THE MAGAZINE OF ABF THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY AUTUMN/WINTER 2021
ISSUE 24
REMEMBERING NATIONAL SERVICE MEMORIES OF A PEACETIME CONSCRIPT TEN YEARS OF THE CATERAN YOMP
ISSUE 24
CONTENTS FEATURES TEN YEARS OF THE CATERAN YOMP
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Supporters mark the tenth anniversary of our 24-hour, 54-mile trek through the Scottish Highlands
REMEMBERING NATIONAL SERVICE Between 1947 and 1963, a generation of British men were conscripted into the Armed Forces
MEMORIES OF A PEACETIME CONSCRIPT National Service through the eyes of the men who served
PERSPECTIVES: BERNARD CORNWELL Best-selling author Bernard Cornwell discusses the return of dashing rifleman Richard Sharpe in his latest book, Sharpe’s Assassin
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REGULARS SUPPORTING THE ARMY FAMILY How your support transforms the lives of soldiers, former soldiers and their families across the UK and beyond
NEWS AND STORIES The latest news and stories from the Army’s national charity
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LEAVE A GIFT IN YOUR WILL Help ensure a lifetime of support for people like Jamie and his family
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WELCOME
FRONTLINE
W ELCOME FROM TH E CHI EF EX ECUTIV E
THE MAGAZINE OF ABF THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY AUTUMN/WINTER 2021
ISSUE 24
REMEMBERING NATIONAL SERVICE MEMORIES OF A PEACETIME CONSCRIPT
This year, we are continuing to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of National Service. Between 1948 and 1960, a generation of young men were conscripted into the Armed Forces, with the last National Servicemen leaving the forces in 1963. You can read more about the mass militarisation of British youth on page 18, including testimony from some of the men who served.
TEN YEARS OF THE CATERAN YOMP
COVER IMAGE
Former National Serviceman Ray Pearson, pictured at the Royal Hospital Chelsea (Em Fitzgerald Photography).
FRONTLINE ISSUE 24
First published 2021. © ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. While every effort is made to check the information in Frontline, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions.
EDITOR
Lizzie Stephens
SPECIAL THANKS Alan Armour Ron Bicheno Edward Bridge George Brown Harold Cooper Derek Higby David Lyall Thomas Lyall Ray Pearson Barry Wynne
DESIGN AND ART DIRECTION OneAgency.co
ABF THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY 12 Elizabeth Street London SW1W 9RB T: 020 7901 8900 E: info@soldierscharity.org
In September, we were delighted to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Cateran Yomp, with hundreds of hardy supporters converging on the Scottish Highlands for a 24-hour, 54-mile hike through the Cairngorms (page 12). Since then, we have seen a gradual return to our normal wide range of events, including two fantastic Frontline Walks on the Normandy beaches and the Western Front and a moving concert in Exeter Cathedral. We are so grateful to every member of our community who has supported us so steadfastly over the past 18 difficult months. You can read more about our work for the Army family throughout the issue, including programmes and services we are funding throughout the UK and beyond (page 6). As I depart the charity, after approaching ten years of fascinating work, I hand over to Maj Gen (Ret’d) Tim Hyams who I know will be a
cracking Chief Executive. I leave with many wonderful memories and experiences – but front and centre is my gratitude to all those who have supported the charity over that period. We are tremendously lucky in drawing help from such a wide array of loyal people: whether for fundraising, other support or just advice – of which I have received plenty over the years! I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
MAJOR GENERAL (RET’D) MARTIN RUTLEDGE CB OBE CHIEF EXECUTIVE, ABF THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY
YOUR SUPPORT
HOW YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A D IFFERENCE Your support enables us to be here for the Army family when it matters most. Here are some of the ways your generosity changes lives.
YOU’RE SUPPORTING
INDEPENDENT LIVING Image by Em Fitzgerald Photography
From electric wheelchairs for injured veterans to specialist play equipment for disabled children, we’re here to help the Army family live independently. Thanks to supporters like you, we can award life-changing grants to veterans such as Darren, whose arthritis left him confined to the house until we paid to level his patio, enabling him to access the garden again.
ELDERLY CARE We promise to be here for soldiers, for life. We’re on hand to help with a range of needs, from assisting with care home fees and annuities to funding care providers like Care For Veterans in Worthing, where World War Two veteran Len and his fellow residents enjoy expert care and support.
Image by Em Fitzgerald Photography
YOU’RE ASSISTING WITH
YOU’RE HELPING WITH
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Image by Em Fitzgerald Photography
EMPLOYMENT Your generosity helps former soldiers find rewarding careers after service. We’re absolutely committed to ensuring veterans can use their unique skills and experiences in the civilian world. That’s why we award individual employment grants and work in partnership with organisations like The Poppy Factory, which is supporting Afghanistan veteran Norris on his journey back into employment.
FRONTLINE
YOU’RE SUPPORTING
Image by Em Fitzgerald Photography
MENTAL FITNESS We work hard to ensure the Army family can stay mentally fit and well. From assisting with counselling for PTSD, anxiety and depression to funding organisations that deliver frontline services, we’re here to ensure support is available for those in need. Thanks to supporters like you, we can help young veterans such as Donna on their journeys back to mental fitness.
