Ajax New Past up For

NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2018

CONTENTS Committee Details Chairman's Report Secretary's Remarks South America Trip 2019 Update Membership Secretary's Report Frank Burton's 100th Birthday Standard Bearer Report Armistice Remembrance Events Book Reviews Ajax Election Results & Mayor's Presentation The Loyal Toast – To Sit or Not? 2018 Reunion Weekend Report Battle of Coronel Archivist Report Newsletter Editor's Comments

SEPARATE PAGES 2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES INCLUDING BALANCE SHEET YEAR ENDING 30/8/2017

1935 - 48 1963 - 85 Nec Quisquam Nisi Ajax www.hmsajax.org 2. 3.

CHAIRMAN reports were that the trip went very well as did the evening meal. Nigel Masters It would be fantastic to see a record number of attendees for next year's 80th Anniversary The Lookout Golden Cross Terrace Reunion; if you have not been before or not for a long time I thoroughly recommend it - Isle of Station Road, Swineshead Wight Tours do provide an excellent service. Boston, Lincolnshire PE20 3LP Tel: 01205 820127 Malcolm continues to liaise with embassies, ambassadors, and Mobile: 07743 381153 consulates in Chile, Uruguay and Argentina arranging and [email protected] planning the 80th anniversary trip next year; having seen a rough draft of the itinerary it looks very exciting. SECRETARY Peter Danks As I am writing this it is 9th November and the country is 104 Kelsey Avenue www.hmsajax.org preparing for Remembrance Sunday, the 100th anniversary of Southbourne, Emsworth the Armistice. The sixth HMS Ajax saw action during the Hampshire PO10 8NQ [email protected] Tel: 01243 371947 conflict at the Battle of Jutland in 1916 and mainly served in [email protected] the North Sea area.

MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN'S REMARKS 440,000 British sailors died during the First World War, of SECRETARY course nothing like the numbers of soldiers who perished on Mrs Judi Collis Hello to you All. It has been several weeks since the Reunion land but nevertheless still far too many; a high number were The Bewicks, Station Road in Plymouth. For those of us who attended I hope you “Own Goals” either though incompetence or design flaws. Life Ten Mile Bank, Norfolk PE38 0EY enjoyed it as much as Janet and I did. The Hotel was situated appeared to be very cheap then. Tel: 01366 377945 in just the right place for shops, pubs etc. and would have Mobile: 07736 929641 been for the service on the Hoe but common sense prevailed LEST WE FORGET [email protected] and we held the service in the hotel because of the bad By the time you read this it will be a few weeks before Christmas so I wish you all a Very Merry weather. TREASURER Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year. Ian Darbyshire On the Saturday afternoon, Janet and I had planned to visit 28 Antony Road, Torpoint, One last thing hot off the press - archaeologists in Egypt have just discovered a mummy covered the Maritime museum along with most of our group but a Cornwall PL11 2JR in chocolate and nuts - they believe it to be a Pharaoh Rocher! Tel: 01752 815789 problem arose; Malcolm had kindly given me a list of [email protected] attendees and I had prepared my first after dinner speech [Editor's note – this is actually one of Nigel's better jokes] accordingly but upon arrival there was quite a list of people ARCHIVIST/WEBMASTER/ Nigel Masters Chairman NEWSLETTER EDITOR who were not attending and some new ones to add, so I spent Malcolm Collis two hours on the Saturday afternoon rewriting the speech! The Bewicks, Station Road Ten Mile Bank, Norfolk PE38 0EY The night was a resounding success from the start; “Up- SECRETARY'S REMARKS Tel: 01366 377945 Spirits”, what would we do without our Rum Bosuns? The [email protected] Dinner was very pleasant, the raffle expertly run by Alan May I take this opportunity to wish all members a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy Phillips as usual and hopefully my speech was acceptable - New Year. Members will see the results of the recent elections in the town of Ajax in this MERCHANDISE OFFICER some of you might have detected a slight nervousness on my newsletter. We were aware that Mayor Steve Parish was retiring and we marked this event with a Michael Fox presentation of a silver salver which Debbie Steer made on our behalf. On behalf of the 6 Brown Hill behalf! The entertainment was just what we needed although Southwell, Portland on my table we were disappointed we didn't have a rendition Association I have written to congratulate Mayor Shaun Collier and Joanne Dies on their election. Dorset DT5 2ED of “Billy Don't Be a Hero” as the Singer was an ex-member In addition I have written to Pat Brown and Colleen Jordan expressing our disappointment that Tel: 01305 823436 of the group Paper Lace who had the number 1 hit. they will no longer be members of the Council and thanking them both for their tremendous [email protected] support to the Association and how this is reflected whenever Association Members visit the Personally it was so good to see so many old shipmates, town. COMMITTEE MEMBER some who l had not seen for 40 years; Tommy Murray, Iain Alan (George/Phil) Phillips Dempster and Steve Bowen, all members of the victorious Looking ahead to the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the River Plate next year, I would like to 8 Orchard Way record our thanks on your behalf to Malcolm Collis for all his work in conjunction with Graham Send Hill, Send, Surrey GU23 7HS 1977 boxing squad and all reunited with Coach Alf Larkin. Tel: 01483 223299 Irwin towards the arrangements for our visit to South America next December. I hope members [email protected] On the Sunday after breakfast we held the AGM. I must will show their appreciation of their work when Malcolm calls for deposits for the visit which thank Peter and Malcolm for guiding me through the promises to be most exciting and informative. Malcolm will keep us all informed via the STANDARD BEARER meeting, again another first for me as Chairman. It was newsletter. Alf Larkin decided that we would return to Chatham for next year's Stonecleave For the many members who live in the South East, you will be pleased to note that our reunion Reunion to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle th 26 Wakeham Portland of the River Plate. We will again use the Isle of Wight Tours will be in Chatham in October 2019 over the weekend of the Friday 4 to Monday 7th. So please Dorset DT5 1HN put the date in your diaries and I look forward to catching up with you all then. Tel: 01305 457259 company to arrange everything. [email protected] Sunday afternoon was taken up with a boat trip around the We also plan to have an event at the NMA in the June. Dockyard; unfortunately Janet and I had to depart but the Peter Danks, Secretary 2. 3.

