The Green Goddess: AFS Firefighting Powerhouse

The Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) played a vital role in the United Kingdom's civil defence strategy, particularly during the heightened tensions of the Cold War. Formed in November 1949, following the Civil Defence Act of 1948, the AFS was conceived as a crucial component of a national response plan, anticipating the devastating impact of potential nuclear conflict. The core idea was to establish mobile columns of emergency vehicles and equipment, strategically located away from major urban centres, ready to be deployed to affected areas. These mobile columns were designed to supplement and support local emergency services, which were presumed to be significantly degraded or destroyed in the initial stages of an attack. The Home Office, overseeing the AFS, meticulously drew up specifications for a comprehensive range of vehicles and equipment. Among these, the self-propelled emergency pump, affectionately known as the "Green Goddess," emerged as the most numerous and arguably the most critical element, forming the backbone of these mobile columns.

Origins of the Green Goddess

The genesis of the AFS and its distinctive vehicles lies in the post-war geopolitical climate. The escalating Cold War, with its ever-present threat of nuclear annihilation, spurred the British government to develop robust civil defence measures. The Civil Defence Act of 1948 provided the legislative framework for this, leading to the establishment of the AFS. The concept of mobile columns was central to this strategy. These units were envisioned as self-sufficient, mobile firefighting and rescue forces capable of operating independently in devastated areas. The "Green Goddess" was the quintessential vehicle for these columns, designed for its pumping capabilities and its ability to relay water over significant distances, a critical function in restoring water supplies after widespread damage.

Bedford SHZ & RLHZ Self-Propelled Emergency Pumps

The "Green Goddess" is the widely adopted and affectionate moniker for the Self-Propelled Emergency Pump vehicles that were commissioned by the Ministry of Works in the 1950s for the Auxiliary Fire Service. Over 3,000 of these formidable machines were constructed, primarily utilising Bedford 4x2 (SHZ) and 4x4 (RLHZ) chassis/cabs. The bodies for these pumps were sourced from a variety of reputable coachbuilders, including Park Royal, with the chassis/cowl units, complete with Sigmund pumps, being delivered from Home Office storage depots to these coachbuilders.

Early Models: The Bedford SHZ (4x2)

The initial batch of approximately 1,300 vehicles delivered to the AFS were based on the Bedford S type, designated SHZ. These were robust 4x2 rear-wheel-drive models. Each vehicle was equipped with a 400-gallon water tank, two first-aid hose reels, and numerous lockers to house essential firefighting and pumping equipment. A notable feature was the locker situated behind the cab, which housed a light, portable pump powered by a Coventry-Climax special 4-cylinder short-stroke petrol engine. These early models set the standard for the AFS's mobile capabilities.

The More Numerous Bedford RLHZ (4x4)

The majority of the "Green Goddesses," numbering around 1,900, were built on the Bedford R type chassis, coded RLHZ. These were the more capable 4x4 variants. They featured a slightly smaller 300-gallon water tank, which was mounted further forward on the chassis, leading to a different arrangement of first-aid reels and lockers compared to the 4x2 SHZ models. The essential light portable pump remained housed in its locker behind the cab, ensuring operational readiness. The 4x4 capability of the RLHZ models provided enhanced mobility and traction, crucial for operating in potentially difficult and damaged terrain.

Chassis and Coachbuilders

In addition to the completed vehicles, approximately 400 chassis and cowls were manufactured and stored, never being fitted with bodies. These were later sold off. It is estimated that the total production of "Green Goddesses" exceeded 4,000 units. The bodies themselves were often the product of renowned British coach and bus manufacturers, celebrated for their high-quality, hand-crafted work. Companies such as Plaxton, Duple, Park Royal, Weymann, and Harrington were among those that supplied bodies for these vital appliances. The "limousine" style bodies provided enclosed seating for a crew of six, along with ample storage space for equipment. While offering a degree of comfort, these bodies, as tragically demonstrated in later incidents, offered minimal protection in the event of a serious accident.

Technical Specifications and Operational Capabilities

Both the SHZ and RLHZ models were powered by the reliable Bedford 6-cylinder, 300 cubic inch (4927cc) petrol engine, producing approximately 110 bhp. This was mated to a 4-speed gearbox featuring synchromesh on second, third, and fourth gears, ensuring smooth gear changes. In addition to the gear lever, two additional levers were located behind the engine cowling. One of these controlled the transfer between 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive, while the other engaged the Power Take-Off (PTO) system, diverting engine power to drive the Sigmund pump. While the official operating handbook specified the use of first gear when the PTO was engaged, a plate on the engine cowling provided contradictory instructions, recommending fourth gear. This minor discrepancy highlights the practical, on-the-ground modifications and adaptations that often occurred with such specialised equipment.

