In the lexicon of New Zealand Ordnance, the term “Rickshaw” holds significance in various Ordnance-related contexts. It has been woven into the fabric of Ordnance-associated activities, exercises, and even social clubs within units. The moniker “Rickshaw” found its way into the titles of exercises carried out by Ordnance units. Moreover, the social clubs and bars affiliated with these units proudly adopted the name “The Rickshaw Club.”
In the post-Ordnance era, following the establishment of the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (RNZALR), certain facilities within the Trade Training School bore the distinctive names of “Rickshaw,” “Playtime,” and “Bluebell.” The “Rickshaw” room, alongside the “Playtime” room for Transport and the “Bluebell” room dedicated to the Equipment Support (EME) trades, were integral parts of this educational institution. These rooms served as spaces for learning and camaraderie, preserving the legacy and traditions of the Ordnance Corps in the evolving landscape of the RNZALR.
What is a Rickshaw?
A “Rickshaw” refers to a unique type of wheeled passenger cart, typically drawn by a single individual, who can transport either passengers or goods. This mode of transportation first emerged in Japan in 1869 and quickly gained popularity, becoming a prevalent means of getting around in various parts of Asia well into the mid-Twentieth Century.
The term “Rickshaw” finds its roots in the Japanese word “jinrikisha” (人力車), where each component holds a specific meaning:
- “Jin” signifies “human” or “person.”
- “Riki” denotes “power” or “force.”
- “Sha” translates to “vehicle.”
Therefore, “jinrikisha” essentially translates to “human-powered vehicle,” accurately capturing the essence of this unique form of transport.
What is the Ordnance Connection?
The adoption of the term “Rickshaw” in the New Zealand Army during World War II traces its origin back to the British Army. This transition coincided with a pivotal revolution in radio communications, transitioning from Morse code to voice systems. This transformation was necessitated by the dynamic nature of warfare unfolding in the Western Desert. It became increasingly evident that the enemy was eavesdropping on and intercepting communications, highlighting the need for a more secure approach. Consequently, the Radio Telephone Procedure (RTP) was developed to ensure radio communications were concise and discreet.
As part of this evolution in RTP, the concept of “Appointment Titles” was introduced. Appointment Titles consisted of specific words chosen to designate the holder of a particular appointment. This served as a means to conceal the precise level of command, thereby enhancing security. Some familiar Appointment Titles included:
| SUNRAY | Commander |
| ACORN | Intelligence |
| MOLAR | Quartermaster |
| IRONSIDE | Armour |
| SHELDRAKE | Artillery |
| HOLDFAST | Engineer |
| PRONTO | Signals |
| FOXHOUND | Infantry |
| STARLIGHT | Medical |
| PLAYTIME | Supply and Transport |
| BLUEBELL | Electrical & Mechanical Engineering |
| WATCHDOG | Provost |
| GOLDFINGER | Paymaster |
| SKYPILOT | Padre |
| RICKSHAW | Ordnance |
The primary purpose of Appointment Titles was to ensure their inherent meaninglessness. This deliberate choice was made to avoid any immediate association with specific military branches or corps. This strategic approach helped maintain a level of ambiguity and discretion, enhancing the security of communications.
According to the REME history and journal, the appointment title “Bluebell” was introduced with the establishment of the REME in 1942. The need for a fresh designation arose in conjunction with the formation of this new Corps. It was decided that, given the novelty and vibrancy of this newly created organisation, the nickname for the Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (EME) would be “Bluebell.” This choice drew inspiration from the popular product of the time, “Bluebell Polish,” which was similar to the well-known brass polish “Brasso.”
However, it’s important to note that while this explanation appears plausible, it has not been definitively confirmed. Therefore, anyone who can provide the conclusive answer to this intriguing question is promised lifelong free access to the R.E.M.E. museum.
The origin of the appointment title “Rickshaw” for Ordnance remains somewhat enigmatic. One hypothesis suggests that, much like a Rickshaw driver who served as a tireless carrier, responsible for transporting heavy loads in his carriage, Ordnance was symbolically likened to the amalgamation of both driver and carriage. In this analogy, Ordnance was tasked with the crucial responsibility of supplying the entire army, essentially becoming the Army’s metaphorical “Rickshaw” carriage. This theory draws a parallel between the tireless work of the Rickshaw driver and the vital logistical role played by Ordnance in supporting the military.
During the 1970s, the British Army in Northern Ireland adopted the name “Felix” as the appointment title for RAOC Bomb disposal teams.
The practice of utilising Radio Appointment titles was discontinued in the early 1990s due to their lack of compatibility with NATO STANAGs (Standardisation Agreements). However, the general usage of these titles persisted. In New Zealand, the use of “Rickshaw” began to decline after the establishment of the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment in 1996. Nevertheless, the tradition was kept alive by the Supply Wing of the Trade Training School, which continued to employ “Rickshaw” as the name for various Supply Wing exercises and activities.