2019 SOUTH AMERICA TRIP UPDATE SOUTH AMERICA ITINERARY (as of 09/11/18) (Previously emailed out) UK: Sunday 1/12/2019 – depart LHR 2200 hrs British Airways (DIRECT 14 hour 35mins flight) Nearly 2 years ago I circulated an idea I had had, to visit South America for the 80th anniversary to: of the River Plate: December 2019 is now just a year away! CHILE [Air Canada YYZ (DIRECT 10 hours 20mins – arrive SCL 0825 hrs)] Things started slowly but the trip to South America is developing nicely thanks to the services of Santiago: Monday 2/12/2019 – arrive SCL 0935 hrs – private transfer to 4* Hotel - 3 Hour City Travel Consultant Graham Irwin (www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/graham.irwin ATOL protected Tour planned depending upon timings: [Possible evening Embassy/British Legion reception] No. 6751) who we have engaged and contacts in the three countries. The brief plan is to firstly Santiago: Tuesday 3/12/2019 – Full day trip in to Andes [Valle Navado or Cajon del Miapo] – visit Chile to commemorate the terrible earthquake in Concepción Chile in January 1939, then Private Service over to Uruguay for the actual anniversary date followed by a few days in Argentina. Below is Santiago: Wednesday 4/12/2019 – Full day trip to Vina del Mar & Valparaiso – Private Service the latest itinerary update. Santiago: Thursday 5/12/2019 – private transfer to SCL for early afternoon flight (1 hr 5 mins) to CCP Many of you have previously advised me regarding your wishes but as time has marched on and Concepción - private transfer to 3* Hotel - Walking tour of City many new members have joined us I shall repeat the process - please email or contact me and Concepción: Friday 6/12/2019 - One or more of following to be arranged – let me know if you wish to join us or not (with party number). The group discount price is Visit to Navy Station; based upon the complete UK package although Graham should be able to assist you should you Huascar visit (surviving ship of the war of the Pacific 1879 – 1883); wish to join us for part of the tour and/or from other than the UK – again, please let me know. Visit to town of Coronel (Battle of Coronel 1914) Also let me know if you are prepared to share a room. Please note that should you intend joining Reception at Club Concepción with Mayor us your personal details will be shared with Graham Irwin in due course. Graham can also help Concepción: Saturday 7/12/2019 – private transfer to CCP for hrs flight to SCL with matters such as travel to Heathrow, overnight accommodation, etc. Santiago SCL – flight to MVD depart 1549 hrs URUGUAY The visit order has changed since the original plan; so we can take part in the remembrance Montevideo: Saturday 7/12/2019 arrive MVD from SCL 1759 hrs – private transfer to 4* Hotel service on the Sunday 15th December in Buenos Aires (Langsdorff's Grave) we shall end in that Montevideo: Sunday 8/12/2019 - 3 hour City Tour country – it also means we can fly home direct. In order to do justice to the countries we shall Montevideo: Monday 9/12/2019 - Full day trip Colonia del Sacramento visit the trip is now of 17 days duration + flights. Please note that there are now direct UK Montevideo: Tuesday 10/12/2019 - FREE DAY – AT LEISURE flights to and from Santiago and Buenos Aires but no direct flights to Uruquay at this time. Montevideo: Wednesday 11/12/2019 - One or more below events/trips There are direct Toronto flights to Chile only. Montevideo: Thursday 12/12/2019 - One or more below events/trips Full day trip inland to Museum of Battle at Sarandi Del Yi: British Society Reception & I shall give out much more trip information nearer the time to those on the trip but for now: Association presentation: UK Embassy Reception: Exhibition and Reception: Museo Andes 1972 visas are not required in any of the 3 countries and no particular vaccinations are required. The visit (1972 Andes plane crash): River Plate historical tour: Visit to city of Punta del Este weather should be very pleasant in December in all three countries with temperatures in the mid Montevideo: Friday 13/12/2019 (actual 80th anniversary) – Anniversary events to include: to high twenties with possibly a few wet days. All three countries in December will only be three Service at Templo Inglés (The Cathedral of The Most Holy Trinity): Followed by remembrance hours behind UK GMT. events at: Cementerio Británico (British Cemetery): Cementerio del Norte (German Cemetery): Boat trip to Graf Spee site for act of remembrance [if possible] (to involve Uruguay Navy if at all The attached document gives an overview of the itinerary AT THIS STAGE which is constantly possible) being refined as I find new contacts and individuals in the 3 countries willing to be involved. Montevideo: Saturday 14/12/2019 – private transfer to Montevideo Port for Buquebus Fast Ferry The itinerary flight and ferry times are based on same-day 2018 dates and are subject to change. Tourist Class to Buenos Aires over the River Plate. Depart Montevideo 1100 hrs (2hrs 15min) ARGENTINA Time in Chile will be tight but I've planned one “free day” in Uruguay and one “free day” in Buenos Aires: Saturday 14/12/2019 – arrive on ferry at 1315hrs – private transfer from Port to 4* Buenos Aires although there may be evening activities. If there is anything you would Hotel - Free Afternoon particularly like to do or visit outside the itinerary, let me know and I can ask the question. Buenos Aires: Sunday 15/12/2019 - Remembrance ceremony with German Society & British Legion at German Cemetery (Langsdorff's grave) followed by visit to nearby British Cemetery The cost of this 17 day, 3 country trip including all international and internal flights, all hotels (grave of J T Fredericks HMS Exeter) - Evening reception at German Society on bed & breakfast basis, all airport/hotel transfers, all planned trip costs including transport and Buenos Aires: Monday 16/12/2019 - 3 hour City Tour + Dinner & Tango Show at La Ventana guides, tango show and meal, etc. will be £2750 per person based on twin rooms or £3500 Buenos Aires: Tuesday 17/12/2019 - FREE DAY – AT LEISURE single. Considering what is included in the package I believe this represents an excellent once- Buenos Aires: Wednesday 18/12/2019 – private transfer to EZE for flight to LHR depart British in-a-lifetime package. This price will be subject to flight confirmation [British Airways flight Airways 1420 hrs (DIRECT 13hr 15min flight) schedule will not be available until 3rd January 2019], group booking numbers and additional [Buenos Aires EZE to Toronto YYZ – no direct flights] trip transport requirements. In order to secure flight, hotel, trip, etc. group booking discounts a £200 per person deposit will Contact me if you have any queries, questions or comments. be required in the next few weeks. Once you have indicated an intention to go on the trip I shall pass your details to Graham Irwin Please do let me know your intentions as soon as you can and I'll happily receive any feedback who will then send a questionnaire to you along the following lines: or comments on the plan. Best regards • Full names (as per passports) of each passenger thus including middle names Malcolm Collis • Full passport information – vital for Advance Passenger information AND ensuring visas are ………………………………….. 4. 5.

not required for non-UK/EU nationals New members • Dates of birth • Confirming each passenger has 6 months remaining on passport Darren Stammers made enquiries with Malcolm about his • Confirming each passenger will be covered by insurance Grandfather William John Stammers who served on board Ajax at • Ensuring each passenger is able to manage their own luggage throughout airports, including the River Plate. He crossed the bar in 1953 aged 52. There is a terminal connections, steps and footbridges without assistance (we are unable to arrange Stammers Drive in Ajax and he is on the memorial wall. Darren assistance)? booked to come to the reunion and then included his father Dennis • Does any member of the party have any walking difficulties which will affect the trip? (son of William) and cousin Bradley Stammers. All three have now • Does any member of the party have any other medical condition that we need to be aware of? become Associate members. If so, please specify Dennis brought along • Any dietary requirements / allergies? several articles for the To provide you with the best experience he can and fulfil your holiday arrangements, Graham archivist to copy. Sadly will need your explicit consent to share any personal information provided, most securely, with Darren couldn't make the his suppliers, airlines and so on, such as names, DOBs, and particularly in respect of any dietary reunion at the last minute or health related issues – and, where applicable, passport details and mobile number. but hopes to come to South America and as all three live Malcolm Collis in Kent look forward to seeing them next year.

Derek (Shiner) Wright from Larbert, Scotland has MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY'S UPDATE DECEMBER 2018 joined as a new Frigate crew member. He was a JOEM when he joined Ajax from April '76 until October '77. Our Annual Reunion, this year in Plymouth, went off very successfully in spite of the weather Derek visited the Town but sadly his name didn't get on trying to scupper some of our plans. The feedback we have had from those who attended were all the memorial wall but is now recorded. Wright Crescent is an established street in the Town. We full of praise and enjoyed themselves. Unfortunately we had a few members who had booked but have 90 year old cruiser veteran Ian Wright and there were 4 other Wrights on the Ajax, Exeter due to ill health or other unforeseen circumstances were not able to join us. It was great to put and Achilles at The Plate. Hopefully Derek will be added to the biography for the residents. The faces to many new members, I'm looking forward to finalising a few of the guests' promised above Toronto Sun picture of him showing two children the ceremonial cannon was taken during membership applications. Next year we have voted to go to Chatham for the 80th anniversary of the ship's open day and also ended up in his local paper at home. This is the only picture Derek The River Plate over the first weekend in October. It is difficult to find a suitable venue in has of his time in Ajax so if anyone can identify him in any of the group pictures that are available Chatham (There were negative reports about the King Charles) At the AGM, one suggestion for please let me know. the Ibis hotel near the Dock but it does not have any private function rooms. The IoW Tours are His time at HMS Neptune, was on AFD60 (admiralty floating dock no 60) which was used in on the case but if any of our members from Kent have any ideas then please contact one of the servicing the Polaris submarines, then it was HMS Orkney on fishery protection duties. He was committee members ASAP. We shall also visit the NMA in early June. discharged from HMS Cochrane in 1980 and then spent a long career as a full time firefighter based in Falkirk, Scotland. I've started writing this on the 11th of the 11th and so lots of poignant articles on the TV and media. It's important we are John O Shaughnessy from Liverpool joins us as an Associate Member. His Grandfather John remembering all the victims and families of all conflicts. Well done Evans was a stoker on board Ajax during the Battle and then later in the Mediterranean. No other to all of you who have been attending parades and services today. details known – There is a J. Evans on the 1940-45 section of the Town's Memorial Wall. On a personal note my nephew Leigh Bedwell was at the Remembrance Service at Port Stanley today. We've told him to look Robert (Yorkie) Brook another new Frigate Crew member comes from St Columb Major in out for the 6 inch gun that Joe Collis helped to relocate & assemble Cornwall. He served on board Ajax from March '72 – April '75. He sent me the following résumé when he visited on board Ajax in '37. Leigh is goalkeeper for the of his naval career: England C team – yesterday (10th) they played The Falkland Isles “I joined the RN in November 1970, after basic training at Raleigh I was drafted to HMS Team and managed to win 3:1 but this afternoon's match against Vernon where I had my TAZ training; I was then drafted to HMS Scarborough which was one the Combined Services is likely to be a bit harder. The Team only of the ships of the Dartmouth Training Squadron along with Tenby, Eastbourne, Whitby and met once before flying out from Brize Norton last Thursday: The Rhyl. result - 3:2 to England. Well done England. I managed to get a chest infection due to the damp and crowded conditions of the mess and found Crossed the Bar myself in RNH Stonehouse for a few weeks, upon my hospital discharge I was drafted P7R to At the time of writing I am pleased to say there are no names to include in this Newsletter. Drake Barracks before being drafted to Ajax; Ajax was in dry dock having the IKARA missile I appreciate it will be a very difficult time but once again a plea to family members; please let me system fitted where the gun should have been. Work up at Portland followed which was quite an know when members cross the bar, or later if emails and newsletters are still being received. If at adventure, who could forget a good sesh on Snips wine in the Breakwater and chips from the Greasy Spoon next door. all possible and if the family requests we will try to have at least one member and our Standard attend any funeral. We'd been away for some months and returned to Guz, our home port for a good break and spot of leave but blow me if archbishop Makarios started to play up in Cyprus where we had our Eastern 6. 7. not required for non-UK/EU nationals New members • Dates of birth • Confirming each passenger has 6 months remaining on passport Darren Stammers made enquiries with Malcolm about his • Confirming each passenger will be covered by insurance Grandfather William John Stammers who served on board Ajax at • Ensuring each passenger is able to manage their own luggage throughout airports, including the River Plate. He crossed the bar in 1953 aged 52. There is a terminal connections, steps and footbridges without assistance (we are unable to arrange Stammers Drive in Ajax and he is on the memorial wall. Darren assistance)? booked to come to the reunion and then included his father Dennis • Does any member of the party have any walking difficulties which will affect the trip? (son of William) and cousin Bradley Stammers. All three have now • Does any member of the party have any other medical condition that we need to be aware of? become Associate members. If so, please specify Dennis brought along • Any dietary requirements / allergies? several articles for the To provide you with the best experience he can and fulfil your holiday arrangements, Graham archivist to copy. Sadly will need your explicit consent to share any personal information provided, most securely, with Darren couldn't make the his suppliers, airlines and so on, such as names, DOBs, and particularly in respect of any dietary reunion at the last minute or health related issues – and, where applicable, passport details and mobile number. but hopes to come to South America and as all three live Malcolm Collis in Kent look forward to seeing them next year.

