VANGUARD THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION NO.10 AREA APRIL 2009

ONCE ROYAL NAVY - ALWAYS ROYAL NAVY • ONCE ROYAL NAVY - ALWAYS ROYAL NAVY • ONCE ROYAL NAVY - ALWAYS ROYAL NAVY Cover Picture: For this issue, the cover picture is of Visit your area website at: HMS Gannett at Chatham Dockyard. www.rna-10-area.co.uk

THE FIRST DRINKS BRAND PRIZE CONTENTS The bottle of Wood’s Rum prize for the October 2008 issue went to 5 EDITORIAL CPO WEM(O) Ian Millar 7 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT of RN Unit Basra for his letter. 7 SPOOKY DUTCH 8 PRESIDENT’S PULPIT 12 A NAVAL DOCKYARD REMEMBERED 14 A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY 16 LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GERARD BROADMEAD ROOPE VC RN 18 A VISIT TO HMS ARK ROYAL 20 YOUR LETTERS 22 SHOVEWOOD 24 LAUGHTER PAGES 26 THE TRUTH, THE WHOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!! 27 REUNIONS NEWS 27 OBITUARIES 28 PEEL’S JACKS 28 WHEN SAILORS BECAME SOLDIERS 30 THE APPLETON PLAQUE 31 THE HAROLD COOPER CUP 32 BRANCH NEWS 34 SCRANBAG

PUBLISHER PUBLISHED NOTICE Benham Publishing Limited April 2009 Benham Publishing and Area 10 RNA, would like DESIGN & PRODUCTION EDITOR to point out that all editorial comment and articles Fern Badman All editorial for publication should be sent to: are the responsibility of the originators and may or may not reflect the opinions of the Royal Naval ADVERTISING Association, no responsibility can be accepted for Rob Saunderson Area Secretary, Mr Charles Hutton Royal Naval Association No.10 Area any inaccuracies that may occur or the quality for ADMINISTRATION MANAGER c/o 44 Railway Road, obvious reasons of photographs reproduced. Lynn Noord Urmston, MEDIA NUMBER Manchester M41 0XW 1169 Tel 0161 748 6681

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VANGUARD 3 THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION VANGUARD NO.10 AREA EDITORIAL

local branch were rigging their meeting room at the rear of the pub. Not only was it their “Perhaps he may be looking to contact us,” meeting night later,HMS but theyRutland werewhich expecting aventured the Secretary. was due tocontingent anchor off of shoresailors that from very afternoon. The normally quiet pub was a hive of “Look” said the Chairman glancing at his activity; the member’s wives were busy watch, “you go down to the jetty now and meet preparing sandwiches and cakes for the them coming ashore and I shall get the expected visit: the harassed landlord—normally meeting underway at the pub. Don’t be long an unflappable person, was engaged in the otherwise the meeting might peter out.” On his A MISUNDERSTANDING OF A cellar checking his barrels in preparation for a MEMORANDUM way to the jetty the Secretary met up with hectic night. George and Bill. They agreed to accompany him and welcome the sailors. On their arrival at The small seaside town of Little Snoring layMeanwhile at the Town Hall, the Branch the jetty they were surprised to see an MFV slumbering in the mid afternoon sunshine ofChairman an and Secretary were in deep was already disgorging a number of the crew unusually warm September day. There wasconversation with the Town Clerk. Also present in various modes of attire, (needless to say not very little activity around the small seafront wasor a Naval Officer representing the Naval a uniform to be seen). The majority of the crew indeed the High Street, save for the occasionalRegional Officer for that part of the world. The were making their way to a coach, although car wending its way out of the village. Just Branchoff Chairman, a grizzled veteran of several had been met by their wives or the High Street lay the Three Tuns Inn. Twoindeterminate years addressed the Officer. girlfriends, and were leaving in the awaiting elderly gentlemen sat outside in the sunlight“Nice to meet you sir, Tom here my Branch cars. contemplating their half empty pints of the Secretarylocal and myself, would be grateful if you brew. By their conversation it was obvious theycould acquaint us with the programme for The Secretary managed to buttonhole one of had been connected with the sea in their earlier the sailors heading for the coach and years. The older of the two turning to his introduced himself. “Could you tell me,” he companion said, “What did you think of last Rutland’svisit this weekend, and perhaps” said asked, “is the RNA rep coming ashore night’s branch meeting George?” George did the Chairman “you could introduce us to the tonight?” not reply at once; but having taken another sipRNA representative on the ship when she of his beer he remarked, “Funny isn’t it Bill, arrives.” The officer appeared a little “Hey Scouse” said the sailor addressing here we are in our little branch with not one nonplussed. “The RNA representative?” he another companion brightly dressed. “There’s a new member recruited in the last two years andasked. “I will make enquiries when I go on guy here asking about an RNA rep or now the Branch Secretary tells us because of board” he replied furtively seeking to catch the something” Scouse pondered for a while this memorandum or something, the Town Clerk’s attention. “Not to worry” said Tom before replying; “I think its that PO Airy Fairy association has signed on 30,000 or so servingthe Branch Secretary, “we will find him when we Wendy something or other, she got detailed off matelots overnight”. go on board later to invite the sailors to our to see to the RNA, but she disembarked a branch meeting.” week ago with the chopper crew.” “I doubt if any will come down here,” said Bill, “although”, he said contemplating his glass The Town Clerk and the Officer exchanged “Would you like to come to our meeting in the once more; “the Secretary said the Second nervous glances. The Officer after a long pause Three Tuns?” asked one of the veterans: Sea Lord had organised it with our Admiral. finally said; “I am afraid you will not be allowed “You’re members of the RNA now you know.” Didn’t old Fred’s grandson up in Great Snoringon the ship tonight, the members of the Town join the Andrew about eighteen months ago?”Council and invited local business leaders “Sorry mate” said Scouse, “We’ve all been together with their wives will be attending a invited to the Crystal night club in Middletown, “That’s right,” said George, “but no one has cocktail party on board. We cannot allow its open till 3 in the morning.” With that the two seen him since”. members of the public to roam around the ship sailors joined the rest of their colleagues on the whilst the function is in progress, but you can, coach. “Well you never know,” replied Bill, “if the Parishof course, visit the ship when it’s open to the Council is right we can expect a visit from a general public on Sunday afternoon.” George, Bill and the Secretary slowly made ‘grey funnel’ line ship next month, that’s what their way back to the Three Tuns having the Branch Chairman was burbling on about Both the Chairman and Secretary turned to watched the members of the Town Council and last night. He wants to invite the ships question the Town Clerk about his knowledge other dignitaries accompanied by their ladies company to our meeting night here in the of these arrangements; but strangely, he had embark on the waiting MFV for their cocktail Three Tuns and give them an evening to silently slipped away from the gathering. party on board the brightly decorated ship in remember.” With that, the two old salts finished the bay. their drinks and went their separate ways. Retracing their steps back to the Three Tuns the Chairman and Secretary were slightly “Never mind” said the Secretary “one good Several weeks later on a dull grey Friday, Littlebewildered by this turn of events. “All is not thing about it, there will be plenty of Snoring appeared busier than normal. Flags lost,” ventured the Chairman, “we can meet the sandwiches to spare after our meeting – and and bunting decorated various points on the libertymen at the jetty when they land, and maybe an extra Tot”. quayside; several council workmen were busyinvite them to the pub for our meeting night. tidying the landing stage in the tiny harbour. AtWe can still give them a right royal welcome, the ‘Three Tuns’ several RNA members of the even if we can’t find the ship’s RNA rep.”

VANGUARD 5 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

a feel for how these branches are doing We do have some creative and ingenious while being so remote from the centre of committee members, our P.R.O. has the area. some expertise in this field and hopefully we can lift the profile of the R.N.A. This I have done, and I must say I have been warmly welcomed. It has been a It would be a pleasure to see more great pleasure to meet shipmates who branches represented at area are doing their utmost to keep branches conferences and I do hope more of you alive and kicking. can make the effort. I appreciate it is hard work keeping a branch going when Discussions, in some cases; have been numbers are low but we need you and Shipmates, my first year as Chairman has fiery to say the least, though in all cases your input, without which debate can flown by and we have dealt with many useful and sincere and have always often be stifled and repetitive thus serving issues. I have met many of you at various ended harmoniously no useful purpose. functions and I want to thank you all for your kind words and good wishes. I fully recognise the differences of As it is now spring we are back at the opinions from branch to branch and I Savoy for our reunion weekend and if it is There are of course ongoing problems in would not want it any other way, we all anything like 2008 it will be another most the area, with the closure of branches should have an opinion and the enjoyable occasion. and the situation at H.Q. which continues opportunity to express it and; I hope, by to concern us. my visiting your branch I have at least I know Crosby branch have been working given you the platform to do so. Sadly we hard on the ‘Sods Opera’ so I hope you We will continue to address issues which continue to lose shipmates crossing the all have good fun on the Sunday we think are undemocratic and are not for bar and we seem unable to attract new afternoon, more about this in the next the good of your association, however, members in any great numbers. issue of course. we are constantly looking for a rapport through our National Council Member Perhaps this year we should be looking to Yours ‘AYE’ and trying not to be too confrontational. I make a determined effort to promote the stated when I assumed the chairmanship Association in the region. I will be S/M Dave Tollerton. of Area Ten, that I wanted to visit some of speaking with your area committee and the outlying branches of the region to get asking for some ideas on how we can make this happen.

SPOOKY DUTCH

It is some years since the ‘Flying He defied the Almighty to stop him her; A strange red light as of a phantom Dutchman’ has been seen, little rounding the Cape “though I should ship all aglow, in the midst of which light wonder that the legend is dying. cruise to Judgement Day”. God took up the masts, spars, and sails of a brig two Gone are the days when he the challenge and the Dutchman has hundred yards distance stood out in held supernatural star billing. been battling ever since. strong relief as she came up.” His place has long been taken There have been a number of sightings, Two other navy ships which were in by more approachable in 1823, the Captain of HMS Leven company, also saw a red light as the apparitions for he was always a reportedly saw the ghost ship through his “Flying Dutchman” crossed the remote and rather aloof ghost glasses. Later in 1879, the officers, Bacchante bows. Then just as the legend consumed by his own sense of passengers and crew of the steamer prophesied, a tragedy struck when, Pretoria saw an old fashioned sailing ship twelve hours later, the seaman who had purpose. Also there was that burning blue distress lights, but when the been the lookout fell to his death. curse that all who saw him died steamer turned to give assistance the soon afterwards. ship had disappeared. But the most The last sighting was just before the last notable sighting of all is that claimed by war, when people on the beach at False In 1680, according to port records in no less a royal personage than King Bay saw a sailing ship with all sails set Amsterdam, one Captain Vanderdecken George V while serving as a midshipman and drawing. The puzzling thing was that sailed bound for Batavia. His ship hit in HMS Bacchante. This was in 1881, and there was no wind and a mist hung over endless storms of the Cape of Good the young Prince, as he was then, the Bay. Then, just as it seemed she Hope and for weeks battled on with her described the event in his diary: would run ashore, she suddenly vanished rudder damaged and most of her canvas and no one has seen her since. shredded. Vanderdecken refused to be “The lookout man on the forecastle beaten and it was from this blind reported her as close to the port bow, Submitted by Norman Kelk obstinacy that the legend began. where the officer of the watch also saw

