Saturday 9th May 1936

At 1.30 I was scrambling into no 1’s, amidst the confusion of the crowded loader deck, below the water line. The Guard fell-in on the Embankment – I proudly led my rank ashore “arms at the short trail”.

The Guard marched before the band, led by Lt. Cmdr. Nicholson. Next came PO Heinz (Tubby) and then my section of fours. We swung into Horse Guards Parade, looking very stern and “letting out the bullshit”. There was a lengthy “attention” and “standing at ease” during the service before the order “Stand Easy” relieved us.

Later the Duke of York inspected us. Quite a thrill, I suppose!