YOU’RE HELPING We’re here for Army families when the going gets tough – whether that involves illness, injury, family separation or financial hardship. Last year, we teamed up with three other charities to provide a specialist £12,000 trike for Jamie, the disabled son of a Royal Signals veteran, so he could enjoy the outdoors with his family. You can read more about his story on page 34.
Image by Em Fitzgerald Photography
ARMY FAMILIES
YOU’RE ASSISTING WITH Image by Em Fitzgerald Photography
HOUSING We firmly believe in the right to a safe home. Your support means we can act quickly for those in need, which makes all the difference to veterans such as Paul who lost his home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our assistance meant he was able to start a new life in permanent accommodation with his beloved dog, Wee Jock.
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OUR IMPACT
PROGRAMMES AND SERVICES As well as our individual grants, we also fund organisations and charities that help the Army family in the UK and overseas. Here are just some of the 43 programmes and services we funded last year, thanks to supporters like you.
W E S T MIDL AN DS
FISHER HOUSE Our grant funds the Wellington Room at Fisher House, where Army families can stay while their loved ones are being treated at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.
IN TERNATI O NAL
ROYAL COMMONWEALTH EX-SERVICES LEAGUE Our ongoing partnership provides two meals a day for Commonwealth veterans and their spouses living in hardship, in recognition of their service to Britain.
N ATI O NAL
OUT OF SCHOOL ADVENTURES We are working with the Army Welfare Service to organise holidays for children aged eight to 16 with a parent in the Forces. The project, which we successfully secured LIBOR funding for, will be led by trained staff, and include activities such as sport, music, arts and crafts.
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S O U T HE R N E N G L AN D
DEFENCE MEDICAL WELFARE SERVICE We are working with the DMWS to deliver a bespoke welfare service for Armed Forces personnel and their families in 11 NHS Trusts across Southern England.
WAL E S
ALABARÉ Our funding for Alabaré provides accommodation and support to vulnerable and homeless veterans in Wales and South West England.
FRONTLINE SC OTLAND
BRAVEHOUND Our funding for Bravehound provides trained companion dogs for veterans living with mental health conditions, including PTSD.
N O R T H E AS T
CHANGING LIVES We are continuing to support Changing Lives, which helps veterans with a range of issues, including substance dependency, homelessness and unemployment. Our grant supports the Bibby House site, which provides supported accommodation for ten veterans in Gateshead.
NORTH WEST
BROUGHTON HOUSE We are longstanding funders of Broughton House, which provides nursing and residential care for veterans and their families from Greater Manchester and across the North West.
E AS T MIDL AN DS
HIGHGROUND Our support for HighGround provides horticultural therapy and skills development for soldiers receiving treatment at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Stanford Hall.
S O U T H E AS T
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION INDUSTRIES Over the past three years, we have awarded £1m to build the new community centre at the heart of the RBLI Centenary Village in Aylesford. When it opens, the village will provide accommodation and support for disabled veterans and their families.
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Army Reservist Murray Kerr won first place in our 2021 Photo Competition with his dynamic image ‘Jumpers’, which depicts officer cadets in training. You can buy our 2022 calendar, featuring our top 12 images, by visiting soldierscharityshop.org
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NEWS
T HE L ATEST NEWS A N D S TORIES FROM TH E A R MY’S NAT IONA L CHARIT Y CHARITY MOTORCYCLE RIDE In September, our East Anglia team proudly hosted the charity’s first Motorcycle Ride, raising £5,000 for the Army family. 200 riders and passengers from across the UK took part on bikes of all shapes, sizes, makes and models. Departing the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience in Hinckley, they took off for a 37-mile ride, accompanied by an escort from Leicestershire Police complete with flashing lights and police outriders.
We were also joined by members of The British Army Motorcycle Road Race Team; the Fire Service, who provided first responder assistance; Biker Down UK; and Leicestershire and Rutland Blood Bikes. There was an amazing atmosphere throughout the day, with riders enjoying the ride in glorious sunshine and the chance to socialise. For many, it was their first big event since the start of the pandemic and it was a pleasure to be in the company of so many people again.
OUR NEXT MOTORCYCLE RIDE WILL TAKE PLACE ON SUNDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER 2022 Email eastanglia@soldierscharity.org to find out more.
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NEWS
DEENE PARK RECEPTION RAISES £10,000 Deene Park, the beautiful seat and home of the Brudenell family, was the setting of our Northamptonshire Committee’s first live event since the pandemic. The evening brought Lord Lieutenants (past and present), County Mayoresses and a host of supporters out in large numbers to raise an impressive £10,000 for the Army family. The cocktails and atmosphere proved so enticing that the evening lasted twice as long as planned. Highlights included the auction, with a host of fabulous prizes including a guided tour of Naseby Battlefield Project by Chairman Mark Linnell and Jon CourtneyThomas. The Naseby tour, which combined Mark and Jon’s intimate knowledge, excellent mapping and a weaponry demonstration, may prove one of the committee’s all-time most popular prizes. Many thanks to our Northamptonshire Chairman Lieutenant Colonel Richard Evans and the organising committee for their brilliant efforts.