VANGUARD 7 PRESIDENT’S PULPIT

“Since 2005 only essential hull repairs WHAT IS GOING ON IN Pompey Postcode Regions it makes a lot WHAT IS GOING ON IN The unelected RNA National President have been done”. (3 years cost cuts. PORTSMOUTH? of sense to locate as far away from the PORTSMOUTH? and self installed Chairman of all RNA Why?) centre of the nation as is possible without Council meetings, “entertained” an item, Well within carronade range of HMS actually getting your feet wet! Our Overheard at an RNA Conference: “I immediately supported by the elected “Due to research to develop Victory (now there’s a thought!!) sits southern coastline has often been the understand that recurring RNA annual version of the RNA Chairman, which understanding where and how repairs are another Naval relic with an uncertain target of dictators wishing to setup their Finance Deficits follow the pattern of the totally contravened the above noted to be carried out”. future. I remember Semaphore Tower HQ. old Warsaw Pact. Dictatorships annual procedures. (When invited to display the when it was full of friends working in harvests.... i.e., “not as good as last year ”paperwork” he received prior to the Dec. (That took 3 years? That reply wins a support of Flag Officer Portsmouth. As for alternative sites: Options aplenty but much better than next year”!! 6th Meeting, at the Area 10 North Waffling Award!) People of quality: Tippett, Owen, Scott existed. Manchester is not only close to Manchester AGM and Conference, 31st and many others. Since autumn 2008 the qualifying as the UK PLC Bulleye, it sits “What’s the difference between the TV Jan. 09, the Area 10 elected Council “After 40 years significant repairs to the Tower has housed the HQ of the RNA, amid the largest Area within the RNA and, Show “Porridge” and the RNA? In Member looked blank and displayed his hull are required”. (They would be!) creating an inadvertent link between the with more adjacent RNA Branches than “Porridge” the Trustees all wear empty hands to fellow Shipmates! No Towers of Portsmouth Pisa! Both: resulted any other Area, provides the pulse of armbands.” such paperwork existed.) “Baseline running cost to maintain from incompetent planning!! Area 10, not forgetting production of the VICTORY is £1.5 million pa.” bi-annual edition of the only publication “What’s the difference between RNA HQ That illegally; introduced item involved (Chickenfeed compared to its UK The Pisano Construction Franchise was within the RNA which is worth a damn! and a Parking Meter? None! You get no RNA finances - the extension, by two symbolic value. Sack an Admiral, or charged with creating a plumb line change from either of them.” years, of an employee’s contract. How three, costs covered!) structure, not one listing severely from the Birmingham, earlier identified as the such an issue could be treated in so WHAT IS HAPPENING AT perpendicular! Equally, the RNA Midlands, for obvious reasons, is literally “I told my Doctor I was depressed and cavalier manner requires explanation. PORTSMOUTH? “The Navy board options will be passed Relocation Squad were charged with besieged by RNA Shipmates. miserable and he told me to stop reading (Readers should note the name on the to Ministers”. (Oh dear! Passing that organising a one-move-only site which the RNA Circular”! “Procedures to be observed at RNA In October 2008 reports appeared in a parcel to transient Politicians of varying would allow unrestricted access to The Chelsea dugout, so stoutly defended Council meetings” document. It is the variety of newspapers concerning the degree’s of concern, interest and historic passing window shoppers. The main aim for decades by London region “locals”, “Crossing the Bar and RNA subscription name of the National President and self future of the Battle of Trafalgar Flag Ship awareness sounds very dodgy to me.) of obtaining a “Shoppe on a High Street” was abruptly declared “unfit for purpose”, charges are inevitable - but Crossing the installed Chairman no less! It would HMS VICTORY. As RNA Shipmates, and was an attempt at improving the existing circa 2003, and that pre-ordained Bar does not get worse via Conference appear that RNA procedures exist for legions of other Brits, leapt to the “It is too early to say” (That was the brick- flat earth image of the RNA. Guildford by-pass trip for our RNA HQ Motions of Urgency!! some - but not all. Some are clearly more barricades in defence of any cost cutting wall-response to queries regarding Naval filing cabinets was on - leaving HMS equal than others!! action by nameless bean-counters, even and Civilian staff, plus those vital Our Relocation Rovers must have BELFAST and Chatham Dockyard in the WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON the M.O.D noticed the reaction and maintainers. Fancy footwork folks.) followed Pisano’s Blueprint as their efforts wake of the Dash-to-Pompey dust. IN PORTSMOUTH? WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON promptly issued an “information resulted in the RNA HQ being located IN PORTSMOUTH? document from a responsible level” within Despite that fingers-crossed-behind-the- away from public access, hidden behind Think about that dear readers - the White Recently a phrase caught my attention - the Naval Staff. back-leaky-as-a-sieve document denying that socking great dockyard wall. Ensign Association long ago found “election strengthens accountability”, In recent years there has been a great that VICTORY is a victim of a “cost Explanations of how and why they failed adequate facilities aboard the Thames which suggests an encouragingly deal of talk via RNA HQ personnel that (Keen eyed readers will be asking, “are cutting exercise” all adults (anybody to follow RNA Conference instructions moored BELFAST whilst a group of promising prospect. Being elected, by a Council meetings should assume the there irresponsible levels within the Naval beyond believing in Santa Claus) know continue to qualify for linguistic gymnastic retired Naval Officers running the RNA substantial majority, as opposed to a format and conduct of “Cabinet” Staff. The mind boggles!) that costs dictate. If that were not true trophies, like all too many questions HQ failed to see the advantage of doing rump of placed men, bestows a degree meetings, and, in the superimposed, why are the Mary Rose and Cutty Sark concerning RNA HQ decision: (No likewise. Afloat in the Thames! An image of approval, even a mantle of manipulated, spirit of “do it my way” As with any document issued from within currently being cared for via £31 Million of change there then.) boost opportunity missed! By whom? respectability upon the elected person. I consensus politics, those attending were the recession-free depths of Whitehall, cash from the Heritage Lottery fund? had reason to dwell upon those thoughts to conduct themselves as “ministers”. the devil exists within the detail. We must Eager defenders of this cost cutting cover WHAT IS GOING ON IN Similarly, when Chatham Dockyard waved whilst considering what took place on (Delusions of grandeur create similar assume that the aim of that “information up will promptly cry “but that is a different PORTSMOUTH? farewell to RN Ships involvement it December 6th 08 during the RNA effects as laughing gas and Shipmates document” was to clarify the subject of vote/fund/source”. Of course, but if developed an ever-popular Maritime National Council Meeting, as the ribs must be aching, as mine are!!) the future of HMS VICTORY.... that aim M.Rose and C.Sark are, correctly, Any casual observer could well ask “Why Museum and was offering all manner of members grappled with Any Other History displays decades of Cabinet failed dismally due to the document irreplaceable UK Heritage items then a Pompey based HQ, when most office accommodation, which the RNA Business items. Meetings which have resembled all the possessing the transparency and clarity where does that place the utterly Association members live nowhere near General Secretary should have reviewed grace and consensus of crazed ferrets of Pussers Pea Soup! There follows priceless HMS VICTORY? Portsmouth Dockyard”? (Hands up the in detail. For reasons which have never The RNA Council Meeting. procedures trapped in a Pussers kit bag! Consensus examples of Whitehall misinformation: - hordes of RNA Members clutching a 6- been explained considerations for a regarding Any Other Business are very cooperation, always a sickly child, might “Results of the study will not be known month duration pass into the Pompey Chatham location were never thoroughly specific.. Quote... “Any Other Business survive and prosper amid “cabinet” “Victory will not be given away or before December 08”. (Noted. At time of Yard, available to all who produce a examined. Investigation reveals that will only be entertained for subjects discussions of subjects which Joe decommissioned” (So far so good) writing the sand in the glass has passport/driving licence and verification personnel in charge of the premises at notified in writing two weeks before the Public/Shipmates had complete “pre- progressed toward spring of 2009.) that you are not related to any Spithead Chatham would have welcomed the RNA meeting and accompanied by sufficient cabinet” awareness of. Sadly the manner Will Victory be loaned, hired out, rented, or Nore Command mutineer!) HQ with open arms… and just think how paperwork to enable (elected Area of RNA Council cum Cabinet meetings sponsored? (Not addressed!!) Okay Navy Board/MOD/IHMG, your time much more convenient that location is to Council Members) to be able to form routinely brings forth subjects which the is up! Crystal clear explanations One answer to the location question all London main line rail stations! some judgement” unquote. overwhelming majority of fee-paying- “We are looking at options for continued concerning HMS VICTORY are required, would be - everybody has to be members of our Association are unaware support & maintenance” (Noted) forthwith, and please, do not mutter, its somewhere, which is why the UK National of!! (Democracy gasping for life!) bad manners!! Exhibition Centre is sited in the Midlands. “This is not a cost cutting exercise” (Then Of course, if you happen to live within the why single out VICTORY..?)

8 VANGUARD VANGUARD 9 Papers addressing subjects due for discussion are only made I pass on the following quote by a long serving Shipmate, who available upon such a tight pre-meeting timescale which was wearing a fine display of medals, “Today the RNA operates consistently denies elected Area Chairman and elected like the BBC. We pay a fee to “belong” but we have no say at all Committees, throughout UK, any opportunity to have knowledge about what is going on”! He added “the HQ gang are so far out of and express Area opinions on prior to the grandiose self- of touch they received mail from the Readers Digest informing styled “Cabinet” meetings taking place. The RNA is a Charity them they had NOT been selected for the Grand Prize Draw”!! Association financed by members subscriptions. It is not a Nuclear Base where secrecy is paramount! The existing need- JUST A MINUTE! WHAT IS GOING ON IN to-know culture exercised via RNA HQ is as hideous as it is PORTSMOUTH? harmful. Following attendance at RNA National Council Meetings each An example of such manic secrecy took place in March 08 Area National Council Member (NCM) reports back to Area when, due to an entire RNA Area threatening to withhold its Shipmates as opportunity permits and by whatever method the substantial subscriptions, following outrageous conduct by an NCM chooses. Such reports can be verbal, written, brief, employee, the National Council, in a frantic fence repairing extensive a series of headlines-to-be-expanded-upon or any exercise, held the March 08 Council Meeting within the other method the NCM chooses. It follows that RNA NCM’s can boundaries of the offended Area. The Area Chairman and Area decide exactly what details, at whatever depth, are reported President requested to attend the Council meeting as back to RNA shipmates who do not attend the National Council “observers”. That request was denied. The explanation provided Meetings. Not having access to a copy of the official RNA Staff was “such attendance would be inappropriate”! Inappropriate recorded minutes, Area Shipmates are totally dependent for for an elected Area Chairman to observe an RNA Council information on their Area NCM. meeting, held, without precedent, within his Area and which his Eventually, time scales vary, the official RNA staff recorded Area Council Member was attending? (You truly could not make Minutes are mailed to AREA NCM who, once again, become this up! Did somebody mention lunatics running the asylum?!!) arbiters of whatever circulation will or will not take place. As a result of the existing system few RNA shipmates have an opportunity to compare the NCM’s Report alongside the RNA Staff version.

Minutes serve as compass bearings following voyages of discussion and decision. Without prompt and widespread circulation of accurate ”charts” any organisation can founder upon the perilous rocks of misinformation and misunderstandings. Professional staff work can minimise such risks.

The poet William Blake, born one year before Horatio Nelson, had words of sound advice regarding “minute taking” HE WHO WOULD DO GOOD TO ANOTHER MUST DO SO IN MINUTE PARTICULARS: THAT OLD EXCUSE, “FOR THE GENERAL GOOD” IS THE PLEA OF THE SCOUNDREL THE HYPOCRITE: AND OF THE FLATTERER. ACCURACY CAN ONLY EXIST IN ORGANISED PARTICULARS.