Europe Vulcan squadron based. The morning after landing in Guz we were ordered back to sea Frank Burton Cruiser 1938-39 100 and bound for Cyprus to extract refugees and help protect the Vulcans at RAF Akrotiri, plenty of Jim London Exeter 1938-40 99 sun shine was had along with a couple of Ban Vans and generally a good time was had by all, Kenneth Holden Cruiser 1942-43 99 except Mervyn who had decided that he needed to fill the Jimmy in and I ended up escorting him Bob Gee Cruiser 1946 93 to cells at the RAF base until he'd calmed down (he was missing his wife). Mike Turner Cruiser 1946-47 93 Charles Poole Frigate 1965-66 78 I applied for and was successful in running the Field Gun crew for Devonport, everything was George Alan (Phil) Phillips Frigate 1965-66 72 going great until one wet day I slipped and found half a ton of gun on my ankle ... end of Ken (Sharky) Ward Frigate 1968-70 71 tournament for me! I was drafted to HMS Fawn in September 1975, quite a laid back ship where, Robert (Yorkie) Brook Frigate 1972-75 64 apart from the skipper, John Stonehouse, we were on first names and wearing jeans and t shirts, Terry Webster Frigate 1976-78 61 how cushy it was on a survey ship. I had always wanted to be a Regulator and made several Eddie Greenslade Frigate 1979 60 applications to transfer to that branch, all without any luck, so I decided to try for the civvy Police and I was accepted by the Met. I put my notice in and in 1978 was drafted to Chatham on NEWS the Reserves Ships Unit, mainly working on HMS Triumph, I passed my hook and was promoted Jim London to the dizzy heights of Leading Seaman, (I think they did it to try and keep me in) before I went Son Ray sent in some photos of Jim, who was 99 at the beginning of October, with his Town of to Nelson for discharge. Ajax road sign proudly displayed above his bed. Ray said, “He's doing fine and has settled in well to the Residential Home. Took him down to Plymouth for the River Gavin Collis from Buckingham is the Grandson Plate Reunion. It was a long day as he didn't want to stay overnight. of Joe Collis (Cruiser 1st Commission 1935-37) He did enjoy it though”. and son of Malcolm and me! Has joined as an Jim now sports a full beard and as Ray said, “Captain Birds Eye Associate Family member. Gavin was part of the stands no chance!” Collis party with Joe that visited the Town of Ajax for its 50th birthday celebrations in 2005. Collis Elizabeth Sharplin contacted us to tell us that Clive was not at all Lane was still being built so we were not able to well having suffered a serious stroke back in the summer in their dedicate it then (rectified in 2014). Gavin also home in Australia. attended the Memorial dedication service at the NMA and is looking forward to the South American trip. Canada 2005 Gavin left & Joseph right SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscriptions for both crew members and associates stay the same at £12 with a rate of Christine Keast attended our reunion with Dennis Talbot, Cruiser veteran and enjoyed herself £18 for family membership at same address. so much that she has joined our Association as an associate member. We look forward to meeting Many thanks to all of you who have sent subscriptions either to me or paid by bank transfer or again at the 2019 events. Christine lives in Broadstairs, Kent. using the 'subscribe' or 'donate' buttons on our website. We will be claiming from the taxman an additional 25% if you have let us know you are a UK taxpayer and we can claim Gift Aid against Garry (Nick) Carter has just joined as we go to print. He joined the World Tour on the Frigate at your payments. We claimed £333.08 for the last financial year and approaching £100 for Hong Kong and visited Ajax Town. He was stoker MEM. Pleased to say Carter G L is on the payments made so far this year so please let me know if we can claim if you haven't already done memorial wall. Garry is going to find his service record and give me some more information. so. Garry lives in Redditch. Electronic means of paying are by using the subscribe button on the joining page on our website Louise Ashton also joined us just as we were about to go to print. Louise is a granddaughter of http://www.hmsajax.org/?use_flash=1#/joining/4560949163 – you can do it when you join or as Sir Charles Woodhouse, Ajax captain at the River Plate. Louise contacted us to say she and her an existing member. Future payments are taken out on that anniversary and we are notified by husband Richard would love to join us on the South America trip and we are delighted to say as a PayPal that the payment has been made. Single payments can be made by using the donate result Louise joined the Association. They live in Titchfield. button. Bank Transfers or standing orders can be set up using the details below. Happy Birthday to the following Crew Members who had birthdays in this Newsletter Bank details: HMS Ajax and River Plate Veterans Assoc period (September - November) incl. Account no. 24865868, sort code 30-99-56. As part of our Data Protection Policy I am now just putting ages rather than birth dates. Cheques payable to HMS Ajax & RPVA and sent to: I had the privilege to attend Frank's 100th birthday celebration - see report in Newsletter. I have Membership Secretary, The Bewicks, Station Road, Ten Mile Bank, Norfolk, PE38 0EY included Ken Holden in my list as at 99 he deserves to be remembered – we understand his wife If you pay by bank transfer please email me as there is a delay before I see the statements. Luzette crossed the bar earlier in the year and think Ken is now in a nursing home in France but have been unable to get details and have no contact. Jim London is mentioned further on and I wish you all a very happy Christmas and Best wishes for a Healthy 2019. Basil Trott, our third 99er veteran of the year come December, will be listed in the March Judi Collis Newsletter. Membership Secretary 01366 377945, 07736929641 for texts (land line best for calls) [email protected] 8. 9.

VETERAN OF THE RIVER PLATE CELEBRATES HIS 100th BIRTHDAY Frank also got a well-deserved mention in the October 2018 Navy News.

HMS Ajax Battle of the River Plate Veteran Frank Burton reached his one hundredth birthday on Tuesday 4th September 2018 and celebrated with a party at his Cambridge Care Home surrounded by family, care staff, friends and HMS Ajax and River Plate Veterans Association members including another River Plate veteran, Basil Trott (HMS Exeter) who will be 99 later this year.

In amongst his many birthday cards were ones from the Queen, the Department of Works and Pensions, the Mayor of Ajax and many members of the HMS Ajax and River Plate Veterans Association including the daughters of Admiral Sir Charles Woodhouse who was the Ajax Captain at the time of the Battle – he was really delighted with them all.

Frank is the oldest of the Association's eighteen surviving veterans, all of whom, bar one, are well in to their nineties – must be the sea air!

The Queen's congratulatory card was especially poignant as Frank's first ship was HMS Queen Elizabeth and our current Queen visited the ship a couple of times when he was there, including for her father George VI's Coronation in May 1937.

