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My father was recalled to the Royal Tank Regiment in 1939, and when I wanted to ‘join up’, I was told that he didn’t want me to go into the A.T.S. (as it was then). He did explain why, but I can assure you, what his answer was is not really suitable for publication.
I eventually joined the Air Force in late 1940, having been turned down by the Royal Navy on educational grounds, (lack of it that was). In 1941, whilst on my first leave, my father, who was now a Captain in the R.T.R. was also on leave. He decided to take me out for lunch in a nearby hostelry. We were both in uniform and on the way we were stopped by a couple of Military Policemen. My father was told that it was against regulations to fraternise with a ‘non commission’. i.e. a lowly A.C.W.
Unfortunately, one of the said M.P.’s had a button undone and some other now forgotten problem with his uniform. He had also been silly enough not to salute when stopping us. He was told in no uncertain terms by my father, that before stopping an Officer in His Majesty’s Armed Forces - who happened to be out with his eldest daughter: Should first ensure that he made the necessary salute and was properly dressed as required by the same regulations he was alluding too. Poor man. To say his face was as red as his cap, was putting it mildly.
At the time, I found it extremely embarrassing as I understood quite plainly, just what they thought. I felt sorry for the M.P. later though, as he was of course only carrying out his orders.

Cicely Versey.
Ex L.A.C.W.
Hythe. Southampton

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