Well said Mr. Blake! (Well done that man, give him tot shipmates!)

Stand easy Shipmates but remain alert.

COMMANDER H. AREA 10 PRESIDENT

10 VANGUARD A NAVAL DOCKYARD REMEMBERED

The departure of the Royal Navy profit. Master shipwright Phineas Pett was held to be largely responsible for the state of redesigned as an ironclad, and the from Chatham Dockyard on the yard, and was severely reprimanded. He enjoyed the favour of the king however, purpose-built broadside ironclad Achilles March 31st 1984 brought to an and was given the task of overseeing the building of a completely new and expanded based on the design of HMS Warrior. dockyard. 80 acres of land were acquired to the north of the old yard and over the next Work on these two ships was carried on end a naval connection that had seven years, two new dry docks, a second graving dock, a sail loft, a rope house and to the exclusion of almost all work on lasted over four centuries. officers’ residences were built. other vessels and they were completed in During that time the dockyard 1863. SHIPBUILDING AT THE DOCKYARD grew from virtually nothing to a EXPANSION FOR LARGER site covering more than 400 King James died before the work was completed but his successor, Charles I, reviewed WARSHIPS acres and had survived attacks the dockyard and the fleet at Chatham on June 15th 1631. The dockyard had, until then, concentrated on ship repair and victualling, but it soon started to begin It was clear that the Navy’s future lay with from land, sea and air. shipbuilding in earnest and from 1647 onwards a steady stream of Chatham-built war- ever-larger iron warships and the ships joined the fleet. Admiralty recognised that the dockyard, Chatham’s claim to be the birthplace of then covering an area of 97 acres, was the Royal Navy has some justification as Perhaps the king made a bad impression on the Medway because early in the civil war, too small to accommodate such vessels its naval connections go back to the 16th ten years later, the dockyard declared its support for Parliament. The yard successfully in any numbers. A great deal of extra century. Henry VII, the first British defended itself against a royalist siege, but the Medway found itself less well prepared space was needed to accommodate monarch to have ships built that were when war broke out with the Dutch in 1652. The parlous state of the river’s defences future building and repair requirements, specifically designed as warships, was revealed in June 1667 when a Dutch fleet, under the command of Vice Admiral and so, in 1862, a 380-acre extension decided to base a number of these ships Willem van Ghent, took the partially completed Sheerness Fort before sailing up the was acquired in the form of St Mary’s on the river Medway during the winter Medway capturing and burning many British warships including the flagship Royal Island. The island consisted largely of months. The protected anchorage was Charles. tidal marshes, so a seawall was close to the capital and extensive mud constructed around it to allow it to be banks allowed the ships to be beached This wake-up call resulted in a massive strengthening of the Medway’s defences drained before reclamation work was for overhaul and maintenance. In 1547, behind which the dockyard grew as 21 new storehouses and two dry docks were built carried out. Meanwhile work began on the last year of Henry’s reign a between 1685 and 1688. The early years of the 18th century were a time of great the construction of three basins in St storehouse on the riverbank was rented expansion and several of the buildings and structures from this period still survive in Mary’s Creek, the channel between the for storage of ropes, spars and the Historic Dockyard today. These include a new mast pond completed in 1702, island and the Chatham shoreline, which equipment, and further storehouses were Medway House (1703), the main gate (1722), the clock tower store (1723) and a new had been enclosed. Although work on added over the next few years. An area of higher dockyard wall. this scheme began in 1862, the first land adjacent to the river was rented on suggestion for building a wet dock had the 8th of June 1550 when an Order in NEGLECT AND RENEWAL been made 180 years earlier. Much of the Council declared all royal ships should be reclamation and building work was harboured in the Medway. Despite these additions Chatham once again entered a period of neglect during the carried out by convict labour to save middle part of the century, largely because of shoaling problems on the Medway. An costs. Basin No.1 which included four A victualling storehouse in Rochester was Admiralty report of 1771 declared that “ the depth of the water in this port is scarcely 469ft long dry docks leading off its purchased soon afterwards and hulks adequate for the draught of the capital ships built according to present estimates.” This southern side, covered an area of 21 were moored in the river to provide problem meant few ships were based at Chatham although building and major refit acres and was designated as the workshops and accommodation for work continued apace and in 1765 HMS Victory arguably the most famous ship ever to repairing basin for use by ships fitting out vessels refitting afloat. Work began on be built at the dockyard, was launched. A major improvement programme began in Chatham Dockyard main gate. after launch or in deep refit. An entrance fortifications at Upnor and further 1785 with the replacement of many condemned buildings. The new ropery and the fitted with a caisson was built to allow downstream, while the purchase of more Anchor Wharf storehouses, both of which survive today, are among the buildings that ships to pass directly into the basin from land at Chatham created room for a mast date from this period of renewal. Marines were largely responsible for the successful outcome of attempts to suppress the Medway opposite Upnor and the pond to be dug and the building of a the spread of the mutiny to the Chatham Division and the army garrison on the Lines. basin was officially opened in June 1871 forge and more storehouses. A 378ft long The French Revolution in 1789 presaged a period of extraordinary activity for the with the arrival of the ironclad Invincible wharf with cranes was built in 1580 dockyard, which was called on to produce a maximum effort to build new ships and Further improvements carried out to the dockyard before the end of the Napoleonic for refit. Basins No.2 and No. 3, known allowing ships to come alongside and reactivate those laid up in ordinary. No fewer than 20 ships were commissioned at wars included the introduction of steam power, first in the ropery in 1811, and the respectively as the factory basin and offload their guns before being refitted. Chatham during the two months prior to the declaration of war in February 1793. roofing of No. 2 slip in 1813. Work continued after the end of the war with the addition refitting basin, were completed by 1885 Two years later the first dry dock was built of three more dry docks, while the remaining slips were covered in the period from and the new main entrance became the to service a small number of rowing In addition to it’s shipbuilding output, major repairs were carried out by the dockyard to 1838 to 1855. Chatham was fully involved in the Navy’s gradual change from sail to two parallel locks sealed by the caisson galleys. many vessels damaged in battle during the ensuing 22 years of warfare, particularly in steam and built the steam paddle sloop Phoenix in 1832, and completed the gates at Bull’s Nose at the Gillingham the aftermath of the fleet activities at St Vincent, Camperdown and Copenhagen. lengthening and conversion to steam power of the 46-gun frigate Penelope in 1843. end of the complex. This allowed ships By the beginning of the 17th century access from the river into the largest of Chatham was Britain’s premier naval Chatham came under the same administrative command as the Nore, the anchorage The move from wood towards iron-built ships caused massive upheaval in the the three basins, the 28-acre Basin No.3, dockyard, but James the first allowed the in the Thames Estuary at its confluence with the River Medway, named after the Great dockyard. No.1 dock was lengthened and converted into a giant covered workshop and thence into Basin No.2 and No.1. navy to stagnate and by 1618 the Nore sandbank. The fleet at the Nore mutinied in May 1797, a month after a mutiny at where metal plates could be assembled, new metal cutting, bending and drilling The original Upnor entrance into Basin dockyard was described as ‘being in a Spithead over poor conditions of service. The mutiny at the Nore, however, had a more machinery had to be acquired and dockyard workers had to be trained in its use. The No.1 fell into disuse and was truly piteous condition’. Corruption was political and menacing character, perhaps explaining the further outbreak when the first two ships to utilise the new equipment were Royal Oak, a wooden hulled vessel subsequently blocked up. rife and large amounts of equipment, mutineers at the Spithead had already secured remedies for sailors throughout the originally planned as a 90-gun first rate but cut down whilst still in the frame stage and including guns, had been sold for private Royal Navy.

12 VANGUARD VANGUARD 13 A NAVAL DOCKYARD REMEMBERED

The enlarged dockyard enabled work on WORLD WAR ACTIVITY many more ships to be carried out and the Admiralty placed orders for a number Throughout the war the dockyard was a hive of activity with warships being repaired of battleships to be built, the last of which and refitted, although capacity was still found to build three cruisers and 12 to be built was HMS Africa in 1905. Three submarines. An air raid by German Gotha bombers was mounted on September 17th years later C17, the first submarine to be 1917 but the bombs targeted on the yard fell on the nearby naval barracks killing 136 built at Chatham Dockyard, was delivered naval ratings. to the fleet. This marked the start of the dockyard’s links with the submarine Despite the inevitable downturn in work at the end of the war and the depression of the service, and association that was to last ‘30’s, the cruisers Kent and Arethusa were built and submarine production at the until the closure of the yard over 70 years Dockyard increased. later. But it was not long before the clouds of war began to gather once more and in 1939 In the lead up to World War I the Chatham went to war again. Attack from the air was inevitable and the dockyard was dockyard was refitting and reactivating subjected to a number of damaging raids, one of which destroyed the factory building ships that had been laid up. Three of and killed 23 workers. these, the cruisers Aboukir, Cressy and Hogue sailed from Chatham as part of The yard maintained its impressive output, however, and by the time hostilities ended in the 7th Cruiser Squadron an August 4th 1945 the workforce of 13,000 had built 12 submarines, 4 sloops and two floating docks 1914, the day war broke out. Just seven as well as carrying out 1,360 refits. weeks later, on September 22nd, the cost of war was brought home to the people In the post-war period shipbuilding work at Chatham was confined almost entirely to of Kent when all three Chatham crewed submarines. The 57th and last submarine built at the yard was HMCS Okanagan, an ships were torpedoed and sunk with the Oberon class boat completed in 1967 for the Canadian Navy. Work on submarines was loss of 1,500 lives. Towns along the to continue, however, with the completion in 1968 of a nuclear refit complex using the Medway were furthered shaken on 26th old No. 6 Basin. Surface ship refit and modernisation work continued to play an November when the battleship Bulwark, important role at the yard, but Chatham also became home to ships of the standby in Kethole Reach upstream from Squadron (vessels laid up but able to be quickly reactivated), the Antarctic patrol ship Sheerness, blew up and sank with the HMS Endurance, and the inshore survey squadron. Another long term resident was loss of 730 of her crew after a magazine HMS Triumph, and aircraft carrier converted to a heavy repair ship, that arrived in 1972 explosion. Six months later, the minelayer and finally left in tow for the breakers in December 1981. Princess Irene, loaded with 500 mines, blew up while anchored in the Medway, CLOSURE OF THE NAVAL DOCKYARD killing all but one of her crew. The diminishing size of the fleet and the need to cut costs were among the reasons given by the Defence Secretary, John Nott, when on 25 June 1981 he announced that Chatham Dockyard was to be closed. Just a few months later it seemed as if events at the other end of the world might change this decision. HMS Endurance reported the invasion of South Georgia and the Falklands by the Argentine troops and the navy was A DATE put on a war footing as ships in the Standby Squadron were hurriedly rushed into service as cover for vessels despatched to the South Atlantic.

FOR YOUR HMS Endurance was almost the last ship to return home from the Falklands and she received a tumultuous welcome when she arrived at Chatham on August 20th 1982. It was a welcome tinged with sadness, however, as the decision to close the dockyard DIARY had not been rescinded. Active warships sailed for other bases while those laid up for disposal were towed away to breakers yards or for use as targets, while HMS/M Churchill, the last submarine to emerge from the nuclear refit complex, sailed on June 27th 2009 May23rd 1983. There were emotional scenes when the last warship to leave HM Dockyard Chatham, the Leander class frigate Hermione that had undergone a Seawolf conversion, sailed into the Medway on the 21st June 1983. Flag Officer, Medway and Port Admiral, HM Naval Base Chatham, Rear Admiral W.A. Higgins, CBE, RN, hauled The first down his flag on September 30th 1983 and the dockyard gates finally closed on March Armed Forces 31st 1984. Day will be held in It was the end of over 400 years of Royal Navy presence on the River Medway Grateful thanks to Nick Hall and Ship’s Monthly magazine for permission to reprint this Chatham. article.

