大象传媒

This story was submitted to the People's War website by Plymouth Library Services on behalf of Malcolm Kidger. The author fully understands the terms and conditions of the website.

In 1939 I commenced secondary education at Junior Tech school. This was temporarily interrupted when I started work at a local engineering factory producing components for aircraft engines.

In 1940 I resumed my schooling, preparing for an Entrance Exam, for entry into the Naval Dockyard in Devonport. In 1941 I was accepted into the dockyard to serve a five-year apprenticeship in the trade of shipwright. During this period I was involved with repairs to naval warships damaged during engagements with enemy forces.

Also in 1941 I joined the Auxiliary Fire Service (later renamed the National Fire Service), on a part-time basis. I started with the AFS as a messenger, eventually qualifying as a fireman on reaching the minimum age requirement. I was based at Fire Service Station 10 in Plymouth.

During my time as a messenger I was tasked to escort fire crews brought in from other areas of the west country to assist in tackling the fires. This was during the height of the devastation to our city centre and surrounding areas.

A further hazard during these incidents was the risk of being struck by fragments of lethal shrapnel from exploding shells of the numerous anti-aircraft guns positioned at various locations around the city.

I remained with the Fire Service as a part-timer until some time in 1945 when we were stood down; there being no further requirements for our services.

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