PADDLE FOR POUNDS Over four days in August, our Ambassadors Rick Clement and Mark Harding paddled a Canadian Canoe around the Cheshire Ring – a 99-mile circuit of the canal network in Cheshire – to raise money for the Army family. They were supported along the way by soldiers from their former regiment, The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, charity staff and members of the public. Both former soldiers were seriously wounded on operations in Afghanistan in 2010, but have not allowed their injuries to stand in the way of their goals. Huge congratulations to Rick and Mark for their incredible achievement and for raising over £5,000 for soldiers, former soldiers and their families in need.
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FEATURE
CATERAN YOMP T ENTH
AN N I V ER SA RY This September saw the tenth anniversary of the Cateran Yomp, with hundreds of supporters trekking 54 miles across the Scottish Highlands for soldiers, former soldiers and their families. The Yomp is Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event – a gruelling, 54-mile, 24-hour trek along the historic Cateran Trail in Perthshire. After the unfortunate delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff, volunteers and supporters anticipated the launch of this year’s event more than ever before. Raising an incredible £400,000 for the Army family, our Yompers really did us proud, braving the elements and battling fatigue as they trekked the challenging route through day and night. Here are some of our top highlights from the event.
This year’s winner, Eddie Towler from West Yorkshire, finished the 54-mile route in a record nine hours and 53 minutes. The 53-year-old veteran of The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment has been a champion fundraiser for our charity this year, having been inspired by the efforts of fellow veteran Captain Sir Tom Moore. Eddie was also the Yomp’s top fundraiser, managing to collect almost £7,000 for our charity.
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Image by Ed Smith Photography
SMASHING THE RECORD
FRONTLINE
“ THERE ARE SOME REALLY NASTY HILLS OUT THERE. IT WAS EMOTIONAL BUT I REALLY ENJOYED IT.” EDDIE TOWLER, FIRST PLACE WINNER
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Image by Ed Smith Photography
FEATURE
“ AFTER A TURBULENT 18 MONTHS, THE YOMP WAS A TOUGH BUT IMMENSELY WORTHWHILE CHALLENGE.”
HONEYMOON IN THE HIGHLANDS Another highlight of the 2021 Yomp was seeing two newlyweds from Fife, Emma Adams and husband Andy, take part in the charity event as part of their honeymoon. Emma said: “We just wanted to do something completely different and walking is something we both enjoy. We also wanted to raise money for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, which is just an amazing charity.”
GLOBAL FOOTPRINTS It’s always fantastic to meet Yompers from not only all walks of life, but also from all across the world! Guy Houston, 60, travelled all the way from California to take on the Cateran Yomp. We’re thrilled that the event brings people together, providing them with an opportunity to explore the Scottish countryside while raising vital funds for the Army family. Guy said: “I do a lot of hiking in California and set my heart on the Cateran Yomp after seeing it online. It was fantastic to finally get here and walk the trail.”
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Image by Ed Smith Photography
MARTIN RUTLEDGE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE
FRONTLINE
A YOMP TO REMEMBER This year’s Cateran Yomp was a truly amazing adventure for all those involved. As we looked back on ten years of growth and change – not to mention obstacles faced during the COVID-19 pandemic! – it was incredible to find ourselves back in the Scottish wilderness, surrounded by everyone who helped us bring the Yomp back to life. Our Chief Executive Major General (Ret’d) Martin Rutledge, reflected: “After a turbulent 18 months, we were delighted to celebrate the tenth ever Cateran Yomp this weekend, a tough but immensely worthwhile challenge for all.”
Image by Ed Smith Photography
We would like to thank everyone who worked hard to make this year’s Cateran Yomp a reality, helping us to fulfil our promise of being here for soldiers, former soldiers and their families for life.
BRENDA HALE, YOMP AMBASSADOR We were delighted to welcome Brenda Hale as our 2021 Yomp Ambassador. Brenda lost her husband, Captain Mark Hale, in Afghanistan in 2009. Our charity supported Brenda and her daughters, Tori and Alix, during this tragic time, and they have since become passionate advocates and supporters of our charity. Brenda says: “This was my first Yomp and the motivation, determination and enthusiasm of the participants has been truly inspiring. It’s also been both emotional and uplifting sharing my own story and I’d like to thank all of the fundraisers for their amazing support.”
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One in four adults experience mental illness, and many more of us know and care for people who do. Talking openly about how we feel can help. This is where the Medicine Ball Challenge comes in. Created by two serving soldiers who have seen their families and friends struggle with mental health, the Medicine Ball Challenge is about starting conversations – encouraging people to speak freely about mental health while undertaking a 7-day challenge. The challenge involves cuffing a 3kg medicine ball to your wrist for seven days. It may not sound that heavy, but being chained to the medicine ball continuously for a week is a significant burden. The ball becomes a physical, visual and tangible representation of the invisible burden of mental illness that so many of us can experience. The aim of the Medicine Ball Challenge is to raise awareness and encourage people to talk openly. It’s about creating powerful conversations. Taking part in this challenge could be transformative; and will definitely help ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and Combat Stress continue to support those in difficulty. Learn more about the challenge and sign up on our website: medicineballchallenge.co.uk
“The challenge was great. It was a fantastic way to show the impact of how mental health can wear you down and be physically draining. By the end of the challenge carrying the ball around felt like a huge burden – exactly what stress, anxiety and depression can be like” Luke, Scotland
FEATURE
National Servicemen being instructed in drill procedure at the Scots Guards depot (IWM).