14 VANGUARD LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GERARD BROADMEAD ROOPE VC RN

BY JOHN FRAYN TURNER

Before the battle of Narvik, Lieutenant Commander Gerard Broadmead Roope won his V.C. But the structure. Roope, so far, was unhurt. As As they scrambled overboard the Out of a ship’s compliment of 149 men, story of HMS Glowworm only came to light five years later. Thus although the epic action was in fact the Glowworm heeled over to starboard, he Glowworm capsized. She floated bottom only thirty-one survived. Lieutenant first naval engagement of the war to result in recognition by a Victoria Cross, the actual award came as gave the order: “Abandon Ship.” Ramsay up for a few minutes, and then sank. Commander Roope and 117 others died was with him on the bridge. Ramsay swam clear. He was conscious in the ice-cold seas. one of the last of the war, instead of the first. of dots of men, heads and shoulders “Go and get some timber and anything encircled in lifebelts, groping, struggling; Kind permission of HMS Vincent else that floats,” he shouted to Ramsay and others splashing, moaning . . . Association in seas as savage as any the oceans THE BATTLE BEGAN above the noise around them. Hardly any over, Glowworm sighted a second one seemed to be unwounded. Ramsay The Admiral Hipper stopped engines, put destroyer, and there began a gallant fight Long before Glowworm’s guns were in helped heave the timber over for people out a boat, and picked up survivors; but against odds. range, the Hipper poured 8-inch shells at to cling to in the water – if they ever got Roope was not among them, though he the destroyer, hitting her mercilessly, like there. Lifebelts were put on the injured in had been seen in the water. The battle rapidly developed into a a heavyweight matched against a the hope that they would float. slamming match, with all three destroyers lightweight. Glowworm was game. She Ramsay was taken before the Captain, manoeuvring at full speed despite the made smoke to avoid the attack, and Roope came down. He was the only who told him that the ramming had sea, and firing with all guns. The sea then began to close with the cruiser. The other survivor from the bridge besides damaged one set of Hipper’s torpedo began to take a toll, before the enemy second she was within range, Lieutenant Ramsay. Engine Room Artificer Gregg tubes, flooded two compartments, and did. Soon Glowworm’s director control Robert Ramsay fired her torpedoes. rushed up to them. “I’ve been down to put her fresh water system out of tower was flooded by the raging seas, the boiler room and let off steam sir, so commission. The prisoners were taken to which were hurling the ship about. Two Meanwhile the destroyer began to blaze. there’ll be no explosion” “Good, Gregg.” Trondheim, but the Hipper had to go to men went overboard, and the relentless One of her four guns was already out of Germany for repairs in dry dock. rolling injured several, but they scored a action. Her range finder was hit, her hit on the leading destroyer. Glowworm speed reduced. Then the upper yard of escaped being hit, although she her mast collapsed across the siren continued on the attack all the time. Then wires. Her sirens screamed unheeded in came a brief respite. the blaze of battle. Roope realized nothing could be gained by prolonging The Germans broke off the action, the fight at this range. Then it was that he Glowworm (1345 tons) was one of the although already outnumbering decided to ram the Admiral Hipper. Going destroyers playing a part in the self-same Glowworm two to one. They were in under a storm of fire from all Hipper’s operation as HMS Hardy and her H-class obviously trying to tempt heron to guns, and the terrible staccato sound of consorts. Her fight occurred forty-eight something more powerful. Roope knew machine guns, he steered straight for the hours earlier than the Narvik epic. The this, but decided it was his duty to follow starboard side. A ghastly crunch signified last Hardy heard of Glowworm before her them to find out what big ships the the destroyer’s bows crumpling against Here at IPS we strive to achieve excellence in not only the correct own battles was when the G-class Germans had at sea. He began to the cruiser’s armour plating. Men fell to destroyer was escorting the battle cruiser shadow them and report their the deck in a welter of water, blood, application, but also the overall appearance of the finished product. Renown. During April 7th, a man was movements, since this could provide vital flame, and smoke. Some staggered up washed overboard in the heavy flow of information for British forces throughout again. Others did not. IPS offers a high standard of service, quality and competitiveness the North Sea. The weather worsened the North Sea and Norway areas in view with reference to Thermal, Acoustic and Structural Fire Protection Insulation hourly, and in her efforts to find him, she of the impending operation. Roope managed to draw Glowworm to and Sheet Metal Fabrication. lost touch with the main British force. With 400 yards away from the cruiser and then Unit 2, Bridge Court the weather becoming increasingly Glowworm sailed on. A few minutes later, opened fire once more. He scored a hit. 110 Canning Street We can supply and install a wide scope of materials, material-finishes impossible, Roope, as commanding the German heavy cruiser Admiral Hipper But the Glowworm’s bows were badly Wirral, Merseyside and new weight saving products which will maintain the required ‘A' Class officer of Glowworm, reduced speed to hove into sight. The Hipper, 10,000 tons stove in. A shell passed through the United Kingdom boundaries and defined acoustic levels. These products and material-finishes eight knots. Then her gyrocompass failed against the Glowworm’s 1345 tons. wheelhouse, another burst right in the CH41 1EW have been specifically marketed successfully by us within the and she had to steer by magnetic Hipper, with eight 8-inch, twelve 4.1-inch transmitting station, killing most of the Commercial Marine Industry, Ministry of Defence and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. compass. and twelve 37mm. Guns against the crew and all the staff of the wireless office Phone: 0151 647 1370 destroyer’s four 4-7-inch guns. Weather on the spot. A third entered the ship Mobile: 07967 134429 Fax: 0151 647 1373 During our ongoing experience within the Marine Insulation Industry, in particular Daybreak, April 8th 1940, saw her trying conditions made shadowing out of the under the torpedo tubes, crossed the Fax: 0151 653 8826 High Temperature Exhaust Insulation and Personnel Protection Application, to rendezvous with another force in the question – and from that moment on whole width of the vessel, and burst Email: [email protected] we have minimised problems within certain areas with the help of technical operation. But she was never to find that those aboard Glowworm knew what her against the forward bulkhead of the Web: www.ipsuk.net and experienced advice, thus enabling us to conform to the upgraded force. fate, and perhaps their own would be. Captain’s cabin. At the time, the cabin Lloyds Flammable Fluid SOLAS Requirements. These products can be applied was being used as a first-aid station. The in static form or can be fitted in the form of removable pads, Suddenly Glowworm sighted an Roope’s one aim now was to inflict as same shell made a huge hole in the giving portability, thus enabling easy maintenance. unidentified destroyer. Immediately the much damage as possible on the enemy ship’s side abreast the engine room. British ship challenged her. The reply before being sunk. It was as certain as Another wrecked the after super- came back that she was Swedish. Then that. she opened fire. Thirty seconds later, still

16 VANGUARD VANGUARD 17 A VISIT TO HMS ARK ROYAL

Greater Manchester Fleet Air Arm visit HMS . Ark R oyal

On Sunday January 18th a number of the Greater Manchester Fleet Up even more ladders, (by now some of Air Arm members, travelled to Liverpool to visit HMS Ark Royal. The us were puffing a bit,) we walked out onto weather forecast for the weekend was for gale force winds and rain. the flight deck. To say it was windy was an understatement, you had to raise your The gods must have been smiling on us as we arrived in brilliant voice if you wanted to be heard above sunshine, and although there was a keen wind blowing across The the wind, it certainly blew the cobwebs Mersey, we were warmly wrapped up. Close up the ship is an away. The flight is 600 feet long, and when full of helicopters or ‘planes taking impressive sight, towering above the landing stage at the Pier off and landing must be an impressive Head, which is normally used by cruise liners. The ship is painted in sight. After some searching questions battleship grey and the only colours were from the Union flag, the from members regarding the number of planes and helicopters which could be White Ensign and a couple of signal flags.. carried at any one time, we were escorted back to the hanger, where we At 1100 we made our way to the brow (gangway), and went aboard ‘the Ark’, where thanked our host and guide for his Lieutenant Pete Whitehead, who was to be our guide whilst we were on board, greeted patience and informative guide around us. Among the first things you notice are the amount of boxes of stores and equipment the ship, we said ‘Goodbye and Bon neatly stacked away around the limited available space, and the noise from the Voyage.’ HMS Ark Royal was due to leave ventilation fans, which take in air and circulate it around the ship. Liverpool the following day visiting other seaports around the United Kingdom, The two helicopters that were on show on the hanger deck loamed large above us their before going in for a refit. rotors tucked away, members who went inside the Merlin Mark 7, were amazed at the massive amount of electrical surveillance equipment stored aboard. Work on one of I did ask if there was a representative of these must call for very nimble and deft fingers, although most of the equipment can the RNA on board but unfortunately was be removed for maintenance. Leaving the hanger, we were confronted by steel ladders, unable to ascertain if there was anyone (I did remember not to call them stairs) some of the braver members went down the allocated to this very onerous role, naval way facing the front, we were informed that sliding down ladders like John Wayne although I did find out that there was an is now frowned upon, those who were thinking more of their safety and dignity, faced Naval Officer’s Association. the ladders going down. (The thought of arriving at the bottom in a heap, even if it is at the feet of a young officer, was not to be contemplated.) The radar room was like something out of Star Trek, everywhere you looked were banks of computers, and even with the ordinary lights on, instead of the ‘night vision’ red ones it was still impressive. Long gone are the days when you had a sailor in the crow’s nest shielding his eyes and looking out for the enemy, nowadays the enemy is probably miles away and only ‘seen’ on the radar screen as a blip.