Frank joined the navy on 28th January 1935 at Ganges as a Boy 2nd class at the tender age of 16 before his draft to HMS Queen Elizabeth on 16th May 1936 as Ordinary Telegraphist. On promotion to Telegraphist Frank joined HMS Ajax on 11th January 1938 at Portsmouth and joined the America & West Indies Squadron. The cruise took her round South America and up the Chilean coast where, in late January 1939, Ajax together with HMS Exeter aided the Chilean authorities following a devastating earthquake in Concepción. For a number of reasons Frank only received his medal for his part he played in the rescue in March 2017 from the Ambassador for Chile – reported in the June 2017 Newsletter.

On 13th December 1939, Ajax, together with Exeter and Achilles took on the German Pocket Battleship Graff Spee off the River Plate, Uruguay leading to the first major battle of the War and culminating in the scuttling of the pride of the German Navy. Frank was asked what he remembered of that day to which he replied, “Nothing” and went on to explain that he was struck on the head by shrapnel from the first shell that hit Ajax. He was concussed and remembers nothing but apparently he continued with his duties of repairing damaged aerials during the battle.

A week later Ajax was in the Falklands for repairs where Frank, as Acting Leading Telegraphist, volunteered to set up and run a wireless facility there; and so he did for the next 4 years. Unfortunately, the Navy forgot to notify the family and they feared the worst when Ajax arrived back in the UK end of January 1940 with no Frank. A hasty letter from Ajax's Captain Woodhouse explained all was well and he had received his Falklands' posting due to his superior STANDARD BEARER REPORT ability! Member Dan Sherren (Frigate 1977 – '79) together with Alf Malcolm Collis of the HMS Ajax and Larkin attended the HMS Illustrious 1V remembrance River Plate Association presented ceremony on 17th October and Dan reported, “A perfect Frank with an inscribed shield with day on Portland in lovely autumn weather, well over a HMS Ajax Cruiser badge to mark this hundred people gathered to attend a very moving service of momentous occasion. remembrance on the 70th anniversary of a terrible naval disaster. (Fully reported upon in the December 2017 Newsletter). Alf Larkin carried our standard and as usual proved most capable alongside the other standard bearers. My part, in the absence of a bugler was to use my Bosun's 10. 11.

VETERAN OF THE RIVER PLATE CELEBRATES HIS 100th BIRTHDAY Frank also got a well-deserved mention in the October 2018 Navy News.

Frank is the oldest of the Association's eighteen surviving veterans, all of whom, bar one, are well in to their nineties – must be the sea air!

Call and pipe “the still” and “carry on”, to indicate the last the first time since leaving the RN in '73 that post and reveille. I had taken part in a remembrance parade and Having introduced myself to the gathered audience I service, always watched it on the telly presented the late Ted Wicks' donated picture of HMS before. Unfortunately I am wearing my Illustrious to their Chairman who promised to provide a “National Malaya & Borneo Vets safe and honoured home for it.” Association” blazer but carrying my Ajax jacket!”

Mike Cranswick (Frigate 1976 – '78) visited a cold and wet NMA at the end of October – “I'm going in the summer next time” he said! Alf Larkin also took the Standard to the funeral of Captain Coper RN (not Member Richard Llewellyn (Ajax 1943-44) Ajax) on 18th September at featured in this D-Day Revisited Facebook Weymouth Crematorium. post when he (on the right), together with Additionally the Standard was John Dennett, visited Sandycroft Primary paraded at the Remembrance Service School in Flintshire – well done Richard. at Portland Cenotaph in the company of Fred Coates, Dan Sherren and Member Reverend Tim Flowers has had a Mike Fox who laid a wreath on busy time thanks to also being the Padre for behalf of the Association. the army: he was expecting to be deployed with his regiment to Oman but ended up in Alberta, Canada in the summer. In October Tim had the great privilege to re-dedicate four Great War Graves that now have fully ARMISTACE REMEMBRANCE EVENTS named occupants, to meet the families and to conduct the services. Tim reports;

