1.
Feb. 1, 2008

Attached is a photograph of my Grandad "Able Seaman" William "Bill" Thomas Clegg RN Service No.200801.
He is in the middle of the back row behind the officer (see photo gallery). The photo was taken, on board HMS Irresistible, in May 1906 in Valletta, Malta. According to his war record, he served on "Irresistible" from 17th July 1905 to 26th November 1906 and is shown as being a "Gun layer", this may explain the "greasey hands", if you can make them out? Does anyone recognize a relative?

Amongst his other duties, he was usually responsible for the ships mascot. Goats, Cats, Dogs, Parrots and Rabbits, were all been in his care at one time or another during his 12 years in the Navy. It must be in the blood. One incident he often recalled was fitting out an "unofficial goat" with socks to prevent it from being discovered by the Captain, until they were at sea that is. The only reason he got away with it, was down to the supply of fresh milk.

With his passing he left me, his eldest grandson, his cap Tally's from all the ships in which he had served. Although de-mobbed in 1921, mysteriously amongst them were two from HMS Amethyst. Why he had them, or how they had come into his possession, I have no idea? One of them was attached to Able Seacat Simon's wreath, for the reopening of the PDSA cemetery. I am sure Grandad would have approved and been very proud. Thank you for this opportunity to honour my Grandad in this small way.

Best regards,
Robert (Bob) Green