18 VANGUARD YOUR LETTERS

Sir mess deck, giving off thick black smoke and causing 40 MUTINY ON H.M.S. MAIDSTONE 1956 Following this the crew did fall in when piped and leave was casualties most of whom suffered superficial burns. In the event, granted. The following Sunday at Divisions the Captain read out With reference to the collision of HMS Daring and HMS Swiftsure the fire spread to the cruisers bridge superstructure and to the I understand that an item was posted on the RNA Area 10 forum the relevant passages from the Articles of war. [Letters page in the spring 2008 edition and my reply in the officer’s cabins. The fire took some four and a half hours to a couple of years ago seeking information on the above autumn 2008 edition of the magazine] I recently purchased a bring under control. As to the visible damage, a large V shaped incident. I was aboard Maidstone at the time and my I do know that the 1st Lieutenant was indeed confined to his copy of the book ‘Daring Class Destroyers’. On page 32 of this hole could be seen extending from the cruisers upper deck level recollections of this event are as follows. cabin, but do not recall a Court Marshall taking place later. This book I came across the following passage; “Diamond was to the top of her armoured belt. As most of the paint and white account is my recollection of this incident but, as it took place tasked the whole of September 1953 in northern waters, and for spirit from Diamond’s fore peak was deposited in Swiftsure’s Maidstone was a submarine depot ship and had been based at over fifty years ago, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. most of that time she took part in the major fleet exercise dental surgery, the flames from the subsequent fire which broke Portland under the command of Capt. SM2 who was, I believe, ‘Mariner’ which included Eagle, Vanguard, Sheffield, Battleaxe, out in Diamond’s damaged forepeak licked around the one Capt. Porter at the time of this happening. I can confirm that I think that some of the other ships on this trip were the Swiftsure, Decoy, Duchess, Crossbow, Scorpion and Trespasser destroyers bows which were crumpled back to No.4 bulkhead. it took place early in 1956 as I have a photograph of her destroyers Aisne, Corunna, Comet and Contest, several “S” in the waters off Iceland”. Fire parties were soon on the scene and the blaze was alongside in Gibraltar dated February 1956. Maidstone had by class boats and the “T” boat Taciturn. I hope this is of interest. extinguished in about eight minutes. There were no casualties that time become Flagship Home Fleet (Admiral Eccles) and “During the of Tuesday September 29th with the ships some 80 aboard the Diamond”. presumably she was chosen due to the amount of Michael Thomas miles south of Iceland and having been at sea for six days, accommodation to be found in such ships. It did not go down Diamond was one of the six ships providing an A/S screen for I hope this helps clear up the events off Iceland on September too well with the crew who were faced with preparing a hard Vanguard and Swiftsure. The eight vessels formed Task Group 29th 1953 working depot ship to appear in the guise of a Flagship. This 219’9 they were west of Iceland and had darkened ship. The entailed a huge amount of cleaning, painting ship etc. inevitable weather was fine but it was very dark and cloudy night with a P. D. Haynes (Trafford Branch) “Bull” thrust on the crew at short notice. northeasterly wind and a moderate swell. The force was under the command of FOF (H) Rear Admiral J.W. Cuthbert in Much of this work took place took place well into the Swiftsure. At 1955 the Task Group altered course, and with dogwatches making for a very long working day. As reward for Swiftsure as guide of the group, Vanguard was steaming some NONSUCH this effort a promise was made that on arrival at Cadiz, make 1000 yards astern of the cruiser. Diamond was in screening and mends would be the order of the day. Maidstone arrived at station No.2 that was one of the ahead stations in position 20 Sir Cadiz in the forenoon and after “up spirits” the non duty degrees on Swiftsure’s port bow at a distance of 3,800 yards. At watches were already in their No. Ones preparing for adventures the time the Task Group was steaming at 10knots and was not I wonder if you or any of your readers can help me with ashore, when the pipe for hands to fall in for work, not liberty, zig -zagging. At 2152 the group was ordered to reverse course, something, which is puzzling me? Whilst I was working in the was made. which in Diamond’s case involved a turn of 180degrees to port, Destroyer design section of the Naval Construction Department so that she would once again be on station and 20 degrees and in Bath, I had to cancel a weekend leave when I was required to I believe that a Leading Seaman went to the police office to 3,800 yards on Swiftsure’s port quarter. Swiftsures Bridge saw work out some stability and other calculations for the German query this order and that it was he to whom the offensive remark Diamond was in fact about one mile ahead and crossing the Destroyer Z38. I was later told that when the ship — renamed was addressed. I understand that the 1st Lieutenant said cruisers bow to starboard. At the same time she appeared to be HMS Nonsuch set sail, it was found that the Germans had something along the lines of “get the cattle fell in” and that the altering course to starboard. On board Swiftsure Captain Bratt sabotaged her by leaving explosive charges in the uptakes. In leading rate went back to the mess and said “anyone who ordered the navigation lights on the ship to be turned on, the none of the accounts I have read is there any mention of such thinks they deserve the title of cattle, get fell in”. wheel to be put over to ‘Port 20’ and two short blasts to be an event. Was it just a rumour or did the ship have a breakdown sounded on the siren. As the wheel order had no appreciable on that first voyage, which I believe was from Portsmouth. I clearly recall the clamour as utensils were hammered on the effect, Captain Bratt ordered ‘Midships’ – starboard 30 followed mess deck tables and the watertight doors were apparently by ‘Stop both engines’ However, within 30 seconds of Captain I hope that you can help. closed and held closed from inside. At the time Spanish Civil Bratts first order of port 20, the Diamond steamed into the Dignitaries were being entertained onboard so this could have cruisers starboard side just abaft of the bridge” S/m HA Smedley been very embarrassing for the Royal Navy on a somewhat Spalding Linc’s. sensitive visit! “Although the destroyers bow did not penetrate far into the cruisers side – being arrested by the cruisers lower armoured The Commander (Commander Manners?) was respected by the belt, the force of the collision destroyed a number of five gallon crew and to him must go the credit for saving the day. I was not drums of paint and white spirit of which 98 were stored in the in the foreward mess deck at the time (perhaps fortunately) but I Destroyers forepeak, hurling them into Swiftsure’s dental believe that he gained entry, removed his hat, and explained that surgery. Within seconds of the impact there was a violent flash the situation was developing so seriously that a destroyer with a and a fire, generating intense heat, fuelled by the white spirit compliment of Marines was ready to sail from Gib to put down and paint affecting Swiftsure’s dental surgery and what remained any further trouble. He explained that what was happening was of Diamond’s forepeak. Although the collision caused no Mutiny but that provided the crew now fell in, leave would be casualties, in Swiftsure the fire spread rapidly to the adjacent granted to the non duty watches. He also said that any Master at Arms office, the sick bay and the Leading Stokers individual with a complaint was to make it through the correct channels and that they would be properly considered.

20 VANGUARD VANGUARD 21 SHOVEWOOD

Once upon a time the 5,7000 To him, there appeared in order, the following: one boy bugler: The Master at Arms, “Aha,” said the Admiral, “I see, you ton cruiser Mombresia, having bearing a lantern; The Rear Admiral; The Captain; the Commander; the first Lieutenant; wanted to tiddley it up a bit before I saw commissioned in Devonport the Supply Officer; Commander (E); the Gunnery Officer; the Torpedo Officer; the Flag it. I believe you were sent out here in Lieutenant; two nervous Midshipmen; - the Captain & Commander’s doggies; one rather a rush, weren’t you? Well, you’ve and ‘worked up’, was sent to Marine Messenger and a signal rating with a pad and pencil. made a very fine job of it. Tell me do you out to join the 33rd Cruiser find it useful?” “Yes Sir,” replied the Squadron at Malta. The Rear The Admiral was affable, he looked briefly around the store, blinked, and said it was Captain unblushingly, “very useful.” very well kept, asked the rigid storeman how long he’d been in the Navy, where he’d Admiral was delighted with his served before, and whether he was married. He nodded at the answers, rubbed his On the strength of this reply, the Admiral, new ship. She was the latest nose with one finger and took a look at the stores list spread open on the desk. when he got back to his flagship, made a thing out of a British shipyard – signal to the squadron; “Report number “Ah,” he said, “I see you have a shove wood.” The Captain had been looking over the of shovewoods held.” There was of this was at a peacetime rate of Admiral’s shoulder – this gave him the presence of mind to answer – “Yes Sir, we course a nil report, so ‘His Nibs’ made building – and had all the latest have.” another signal; “Technical staffs of all gadgets. Accordingly he lost no ships are to repair on board Mombresia time in coming over to inspect “Splendid,” nodded the Admiral, ”I’d like to see it.” to take measurements and details for shovewoods, which are to be constructed her. Here all eyes turned to the storekeeper, who was as an oak struck by lightning, erect as by ship’s staff.” ever, but with his heart blasted. His lips moved soundlessly and the chill in his nerves Now as ill luck would have it, the very day paralysed time in flight. It was not until every ship in the 33rd before the inspection, one of the fine old Commander (E) bustled off with the CERA in attendance, but the Chief Shipwright Cruiser Squadron could boast a crusted Jack Dusty was ‘took bad’, so “Come on my man,” snapped the Admiral, “have you got the shovewood or not?” wasn’t going to let him get away with it on his own, so he too shot off towards the gleaming new shoveboard that Nobby, seriously that he had to be sent ashore. workshops. The Boatswain strolled away with the Chief Boatswain’s mate. All the the three-badge Jack Dusty, reported fit Before they swung him over the side on But the horror stayed on with our storekeeper and he uttered no word. What was a others looked wise and seamanlike and drifted off to lunch. for duty. He was met, as he came over his stretcher, he had a parting word with shovewood? He’d only been ten years in the Navy, but all the same, he thought he the side, by his relief and straightway his successor, a mere two badge Jack knew every store article in the service. There couldn’t be a thing called a shovewood. The mess decks, of course, by now had the whole story. At first some of the younger hauled down to the store. Dusty, with only ten years ‘in’. The ratings were bold enough to say that they had never heard of a shovewood, they anguish on his face was not wholly due “Man’s an ass!” barked the Admiral turning on his heel. “Show me your shovewood couldn’t believe there was such a thing. But this talk came to an ignominious end as “Ere Nobby, now tell me, will yer, what is to his gastric troubles. before I leave the ship.” “Aye, aye Sir,” said the Captain fixing two red-hot eyes on the one three badgeman after another spoke of shovewoods they had had, had lost, had a blooming shovewood?” “Shovewood?” storekeeper as he left in the Admiral’s wake. And each officer, as he wheeled to go out, mended. They talked of modifications that had come out of shovewoods; of different says Nobby, “ Never ‘eard of it, there ain’t “Now see ‘ere” he threatened, “For cast murderous looks on the stricken man, for he ‘Had Let The Side Down.’ marks of shovewoods; they recalled dates on which the allowance of shovewoods to no such thing.” “Yes there is, look at this Chrissake don’t muck-up. If you lets me Cruisers and above had been revised; but most of all they told how they personally ere entry in yer own ‘and writing.” down, I’ll fill you in good an’ proper, when The stately caravan swept on, the Captain saying sternly to the Commander; “See had been congratulated on the way they kept their shovewood …. “an’ ‘e says to me, I gets back”. “Ah stow it Nobby”, says his about the shovewood.” The Commander murmuring “Aye, aye Sir,” and passing the e’ says, I ‘aven’t seen a polish like what you’ve got on that there shovewood, not since “Good Lord,” breathed Nobby, “that ain’t winger, “we got everything on top line order over his shoulder to the Supply and the supply passing it on ……and so on. And I was No.1 o’ the Yacht.” shovewood, that’s meant to be – ain’t we? Can’t nuffink go wrong, so quit so on. natterin’ ‘an go an’ ‘ave a week wiv the The very next day it was reported the shovewood was ready. A signal was made. The luscious nurses. ”Nobby still wasn’t But before the avalanche descended on that store, the two-badge locum tenens had Admiral’s barge was seen to leave the Flagship, and as he came over the side, there in Shovel; wood ….. 1 happy: he went over the side muttering time to fling himself at the book and stare. There was the entry, no doubt about it; the waist, just before the quarterdeck, stood the shovewood. It was a fine wooden about “Careless, ignorant OD’s ain’t been Shovewood…1 it was better to confess to the departing Admiral that the shovewood trough standing on four stout legs painted battleship grey, with gleaming copper hoops in the Navy ‘alf a dogs watch.” could not be produced. C.S.33 was displeased: “Send me a signal when I can come over the top and brass capping and corner plates. Chippy had supplied a teak stand “That’s a spare we carries for the baker”! and see it.” with eyes to take deck bolts, a rubbing-strake of mahogany, and a plunger with a It seemed though that he had no cause handle also of mahogany, as well as the brass work on the trough. The ERA’s had Grateful thanks to the Southern Ontario for uneasiness. The store next morning As soon as he had been piped away, an inquest was held. The P.O. Jack Dusty swore fitted a brass band around the plunger; and the Boatswain’s party had given it a RNA Branch. was a model of order and cleanliness. he’d seen the shovewood only the other day so did the TGM. The wretched leather capping and a baize grip secured with a couple of turk’s heads. They had; The shelves and pigeonholes were in storekeeper swore he’s never seen it at all. The Boatswain said the damn thing must further, pointed four eighteen inch lengths of white manila and fitted them at the apple pie order, all the tallies were be somewhere, you could hardly run a ship of this size without one. The CERA corners of the stand by way of fenders. The Gunner’s party, off their own bat had made polished. The fair copy of the stores list, concurred. The Pay said thing to do was to find out whose charge the shovewood was and supplied two steel rules, one in inches and one in centimetres, which were bolted laboriously written out by the absent on and then jump on him, by God! along the sides of the main trough, where they caused more jealousy and ill-feeling Nobby, lay open in the centre of the desk, than ever with the Engine –room department, who felt that supplying precision rules beside which, in his Number Ones, stood The Chief GI said in all his twenty-two years in the service he’d never known a were their pigeon. Finally, the men under No9 punishment had made a canvas cover Nobby’s relief, with the moisture breaking shovewood lost before. The Commander said he didn’t want to listen to drivel; he complete with hemp lanyards; and this was folded down on the deck at the head of the out on the palms of his hands. wanted something done. At this point the Gunner (G) who wanted to get to his gin, noble appliance. took his courage in both hands and, feeling moderately sure that all those present were as ignorant as himself, said, “Well Sir, if it can’t be found, I’m sure my department could run up quite a satisfactory one in no time, some thing like this…” and he began to sketch on a signal pad. But the Commander (EO) broke in with “I think this is a matter for my department,” and snatched the sketch out of the Gunner’s hand.

