What is wrong with this photograph?
 

There is something incongruous about this photograph, can anyone please explain it?

Raoc reme....odd

He is wearing REME shoulder title but seems to have RAOC collars????

Well spotted that man but the real question is why?

Wasn't REME formed from RAOC and RASC detachments, this photo could be taken during that period of change?

Rob

Maybe he was in the process of transferring from the RAOC to the newly formed REME and REME collars were not yet available for issue??

Or possibly he didn't know his RAOC from his elbow?

REME were formed from various regimental tradesmen from various units including the RAOC. There was a delay period getting the new cap badges out to units, so this was probably taken during that period. The description of the badge was sent to theatres of operation and was famously (in REME) mis-interpreted in India producing the Quetta REME badge. I believe that badge is shown somewhere on this forum.

REME was formed in 194 but he is wearing the pre Battledress tunic which was not generally worn after 1940.

This would suggest a 1941 date so I suspect he RAOC who had a studio photo wearing his old RAOC tunic. REME collars were clearly not available at the time.