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FRONTLINE
NAT IONA L SERVICE REM EM BERED Between 1948 and 1963, over two million British men were conscripted into the Armed Forces.
During World War Two, the British Armed Forces had relied on conscription to fill its ranks. However, the end of the war in 1945 did not bring an end to Britain’s military commitments abroad. In 1948, the National Service Act introduced a standardised form of peacetime conscription to meet this need. For young men growing up in post-war Britain, National Service was a shared, if not universal, experience. For some it was a time of opportunity and adventure; for others, an unwanted and tedious intrusion. Some National Servicemen, especially those deployed on an operational tour, would carry their experiences with them forever. What was National Service? All able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 30 were required to undertake 18 months mandatory service in the Armed Forces, rising to two years in 1950. They then remained on a reserve list for four years. By the time the last soldiers left National Service in 1963, over two million men had been conscripted. Overwhelmingly, these recruits served in the British Army, though smaller numbers joined the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.
Who was exempt? Clergymen, men in overseas positions and those with physical and mental disabilities were all exempt from National Service. There were also three reserved occupations: coal mining, farming and the Merchant Navy. To avoid civil unrest, men in Northern Ireland were also excluded from National Service, and despite the high levels of immigration to Britain in the 1950s, only a few hundred Black and Asian British men were called up. What was its purpose? In 1945, Britain remained a world power with military commitments across the globe, including in Europe, Asia and Africa. This required an Armed Forces larger than that which voluntary recruitment could provide. Troops were needed to maintain a presence in Britain’s diminishing empire; to provide a garrison force in occupied Germany and Japan; and to be available for immediate deployment, notably in the counterinsurgency campaigns in Malaya (now Malaysia), Kenya and Cyprus.
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FEATURE
A National Serviceman’s kit laid out on a barrack bed ready for inspection, 1955 (NAM).
Members of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers enjoy a break in their duties at Tobruk Camp in the Canal Zone, 1953 (NAM).
Members of Number 47 GHQ Survey Squadron, Royal Engineers, homeward bound from Suez on the SS ‘Dilwara’, May 1954 (NAM).
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FRONTLINE
Where did National Servicemen serve? After six weeks of training, National Servicemen could be posted to garrisons around the UK or overseas. Some were used in combat operations, including the Malayan Emergency, the Cyprus Emergency, the Mau Mau Uprising, the Suez Crisis and the Korean War. For many, this was their first experience of travelling abroad. National Servicemen who deployed on combat operations were thrust into sudden danger. Young men with limited training found themselves on the frontline of guerrilla wars; or coping with riots and civil wars. Between 1947 and 1963, 395 National Servicemen were killed on active service. Why did National Service end? By the late 1950s, National Service had become increasingly obsolete. The Suez Crisis had forced Britain to confront the reality that it was no longer a world superpower, while new technologies such as nuclear weapons rendered a large force ineffective. National Service was also unpopular. It drained large numbers of workers from the economy, drawing resentment from many quarters and harming post-war reconstruction. It was also opposed by many senior figures within the Armed Forces, who favoured a volunteer, professional force to meet the challenges of modern warfare. In 1957, the government announced the end of National Service, with the last call ups taking place in 1960. The last National Servicemen left the Army in 1963.
National Service recruits off duty in a NAAFI (IWM).
Members of ‘A’ Squadron 15th/19th Kings Royal Hussars aboard their Daimler armoured cars during the Queen’s Birthday Parade in Penang, 1957 (NAM).
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FEATURE
M EMOR IES OF A P E ACE TI ME CO NSCRI P T For a generation of young men growing up in post-war Britain, National Service was a right of passage. Here, we speak to nine former National Servicemen about their experiences. Their accounts span almost two decades, from the end of World War Two to the dawn of the 1960s cultural revolution.
Former National Servicemen Ray Pearson, David Lyall, Ron Bicheno, Thomas Lyall and Derek Higby all live at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, one of 43 organisations we were proud to support last year.
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FRONTLINE
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FEATURE
DAVID ‘ALAN’ ARMOUR ROYAL MILITARY POLICE 1946-1948 Originally from Sunderland, Alan was called up for National Service shortly after World War Two, when the National Service (Armed Forces) Act 1939 was still in force. He joined the Royal Military Police and was posted to Glasgow, where his duties involved cargo guarding, traffic control and the boarding and disembarking of troops. On one occasion, he was stationed at the top of the gangway when the troops onboard began to protest, shouting: “We want off this ship!” A scuffle ensued and Alan lost his cap overboard as the men came charging towards him. Fortunately, some of the NCOs intervened before the incident escalated further, but the following morning Alan awoke to
find his picture in the Telegraph. Alan recalls feeling sorry for the men, as conditions aboard were not good and the ship was bound for Malaya. Alan went on to serve in Berlin and Belfast before his National Service ended in 1948. In later life, Alan emigrated to Zimbabwe, where he worked for a company selling motorcar repairs. He remained in Zimbabwe after retirement but lost his savings and pension during the period of hyperinflation. Through our partnership with the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services league, we assist Alan with an annual grant towards his living costs, which has recently enabled him to access radiotherapy treatment for cancer.
