大象传媒

Queen Alexandra Nursing Sister

I WENT to France as a Queen Alexandra's Nursing Sister. We were kitted out at Oxford and billeted at Lincoln College - nursing returning soldiers at the 107 Hospital. Training was given in saluting, marching, etc. On a seven mile route march starting from the High Street, items of equipment kept dropping from our laden packs - accompanied by wolf-whistles from the off- duty soldiers. Trying to line up on parade was difficult as bust sizes varied so much. If busts were in line, backs were not! Out on the town G.I's gave very elaborate salutes and greeted us with "Good day, Ma'am".
We sailed to France, arriving at Arromanches at dusk. I had the impression of a wide beach and sand hills Soldiers bundled us onto three ton lorries which took us to our tents in a field. During this time my very new husband came to see me from his unit in Belgium. He demanded of the Matron - "Where is my wife?" Invitations to dinner at various ch芒teaux and G.I. dances were eagerly accepted. We had trips to Bayeux and to Caen to see the devastation and at night we could hear the distant fighting.
Taking care of the casualties - both British and German - was our priority. Keeping clean was a struggle - baths were three feet squares of canvas - privacy at a premium in the long marquees.
It was an experience of a lifetime.

Peter Main Adds....as I was born nine months later I suspect there is a connection!!

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