The Sigmund Pump and Relay Pumping

At the heart of the "Green Goddess" was the Sigmund F.N.4 pump, capable of delivering 900 gallons per minute at 100 lbs per square inch. This powerful pump, in addition to supplying the first-aid reels, could feed four 2¾-inch outlets for direct firefighting operations. Furthermore, via a large 6-inch full-bore outlet, it could be used to relay water to or from another "Goddess." This relay pumping capability was a fundamental design feature, enabling the AFS mobile columns to establish and maintain water supplies in areas devastated by attacks, a critical task in restoring essential services. To support this primary role, "Green Goddesses" were often accompanied by a range of supporting vehicles, including pipe carriers, hose layers, and dam carriers.

Appearance and Markings

The emergency pumps, along with all other AFS vehicles, were painted in a distinctive gloss green known as "Deep Bronze Green" (BS224). It is important to note that these were not military vehicles, and thus their paint scheme differed from standard military drab. The AFS wording and logos were typically rendered in "Post Office Red," providing a clear identification of their service affiliation.

Performance and Criticism

Criticism regarding the "Green Goddess's" perceived lack of success as emergency response vehicles is often misplaced. Their designed function was to operate as part of mobile columns, typically comprising around 140 vehicles, travelling at speeds between 20 and 40 mph, contingent on traffic and road conditions. Their effectiveness was intrinsically linked to their deployment within these organised formations, rather than as standalone units in immediate urban response scenarios. Their true value lay in their ability to provide sustained firefighting support and water relay over extended periods and distances, a capability sorely needed in a large-scale disaster.

The "Green Goddess" in Action: The 1977-78 Firefighters' Strike

The "Green Goddess" famously reappeared during the national firefighters' strike of 1977-78. For nine weeks, the British Army stepped in to answer emergency calls, utilising these iconic "Green Goddesses." Although Fire Officers did not actively participate in firefighting, they served in an advisory capacity to the Army service firefighters. During this period, it was grudgingly admitted by many that the "Self-Propelled Emergency Pump," when it arrived at the scene of a fire, was a remarkably competent and well-equipped firefighting appliance. This period underscored the enduring utility and capability of these vehicles, even decades after their initial deployment.

A Tragic Incident and Dedication

The article is dedicated to Rangers Thompson and McLaughlin of the Royal Irish Rangers, who tragically lost their lives when a "Green Goddess" in which they were travelling was involved in an accident on Oldham Road, Manchester, on December 6th, 1977. The vehicle was responding to an emergency call that unfortunately turned out to be a false alarm. The accident occurred when, due to water sloshing in the rear tank, the "Green Goddess" skidded, lost control, and overturned into a petrol station. A plaque commemorating these servicemen was later placed in Philips Park, near the accident site, in August 2006, with a "Green Goddess" (PGW163) in attendance.

The NFS Overseas Contingent and their Vehicles

The National Fire Service (NFS) Overseas Contingent played a crucial, though often overlooked, role during World War II, particularly in supporting the D-Day landings and the subsequent Allied advance through Normandy. From early 1943, southern England became a staging ground for the massive build-up of troops and equipment for the invasion. This significantly increased the fire risk in counties like Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Dorset. The NFS responded by designating these areas as "BLUE ZONE" and temporarily relocating fire crews and pumps from lower-risk regions to bolster resources. This initiative proved highly successful, with many fires threatening ammunition, fuel, and military vehicles being efficiently controlled by the NFS, preventing potential disasters.

In March 1944, a call went out for volunteers to join a new unit, the "Overseas Contingent," tasked with following the advancing troops into Normandy to provide firefighting and fire prevention services to the Allied military. Women were excluded from applying, and male applicants had to be between 19 and 41. The selection process was rigorous, leading to a second appeal for volunteers in May 1944. The successful recruits formed an elite unit, issued with distinctive shoulder flashes and variations from standard NFS uniforms, including a beret, brown webbing belt, and army boots with gaiters. Their training was intensive, focusing on high levels of physical fitness, akin to commando units, though without weapon training. Crucially, they received instruction on embarking and disembarking their pumps and vehicles onto landing craft.

Legal Status and Operational Planning

The legal status of the Overseas Contingent, should they be deployed alongside or behind fighting forces, was a significant consideration. It was decided to grant them the status of "persons accompanying or following the fighting forces" as defined in the Army Act, hoping they would be treated as prisoners of war if captured, rather than summarily executed. The planning for these mobile columns likely drew heavily on the experience gained from the Overseas Contingent's operations, influencing the design of post-war AFS mobile columns.

Manpower and Deployment

Initially, recruitment from London, Merseyside, and the Midlands was restricted to avoid depleting these high-risk areas. However, the value of the experience gained in these "blitz-hardened" areas was recognised, and firemen from these regions were welcomed into the Overseas Contingent. While the D-Day landings commenced on June 6th, 1944, the decision to deploy NFS columns was delayed. The British Army expressed reluctance to assume responsibility for the NFS. Consequently, four of the five columns were stood down on October 17th, 1944, with only Column No. 4 continuing training and seeing service at a V2 rocket incident in London. In contrast, the Americans welcomed NFS support, and in January 1945, one column was sent to France, attached to the Twelfth (US) Army Group. This contingent established a cordial and effective working relationship with US Army personnel.