THROUGH OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH EX-SERVICES LEAGUE, WE ASSIST ALAN WITH AN ANNUAL GRANT TOWARDS HIS LIVING COSTS, WHICH HAS RECENTLY ENABLED HIM TO ACCESS RADIOTHERAPY TREATMENT FOR CANCER.
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FRONTLINE
HAROLD ‘H’ COOPER ROYAL WARWICKSHIRE REGIMENT 1948-1950 Born in Shropshire in 1928, H’s father was a World War One veteran who died when he was very small. H recalls that his mother struggled financially after his father’s death and was left “taking in clothes” to support her three young children. H enjoyed his time at school and went on to teacher training college before following his father into the Army for his National Service. He wanted to join the infantry, but his qualifications meant he was placed in the Education Corps. He was posted to Germany and tasked
with teaching English to soldiers: “I remember driving through the Ruhr when I first got to Germany. It was just rubble – you couldn’t see a house for miles.” H loved his time in the Army, but left after completing his two years mandatory service so that his widowed mother could draw his Army pension. He forged a career in teaching, going on to become a headteacher and marrying his wife, Evelyn, in 1955. Now in his nineties, H lives at Royal Star & Garter, one of 43 charities we funded last year.
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FEATURE
GEORGE BROWN KING’S LIVERPOOL REGIMENT 1952-1953 Born in Westminster in 1934, George was called up for National Service shortly after his 18th birthday: “It was just something you had to do. We didn’t know anything different.” After six months training in Northern Ireland, he transferred to the King’s Liverpool Regiment and deployed to fight in the Korean War. George was the only survivor of a four-man patrol that was ambushed while on a standing patrol: “There must have been hundreds of them, and just four of us. They annihilated us.” He was shot 15 times and used his arms to crawl across the paddy fields to safety. He was rescued by
his friend Peter – “the bravest chap I ever knew” – and taken to a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, where medics worked tirelessly to save his leg. After months of treatment, he was evacuated to the UK to continue his recovery. After the war, George retrained as a driver – eventually becoming Head Driver at the Foreign Office and even meeting Winston Churchill. He still lives with the result of his injuries – but believes the secret to life is a good sense of humour. Today, he and his wife Anne live in accommodation provided by Stoll, one of 43 charities we proudly fund.
TODAY, GEORGE AND HIS WIFE ANNE LIVE IN ACCOMMODATION PROVIDED BY STOLL, ONE OF 43 CHARITIES WE PROUDLY FUND.
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FRONTLINE
RON BICHENO ROYAL MILITARY POLICE AND ROYAL LEICESTERSHIRE REGIMENT 1950-1952 Born in Twickenham in 1932, Ron was called up for National Service in 1950. He was sent to the RASC Recruitment Barracks at Aldershot, recalling: “Soon you were sorry you’d ever been born, it seemed nobody liked new recruits in the Army!” After basic training, the six-foot-one Ron was selected for the Military Police and posted to Singapore, where he was swiftly rebadged to the Royal Leicestershire Regiment and posted to Hong Kong for infantry training. “I’m of a suspicious nature, and I had a feeling something was going on as we were doing mountain climbing and beach landings.” His suspicions were well-founded, as it wasn’t long before he was on a ship bound for Korea. After further training in Pusan, the regiment travelled inland to a mountain side, where they were instructed to dig in. “That turned out to be our baptism of fire, because there was a battle raging in the distance. It turned out to be the King’s Own Scottish Borderers under heavy attack. Our job was to counter-attack during the night.”
The attack by Chinese forces was later termed ‘Charlie Chinaman’s Gunpowder Plot’ by the British press, because it took place on Bonfire Night. “It’s a period of my life I’ll never forget. We were taking quite a hammering, but it became the norm. The noise, smell of death and cordite – but above all the cold winds, snow and temperatures of -40.” Ron vividly recalls being led out by an officer to recover the bodies of two soldiers who had been killed during an ambush. “The look of those bodies has been with me all my life, especially one. I used to call him Babyface because he had a young schoolboy’s face. Of course, I suppose we looked the same to him. My friend and I carried him back up the mountain on a stretcher and at one point he fell into my arms. I’ll never forget that.” Ron remained in the regular Army until 1952, afterwards volunteering for the Army Emergency Reserve where he stayed until 1956. He married and spent many years working at Kew Gardens. Ron moved to the Royal Hospital Chelsea in October 2020.