22 VANGUARD VANGUARD 23 LAUGHTER PAGES

TWO DIFFERENT DOCTORS OFFICES The priest replies, ‘My Son, it’s caused by loose living, being After a few more demonstrations, he came back and lay down The photographer for a national magazine was assigned to get with cheap, wicked women, too much alcohol, contempt for on his towel. She said, ‘that was incredible! ‘He said, ‘I used to photos of a great forest fire. Smoke at the scene was too thick Two patients limp into two different medical clinics with the same your fellow man, sleeping around with prostitutes and lack of a be an Olympic diving champion. You see, I told you we’d learn for any good shots, so he frantically called his home office to complaint. Both have trouble walking and appear to require a bath.’ The drunk muttered in response, ‘Well, I’ll be damned”. more about ourselves as we went along.’ hire a plane. “It will be waiting for you at the airport” he was hip replacement. Then returned to his paper. assured by his editor. As soon as he got to the small rural So she got up, jumped in the pool and started doing laps. She airfield, sure enough, a plane was warming up near the runway. The FIRST patient is examined within the hour, is x-rayed the The priest, thinking about what he had said, nudged the man was moving so fast, that the froth from her pushing off at one He jumped in with his equipment and yelled, “let’s go!” The pilot same day and has a time booked for Surgery the following and apologized. ‘I’m very sorry. I didn’t mean to come on so end of the pool would hardly be gone, before she was already swung the plane into the wind and soon they were in the air. “Fly week. strong. How long have you had arthritis?’ The drunk answered, ‘I touching the other end of the pool. She did laps in over the north side of the fire”, said the photographer, “and don’t have it, Father. I was just reading here that the Pope does.’ make three or four low level passes”. “Why” asked the pilot? “ The SECOND sees his family doctor after waiting 3 weeks for an Freestyle, breaststroke, underwater and even butterfly! Because I’m going to take pictures! I’m a photographer, and appointment, then waits 8 weeks to see a specialist, gets an x- photographers take pictures!” said the photographer with great ray, which isn’t reviewed for another week and finally has his After about thirty laps, completed in mere minutes, she climbed exasperation. After a long pause the pilot said, “You mean surgery scheduled for a month from then. Why the different VICARS BUSINESS CARD back out and lay down on her towel, barely breathing hard. He you’re not the instructor? treatment for the two patients? said, ‘that was incredible! Were you an Olympic endurance A new Vicar was visiting in the homes of his parishioners. At one swimmer?’ The FIRST is a Golden Retriever. The SECOND is a Senior house it seemed obvious that someone was at home, but no Citizen. answer came to his repeated knocks at the door. ‘No’, she replied, ‘I was a prostitute in Gosport and I worked Going to bed the other night, I noticed people in my shed both sides of the harbour’. stealing things. I phoned the police but was told no-one was in Next time take me to a vet! Therefore, he took out a business card and wrote “Revelation the area to help. They said they would send someone as soon 3:20” on the back of it and stuck it in the door. as possible.

When the offering was processed the following Sunday, he DOWN ON THE FARM I hung up. A minute later I rang again. “Hello” I said, “I called INTENSIVE SCARE found that his card had been returned. Added to it was this you a few minutes ago because there were people stealing from cryptic message, “Genesis 3:10.” Reaching for his Bible to A farmer got pulled over by a state trooper for speeding, and the my shed. You don’t have to worry now, because I’ve shot them.” In a hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, patients always died in the check out the citation, he broke up in gales of laughter. trooper started to lecture the farmer about his speed, and in same bed, on Sunday morning, at about 11:00 am, regardless general began to throw his weight around to try to make the Within minutes there were half a dozen police cars in the area, of their medical condition. This puzzled the doctors and some Revelation 3:20 begins “Behold, I stand at the door and knock.” farmer uncomfortable. plus a helicopter and an armed response unit. They caught the even thought it had something to do with the supernatural. No Genesis 3:10 reads, “I heard your voice in the garden and I was burglars red handed. one could solve the mystery as to why the deaths occurred afraid for I was naked.” Finally, the trooper got around to writing out the ticket, and as he around 11:00 am Sunday, so a worldwide team of experts was was doing that he kept swatting at some flies that were buzzing One of the officers said: “I thought you said you’d shot them.” assembled to investigate the cause of the incidents. The next From the Bulldog Bulletin around his head. The farmer said, “Having some problems with To which I replied: “I thought you said there was no one Sunday morning, a few minutes before 11:00 am all of the The Royal British Legion circle flies there, are ya?” The trooper stopped writing the ticket available”. doctors and nurses nervously waited outside the ward to see for Submitted by S/M Kathleen Davis and said, “Well yeah, if that’s what they are, I never heard of themselves what the terrible phenomenon was all about. Some circle flies.” were holding wooden crosses, prayer books, and other holy objects to ward off the evil spirits. Just when the clock struck So the farmer says “Well, circle flies are common on farms. See, “Never argue with a fool, for all you know, he may be doing the 11:00, Pookie Johnson, the part-time Sunday sweeper, entered LOCAL GIRL MADE GOOD they’re called circle flies because they’re almost always found same.” the ward and unplugged the life support system so he could circling around the back end of a horse.” The trooper says, use the vacuum cleaner. A man met a beautiful lady and he decided he wanted to marry “Oh,” and goes back to writing the ticket. Then... her right away. She protested, ‘But we don’t know anything about each other.’ After a minute he stops and says, “Hey...wait a minute, are you trying to call me a horses ass?” WRONG DIAGNOSIS! He replied, ‘That’s all right; we’ll learn about each other as we go along.’ The farmer says, “Oh no, officer. I have too much respect for law The RN & RM Children’s A drunken man who smelled of beer sat down on a train next to enforcement and police officers to even think about calling you Fund is a National Charity a priest. The man’s tie was stained, his face was plastered with So she consented, and they were married, and went on a a horse’s ass.” The trooper says, “Well, that’s a good thing,” based in Portsmouth. We red lipstick, and a half-empty bottle of gin was sticking out of his honeymoon to a very nice resort. and goes back to writing the ticket. care for children of men and torn coat pocket. women who have served or are serving in the Royal Registered Charity No. 1075015 One morning, they were lying by the pool when he got up off his After a long pause, the farmer says, “Hard to fool those flies PATRON: HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN Navy and Royal Marines. He opened his newspaper and began reading. After a few towel, climbed up to the 10-metre board and did a two and a though.” Those seeking assistance can minutes the man turned to the priest and asked, half tuck gainer, entering the water perfectly, almost without a contact the office direct for an ripple. This was followed by three rotations in jack-knife position Originally set up as an application form:- orphanage, we now assist ‘Say Father, what causes arthritis?’ before he again straightened out and cut the water like a knife. Monique Bateman or Laurene Smith children with a wide range of RN & RM Children’s Fund needs and at times of family 311 Twyford Avenue crisis. Portsmouth PO2 8RN Telephone: 023 9263 9534 Applications can be made at Fax: 023 9267 7574 any time. Email: [email protected]

24 VANGUARD VANGUARD 25 THE TRUTH, THE WHOLE TRUTH AND REUNIONS NEWS

NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!! HMS ADAMANT HMS MINERVA (F45)

