Come to think of it, I was an 18 year old conscript in National Service 1950. I became quickly acquainted with the Non Commissioned Officer of the British variety. A very few were socio-paths, detested and feared. One could not even move a muscle on one's face in those days. A charge of dumb insubordination could be levelled.
The name behind that type of bully's back was pronounced "Basstud", with a hiss on the first four letters. The only thing that kept them from absolute abuse was the KRRS- Kings Rules and Regulations.
There was nothing to be done but to "grin and bear it". To even whine was to invite reprisals. God help the poor conscript that one of these men had it in for. Perhaps this explains my views and it might be subconscious.
Ok, enough of a sort of vanity here. I beg the mods indulgence. My Dad was a Dunkirk veteran and got the DCM in an action against the Panzers in Belgium 1940.
I agree that the hardliner(s) on here are not putting the situation into context. Without knowing the evidence, I cannot come down on one side or the other as yet.
My Dad was a Dunkirk veteran and got the DCM in an action against the Panzers in Belgium 1940.
The West had some very brave men to save our bacon. I thank you for your service and salute the memory of your Dad. You never gave up!