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A few years ago, on the 50th anniversary of the end of the war, I was invited to a TV talk show by the host, a friend of mine. I used some of the items I had plus memories and it was surprising how much stronger memories and feelings became as we discussed those years, almost an uncomfortable reaction.
We used to see the red-fendered military trucks going through town carrying unexploded bombs to Hackney Marshes or other places to have them set off, at least that is what we were told at the time. Years later, over here on Public Television, we got the series Danger UXB. I watched the first segment but had to leave the room when the first man went down into the excavation to defuse the bomb. The memories were terribly strong of all those nights. Those brave men who did that job deserve praise beyond measure.
WWII was a major experience in my “growing up” years. It interfered with every day in one way or another, but it became a backdrop for life and one had to go about the necessary activities. I can never put behind me my gratitude to those who gave their lives. I have walked the beaches and the cliffs in Normandy. I have visited several of the cemeteries there. I have also visited the huge cemetery in St. Petersburg (when it was Leningrad) and the sadness one feels is almost beyond measure for the wasted lives.
I think of all the families who lost a loved one.
Geoffrey Styles, June 2001.
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