Minifigure – Royal Naval Division (RND) Grenadier / Corporal(The “Old Salt” Veteran Bomber) WWI (LEGO Compatible)

Character Identification

Specific Name: WWI Royal Naval Division (RND) Grenadier / Corporal (The “Old Salt” Veteran Bomber)

He is a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the Royal Naval Division, tasked with carrying heavy munitions to clear enemy trenches.

Visual Description

This custom-printed minifigure features distinct details that separate him from the standard riflemen, portraying a hardened veteran of the sea and land:

• Head (Key Naval Detail): The figure features a Grey Beard. This is a crucial historical touch. unlike the British Army, which required soldiers to shave their chins (allowing only mustaches), the Royal Navy allowed men to grow full “set” beards. This immediately identifies him as a sailor or marine rather than a regular army soldier.

• Uniform: He wears the standard Navy Blue Tunic of the 1914 RND deployment.

• Tactical Gear (The “Grenadier” Vest):

  • Heavy Webbing: He wears a complex white/tan canvas Assault Vest with multiple buttoned pouches covering his entire chest and stomach. In the context of WWI trench raiding, this rig represents a carrier for Hand Grenades (like the early “Jam Tin” bombs or Mills bombs) or demolition charges.

  • Bandolier: A leather strap runs across his chest, likely for a rifle or additional gear.

• Rank Insignia: On his left arm, there are Two Red Chevrons (Stripes). This indicates the rank of Corporal. As a corporal, he would be in charge of a small bombing squad.

• Legs: He wears the standard light canvas gaiters (spats) over dark boots, consistent with the naval infantry landing gear.

Historical Background

• Grenadiers (Bombers): In the static trench warfare of WWI, the “Bomber” was a specialized and dangerous role. These men led assaults on enemy trenches, throwing grenades to clear dugouts before the riflemen followed. They were often the most experienced and bravest soldiers.

• The Royal Naval Division: When the RND fought at Antwerp (1914) and later Gallipoli, they brought their naval traditions with them—including their blue uniforms, naval slang, and beards.

• “The Old Salt”: The grey beard suggests this character is an older reservist—perhaps a career sailor called back to service—who is now applying his discipline to the mud of the trenches.