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FEATURE
DEREK HIGBY ROYAL ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERS 1953-1955 Derek was born in Bethnal Green in June 1935. His father served during World War Two, initially in the Ordnance Corps, before transferring to the newly formed Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) in 1942. In 1953, the 18-year-old Derek was called up for National Service. He followed his father into the REME and trained as a Storeman and Coach Trimmer at Blandford. “After six to eight weeks’ training you came out completely different. You were disciplined.” In January 1954, Derek was posted to the Canal Zone in Egypt, where he was attached to a Royal Army Service Corps unit. At that time, the Suez Canal was a vital conduit for Middle Eastern oil and trade with the Far East, and Britain’s presence was bitterly contested. Regular attacks by Egyptian nationalists, coupled with disease and the harsh climate, combined to make the Canal Zone one of the most unpopular Army postings. Derek says: “The first year, we weren’t allowed out of the camp because it was too dangerous. If
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we went anywhere, we had to be escorted.” Tensions eased after October 1954, when Britain signed an agreement to end the occupation. “Everything quietened down and there weren’t so many attacks. You were allowed out more. They arranged for a party of us to go and visit the pyramids and the Sphinx, including going inside the pyramids.” Derek remained in the Canal Zone for the rest of his National Service. “I was mostly a vehicle mechanic and helping in the store room. I learnt to drive motorbikes, jeeps and HGVs. One thing about the Army was that it taught you things.” He was demobbed in September 1955. Derek enjoyed his National Service: “If I hadn’t had a girlfriend, the odds are I might have signed on!” After discharge, he spent over three years in the Army Emergency Reserve at Woolwich Arsenal, alongside working for the Post Office and latterly for Westminster Council. He has lived at the Royal Hospital Chelsea since 2016.
FRONTLINE THOMAS LYALL 11TH HUSSARS AND 15TH/19TH THE KING’S ROYAL HUSSARS 1958-1960 Thomas was born in London in 1937 and has strong memories of the Blitz. “Father worked as an accountant during the day, but at night he would patrol our area as an ARP warden, making sure people were alright. David and I used to sleep under the stairs with mother.” The brothers were evacuated with their mother to live with their grandparents before joining their father in Cheltenham.
DAVID LYALL ROYAL SIGNALS AND INTELLIGENCE CORPS 1956-1958 David was born the eldest of two brothers in 1932. His parents were both Scottish, but had met and settled in London after World War One. His father relocated the family to Cheltenham to escape the Blitz in 1941. David was a late entrant to National Service, having first undertaken five years’ training as a solicitor. “It was something everyone had to do, so you made the best of it. I asked to go into the Royal Signals as I’d always had an interest in radio and telecommunications.” After his aptitude for languages was noticed, David was sent to Crail in Fife to train as a Russian translator, and was rebadged to the Intelligence Corps.
In June 1958, Thomas followed his brother into the Army for his National Service. Prior to enlistment, he had been a motor mechanic and was initially badged RAC to train with 11th Hussars and sent to Hadrian’s Camp Carlisle, where he was trained to drive Armoured Fighting Vehicles. He served with them for 16 months, principally in Carlisle, before moving to 15th/19th Hussars in September 1958. In October 1959 the regiment moved to Barnard Castle, County Durham. He was one of very few National Servicemen to be transferred from Carlisle to Omagh in Northern Ireland, where he spent nine months undertaking border patrols. He was eventually demobbed in 1960. Thomas enjoyed his National Service, but was eager to return home to his family and his career in motor engineering until joining the aircraft industry. “A Captain once asked me if I’d ever thought of signing on. I said: ‘No, sir. My heart is in Civvy Street.” He and David are glad to have done National Service and believe it has given them a shared experience with others in the Army. “Although we only did two years, we can still relate to the regulars. We’ve always been comfortable in the company of ex-servicemen.”
“We were all moved to GCHQ in Cheltenham for special intelligence duties training. After that, most were deployed to listening posts in Berlin and other places. I only had a few months’ service left so I stayed at GCHQ, reading the transcripts that were sent through from their monitoring of Russian positions and trying to work out the intelligence implications.” David was demobbed in 1958 and worked for over 50 years as a solicitor. Reflecting on his time doing National Service, he says: “My brother Thomas and I both did interesting and useful things. It gave us a lifelong interest in the Army and military affairs.” In 2012, the brothers were the first National Servicemen to enter the Royal Hospital Chelsea, where they are affectionately known as ‘The Lyall Brothers’.
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FEATURE
RAY PEARSON ROYAL ENGINEERS 1957-1959 Ray was born in 1936 in a cottage hospital on Shooter’s Hill, South East London. “I was born on the bathroom floor. The matron was sacked because she had abandoned my mother and gone to pick blackberries with the staff!” His father was a Sergeant in the Special Constabulary and volunteered for the Military Police during World War Two. His father, who managed a tailors shop and was a Sergeant in the Special Constabulary, volunteered for the Military Police during World War Two. “My mother went berserk, because he’d just recovered from six months in hospital with pneumonia!” Ray was educated at a technical boarding school before taking up a plumbing apprenticeship. This meant his National Service was deferred until he turned 21. “It was the last thing I wanted to do. I’d lived in a dormitory with other boys so the thought of going into a billet didn’t bother me – I just didn’t want my life interrupted.”
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In August 1957, Ray was badged to the Royal Engineers and sent to Guillemot Barracks at Cove, near Farnborough, for basic training with 3 Training Regiment. As one of the top three recruits in his cohort, he was retained as a CADRE Training NCO and remained at Cove for his mandatory two years. “I enjoyed it, because we were doing things like bridgebuilding, watermanship, demolition and explosives. As a CADRE Training NCO, people didn’t always like you but it was a job you had to do.” Ray was discharged in August 1959 with the rank of Corporal. After he was demobbed, Ray briefly returned to the plumbing trade. “The Army set me on my future career, because I realised I wanted to teach.” He spent six years as a plumbing and construction lecturer at his former school, before becoming a technical journalist. He later held senior positions in journalism, marketing and communications and is a life member of the National Union of Journalists. He became a Chelsea Pensioner in 2013.
