大象传媒

Reg Gill was a radiographer in 45th General hospital on Malta From 1941 to 1944. The job carried the rank of sargeant and this let to a curious little incident which simply couldn't happen post NHS.

He'd long since learnt the art of disappearing at speed whenever approached by senior officers but on this occasion it was too late and the other radiographer, perhaps forewarned had already vanished! Approaching the hospital was a Major General, a Brigadier and the Colonel in charge of the hospital.

Sadly the Major General who, I've since learnt from his grandson, had served in India, was seriously ill. An x-ray was required to confirm Paget's disease, a debilitating condition which would force retirement.

Since a lateral x-ray of the head was required Reg knew a long exposure time was essential. He explained that the normal procedure was to strap the patient's head to prevent movement, an awkward and painful experience for the elderly gentleman. What surprised him was the universal indignant response from the other officers.
"You can't do that to the General, sergeant!"

With great dignity, the patient at once replied that it was absolutely necessary and he intended to do it.

Whilst this seems obvious now it was a new and unusual situation for all concerned. Generals do not take orders from sergeants and certainly don't expect to be manhandled by ordinary soldiers, however well intentioned.
As he left he gave Reg a shilling, a small gift but indicative of a soldier's job well done.
I think that was a nice touch.

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