The Importance of NFS Support

The Americans keenly understood the critical impact that fire could have on the Allied campaign, particularly concerning fuel and ammunition depots. These depots handled vast quantities of fuel daily, with risks of explosion and fire being enormous. The presence of the Overseas Contingent was invaluable in mitigating these risks. Divisional Officer Kelly's column operated over an area of 30,000 square miles, with elements reaching as far north as Wegberg in Germany and as far south as Verdun in France. The extensive operational demands and the hundreds of major incidents dealt with by the Overseas Contingent raise questions about the decision to deploy only one column overseas. Their work in preventing incalculable fires was a testament to their dedication and effectiveness.

US Army Integration and Withdrawal

The relationship between the NFS men and the US Army became so close that the NFS personnel were issued with American working rig uniforms and temporarily adopted US Army ranks to avoid confusion, with Section Leaders referred to as 'Sergeant' and Leading Firemen as 'Corporal'. After seven months of intense activity, the column was withdrawn on July 15th, 1945. The Home Secretary commended the returning NFS men for their "hardships endured" and the "zeal and efficiency" with which they carried out their duties.

Vehicles and Markings of the NFS Overseas Contingent

Vehicles assigned to the NFS Overseas Contingent bore additional markings beyond the standard yellow triangle on the front left wing and the circular NFS logo. A white triangle signified the vehicle's status. The Column Number, in this case '4', was displayed at the top, as it was the only column to deploy overseas. Below this, two letters and a number indicated the Company and Section, such as 'Company C, Section N,' comprising five vehicles. The vehicles also featured the Allied White Star within a White Circle on the bonnet and roof, an Army serial number on the front right mudguard, and a 3" x 1" white stripe on the offside mudguard to denote that the engine had not been waterproofed.

Column Composition

Each column was structured with an HQ company and five companies, each divided into 'X' and 'Y' sections, totalling 522 officers and men. The column's equipment included:

The NFS and AFS Vehicles Group, a display group that re-enacts the work of wartime and post-war fire services, aims to represent part of a section, typically consisting of five towing vehicles and a mobile dam, each towing a large 500-gallon-per-minute pump, along with a 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycle. For display purposes, they often have to leave a second large pump behind. Their Dodge Mobile Dam is an exact replica of those used by the Overseas Contingent, though Ford versions were also in service. These dams were rated as 4/6 tons, meaning 4 tons fully equipped with crew, and 6 tons when loaded with 500 gallons of water (2 tons). The towing vehicles would have been Ford WOT3 (War Office Transport) models with canvas tilts. However, an Austin K2, of similar age and size, used by the NFS earlier in the war, is often employed, having spent much of its service towing large Dennis pumps.

NFS and AFS Vehicles Group: Events and Recruitment

The NFS and AFS Vehicles Group actively participates in various 1940s weekends and other shows, primarily in the Midlands. They are currently recruiting new members, with no prior experience necessary as training is provided. An interest in 1940s and 1950s firefighting is the main requirement, and some uniform is available for loan. The group's collection includes an Austin K2 towing vehicle, several wartime trailer pumps of varying sizes, an Austin K4 Turntable Ladder, a Fordson Escape Carrier, and a Dodge Mobile Dam. Their displays often feature alongside other reenactment groups such as the ARP, Police, WVS, First Aid, Home Guard, and civilian casualty reenactors, offering an immersive step back in time to the Blitz.

Upcoming Events

The group's schedule typically includes events such as the Papplewick Pumping Station Vintage Vehicle Rally, Lowdham Village Hall events, Grantham Carnival, and the Hoveringham Vintage Vehicle Rally. A significant event in their calendar is the 75th anniversary of D-Day, where they travel to Normandy with their Dodge and K2 vehicles and a Dennis pump, wearing the uniform of the NFS Overseas Contingent and conducting demonstrations. They also participate in the Severn Valley Railway Wartime Weekends, Black Country Living Museum events, Newstead Abbey's wartime event, and Rufford Abbey's end-of-season 1940s event, often featuring major air raid reenactments. The season typically concludes with a 1940s event at Newark Air Museum, where they may demonstrate tackling an aircraft fire using foam. Members are advised to check the group's Facebook page for the latest updates and to avoid disappointment.

The "Green Goddess," a symbol of resilience and preparedness, represents a significant chapter in the history of firefighting and civil defence in the UK. Its robust design, powerful pumping capabilities, and crucial role in both Cold War preparedness and wartime support underscore its enduring legacy.