FRONTLINE
ELYSIUM, OR THE LONG FAREWELL He lay and watched the moon pass by And from his lips a mournful sigh. No more those sights and sounds of home; No more those fields and woods to roam. He would not see his mother’s face Or know her care and warm embrace. He would not watch his brother ride, Or see his father by his side.
EDWARD BRIDGE ROYAL ARTILLERY 1959-1961 Born in 1939, Edward was working for Lloyds Bank when he was called up for National Service. After basic training and Mons OCS he joined 22 Regt RA in Pembroke Dock. He was not deployed on operational tour, recalling “It was all quiet in those days – Cold War.” Edward has many happy memories of National Service, but some boring and unpleasant ones too. “It was rather like being back at boarding school. I was sent to Rossall just after the war and it was tough. The school was run on military lines and there were plenty of beatings! Boxing was compulsory, which my mother objected to, as she said she ‘did not want me disfigured’! My Housemaster, a former Major, told her he could not allow me to be excused – and in any case it would make a man out of me. I took part in a boxing competition whilst completing my National Service and won my bout, thanks to Rossall!” Rossall has the oldest CCF in Britain and in later life Edward successfully applied to have his old school awarded the Queen’s Colours. Edward did not remain in the Army after his compulsory two years, but left to become a Chartered Accountant. Today, he is a regular Guest Speaker at his local Probus Club, and always makes a point of asking if there are any other National Servicemen in the audience. “There are always a couple and they are clearly chuffed and indeed proud. Very modest men who know all about ‘Stand By Your Beds!’
No more would hear that welcome bark, No more return when it was dark To warm himself beside the fire When having trudged through snow and mire. He knew that now it would be soon When God would call upon his soul Which he believed his final goal. A cock crowed thrice its strident cry While streaks of red stained earth and sky. The Angels passed; a soldier died. When a virginal voice from Heaven cried, “Shame! Shame! on every one of you!” But no response from our soldier dead For his spirit now slept in Elysium... Elysium! Final refuge from doubt and dread.
BARRY WYNNE
‘Elysium, or The Long Farewell’, was written by National Serviceman Barry Wynne, who served with the SAS during the Malayan Emergency and passed away earlier this year, aged 92. We are proud to share his poem, which he spent the past 50 years perfecting in tribute to fallen comrades.
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FEATURE
PERSPECTIVES B ERNARD C O RNWELL Novelist Bernard Cornwell is best known for his iconic Sharpe series, detailing the exploits of Rifleman Richard Sharpe during the Napoleonic Wars. For our latest Influencer’s Network event, we welcomed Bernard and historian Dan Snow for a talk and Q&A about the latest installment, Sharpe’s Assassin, which sees the eponymous hero return after a 15-year hiatus. DS: Why did you bring Sharpe back? BC: I really missed him. I like Sharpe enormously. I don’t know if he likes me, but I like him. I’d long harboured the wish to write at least one more Sharpe book. DS: How long is Sharpe’s service now? BC: Well, he was at Seringapatam in 1799, so up to Waterloo it’s 16 years. DS: And has Sharpe changed as you’ve changed? BC: I hope so. He was a very angry young man with a huge chip on his shoulder, but now he’s mellowed. He’s actually rather comfortable being a Lieutenant Colonel. DS: Do you look back with pride on certain books, even certain episodes in those books? BC: I do have favourites, though I shouldn’t. I like Sharpe’s Company. And I like Sharpe’s Siege. And I adore Sharpe’s Trafalgar.
Bernard Cornwell (left) and Dan Snow (right), pictured at our Influencers Network event (Em Fitzgerald Photography).
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FRONTLINE
DS: The first pages of Sharpe’s Assassin are very powerful. The aftermath of Waterloo, when he’s looking out across the battlefield. BC: I think Sharpe feels much like the Duke of Wellington felt when he wrote: “I pray to God I’ve fought my last battle.” You can never, ever imagine Napoleon saying that. I think the Duke really meant it. He’d seen enough. DS: Wellington looms quite large in this book. I like his interactions with Sharpe. BC: Sharpe has this terrible chip on his shoulder about aristocratic officers, but the one he adores is Wellington. And they share things in common. They’re both incredibly good soldiers. And they’re both incredibly competent. And Wellington recognises that in Sharpe, and Sharpe recognises it in Wellington. I have an unbounded admiration for Wellington. I think that he is an extraordinary man. DS: What would you ask Wellington if you were sitting next to him? BC: Wellington would not talk to me, because he hated authors. There would be no point in asking him anything about the battles. Somebody asked him after Waterloo whether it was true that he was taken by surprise. And he said: “Well, sir, what if I was? I won the battle. What more do you want?” And he’s right. DS: Do you visit the places you write about? BC: I have visited every single one of his battlefields and sieges. You have to. My one regret is that Wellington never defended Tahiti. DS: What is it about Sharpe and the Army of that period that interests you? BC: It’s admiration. In Sharpe’s Eagle, there is a quote in the epigraph from Samuel Johnson: “Every man thinks meanly of himself for not having been a soldier.” Well that’s me. I never was a soldier, but I admire them.
