NOTICE
(From all at 57 RESCUE and the WW2 Historical Society)
It is with the deepest regret that I write these words, but write them I will…
On Tuesday the 16th September 2003, our dear friend, colleague and fellow Living Historian, Arthur Harris passed quietly away, whilst sitting in his chair at home.
I didn’t know Arthur for very long at all. I came into the world of Living History only a couple of years ago, and only met Arthur last year at Kidderminster, but even so, in that short space of time, I grew to both like and admire the man.
Arthur was unusual in the world of Living Historians, because, although we all strive to understand how life was during the 1940’s, Arthur, along with his wife Violet, actually took part in the action during WW2. Arthur was one of the Chindits, operating deep behind enemy lines in the hot, sticky climates overseas, whilst Violet was one of the unsung heroes of WW2, a WAAF.
Upon his return to the UK, Arthur was moved to his new regiment, the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, and it was here that he eventually gained the promotion to Lieutenant Colonel!
The uniform we all saw Arthur wearing was actually his own “for real” uniform, and so were the medals which adorned his left breast.
We will all sadly miss Arthur, a true gentleman, friend, mentor and source of inspiration for us all. We would like to wish his wife Violet, all the best at this time of sadness and hope, one day soon, to be able to meet with her again.
Farewell Arthur, we will miss you.
http://www.awm.gov.au/commemoration/last_post.htm
One Valiant Soldier...
God gives us special memories
to hold forever near...
like loved ones whom we cherish,
but have lost throughout the years.
Today is no exception
as we join our hearts once more,
and send one valiant soldier
to a bright and peaceful shore.
A man of strength and stature,
a father and a friend...
the time has come to say goodbye,
but our love will never end.
As we draw upon our memories,
we’ll fondly see your smile...
in the faces of your family,
who have loved you all the while.
May God’s light of love surround you,
may your spirit gently soar...
to that tranquil place called heaven,
to rest in peace, forevermore
