PURPOSE IN LIFE

Why were we here?

Basically our sole role in life was to ensure that all those who needed anything to do with POL (Petrol-Oil & Lubricants) got what they required. As the only way to get bulk quantities of fuel to the Island was by sea, we were heavily involved with the naval contingent, hence the seeds of some of the hopefully amusing anecdotes. 

Although Yorkie and I were in the R.A.S.C. (Royal Army Service Corps), we were  posted to, and under the “protective” wing of 73 (Christmas Island) Sqn Royal Engineers. So it was a case of grin and bear it.

We were also heavily involved with the RAF Transport Section. These were the boys who drove the tankers of fuel to wherever they were needed, more often than not to the airfield for refuelling aircraft. However, when the need arose, they shuffled fuel between different locations for us.

That, in a nutshell, is basically what our working life consisted of.

Now, we come to the funny bits. Stories about what happened to various characters.

The list is almost endless. Some of the names have sadly been forgotten, but the events will remain as happy memories for as long as I walk this planet.

Hopefully, if this site eventually gets visited by enough ex grapples, those forgotten names will be remembered and they too can get their moment of glory.

I suggest we now proceed to the anecdotes pages and rustle up some hopefully hilarious memories: 

©: P.B.Chatfield 22 Jul. 01