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF TWO AIRCRAFT HANDLER’S 3RD CLASS. Reunion at the Queens Hotel Skegness on May 15th – 18th Next reunion at the China Fleet Club Saltash on May 9th -10th Further details for reunion and to join the association please contact www.china-fleet.co.uk or contact Barry Millar 13 contact John Harris [email protected] or the Secretary Pete Chequers Hill Cottages, Bough Beech, Kent TN8 7PB or Scarlet - 17 St Lawrence Square, HUNGERFORD, Berk’s RG17 [email protected] OHB. HMS Eagle June 1st 1953, Devonport Harbour, and just back from When “Cammie” goes up the gangway a most delightful spring cruise in the Mediterranean, calling, he is charged for leaving the ship, having HMS MORECAMBE BAY naturally at all the most important places that sailor’s always visit – no hat and desertion… HMS CAMBRIAN Annual reunion in Torquay; October 16 -18th 2009. Contact D Vigo, Gib, Mers-el-kebir, Toulon, Marseille, Malta and Sicily etc,etc. The name “Stacks“ Heaps aboard Eagle “Calling old Cambrians”: The next reunion will be at the Turk at [email protected] or tel:01252 377481 All Bay We were now getting ready for the Royal Fleet Review at Spithead. becomes synonymous with a pile of Elizabeth Orwell Hotel, Felixstowe 15th – 17th May 2009. Any old Class frigates welcome. Back in Devonport it was decided that two Naval Airmen could join dogs*** Every time I stroll into the shipmates not yet in touch should contact Don Macdonald on Cafeteria everyone points the finger and 01344 774386. the Bosoun’s party and work on the Ship’s side, but only for screams “That bastard always drops you HMS OPOSSUM harbour duties – At sea, these two Naval Airmen would naturally in it.” This became the big laugh of 1953 become part of the flight deck team. and of course “Cammie” was thoroughly HMS CAVALIER 16th reunion will take place at the Lindum Hotel, Lytham – St. pissed off with me for about 24 hours but Annes, Lanc’s on May15 -18th More information from: Eddie then, we were firm friends again. After Annual reunion & AGM; at the Swallow hotel Stockton on Tees, – Summerfold 28 Greymont Road, Limefield BURY Gt’r The two ‘volunteers’ turned out to be Terry ‘Stacks’ Heaps and his good pal Cameron that though, I was always the one who May 1st — 4th. Further details and bookings from Marshall Manchester BL9 8PN Tel: 0161 764 8778. Hamilton, both off mess 63. went down in the Boson’s chair and I Clarke at [email protected] or Tel: 0239 225 6238. have to say honestly, that “Cammie” Actually, it was quite a nice change working with the Buffers party, climbing around in never dropped me in it. He was a grand HMS TIGER rope and steel nets repairing the bits of the ship’s side that had to be painted, with lad who came from a little village in HMS GLASGOW (C21 /D88) chipping hammer and paintbrush at the ready. More often than not, it entailed living in Devon called Watchet. 2009 Reunion weekend; at the King Robert Hotel Stirling, the boson’s chair from day to day, but it was good fun and the work felt worthwhile. The 29th reunion will take place during the weekend of 7th – September 25th – 28th 2009 Further details from Dennis Andrew “Cammie” and I would take turns in the boson’s chair, one day he would go down and I would love to meet him again and buy 10th August 2009 at the Warwick Hotel Blackpool. Further 01262 670860. I would take care of him, and the next day it would be my turn, and so on. him a few pints and ask him what his details from S/m Alan Mercer 89 Royal Avenue Widnes Cheshire thoughts were as he was getting closer to WA8 8HJ Tel: 0151 422 8026 or Garry Eaton - 10 Elderwood This particular day it was “Cammie’s” turn in the chair, working on the flight deck, just the water. He’d probably brain me. Avenue, Thornton Cleveleys, Lanc’s FY5 5FQ. forward of the island, starboard side. “Cammie” gets himself settled in the chair and I shout, “When you get to the bit you want to chip and paint, shout Stop.” He says OK. Terry “Stacks” Heaps. RNA Toronto Two turns around a big cleat and I start lowering – just then it starts to rain like hell. I Via email thought to myself; if I get away from the edge and move under the Bofer’s gun I could still lower “Cammie” and hear him when he shouts, Stop. I’m lowering and lowering, and still lowering. Still no sounds. Paying out line and paying out line, and still no OBITUARIES sounds…Look at my coil of rope and realise that most of it has gone. Now start getting worried. Decide to work my way to the edge of the flight deck and take a peek over the side - “@#*+ & J**** H. C*****”, “Cammie” is up to his frigging chin in Devonport S/M TOM KELLY S/M HAROLD HALSEY Congleton suffered the double loss of harbour, thrashing about wildly and trying to get out of the boson’s chair. The ship’s (Bolton) (Buxton & High Peak Branch) two long serving members of the branch. company on the weatherdecks, by this time are killing themselves laughing, and S/m Arthur Fisher, was President of the “Cammie” is swimming to a catamaran alongside the ship. It is with great sorrow we report that S/M Harold aged 84 ‘Crossed the Bar on branch, while S/m Bill Large was the Tommy Kelly has ‘Crossed the Bar’ (30. December 22nd 2008. He was a loyal Vice Chairman. Both were Life members 10. 2008) His details are as follows:- member of the Buxton Branch. Harold’s of the Association Off No P/KX 846088 war-time service as a seaman was mainly Served in- HMS Royal Arthur, HMS in Landing Craft and with combined Raleigh, HMS Belfast, HMS Mull of operations in North Africa, Sicily Anzio Kintyre, HM Naval Salvage Craft E 15, and the Normandy landings in 1944. S/M MRS HETTY O’GRADY HMS Indomitable, MFV 1019 and HMS (Peel) Wrangler S/m Trevor Johnson (Branch Secretary) Tommy was a founder member of the Hetty, who passed away late year, was a Bolton Branch and our 25th Anniversary loyal member of the branch and the wife takes place next year. of the late Terry O’Grady who was branch S/M GEORGE JAMES Secretary at Peel for several years. We also regret to report that S/m Tom (Droylsden) Brown, of the Bolton Branch has also ‘Crossed the Bar’ George aged 72 was a long standing member of the Droylsden branch. He S/M JACK MITCHELL S/m Jan Thomas (Secretary Bolton ‘Crossed the Bar’ suddenly whilst on (Skipton) Branch) holiday in Goa in December 2008. He was cremated in Goa. A memorial service It is with regret that we announce that was held in St Mary’s Church, Droylesden S/m Jack Mitchell has ‘Crossed the Bar’ on February 5th.2009.

26 VANGUARD VANGUARD 27 PEEL’S JACKS CONTRACT PUBLISHING TO

Peel’s Jacks were named after a Royal Naval hero Sir William Peel RN. KCB, VC. He was the third son UK INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT of Sir Robert Peel, Bart, who was the Prime Minister. CHEMICALS PHARMACEUTICALS

William Peel was born during 1824. At three years old it is During the second relief of Lucknow in 1858, Peel was badly reputed that he told his father that he wanted to join the Royal wounded in the thigh by a musket ball, he refused to be taken to Navy, but he had to wait impatiently until he was thirteen. He Cawnpore for treatment, insisting on going to a “dhoolic” like passed all his examinations in a very short time, five months, one of his blue jackets. Three days later he contacted small pox, when the norm was fourteen months; he was so brilliant that his dying on 27th April 1857. One of Peel’s Lieutenants wrote of examiners publicly acclaimed William’s success. A week after him, “what a sad loss, and how deeply his death had been felt, his final exam he received his commission as a lieutenant. and regretted by every officer and man and would always be proud of being one of “Peel’s Naval Brigade. “It was said of Sir After serving with distinction in many parts of the world, he William Peel that he had won his Victoria Cross three times over commanded a battery at the siege of Sebastopol; he made in three separate acts of gallantry during the Crimean War. himself conspicuous by his daring and courageous acts. Whilst in command of HMS Shannon at the outbreak of the Great One other part of Sir William’s life that will be remembered, other Indian Rebellion, he organised and led the famous Naval than his naval service, is that he bought an estate in Brigade, which dragged the sixty-eight pounders of the Bedfordshire, which later became the HQ’s of the RSPB. Also at Shannon, hundreds of miles from Calcutta to Lucknow, he co- the time the villagers of Potton, a nearby town to Sandy, asked operated with the army, showing the great success of our arms. Sir William if he would build a railway line to connect their town The service he gave during this rebellion was regarded with to Sandy and to the main line system. In 1857 Sir William’s admiration by his country and his death amidst success and mother officially opened the line, and a new engine named honours was lamented as a National loss. “Shannon” after Sir William’s ship was built. A white marble Benham Publishing produces publications for statue was erected in Calcutta to “commemorate to him who During the Indian Mutiny, Peel formed a Naval Brigade of four was the noblest volunteer of this or any age, who was regional development agencies, UK institutes, law societies, hundred officers and men, who became known as Peel’s Jacks. successful because he was really great and who, dying early, During one action, ten eight inch guns from the Shannon were left a reputation without spot, the best inheritance he could leave chambers of commerce and local government taken up river by steamer to Allahbad, handling the heavy guns his country. like light field pieces, enduring hardships with courage and humour. Under Peel’s leadership the Naval Brigade served with Contributed by S/m Norman Kelk. great distinction. Peel was ever resourceful in thinking up new TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY ENVIRONMENT ideas; one invention of his was a form of armoured vehicle known as Peel’s rocket cars.

WHEN SAILORS BECAME SOLDIERS

At the outbreak of the First World War, the were named Hood, Howe, Nelson and During this time a little story was going Royal Navy was so popular that there Anson. around, causing much amusement to were more men on the Reserve List than both Army and very much for Naval there were ships on which they could Initially, all wore conventional uniforms of personnel. Apparently it concerned the serve. The Admiralty proposed their navy blue, but later these were changed arrest of two uniformed men by a very integration into the Royal Marines. But into complete khaki versions, seamen keen and enthusiastic military policeman. decided to place these reservists into a wore peakless caps with a cap tally The two men were accused of wearing new formation of two Naval Brigades reading Royal Naval Division on it, later pseudo-military uniforms, they were each consisting of four battalions, to be this was changed to wearing battalion dressed in khaki jackets with naval YOUR IMAGE, OUR SECTOR trained and employed as infantry to badges. Officers wore a khaki jacket with insignia on the cuffs, naval officers caps secure foot holds on territories where cuff ring insignia, but later wore the rings with RN cap badges made of bronze. landing troops would follow. on shoulder straps. The RND took part in The two were marched away to appear many gallant and sometimes disastrous before the ‘red-caps’ superior officer. To find out more, visit www.benhampublishing.com or call 0151 236 4141 So the Royal Naval Division (RND) was actions in WW1 in such countries as formed. it was made up initially of French, Gallipoli and other war zones, However, when this officer saw the two enlisted volunteer reservists, along with and the battle cry rang out “The navy’s miscreants, to the astonishment of the experienced naval personnel from ships here.” ‘red-cap’ he leapt to his feet and saluted and shore establishments. The Naval the ‘prisoners’ as he recognised the ‘emphasis’ to the ‘RND’ was stressed by At the end of WW1 the Admiralty decided arrested party as officers of the RND. • Design giving each battalion names of famous to disband the RND, bringing to an end Benham Publishing Limited admirals such as, Benbow, Collingwood, another interesting and glorious episode • Print and delivery Drake and Hawke these were for the first in the history of the Royal Navy. 4th Floor, Orleans House, Edmund St, Liverpool, L3 9NG Tel: 0151 236 4141 Facsimile: 0151 236 0440 • Image brigade. For the second brigade these email: [email protected] • Marketing revenue web: www.benhampublishing.com 28 VANGUARD THE APPLETON PLAQUE THE HAROLD COOPER CUP

At the annual service at St Cross Church, Appleton Thorn, Warrington in May 1995, we were presented S/m Harold Cooper, the former Chairman of the North West Region, of the L.S.T. and Landing Craft with a bronze plaque commemorating shipmates who had lost their lives during the Second World War. Association, crossed the bar in September 2008. His family kindly asked that, in lieu of flowers at Our associate member Shipmate Derek Leigh had discovered the plaque in the grounds of the Harold’s funeral, donations to the L.S.T and Landing Craft Association (North West Region) would be churchyard. appreciated.

It was thought at the time that the plaque was related to HMS and address of the HMS Norfolk Association archivist, S/m Ken The current holders of the North West Blackcap. This proved not to be the case, as the plaque related Moth who lives in Northwich. I contacted Ken who was delighted Region Communications Award is the to the years 1940 – 44, and HMS Blackcap was not to hear of the discovery, as they were celebrating their 50th Chorley Sea Cadet Unit, TS Invincible, commissioned until 1942. As no rank or official numbers were anniversary of the Norfolk Association. and on Monday February 23rd members shown, it was assumed that it might apply to the Merchant Navy of the Cooper family together with the personnel. Contact was made with the Registrar of Shipping and The plaque was handed over to S/ms Ken Moth and Jim secretary of the North West Region and Seamen who could find no reference in their records. Cafferty at our branch meeting in August 1996. Following the Association Vice Chairman, S/m Peter Annual Reunion of the ship’s company, further information came Wilkie, mustered on board TS Invincible At a parade in Salford Quays, we paraded alongside the MN to light. to make the initial presentation. Association, and I made contact with their archivist who kindly offered to search his records, but without any success. Letters After returning from the Schornhorst action, HMS Norfolk went The Unit Commanding Officer, Lieutenant to the Warrington Guardian produced some suggestions, but into Palmers Yard in Newcastle on Tyne for repair. The ship’s Commander Gordon Cadman, the First these did not prove fruitful. chapel had been damaged in the action, and the Chaplain Ken Lieutenant, Lieutenant Stephen Gresty, Matthews, (who incidentally was the prime mover in the and a very smartly turned out ship’s Finally I wrote to the Navy News, and they published a note in formation of the HMS Norfolk Association) asked the yard to company royally welcomed the visitors. their ‘Over to you’ column in the July edition of 1996. Within two make the plaque, which was subsequently placed in the chapel. During a tour of the facilities, and by days of publication, I received a telephone call from a shipmate sitting in on the various activity classes in in Gosport, who advised me that he knew everyone of the The plaque has now been mounted on an oak base and it is the progress, it became evident that here sixteen names mentioned on the plaque. They all related to HMS intention that this be placed in the Dockyard Chapel in was an outstanding and dedicated unit, Norfolk most of whom had lost their lives in the action against Devonport. The inscription reads as follows:- from the Commanding Officer through to the Schornhorst at North Cape. My informant gave me the name the most junior Cadet. BETWEEN THE YEARS 1940 – 44, Harold Cooper Cup presented to Lieutenant S Gresty and Petty Officer THE FOLLOWING MEN GAVE THEIR LIVES J Salisbury. Following the Ceremony of Colours, WHILE SERVING IN THIS SHIP. Lieutenant Commander Cadman, proudly TO KEEP THEIR MEMORY ALIVE, presented a number of achievement THEIR FRIENDS HAVE HELPED TO MAKE A considerable sum was collected, as Harold was a very popular member of the local certificates to members of his ship’s THIS PLACE FOR THOSE WHO COME AFTER. community, and close consultations were held with the Cooper family to ensure a company. Finally, Harold’s eldest son, on notable distribution of the donations to local charities. The Not Forgotten Association behalf of the whole family, presented the JAMES FLYNN S. FRANKS was top of our list together with the Bolton Hospice, but it was felt that there should Harold Cooper Cup to Communication BEN MEYRICK JOHN MICHEL also be a lasting memorial to Harold’s memory. Trainers, Lieutenant Stephen Gresty and Petty Officer Jane Salisbury. WILLIAM LANCE DOUGLAS KIDDLE A suggestion was made that a trophy should be awarded to North West Sea Cadet CHARLES HARRIS CECIL LUCE Units annually and the region made approaches to the Area Officers of the Sea Cadet Chorley Unit will now hold the trophy until Corps to request their input. They were very interested in such a venture and as Harold the next North West Area PHILIP NIGHINGALE DAVID JACKSON had served as a Leading Signalman on D-Day it was considered appropriate that a Communications Competition to be held WILLIAM LYNCH CHARLES PARINI trophy should be bought for presentation to the top Sea Cadet Unit within the Area for at the end of the year. outstanding performance in the annual Communications competition. LESLIE SQUIRE HAROLD TOZER Submitted by S/m Peter Wilkie. Atherton MICKY WEST JOHN VAN DE KASTEELE Branch RNA. Secretary, and Vice Chairman;. North West Membership of the Norfolk Association, which had previously L.S.T. & Landing Craft Association. been limited to those who had served in the ship up to 1945, has now been extended to 1950, the date of de-commissioning.

