VETERAN’S DAUGHTER VISITS THE ROCK

As part of a Mediterranean cruise, Rita and Phil took the opportunity to explore Gibraltar. As a surprise for Rita, Phil got in touch with Major Simon Andrews to investigate the possibility of visiting areas her father would be known. Major Andrews, The President of the REA Branch and one of only five serving Sappers left on ‘The Rock’ agreed to arrange the visit.

Rita and Phil were met by four members of the REA - Major Andrews, Warrant Officer 1 Chris Hatchard, Mr Phil Bennett and Mr Buck Sheppard. Phil Bennett and Buck Sheppard then proceeded to escort the visitors around Gibraltar, showing them as many sites and scenes ‘papa’ may have experienced while he was here during the war.

After a tour through the Upper Rock, Rita and Phil were then taken to the Great Siege Tunnels where Major Andrews explained why Gibraltar and the Great Siege Tunnels are a major and vital part of the history of The Corps of Royal Engineers that Roy was a member of.

A visit to the World War II tunnels at Hays Level provide some context for Rita, what it would have been like for Roy in Gibraltar during the war; every photo was looked at and every exhibit was enjoyed. Time was then spent exploring the tunnels including Fordnams Accommodation before dropping down to Main Street and some vital souvenir hunting!

Rita mentioned that ‘Papa’ remembered his days in Gibraltar fondly, never saying much about ‘the job’, mainly about his time off. It is hoped Rita will hang the REA Branch plaque high and remember the Sapper family she met in Gibraltar, feeling the same pride Roy would have done while he served: Once a Sapper, Always a Sapper!

20-11-2019 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR