In 1939 at the outbreak of the Second World War the total complement of officers and men of the Royal Australian Navy was 5,440.

In the ensuing years more than39,000 men and woman were serving in the RAN.

One signed on for 12 years on those days prior to the War, others for the duration and twelve months after cessation of hostilities.

The author served in cruisers, destroyers, corvettes and that gallant H.M.A.S Platypus, whose annual visit to Cockatoo dockyard for bottom cleaning et al, was farewelled from near Garden Island by a ship's band playing; 'See the conquering hero comes'.

Ans, like all those who served in destroyers (the boats), wished all his service had been in 'the boats'. But one went where on was sent swaying "Ay Ay Sir"

Brian Sheedy, Signalman.