Thanks to members who sent in details of their personal memories of acts of remembrance. A Soldier of the Great War “known unto God” and now his family once more. “Earlier this year in my role as Padre to the 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment I was asked by Inspired by the Danny Boyle beach art initiative, David Humpage (Frigate 1977-79) posted on Regimental Headquarters if I would like to look after the rededication of some WW1 graves. the Association Facebook page that he intended to pay his own tribute on Every year the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) receive information from an isolated Fortrose beach near to researchers, often family members, who tell them that a gravestone, previously marked “known him on the Black Isle in the Moray unto God” contains the identified remains of a previously missing person. They also have Firth. He selected one of the Ajax responsibility to inter remains that continue to be found on battlefields across the world. (They River Plate casualties – Ernest also look after casualties in the modern era.) Alfred Corbett Francom – a The carnage of WWI in particular meant many were lost and their final places of rest never Steward, age unknown. identified. One such person was Lt John Kipling the son of Rudyard Kipling who was killed in 1915 at the terribly young age of 15. His father spent the rest of his life trying to find him. In As David said, “One of our own 1992 his grave was found and a new stone installed. remembered on a lonely Scottish One of the graves identified belonged to a member of the Worcestershire Regiment who are beach with only the dolphins for antecedent to the Mercians which is why I was asked to take the services. company. Moved my wife to tears The services were extremely moving, attended by representatives of JCCC, Commonwealth War – will revisit and do the same on the 13th December” Graves Commission, British Embassy, British Legion, Belgium or French Legion and Local David would encourage other members to do likewise so perhaps we Mayor and most importantly members of the family. can organise others to join in at other I have to say looking after these services has been a highlight of my Ministry, it was such an locations on the 13th to remember the honour and privilege to do and it touched 48 Ajax casualties, 7 of whom were me deeply in a way I wasn't expecting. To from the Plate – please let me know if see family members brought up on stories you would be willing to partake. Well of their lost relations, almost being done David. introduced to them once more. I looked after 3 services for 4 graves, the Alan (George) (Phil) Phillips (Frigate first service at Hooge Crater Cemetery, 1965-66) sent an official picture of him Belgium was for Lt John Gilles Butt RAMC leading the Send Remembrance Parade, (Royal Army Medical Corps) who had died alongside a serving PO(GI) from the in 1914 in the early months of the war. He village who happened to be on weekend was a Doctor who was effectively murdered leave from Collingwood. “We were by German soldiers whilst treating a both a little surprised to be told we'd be heading the parade. This is 14. 15. wounded Lt Colonel, who survived, when the casualty station was overrun. Like John Kipling BOOK REVIEWS he was known as Jack to the family and his great Nephew read Kipling's poem My Boy Jack during the service. In the last Newsletter I mentioned that I was part way through reading a new book about Admiral The service itself comprised of opening prayers, a scripture reading, a reading from the family if Harwood by Peter Hore Henry Harwood Hero of the River Plate. I also mentioned that a copy requested, the Ode to Remembrance, Last Post, Reveille, prayers and final blessing. Each of the would be included in the reunion raffle … and the lucky winner was Mike Scully (Frigate 1975- families were given a folded Union Flag by the military representative. This service coincided 77) who happened to be on Ben Harwood's table and the book was duly signed by Ben, adding with trips by local school children to the cemetery and they stayed for the service. greatly to its worth. The book turned out to be a fascinating insight into the world of wartime The second service took place in Stasegem Communal Cemetery, Belgium a local cemetery politics in general and navy politics in particular. I hadn't appreciated the great pressures upon which had 24 Commonwealth War Graves. This was for Lance Corporal Leonard Thomas Harwood during his time in the Meditterraen and the counter-productive “power struggle” he met Courtney who died on 20th October 1918 just a few weeks before the end of the war. He had from both the army and the RAF leaders and it must be said, from Churchill. been a designer at a pottery factory in Barnstaple and one of his paintings was included in the order of service. Reading this book, coupled with the short days curtailing outside duties, spurred me in to making My final service the next day was in France at Montay-Neuvilly Road Military Cemetery. Here a start on reading or re-reading the rest of the River Plate and associated books we have in the were two graves, that of Lt Frederic Surry of the Kings Royal Rifles, and Pte George Skilbeck, archives: The Price of Disobedience The Battle of the River Plate Reconsidered (Eric J Grove); of RAMC; sadly they had also died in October 1918. There were sad stories linked to both. Lt Langsdorff of the Graf Spee Prince of Honor (Joseph Gilbey); Harwood and the Battle of the Surry had a daughter born just months before he died who he never saw. Pte Skilbeck's son was River Plate (Henry & Stephen Harwood) down; The Battle of the Plate (Comdr. A. B. Campbell 6 when he went to war and he too had no recollection of his dad who died three years later. His RD), The Drama of Graf Spee The Battle of the Plate (Sir Eugen Millington-Drake); The Battle grandson was there with his wife and daughter and so sad that his dad was not still alive to see of the River Plate (Dudley Pope) to go, for starters. A worthwhile exercise in advance of our his father's final resting place. 2019 trip. The service was different, I led from the cross at the centre of the cemetery before going to dedicate each individual stone. In the middle of my new-found reading hobby I received a website All in all, in this the 100th Anniversary of the Great War what a privilege to be part of it all. enquiry from an Edmund S. Wong directing me to his new book that [More photos can be found here Hooge Crater Cemetery, Belgium – Rededication Ceremony 9 he thought would be of interest to our members – The Sea Takes No October 2018.] Prisoners is written around over 125 stories selected from the audio On the Friday before Armistice Day Tim was in Bulford to lead the Mercians Remembrance archive of the Imperial War Museum and cover a wide range of Parade then back up to the Midlands to take part in the Act of Remembrance at the Hawthorns on general wartime experiences – only Ajax gets its own chapter with Saturday Evening. On Armistice Day Tim took part in the Service at The National Memorial quite a few crew recalling their time in Ajax ... and for those that Arboretum. knew him, it will come as no surprise that Sammy Shale gets a mention! The book covers a wide range of crew from the early “Armistice 2018 held so aircraft carriers to humble minesweepers and corvettes to survivors much significance that for the of the Hood, those involved in the Atlantic Convoys, those involved first time the service was not in sinking the Bismarck, the sinking of Exeter and many more all of held on top of the memorial. whom have harrowing tales to tell but almost all bore no malice This was to allow more towards their counterparts. For me the book was a really interesting people to be part of the overview of naval life leading up to and during the war. Published service itself and over 12400 by Uniform ISBN 978-1-911604-28-0 selling for £30 although I obtained a copy for the archive, were there. The service was new, for nearly half that through a well-known on-line shopping website beginning with A (clue attended by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and as well as myself and the Honorary – a river). [Please note use of 75th Anniversary bookmark!] Chaplain Vic van den Burgh was officiated by Nigel Stock former Bishop of Lambeth. Fuchsias - A snippet of information for all you gardeners out there. I was thumbing through The service took place at the back of the Armed Forces Memorial, there was a chilly breeze but Memories of The Battle of the River Plate by those who were there, (issued for the 50th the sun was out and as we observed the 2 minute silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the anniversary) and in the acknowledgment section was a line that caught my eye – “Jim Dowers 11th month we saw on the big screen the sun's rays stream through the door of the sculpture, from the Ajax who made us aware of fuchsias named after the three ships.” Sure enough there illuminating the wreath in the centre of the Memorial. A truly moving moment. We later heard the are indeed such fuchsias (never knew there were so many in the fuchsia database!) – poems We shall keep the faith written by Moina Michael in response to the poem In Flanders Fields, MCMXIV by Phillip Larkin and a poem dedicated to the Women of the Great War The Left to right Landswomen March by K.M.E.Gotolee. Ajax; The Duke and Duchess then proceeded to lay wreaths at the monument as the band played. We then retired to the new Aspects of the Arboretum building which will be a new feature to you Beauty of Exeter; when the Association returns in 2019. Achilles Tops Member John Galway (Frigate 1977-79) is one of the coordinators for the Cenotaph Remembrance Parade and anyone who would like to take part in the 2019 event should contact Malcolm Collis Malcolm Collis who will pass on details to John. 14. 15. wounded Lt Colonel, who survived, when the casualty station was overrun. Like John Kipling BOOK REVIEWS he was known as Jack to the family and his great Nephew read Kipling's poem My Boy Jack during the service. In the last Newsletter I mentioned that I was part way through reading a new book about Admiral The service itself comprised of opening prayers, a scripture reading, a reading from the family if Harwood by Peter Hore Henry Harwood Hero of the River Plate. I also mentioned that a copy requested, the Ode to Remembrance, Last Post, Reveille, prayers and final blessing. Each of the would be included in the reunion raffle … and the lucky winner was Mike Scully (Frigate 1975- families were given a folded Union Flag by the military representative. This service coincided 77) who happened to be on Ben Harwood's table and the book was duly signed by Ben, adding with trips by local school children to the cemetery and they stayed for the service. greatly to its worth. The book turned out to be a fascinating insight into the world of wartime The second service took place in Stasegem Communal Cemetery, Belgium a local cemetery politics in general and navy politics in particular. I hadn't appreciated the great pressures upon which had 24 Commonwealth War Graves. This was for Lance Corporal Leonard Thomas Harwood during his time in the Meditterraen and the counter-productive “power struggle” he met Courtney who died on 20th October 1918 just a few weeks before the end of the war. He had from both the army and the RAF leaders and it must be said, from Churchill. been a designer at a pottery factory in Barnstaple and one of his paintings was included in the order of service. Reading this book, coupled with the short days curtailing outside duties, spurred me in to making My final service the next day was in France at Montay-Neuvilly Road Military Cemetery. Here a start on reading or re-reading the rest of the River Plate and associated books we have in the were two graves, that of Lt Frederic Surry of the Kings Royal Rifles, and Pte George Skilbeck, archives: The Price of Disobedience The Battle of the River Plate Reconsidered (Eric J Grove); of RAMC; sadly they had also died in October 1918. There were sad stories linked to both. Lt Langsdorff of the Graf Spee Prince of Honor (Joseph Gilbey); Harwood and the Battle of the Surry had a daughter born just months before he died who he never saw. Pte Skilbeck's son was River Plate (Henry & Stephen Harwood) down; The Battle of the Plate (Comdr. A. B. Campbell 6 when he went to war and he too had no recollection of his dad who died three years later. His RD), The Drama of Graf Spee The Battle of the Plate (Sir Eugen Millington-Drake); The Battle grandson was there with his wife and daughter and so sad that his dad was not still alive to see of the River Plate (Dudley Pope) to go, for starters. A worthwhile exercise in advance of our his father's final resting place. 2019 trip. The service was different, I led from the cross at the centre of the cemetery before going to dedicate each individual stone. In the middle of my new-found reading hobby I received a website All in all, in this the 100th Anniversary of the Great War what a privilege to be part of it all. enquiry from an Edmund S. Wong directing me to his new book that [More photos can be found here Hooge Crater Cemetery, Belgium – Rededication Ceremony 9 he thought would be of interest to our members – The Sea Takes No October 2018.] Prisoners is written around over 125 stories selected from the audio On the Friday before Armistice Day Tim was in Bulford to lead the Mercians Remembrance archive of the Imperial War Museum and cover a wide range of Parade then back up to the Midlands to take part in the Act of Remembrance at the Hawthorns on general wartime experiences – only Ajax gets its own chapter with Saturday Evening. On Armistice Day Tim took part in the Service at The National Memorial quite a few crew recalling their time in Ajax ... and for those that Arboretum. knew him, it will come as no surprise that Sammy Shale gets a mention! The book covers a wide range of crew from the early “Armistice 2018 held so aircraft carriers to humble minesweepers and corvettes to survivors much significance that for the of the Hood, those involved in the Atlantic Convoys, those involved first time the service was not in sinking the Bismarck, the sinking of Exeter and many more all of held on top of the memorial. whom have harrowing tales to tell but almost all bore no malice This was to allow more towards their counterparts. For me the book was a really interesting people to be part of the overview of naval life leading up to and during the war. Published service itself and over 12400 by Uniform ISBN 978-1-911604-28-0 selling for £30 although I obtained a copy for the archive, were there. The service was new, for nearly half that through a well-known on-line shopping website beginning with A (clue attended by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and as well as myself and the Honorary – a river). [Please note use of 75th Anniversary bookmark!] Chaplain Vic van den Burgh was officiated by Nigel Stock former Bishop of Lambeth. Fuchsias - A snippet of information for all you gardeners out there. I was thumbing through The service took place at the back of the Armed Forces Memorial, there was a chilly breeze but Memories of The Battle of the River Plate by those who were there, (issued for the 50th the sun was out and as we observed the 2 minute silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the anniversary) and in the acknowledgment section was a line that caught my eye – “Jim Dowers 11th month we saw on the big screen the sun's rays stream through the door of the sculpture, from the Ajax who made us aware of fuchsias named after the three ships.” Sure enough there illuminating the wreath in the centre of the Memorial. A truly moving moment. We later heard the are indeed such fuchsias (never knew there were so many in the fuchsia database!) – poems We shall keep the faith written by Moina Michael in response to the poem In Flanders Fields, MCMXIV by Phillip Larkin and a poem dedicated to the Women of the Great War The Left to right Landswomen March by K.M.E.Gotolee. Ajax; The Duke and Duchess then proceeded to lay wreaths at the monument as the band played. We then retired to the new Aspects of the Arboretum building which will be a new feature to you Beauty of Exeter; when the Association returns in 2019. Achilles Tops Member John Galway (Frigate 1977-79) is one of the coordinators for the Cenotaph Remembrance Parade and anyone who would like to take part in the 2019 event should contact Malcolm Collis Malcolm Collis who will pass on details to John. 16. 17.

ALL CHANGE IN AJAX – NEW MAYOR. THE LOYAL TOAST - TO SIT OR NOT? PRESENTATION TO OUTGOING MAYOR STEVE PARISH At the various Association functions we have arranged over the years there have often been debates on whether we ask diners to “stand” for the Loyal Toast or “remain seated as a salute to As reported in the June 2018 Newsletter, Ajax Mayor Steve Parish announced that he would not the Sovereign. be standing for re-election in the October elections after 23 years. To mark this occasion the Association decided to make a presentation to the Mayor and in his At this year's Reunion in Plymouth the Loyal Toast was delivered by Dennis Talbot. Dennis absence, Debbie Steer at the Plymouth Reunion received an engraved silver salver for later (Ajax 1947-48) despite being our youngest veteran, is now 87 and not quite as sprightly as he presentation to Steve. The inscription reads: used to be – between us we decided it would be easier for all to remain seated. At our 75th River Plate Anniversary luncheon in Portsmouth Commodore Rigby announced that having been Presented to Steve Parish by the HMS Ajax and River Plate Veterans granted permission by the First Sea Lord we were to remain seated for the Loyal Toast. Association on his retirement from the Office of Mayor of Ajax in recognition of his support for the close relationship between the Association and the people of Ajax When it applies or not appears to be shrouded in mystery and I'm still not too sure when we should stand or sit and for once the internet didn't help – far too many contrary opinions muddy Debbie duly presented the salver to the waters; is “The Royal privilege of remaining seated for the Loyal Toast only applies to the Mayor Steve Parish who wished messes of commissioned RN ships or establishments” correct or not? Likewise, is, “In the Royal the Association continued success Navy the toast is given with all attendees seated, a custom practised since King William IV”, the and hoped that the Town and the right approach? Association have a long and I wouldn't advocate the following practices though: “… a tradition of smashing a glass used for a prosperous future. loyal toast, so that no lesser toast can be made with it”, neither the tradition of the lawyers of Lincoln's Inn who “…take the toast sitting down, commemorating an occasion when King Charles II dined at the Inn and the entire company were too drunk to stand up”, nor the “Members of The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada who recite the toast standing on their chairs with one leg on the table”, not to mention the kilts! It seems a few British Army units also have special privileges and are exempted from the usual ELECTION RESULTS practice of standing up for the toast as well. The election results for the new Mayor, Even the historical roots of why, predominantly, the navy sits for the Loyal Toast are unclear; the two Regional Councillors & four following RN National Museum fact sheet doesn't help much either. Councillors was announced on 22nd Loyal toast – Naval tradition October 2018. There are numerous stories reputed to have started the naval tradition of officers having the Shaun Collier is the new Mayor and privilege of sitting during the loyal toast to the Sovereign. Many cannot be substantiated but Joanne Dies is now a Regional remain current to this day. Councillor. Shaun was previously a 1. Charles II: King Charles, on his return from exile in Holland, in May 1660 was aboard the Regional Councillor and Deputy Mayor Naseby, re-named Royal Charles. He is reputed to have bumped his head on a low beam in the and Joanne was a Councillor. Both have cabin when responding to a toast. He is reputed to have exclaimed: “When I get ashore, I'll see been involved in visit events and the that my naval officers run no such risk, for I will allow them from henceforth to remain sitting Association looks forward to working when drinking my health. even more closely with them in the 2. Restoration: The Navy had a large influx of gentlemen volunteers who formed a considerable future. Pat Brown, Shaun Collier, Debbie Steer, Steve Parish & Colleen Jordan mess. As they were not seamen by upbringing, they would have had great difficulty keeping their feet. However, the day was tinged with sadness as our 3. George IV: As Prince Regent, while dining aboard a warship is reputed to have exclaimed as dear friends Colleen Jordan and Pat Brown no the officers rose to drink the King's health, “Gentlemen, pray be seated. Your loyalty is above longer have a place on the Council. Colleen suspicion.” narrowly missed out in her bid to become Mayor 4. William IV: While he was Duke of Clarence was dining on a man-of-war and is also reputed to and Pat, after 27 years, lost her seat. We wish them have bumped his head on a deck beam when he stood up. both well and are sure we shall continue to keep in close contact with them. Probably more realistic are the following: The new Mayor and Councillors will be sworn in 5. It was impossible to stand upright “between decks” except between the beams, so at an Inauguration Ceremony in Ajax Council on consequently every third person would have been unable to stand erect. Monday 3rd December. 6. The table was often fixed to the deck against a settee, so it would have been impossible for half the officers to stand with any degree of dignity. The Secretary has written appropriate letters on behalf of the Association. Does anyone have the de facto answer? One thing though is crystal clear … whatever we do we can always argue it being the correct Malcolm Collis form of Loyal Toast! Malcolm Collis 16. 17.

REUNION & MEMORIAL SERVICE – PLYMOUTH 5th to 8th OCTOBER 2018 Up-spirits at 6pm and rum bosuns Alf In the days leading up to the 2018 Reunion in Plymouth the weather forecast looked decidedly Larkin & Doug Harris performed duties “iffy”, particularly for the Saturday morning – bang on the time for us to gather at The Hoe. at the rum tub and handed the tots to the Friday morning, setting off for Plymouth, a last gathering crowds before we moved to the look at the telly produced an ominous picture- dining room for the wine reception. Over time to think of a contingency plan. 50 members and guests sat down to the After checking in at The New Continental the five course gala meal with wine provided committee members gathered at 5 pm for a in accordance with the wishes of the late Ted Wicks “… that the money is used for my committee meeting and all agreed The Hoe was contribution to the party that they have after my death …” and we raised our glasses to his not the place to be in high winds, torrential rain memory. and cold to boot. Some hasty phone calls and emails resulted in being able to divert the bugler, Following dinner, with port glasses charged, Dennis Talbot, with a request that we remain seated, band and vicar to the hotel next morning for a gave the Loyal Toast. sensible indoor service. After that we were able to relax and enjoy the excellent dinner and catch up with other members. The Chairman during his speech presented a silver salver to Debbie Steer from Ajax for onward presentation to the Mayor Next morning dawned blustery but dry and after breakfast we set up the room for the memorial of Ajax Steve Parish to mark his retirement. service; cosy it was but served the purpose. The bugler and seven members of the Devonport For the benefit of those just there for the meal Malcolm Collis Naval Volunteer band based in HMS gave an overview of the planned itinerary for the 2019 South Drake squeezed in the back of the room America trip. having adjusted the stacked chairs. The white ensign made the bar grill look The singer Tony England performing as The Rolling Tones nautical. Chairman Nigel Masters entertained us. He was a former member of the 70's group welcomed everyone and handed over to Paper Lace but despite requests from one former fan he Rev Peter Warland RN Retired to conduct declined to perform “Billy don't be a hero”! the service. The band spurred everyone in to hearty singing and probably roused the During the interval the raffle was held before the singer rest of the hotel guests! resumed and once he had finished guests slowly retired leaving a group of die-hards reminiscing, Peter Danks gave the Reading. The names although to be fair several of them hadn't seen each other for 40 years. of those who had crossed the bar since our last service were read out by Nigel Masters and Dennis Talbot delivered the Exhortation. The Next morning, after a hearty breakfast, 26 bugler sounded the Last Post and Alf Larkin members gathered for the Annual General dipped the Standard. Reveille ended the two Meeting and afterwards, with the sun shining and minute silence and Mike Fox laid the wreath of the wind calm, many boarded the coach to travel remembrance. At the end of the service a quick down to the harbour front to join the Venturer for glance out the window confirmed the our cruise up the River Tamar past several navy weatherman had got it slightly wrong as the rain ships. We were entertained by the Captain's never really arrived and the wind was only commentary indicating the many points of slightly blustery, nevertheless, we probably did interest ... once you realised his lefts and rights all the right thing coming indoors. depended upon whether you were seated looking The "Phillips' boys" contemplating running away to sea! aft or for'ard! It really was a beautiful warm day Following the service, after a quick change of and all agreed it had been a most enjoyable trip. Some returned to the hotel by coach while the clothes, 32 of us loaded onto the waiting coach to take us to the Devonport Naval Museum. The more energetic took in the glorious sun whilst they strolled along the harbour front. out-of-town coach driver, narrow streets and roadworks made for an interesting mystery tour but eventually, after realigning sections of roadwork barriers, we managed to find the museum and We all came together later for another evening meal followed by end-of-weekend socialising park. The visit started with a Cornish, or should that be although most opted for an earlier night. A leisurely breakfast set us all up for our return journeys Devonshire, pasty, before splitting into two guided and after fond farewells we headed off. All groups and toured the various rooms and exhibits. The agreed the weekend had been a great fact that it wasn't a particularly large museum meant success with many saying it had been the that one could take in many of displays including the best yet, in no small part thanks to the Isle River Plate one. After a couple of hours and more of Wight Ltd and their Rep Jackie Bull who alignment of barriers we headed back to the hotel to had looked after us throughout our stay. relax before the start of the evening festivities. Malcolm Collis

HMS Northumberland 18. 19.

