibious vehicle called DUKW, which was used during the D-Day, playing an “essential logistical role in the conclusion of the Second World War”.
The DUKW, pronounced ‘duck’, was a sight to see, an enormous vehicle, embedded in the history of our country.
Furthermore, Ms Ingason provided me with the knowledge about not only the record of the DUKW, but also the history of the Royal Logistic Corps.
It was intriguing to know that the Royal Marines, who had donated the vehicle from Surrey, had nicknamed the DUKW, ‘crispy duck’ due to the rust that had been sustained on the vehicle over time.
After seeing and learning about the new attraction, I was presented with the opportunity to learn and view the rest of the history surrounding the Corps.
I learnt that the Corps operated the DUKW when they were called the Royal Army Service Corps, who then became the Royal Corps of Transport, then the Royal Logistic Corps we have today.
Watching a short film about the past of the Corps, showing their evolution over time, it was a great learning experience about the military service of England.
The museum provided interactive understandings about; the scents of the food made during World War Two, a bomb defusal where you’re required to follow a wire and discover which of three buttons to press in order to deactivate the ongoing ticking, get it wrong and you’ll be surprised with a loud ‘bang’, get it right and silence will be what’s heard.
SEE ALSO: Princess Anne visits The Royal Logistic Corps Museum at Worthy Down
The interactive displays were definitely my favourite part as I felt as if I was placing my footsteps into history, allowing a clearer imagination as to what it would feel like being in the presence of historic times.
In the museum, there was a room full of medals, showing prized gold and the rewards of those who have dedicated their life to serve our country and put us where we are today.
The establishment contained many vehicles, weapons, and different types of armour that have been used over time. Each item was numbered so it would be simple for myself and future visitors what the item was alongside a description and a brief history.
A souvenir shop was lovely to see in case I wanted to take a reminder of the history home.
If you haven't already made a trip to the Royal Logistic Corps Museum, I would recommend it. Especially now it has such a great exabit like the Crispy Duck on show.
I didn't know about Winchester's military museums until my week at the Hampshire Chronicle, and I am honoured to have had the opportunity to visit and learn about such an important part of this country.
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30am until 4pm - and even better, it is free entry and car parking.
For more go to royallogisticcorps.co.uk/museum/
- This article was written by Owen Borseti, a journalism student from Bournemouth University.
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