Fusilier Arthur Weldon

Arthur was called up for his British National Service in September 1944 when he was 18 years old and was officially enlisted on the 16th November 1944.

He served in the Royal Irish Fusiliers and told me stories of being a "half track" driver in Palestine, this was a type of vehicle that had wheels at the front and tracks at the back. His service with the "Middle East Force" was from the 16th September 1945 thru to the 4th September, 1947.

He told stories of the heat, of driving those half track vehicles and of the constant threat from scorpions, terror attacks and chafing. The rule about scorpions was to always check your boots before slipping them on....

14875099 Fusilier Arthur Weldon was "A young soldier who works well in the right job. He is both sober and honest, also very clean. Should be a useful type of man" according to his testimonial from Officer Brady of Ballykinlar, the commanding depot of the Royal Irish Fusiliers (dated 2nd January 1948). If any of you out there have more information about the depot, please let me know.

Arthur was released to the Royal Army Reserve on the 23rd of March, 1948 when he received his demob suit and cardboard case.

His final discharge from Reserve liability did not arrive until the 30th June, 1959.

Total Service with the colours. 16th November 1944 thru 22nd March, 1948.

Thanks Dad.

Arthur Weldon. (1926 – 2000)