HMS Northumberland 20. 21.

ships, which caused the British admiral not to know how many GEORGE THOMAS MANSER German squads he was going to find. Ray Manser from Australia is putting together a family tree for his great grandchildren which includes some details of his uncle George Thomas Manser born 2nd May 1920 who he thinks was a stoker in Moreover, Cradock faced the worst possible scenario. On November 1, 1914, from Glasgow the Ajax at the time of the River Plate. He was aware that there was a Manser Court in Ajax and that he British navigators managed to see on the horizon the smoke of the German boats. The firing started. was still with Ajax in for repairs at Chatham when he went to Dunkirk. He died in May 2003 in The Scharnhorst led the Von Spee fleet, who in a Ashford Kent. He was after any additional information we had. short time overwhelmed their rivals, killing more Ray said, “Uncle George didn't talk about his war service but gave me a bosuns pipe and lanyard than 1,600 Britons in the attack. The ships Glasgow when I told him I was going to HMS Ganges as a boy. I know my uncle was at HMS Ganges and he and Otranto managed to flee. However, Cristopher gave me a lot of support when I attended Shotley Barracks and later Benbow. Sadly medical problems Cradock fell in the battle that marked a milestone in become an issue (one eye) and I was discharged from HMS world history, which to date is remembered both Drake. Couldn't fool the RN but later served in NSW Fire locally and in the countries involved. Brigade (Australia) for 38 years with one eye by cheating the The Professor of the Department of History of the eye test; a trick I used during my initial RN medical in 1961 on University of Concepción, Armando Cartes, said the Discovery moored in London.” that the guns were heard from the coast, despite being hundreds of kilometers away. "Some bodies He also sent a photograph taken at a shipmates wedding; arrived at Coronel beach. On the other hand, others George is standing on the far left. He thought the shipmates were never found", said the academic. Two days Rear Admiral Sir Vice Admiral, Graf Christopher Cradock name may be Donnely or Delaney and may also have been an Maximilian Johannes Von later, Von Spee's squadron docked in Valparaíso. In ex-Ajax rating. Spee the port, the German colony received the ships as I was able to confirm that G. T. Manser appeared on my River 20. 21.

THE BATTLE OF CORONEL 1st NOVEMBER 1914 heroes, who in a short time loaded the coal ships for a new and risky mission: bombarding the British military installations in the Falkland Islands, a battle to be known as the Battle of the One of my very helpful contacts in Concepción is Professor Armando Cartes who is arranging Falklands, where Vice Admiral Von Spee lost his life at the hands of the enemy troops. various visits and events when we are over next year. The Battle of Coronel marked a precedent in the First World War. A milestone that to date is He sent me a recent article in the local paper about the Battle of Coronel and it was then that I remembered locally as in the countries involved. "It is a very important episode in the naval history appreciated the significance – Admiral Graf (Earl) Von Spee commanded the German fleet and the of the world to be the first modern battle and to be the one that inaugurated the campaign in the city of Coronel is only about 20 miles south of Concepción and now on my list of places to visit oceans in the First World War," said Cartes.” [and was the first British naval defeat in over a 100 when there. years] [adapted and translated from Spanish] …………….. “A naval battle of worldwide significance took place on the coast of Coronel. That day a fleet of 5 German cruisers The Battle of the Falklands approached the Chilean coast in order to cross the Drake Strait The quicker British ship Glasgow escaped the fray and fled south to warn another of Cradock's ships, towards the Atlantic Ocean. What the Germans did not expect the Canopus, stationed in the Falkland Islands, of Spee's proximity. In response, the British was that this journey was to give rise to the beginning of an dispatched two battle cruisers, Inflexible and Invincible, from its Battle Cruiser Squadron in the North intense maritime battle between the two most impressive Sea. The two ships, commanded by Sir Doveton-Sturdee, reached the Falklands on December 7; the powers of the time; the Battle of Coronel. following day they exacted their revenge on the aggressive Spee, sinking four German ships including the Nurnberg and Spee's flagship Scharnhorst with 2,100 crew members aboard. Among On August 4, 1914, the First World War broke out, whose protagonists were the Triple Alliance, the dead were Spee and his two sons, Otto and Heinrich. By the end of 1914, the German cruiser formed by the German Empire and Austria-Hungary, and the Triple Entente, made up of the United threat to Britain's trade routes had been virtually eliminated. For the duration of the war Germany's Kingdom, France and the Russian Empire. In October of this year, the German Vice Admiral, chief weapon at sea would be its deadly U-boat submarines. Maximilian Johannes Von Spee, assembled his squadron, located to the north of the Pacific Ocean, to return to the Atlantic. Von Spee set off to the south arriving on Easter Island on October 12 where he was joined by two light cruisers. The German fleet, formed by the armoured cruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau and the light cruisers Leipzig, Nürnberg and Dresden, sailed to ARCHIVIST UPDATE DECEMBER 2018 Valparaiso. Rear Admiral Sir Christopher Cradock, aware that the presence of the A steady trickle of emails during this newsletter period with Armistice Day leading to a flurry of Germans meant danger for merchant traffic mobilised his fleet which enquiries. included the armoured cruisers Good Hope and Monmouth, the light In the Leonard Baynham entry there are several photos from his time in Ajax around 1944 – let me cruiser Glasgow and the auxiliary cruiser Otranto, to prevent the know if anyone recognises themselves or a relative. If anyone has anything to add to the below entries advance of their enemies that could paralyse the trade of their allies in or indeed anything to share please do get in touch with me. the area. RONALD LEIGH Cradock left from the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) towards the Anthony Leigh was after any information about his dad Ronald Leigh who was in Ajax at the River Plate; he was also after information regarding getting copies of his medals and his records. Chilean coast where he intercepted the first radiotelegraphic messages There was no record of him on any of my lists and his name did not appear on the Memorial Wall. I of a German squadron. After that, he set out for Coronel. What gave him the MoD route and also gave him details of a company that could get replacement medals. I Cradock did not know was that Von Spee had ordered the Leipzig to still await a response. increase its radio broadcasts and, in turn, silenced the rest of the ships, which caused the British admiral not to know how many GEORGE THOMAS MANSER German squads he was going to find. Ray Manser from Australia is putting together a family tree for his great grandchildren which includes some details of his uncle George Thomas Manser born 2nd May 1920 who he thinks was a stoker in Moreover, Cradock faced the worst possible scenario. On November 1, 1914, from Glasgow the Ajax at the time of the River Plate. He was aware that there was a Manser Court in Ajax and that he British navigators managed to see on the horizon the smoke of the German boats. The firing started. was still with Ajax in for repairs at Chatham when he went to Dunkirk. He died in May 2003 in The Scharnhorst led the Von Spee fleet, who in a Ashford Kent. He was after any additional information we had. short time overwhelmed their rivals, killing more Ray said, “Uncle George didn't talk about his war service but gave me a bosuns pipe and lanyard than 1,600 Britons in the attack. The ships Glasgow when I told him I was going to HMS Ganges as a boy. I know my uncle was at HMS Ganges and he and Otranto managed to flee. However, Cristopher gave me a lot of support when I attended Shotley Barracks and later Benbow. Sadly medical problems Cradock fell in the battle that marked a milestone in become an issue (one eye) and I was discharged from HMS world history, which to date is remembered both Drake. Couldn't fool the RN but later served in NSW Fire locally and in the countries involved. Brigade (Australia) for 38 years with one eye by cheating the The Professor of the Department of History of the eye test; a trick I used during my initial RN medical in 1961 on University of Concepción, Armando Cartes, said the Discovery moored in London.” that the guns were heard from the coast, despite being hundreds of kilometers away. "Some bodies He also sent a photograph taken at a shipmates wedding; arrived at Coronel beach. On the other hand, others George is standing on the far left. He thought the shipmates were never found", said the academic. Two days Rear Admiral Sir Vice Admiral, Graf Christopher Cradock name may be Donnely or Delaney and may also have been an Maximilian Johannes Von later, Von Spee's squadron docked in Valparaíso. In ex-Ajax rating. Spee the port, the German colony received the ships as I was able to confirm that G. T. Manser appeared on my River 22. 23.