It is hoped that someone from a later commission will be able to solve the mystery of how the plaque came to be in St. Cross’s churchyard.

S/m Jim Buie Secretary Greater Manchester Fleet Air Arm Association

30 VANGUARD VANGUARD 31 BRANCH NEWS

ATHERTON In Crosby played host to a Civic RUNCORN TRAFFORD Following research by his family, S/m Delegation from the City of Dundee, John Haigh, a survivor of HMS Hardy comprising The Lord Provost and his Nineteen members attended the Atherton Once again, members of the branch (sunk at Narvic) was finally presented wife, along with relatives of the HMS Branch Anniversary Dinner, and this was travelled into darkest Wales to take part in with the King of Norway’s war medal in Barham dead. All enjoyed an evening’s voted a great success. There will be 28 the Annual Trafalgar Day Service November 2008. The Norwegian Defence entertainment at the Crosby Comrades members attending the Spring organised by Llandudno, which took Attaché Colonel Knut Hamre travelled Club and during this event a signed Conference and Reunion at the Savoy, all place on a calm day - although the sun from London to Urmston to attend a picture of HMS Endeavour was presented ready to have a” reet gud time” at was shining, it was quite cold. During the small reception and present S/m John to Crosby Branch chairman. Early next Blackpool. They are planning a trip to the service, when the standards were being with his medal and citation. Many of day, there was a service held at the war National Arboretum in July. Details of brought from the “dip”, a sudden strong John’s friends from the Trafford branch graveside where dignitaries and relatives which will be announced shortly. gust of wind caught the standard bearers were also present. remembered those who had made the by surprise, some had to be helped to Atherton Branch anniversary ultimate sacrifice, and laid wreaths of At the present time, Runcorn will be catch and control errant standards, which evening. poppies. sending a party of ten to Londonderry in were flying free and in imminent danger June and look forward to “sampling the of taking off. As suddenly as the wind Following the service a small reception black stuff”. arose, it went away and calm descended CROSBY was held at the local Sea Cadet Unit. once more. The Standard Bearers and their helpers are to be congratulated on SKIPTON & DISTRICT preventing any accidents. LLANDUDNO Standard Bearer Barry Hirst The Branch celebrated ‘Pickle Night’ at During 2008, Llandudno branch have (LLandudno Branch). their October meeting. There was a small made donations totalling £3,000 to both buffet following the branch business, Colonel Hamre, S/m’s Fred local and Naval charities. They visited the which was enjoyed by all. The Trafalgar Garner and Vanguard Editor National Arboretum and visited MILLOM Luncheon took place in a local Charles Hutton. Shrewsbury RNA. The Standard and restaurant, Captain Carter; a member of members attend many of the local events From the Millom branch comes news of the branch RNR gave a very interesting Members of the branch assisted the local and parades, thus helping to promote the an event which will be taking place over talk on his life as the Captain of an Sea Cadet Unit in their Poppy Appeal, RNA. the weekend of July 25th – 26th. The enormous gas tanker. He went on to give spending three days at the Trafford Cumbrian Steam Gathering looks to be an insight of his life when on leave, he Shopping Centre, and spoke to many of Following the repair and renovation of the an event not to be missed, by the steam helps crew a canal boat which takes the shoppers who had travelled from as War Graves in Bootle cemetery, the task aficionados. Attending will be the disabled people on trips along the Leeds far away as Hull and Birmingham. We of contacting relatives of the sailors from Portsmouth Cadet Field Gun Team, and and Liverpool canal. also gave out information about the RNA. HMS Barham began; the Lord Provost of this will be among the main arena events S/m Eric Poynton meets Santa. Dundee was contacted and was given all In November, shipmates attended a the information that the members of combined ex-service lunch and We stayed at a hotel lavishly decorated Crosby had collected. During the Annual NORTH MANCHESTER afternoon’s entertainment at the for Christmas, a bit of a surprise as it was National Conference last June an album Rendezvous Hotel, There was music from only October, but many hotels are now of the Bootle War Graves was presented the 40’s, and the drums and bugles of holding “Turkey and Tinsel” weekends, a to the Lord Provost, who promised to try the RBL. A reading from an American really good idea, although trying to come and find any surviving family members. Serviceman stationed nearby, was very to terms with Christmas day, Boxing Day moving. All proceeds from this event went and New Years Day all taking place over S/m B Vallor presents cheque to to the Poppy Appeal. three days was a bit confusing. We look Mr M Burrows, Welfare Officer, forward to visiting Llandudno again this Combat Stress Society. To end the year, S/m’s attended the Duke year and enjoying the Welsh hospitality. of Wellingtons Regiment Association In 2009, the branch have a busy calendar ‘Christmas Games Night,’ where there Charles posting parcels to planned, they will visit Morecambe, was a quiz, dominoes and refreshments. Afghanistan. Newport and Shrewsbury RNA’s. In June they will attend the Thetis Anniversary, as Following the serious and brutal assault well as the Veteran’s Day in Caernarfon Lord Mayor of Manchester with on a local RN veteran, Mr Bob Schofield, later that month. In October, the branch officials of North Manchester S/m Haigh visited him and was will celebrate its 40th anniversary of the RNA and President H Harley at instrumental in obtaining Veteran’s Lord Provost of Dundee lays founding of the branch, with the annual Vasa Club Autumn Area Badges for both him and his wife. Skipton wreath at Bootle Cemetery. Trafalgar Day Parade, which they hope Conference 2008. send their warmest wishes to all other will be a Drum-head Service. branches, and look forward to seeing you S/m John Hague receives King’s at the reunion. Medal from Col Knut Hamre, Defence Attaché, Norwegian S/m Shirley Hague Embassy.

32 VANGUARD VANGUARD 33 SCRANBAG

RECORD OF INDECISIONS ONE GREY CARRIER

Heralded by the National Council and from those on high in (Sung to the tune of ten green bottles) 2007 as a step forward on the information front, the General Secretary was tasked with producing after each meeting of the Recent events and reports filtering from Parliament: Yes that is National Council, a document entitled “Record of Decisions the place in London where the decisions are made contrary to taken by National Council”. Although what appeared in the all that claptrap spoken at conference about Portsmouth being publication was exactly as stated, it gave no indication as to the centre of the universe in naval terms. We wonder how many how the discussions on the various subjects in the document MPs bothered to seek the views of the various Admirals residing developed, — and more importantly how these decisions were in their billets in Pompey, when they decided in London to delay arrived at, and, more crucially how your member of the council the two super carriers building programmes. voted.

Having had a motion defeated at the Torquay conference in 2007 which, if carried, would have paved the way for each Area Secretary to have received the minutes of every National Council meeting, it was left to the General Secretary’s document, and the local NCM’s report to the individual Areas to ascertain what the National Council had discussed. Since the Headquarters move to Portsmouth in October, — trumpeted by all those on high as the best thing since sliced bread, not one copy has emerged from the Semaphore Tower of the document “Record of Decisions taken by National Council” despite two meetings of the Council having taken place in September and December.

Could it be, with each NCM having been required to sign what is in fact a confidentiality document; the shipmates in the Areas will have to rely solely on what is fed to them by their respective OCH EYE THERE SMITHY! HAVE YOU COMPLETED NCM’s A more worrying aspect is the assumption, — again from CONSTRUCTION OF THAT AIR CRAFT CARRIER SIDE LIFT on high, that your NCM is not a delegate charged with putting YET? DOBBIN NEEDS NEW SHOES! forward his Area’s wishes, but he is a representative from his Area. One wonders what many of us pay our £10 subscription A more pessimistic story is emerging each day of the recession for. about these two vessels. Completion dates have slipped from the original forecast of 2012 for HMS Queen Elizabeth to Editors Note: The General Secretary has recently agreed to possibly 2017: no doubt the costs will escalate also. In reality it reinstate the document “Record of Decisions Taken by the is not two super carriers we need, but at least three as many National Council” It appears only one Area Secretary had naval experts will agree: Although the chances of building one remarked on its absence will be an achievement. The aircraft to equip these vessels will be the Lockheed Martin F35B JSF currently under development in the US and not expected to enter service until 2017 which ANOTHER MISUNDERSTANDING means the remaining Harrier aircraft (at present under the control of the RAF) will have to soldier on until then. Of the 150 A shipmate from the Area took the opportunity to visit HMS Ark aircraft designated for both services will that number be actually Royal on her recent visit to Liverpool in mid January. Having delivered? In the prevailing financial climate, economies are been conducted around the ship by a very polite officer guide, bound to be sought; and the defence budgets are usually the the shipmate asked the officer at the end of the tour would it be first victims of government belt tightening. possible to meet the onboard RNA representative. This request was met with a glazed expression from the Lieutenant and a period of awkward silence. To his credit, the officer replied he THOUGHT FOR THE DAY had not heard of a representative from this august body, but he would endeavour to find out. He did add however, that there The following is an extract from the Equipment Section of the was a liaison officer for the Association of Naval Officers on recently published Royal Navy Strategic plan; board. Perhaps the shipmate would have been better advised to address his question to the Second Sea Lord. Was it not he who How we need to improve: By examining how the signed the Memorandum of Understanding which was versatility of current platforms and equipment can supposed to set up a liaison between the RN and RNA on every be enhanced and by identifying opportunities in ship and establishment? the future equipment programme where greater flexibility and class rationalisation can be incrementally inserted.

What on earth is being said here?

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