www.ran-skilledhands.net

Thanks to BC, I now have more on Graham's farewell details: As noted above, GT joined in 1960 and became a stoker. He completed the Mechanician's course and later went SD to Marine Engineering Officer. Amongst his postings was the OIC Craft School Nirimba, and also at one time the OIC at the RAN Mus...

I noted the announcement of GT's passing on facebook today, posted by his family members.

It seems that Graham was admitted to hospital last week in a serious condition but could not be saved. No further details at this time.

Am I mistaken, but was Fifi the Training Commander at one stage..?

Always thought he was - as previously said - a bit aloof, but I put that down to his RN origins. Thought he was a straight up decent bloke.

There's something to be said for a lack of hair, isn't there?

Ron Bateman RIP Mate An old story of Ron, February 1970 at Portland Victoria, whilst we on Sydney were doing Guard of Honour for the Queens Visit Ron, Naughty boy got a slap on wrist for pinching the local Hotel ( I think it was Hotel's) Flag off the flag pole when we were out on the Piss. He was a...

A very sobering story Brian, and just goes to show that every one of us has a life story rarely shared.

Thanks for posting it, and my sympathies to Ron's family and mates.

May you journey forward be a peaceful one, Ron.

Further info on Harry is that he had both dementia and mesothelioma, sadly all too common afflictions for us sailors.

I have just read on the HMAS Hobart facebook page that John 'Harry' Pearson has crossed the bar. Details to follow when known.

Vale Harry, you and Greg 'Possum' Glock always made life interesting on Hobart, and it's very saddening to see you both now gone on your final deployment.

Hippy Chippy wrote: At this rate, with you, Shep, Stroppy, et al, we might even persuade SeeJay to come down from FNQ if Anaesthesia Puddle Duck will let him across the border..!

Not gonna happen guys.

Like Ned, I too shared several postings with Russ and he was a real character, a bit of a shaker and a mover and never afraid to enjoy a chat, I'd be surprised if today's Navy had too many "characters" like him, he was not your stereo typical CPO, more your Sgt. Bilko. What do you reckon ...