Plate and 1940 list. I also have an Arthur J. Delaney on the River Plate and 1940 list and possibly the DENIS STUART 1941 list but recorded as A. G. Delany. Vivian Dux contacted me trying to find the records of her father Denis Stuart who served HMS Ajax in Both appear on the Memorial Wall. WW11. She said he voluntarily joined the War as a young man. She would like to know if he had any medals as he had said he didn't collect his medals but now the family would like them. Ray responded saying he would follow up the links I sent through. Unfortunately there are no D. Stuart's listed on any of the available lists only J. D., J. F. & R. C. – I did point out that these list are known to be inaccurate due to typing and copying errors. I advised her to HARRY GREEN obtain his service record to establish his ships and the medals to which he would have been entitled. Anthony Greenall emailed to say his uncle Harry Green was in Ajax at the time of The Battle of the River Plate and he believes he was a Chief Petty officer. He was born in Barrow-in-Furness but at MICHAEL QUINN some stage moved to Bermuda – he died many years ago. He said he has a framed photograph of Ajax A short request; Kate McDonald wanted to know if Michael Quinn was just on Ajax. signed by Captain Woodhouse. Whilst he did not appear on any of my lists, only a James & John, on the Town of Ajax Memorial Wall H. Green does not appear on my River Plate list, only a Walter A. A. Green. However, on my 1940 list general WW11 1940-45 Ajax list there are both a J. and a M., who could well be Michael. Ajax are I have a Harry Green along with W. A. A. Green, a H. Green (twice) on the 1941 list and on the 1943 looking in to it. The MoD route was advised. list (I have no 1942 or later lists). On these lists I also have an R., F., A. & G. Green. On the Town of Ajax Memorial Wall for the River Plate list only W. A. A. Green appears but on the ALFRED JONES general war list for Ajax there are 5 Green's, including a H. Green. Nick Jones believes his grandfather, Alfred Jones served in Ajax at the time of the Battle of the River Harry appearing on the 1940 list rather than the River Plate list (December 1939) would suggest Harry Plate and was after confirmation that the A. Jones that appears on the Town of Ajax Memorial Wall was joined Ajax after her Battle repairs in July 1940 or possibly whilst she was in for repairs. Captain (later his grandfather. Whilst he did not appear on my River Plate list there was an A. Jones on the 1941 list Admiral) Woodhouse was the Ajax captain from 1937 until April 1940 and for Harry to have a signed and on the memorial wall there are, as expected, a number of Jones' listed but on the general WW11 photo would suggest they overlapped. Errors in the lists are not uncommon due to typing and copying 1940-45 Ajax list A. Jones is included. Ajax are looking to see if this A. Jones is Alfred. Nick was also errors so he could have been in Ajax at the end of 1939 but he doesn't appear on the list. advised to obtain his service record. Anthony responded saying he would look into it further. UPDATES PHILLIP GRIFFITHS 'SLIM' BIRCH Michael Griffiths was after information about his dad Phillip Griffiths who served at some stage in In the last newsletter I mentioned that member Don Birrell's (Ajax 1946-47) stories of his time on Ajax. P. Griffiths does not appear on the River Plate list or other lists nor on the Town of Ajax wall. the Ajax often include a friend of his, a Marine who went by the name of 'Slim' Birch. Son Stuart This doesn't necessarily mean he wasn't on Ajax at this time but his name is not recorded – lists were said, “If the stories are anything to go by, he could start a fight in an empty room and definitely any notoriously inaccurate. I do have an H., C. H. & W. Griffiths on the lists and nicknames were quite room with American sailors in it! common. The best I could do for him was to give him the MoD service record link. I received a phone call from member Ian Wright (1945-47) who said Slim Birch worked for him in Ajax. Ian started in Ajax in general stores but transferred to the "Victualing side" under CPO French on HENRY 'SPIKE' BRYAN her return from South America (March '46 according to Ajax diary). Ian had 3 Tankies including Slim Initially I wasn't sure what the relationship was but Gillian Oglesby was seeking information on Henry to fetch stores and other duties and when I mentioned Don he seemed to think he might have been one 'Spike' Bryan. Henry Bryan does not appear on the River Plate list but there is a Henry Bryan on the of the Tankies as well? Ian confirmed Slim's character traits! Stuart thought that this was probably Don 1940 list, but not later lists. This would suggest he joined Ajax following her refit and repairs back in and would arrange for dad to ring Ian when he was up to it. England after The Battle of the River Plate. There is a H. Bryan together with a W. Bryan listed on the 1940-45 section of the Memorial Wall in Ajax although there appears to be no street bearing that name LEONARD WILLIAM BAYNHAM in Ajax. Leonard was mentioned in the last newsletter and subsequently daughter-in-law Rosie Baynham sent Gillian came back to explain that she was looking on behalf of an old friend who was Grandson to through a selection of photographs to see if anyone recognised themselves or others. Henry Bryan by marriage to his Grandmother. She will follow up the links I sent.

HERBERT “RAY” RAYMOND ARFIELD Caryl Arfield contacted me about her father Ray Arfield saying, “I'd just like to say that I've only recently found your website, and it's a pity my dad died so long ago that he cannot see it for himself. I was particularly astonished to discover what is happening in the town of Ajax, with the road dedications and memorial wall. How thrilling, moving and unique! I've found his name listed: Herbert Raymond Arfield (though he hated 'Herbert' and so was known as Ray).” I established that Arfield does not appear on the River Plate list but on the 1941 list is H. R. Arfield. On the memorial wall there are two Arfield's; R & M. The R will no doubt be Ray as the surname is fairly unusual and that was what he would have called himself. Caryl was aware of the two Arfield's on the wall, “The 'M. Arfield' is a mystery, though. Could it be a transcription error from old records? Because I can only think this must be his brother, Charles Bernard Arfield". I responded that whilst there could also be a M. Arfield it is most likely that this name was included as a result of typing or copying errors that are quite common with such lists – it is a bit too different from Charles Bernard to be his brother. Caryl finished with, “Any way, many thanks for doing this website. What a big surprise it's been.” There is an Arfield Avenue in Ajax but with no biography. The Town of Ajax confirmed it was named after the two Arfield's but had no physical files for anyone with that surname – I have asked for biography details to be sent to them.

Malcolm Collis – Archivist 22. 23.

Malcolm Collis – Archivist 24.

NEWSLETTER EDITOR COMMENTS

HMS SHEFFIELD Whilst researching the 2019 South America trip I discovered that the type 22 Frigate HMS Sheffield that entered service in 1988 (named in honour of the type 42 destroyer sunk in the Falklands War - she was to be named Bruiser) was decommissioned in November 2002, sold to the Chilean Navy and recommissioned as the “Almirante Williams” in September 2003 and is still in service – we'll keep an eye out for her when we visit Valparaiso, the main naval base.

MERCHANDISE At the Reunion I was sporting the lapel badge with the new Association badge and also a white shirt again with the new Association badge. What I would really like is for those visiting South America to display name badges, especially at official functions. Whilst there are several items on the website for direct order from the Association it is easier and cheaper to order particular items direct from the manufacturer; in the case of the lapel badge, blazer badges (when it arrives) and shirts the supplier is Award Productions Ltd – details are on the website under merchandise but best to ring them on 01952 510053 to get any special offers. Quote: "Personalised Lapel Badge" with your name and: "Ajax Crest Association" for the new Association combined badge "Ajax Crest Pentagon" for the Cruiser badge "Ajax Crest Round" for the Frigate badge Current price is £17.45 inc. VAT & postage

Quote for long sleeve: "Dress Shirt HMS Ajax River Plate VA Text around badge" Quote for short sleeve: "Short Sleeve Dress Shirt HMS Ajax River Plate VA Text around badge" Current offer: £20.79 for one; £31.17 for two + delivery + VAT (£41.90)

Judi & I have just received from Mike Fox our fleece lined waterproof jackets with the new badge thereon, price £21 – details on the website or contact me. I still await my Blazer Badge with the new badge from Awards but as this is the first one it needs setting up so is taking a lot longer than normal and they advise it will not be with me in time for this newsletter – I let members know when available in due course. Malcolm Collis