King's Own Royal Regiment Museum

Second World War

8th Battalion, King's Own Royal Regiment, in Palestine
collection of Private Edward Rathbone

A professional wrestler before the war the unknown soldier is seen lifting three other soldiers, including Private Edward Rathbone on the right.  Known only as 'Sylvest' he is seen here practising for a 'strong man' act which was given in a concert in Palestine, probably Christmas 1943 or early 1944.
Accession Number KO2741/067

'Sylvest' the strong man of the 8th Battalion, Palestine, 1943/4.
Accession Number KO2741/068

'Sylvest' being held back by others of the Carrier Platoon of the 8th King's Own, Palestine, 1943/4.  Private Edward Rathbone is third from left in the front row.
Accession Number KO2741/073

Five soldiers of the 8th King's Own, described on the rear as 'Four Scots pals and a Welsh mate, Palestine, Christmas, 1943'.   
Accession Number KO2741/069

'All the boys of the Carrier Platoon, 8th King's Own, Palestine, Christmas 1943.'
Accession Number KO2741/070

Soldiers of the Carrier Platoon, 8th King's Own, Palestine, Christmas 1943.  Private Edward Rathbone is seen with the plant pot on his head.
Accession Number KO2741/071

Soldiers of the Carrier Platoon, 8th King's Own, Palestine, Christmas 1943.
Accession Number KO2741/072

Soldiers of the Carrier Platoon, 8th King's Own, Nathanya Rest Camp, Palestine, February 1944.  Private Edward Rathbone is second from the right.
Accession Number KO2741/074

Soldiers of the Carrier Platoon, 8th King's Own, Nathanya Rest Camp, Palestine, February 1944.  Private Edward Rathbone is stood at the rear.
Accession Number KO2741/075

Soldiers of the Carrier Platoon, 8th King's Own, Nathanya Rest Camp, Palestine, February  1944.  Private Edward Rathbone is stood on the right.
Accession Number KO2741/076

Private Edward Rathbone and a child.  The caption on the rear of the photograph reads 'I hope to be making many more poses like this when I get home.  How do I look?  All my love Ted.'
Accession Number KO2741/077