In his last few weeks one of many conversations I had with Dad included reminiscing about his days in the army…. He was always particularly fond of these memories so I shall start my tale there:

Army days
In September 1951 Dad joined the junior leaders’ platoon of the Royal West Kents
After training on ‘top of the hill’ to the Far East Dad was sent
Setting sail on the ‘Empire Pride’ via the Suez Canal he sailed to Hong Kong 
From Aden to Ceylon, Singapore and Kowloon, the journey was long

On board Dad slept in a hammock and managed not to fall out!
Then came the hard work of digging defence lines there and about
On to Japan and then to Pusan
Guard duties and games on the beach, a bit cold though so no tan!

Dad’s first ever flight was from Korea to Tokyo
But landing gear troubles were a bit of a blow
This R&R break was sadly cut short
As a court marshall was in need of Dad’s fine report

Posted to the front line twice, Dad made a lucky escape
Too valuable in post, for now it must wait
Back to Japan and the Armistice was signed
Dad embarked on the Asturias and was now homeward bound 

Not a hammock in sight, but bunks for all
A quicker journey home with no storms and no squalls
At the Tower of London Dad was discharged and sent on his way
And then home to Mayfield for a decorating foray  

Work
Dad’s new love of travel brought him to work for Thomas Cook
Tours for the discerning passenger he would now book
Then on to Alitalia where trips to Italy were the thing
A nurses ball he met Jann who a future life with was to bring

Married Life
1969 my lovely Dad married my lovely Mum Jann
When my brother Steve came along soon followed a renovation plan
They bought a large house and improved its state
Having moved from a small maisonette in Reigate

Children
I came onto the scene in 1974
And soon joined Steve in the marvels of the garden awe
Dad had created patios, pathways, a hill and a sandpit
Perfect for childhood adventures, and somewhere lovely for Jann to sit. 

Out and About
There were many things that Steve and I did with our Dad
Like enjoying many happy holidays abroad which weren’t half bad!
At Biggin Hill air show we watched the red arrows swoop and dive
He taught me all the DIY that I know, to fix things I now strive

He dropped me at school in our little grey beetle bug
I remember being wrapped up in the back all warm and snug
He gave me guidance and counsel on interviews for work
And taught me to be determined and not to shirk 

Trip to Australia
Inspired by Dad’s travels I have ventured around the world
When Mum & Dad joined in, an Aussie adventure unfurled
We travelled down south, where Dad just loved tasting the wine
Meat pies in the camper and we were all just fine

Retirement
The enjoyment of exploring was always Dads thing
So it was off to the west country for mum & dad after retiring
Somerset at first then on into Devon
So many new ales – Dad thought he was already in heaven!

Hobbies
Not one to keep still, finding new interests and hobbies was a must 
He found a passion for Canals as secretary for the Grand Western Canal Trust
The Wellington Heart Support Group welcomed his chairmanship with open arms
While the Wellington Patient Participation Group enjoyed his input and charm

Throughout his life Dad enjoyed playing many a sport
Games of Cricket and Rugby were just his sort
We enjoyed many trips to Sandy Park – Dad loved the roar of the crowd
In full support of the Exeter Chiefs Dad would cheer at their wins, he was so proud
 
I have many memories with Dad but if just one I should pick
Was us watching Henry Slade put in that mighty kick 

Our wonderful Dad was an independent soul but with many a story
Throughout his illness we spent some lovely time together and managed some good days out - cream teas, trips on steam trains and fish and chips on the coast were some of his favourites.
He was a true gentleman and a fighter to the end.