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Family history
Dec. 10th, 2011 06:18 amOn this day, I am thinking of my great uncle Harry. He died seventy years ago today, on 10 December 1941.
Harry was a Chief Engine Room Artificer in the Navy, and was serving on board HMS Repulse. His ship sailed from Singapore as part of Force Z, and was sunk by Japanese planes a few days later.
On 1 January 1941, he had been awarded the BEM:
"The King has been graciously pleased to approve of the following Awards: —
The Medal of the Military Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:
Chief Engine Room Artificer Harry Hector Wood, D/M.18331."
http://www.gazettes-online.co.uk/issues/35029/supplements/23/page.pdf
I never knew him (obviously!); I don't know if my father ever met his uncle, but if he did he probably wouldn't remember, as he would have been no more than a toddler at the time. But still, he was a member of my family; one who served his country; was decorated for this; and who, ultimately, died in the service of his country.
I bear no-one ill-will over his death; but I think it right that he should be remembered.
Harry was a Chief Engine Room Artificer in the Navy, and was serving on board HMS Repulse. His ship sailed from Singapore as part of Force Z, and was sunk by Japanese planes a few days later.
On 1 January 1941, he had been awarded the BEM:
"The King has been graciously pleased to approve of the following Awards: —
The Medal of the Military Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for Meritorious Service:
Chief Engine Room Artificer Harry Hector Wood, D/M.18331."
http://www.gazettes-online.co.uk/issues/35029/supplements/23/page.pdf
I never knew him (obviously!); I don't know if my father ever met his uncle, but if he did he probably wouldn't remember, as he would have been no more than a toddler at the time. But still, he was a member of my family; one who served his country; was decorated for this; and who, ultimately, died in the service of his country.
I bear no-one ill-will over his death; but I think it right that he should be remembered.
