[Bandlaw Charlie]

My childhood was full of the stories of great courage witnessed in the 2 Great wars.....the men that gave their all were my heroes for a long time...and most have gone now.

I remember trying to reach Mr. Grayston in the 1990s after having been put in touch with him by a charming man called Ted Wass...alas he is also now more....

Mr. Grayston erupted into a complete monster on the phone and shouted at me...I remembered the content of that call and its effects on a young man who never meant any harm whatsoever..and was for many years reluctant to even try and contact former veterans.

I know that there are times when they must get fed up with the attention they receive...but better they receive it from well intentioned people then not at all.

I extend my sympathies to his Family..but I will not mourn his loss.

Instead I will think of my Uncle who recently lost his fight with cancer and bore everything with incredible courage.....without ever having lifted a finger in anger....