大象传媒

I have quite vivid memories of my wartime childhood. For instance, as a repetitive 'flag' seller for various charites, I quickly realised that by standing outside the railway station I could quickly sell all the flags and return the empty tray and loaded collecting tin. The most generous contributions were the jolly young American service men who had recently arrived in this country in preparation for the Normandy landings. Without being asked to buy a flag they pushed ten-bob notes or even pund notes into the collecting tin or even my hand. With complete honesty I thrust such offerings into the tin aswell. Sometimes I was asked if I "would like some gum young lady?" "oh yes please" I would reply. I remembered these polite, jolly young men and remembered them in my prayers with a wish that they all returned from the battle yet to come, safely.
Another incident that comes to mind was when I was asked to direct a band of singing, marching American soldiers, again very politely, and very importantly told the leader to take "the first turning left." Later on reflection, I realised with horror, that I should have said "first turning right." Of course being left handed I had (and still have) difficulty in knowing my left from right hand. I do hope that the soldiers eventually found their way, but my contribution to the war effect at that particular moment was worse than useless.

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