The Influencers Network brings together exmilitary and civilian professionals to celebrate good leadership. Guests connect with peers, share leadership skills and learn more about how companies can positively impact the lives of soldiers, veterans and their families. For more information, please email influencersnetwork@soldierscharity.org
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LEGACIES
GIFTS IN WILLS – HELPING ENSURE A LIFETIME OF SUPPORT FOR OUR ARMY FAMILY.
JAMIE’S STORY Seven-year-old Jamie is the youngest son of Royal Signals veteran Graham Wells and his wife Leanne. Jamie’s heartwarming story is one of bravery, dedication and patience. Over his lifetime, Jamie has spent so much time in hospital and has had to have several operations. He was born with Down’s Syndrome and cannot walk, talk or use his arms. When he was eight months old, he developed a devastating form of epilepsy which left him unable to swallow properly. Jamie has no sense of danger, so he is always at risk of injuring himself – something that is becoming harder to manage as he grows older. Thanks to a grant provided by ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, the Wells family were able to buy a protective sleeping tent that fits on top of any bed and prevents Jamie from falling out and hurting himself.
Looking after Jamie is a full-time, round-the-clock job and, as he grows, there will be bigger challenges ahead. Thanks to Gifts in Wills, the future looks bright for the Wells family. Army veteran Graham served with the Royal Signals for 10 years in countries all over the world, during which time he faced many challenges. But in his role as a husband and father, he had a whole new set of challenges to deal with; adjusting to civilian life whilst supporting his family and caring for a son with complex medical needs.
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Jamie’s mum, Leanne, has a number of specialist teams overseeing his complex health conditions and it’s her job to manage his diary and juggle all his appointments. Inspired by the occupational therapists she has met throughout Jamie’s life, Leanne is now studying to become an occupational therapist herself and is part way through a four-year course. She has only been able to move into this rewarding new career thanks to bursaries from ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. Being able to do things together means everything to the Wells family. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity was able to provide Jamie with a grant to buy a specially adapted trike that attaches to his mum’s bike and supports him safely, meaning they can now enjoy the great outdoors together. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, they feel safe in the knowledge their Army Family will be there for them for life.
FRONTLINE
YOUR WILL WRITING CHECKLIST Everyone should have an up-to-date will, no matter how old they are, especially as it’s so easy to make one. Use this handy checklist as a reminder of the most important points to consider when writing a will. Choose a solicitor. If you don’t have one, please get in touch to find out about our FREE will writing service. Who would you like to include in your will? Who should be the executor of your will? Who would you like to be the guardian of your children? Who will look after your pets?
We are fully committed to supporting the families of those who have served their country. We promise to be there for them whenever they face challenging times. Will you be there, too? If you want to make a difference to the lives of others and leave a lasting legacy, please consider leaving us a gift in your will.
What are your wishes for your funeral? Would you like to remember ABF The Soldiers’ Charity in your will? If your circumstances or financial situation change, update your will accordingly. Keep a copy safe and let your executors know where it is.
To discuss how you can provide a lasting legacy of support to the Army Family, please get in touch: Call: 020 7901 8912 Email: legacies@soldierscharity.org
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THANK YOU In recent months the charity has said goodbye to several long-serving volunteers and members of staff. A special thank you must go to Major General (Ret’d) Martin Rutledge, who retired in November after almost a decade as our Chief Executive. Following a distinguished 39-year career in the Army, Martin steered the charity through some interesting waters, from the height of the Afghanistan campaign to the COVID-19 pandemic; and his leadership, acumen and fortitude have left the charity on an extremely strong footing – able to continue supporting the Army family
now and long into the future. We wish Martin the very best for his retirement – not that we can imagine him resting idle even for a second! We would also like to offer our deepest thanks to Colonel (Ret’d) Peter Cook, who retired as Chairman of our Kent Committee in August. Peter has been an outstanding supporter of our charity for many years, having previously served as Regional Director for the South East. We are extremely grateful to Peter for his contribution to our charity’s work, and send best wishes for his retirement.
CONTACT DETAILS HEAD OFFICE T. 02079 018 912 E. supportercare@soldierscharity.org W. soldierscharity.org EAST ANGLIA T. 01206 817 105 E. eastanglia@soldierscharity.org EAST MIDLANDS T. 01159 572 103 E. eastmidlands@soldierscharity.org LONDON T. 02039 036 030 E. london@soldierscharity.org NORTHERN IRELAND T. 02892 678 112 E. ni@soldierscharity.org
NORTH EAST T. 01748 874 127 E. northeast@soldierscharity.org NORTH WEST T. 01772 260 356 E. northwest@ soldierscharity.org SCOTLAND T. 0131 310 5132 E. scotland@soldierscharity.org SOUTH EAST T. 01276 412 673 T. 01276 412 603 E. southeast@soldierscharity.org
SOUTH WEST T. 01980 672 337 (Bulford office) T. 01392 496 412 (Exeter office) E. southwest@soldierscharity.org WALES T. 02920 726 132 E. wales@soldierscharity.org WEST MIDLANDS T. 01952 674 369 E. westmidlands@soldierscharity.org UNITED STATES The Soldiers Fund T. 001 617 435 2332 E. info@britishsoldiersfund.org
CHARITY DETAILS ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420) and Scotland (SC039189) and registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (07974609).
The Army’s National Charity