- Author
- Letter Writer
- Subjects
- None noted
- Tags
- RAN Ships
- HMAS Quickmatch, HMAS Quiberon
- Publication
- September 1997 edition of the Naval Historical Review (all rights reserved)
I have received the March 1997 issue of the “Naval Historical Review”, which I am glad to note is up to the usual high standard.
I would like to comment on the letter from Mr. M. Hayles which appears on page 9 of the Review. I can sympathise with his thoughts that the “Q” class destroyers do not get a great deal of recognition. However, I would like to draw to his attention the fact that the windows and other memorials to which he refers have all been provided and paid for by members of the various groups representing the other groups of WW II destroyers.
Perhaps he will be pleased to know that here in South Australia the “N” Class Destroyers Association has for some time had a memorial window commemorating the “N’s” in the Chapel of the Daw Park R.G.H., and on 16th June, this year we will be presenting to the Chapel and having dedicated the crests of not only the five “N” class destroyers, but also that of HMAS Quickmatch. The six crests will be mounted three on each side of the window.
It could be asked why we did not include HMAS Quiberon as well. The fact is, we have quite a number of Quickmatch personnel in our Association, and they are valued and active members. We understand that the ex-Quiberon boys have their own Association; if that were not so we would welcome their participation with us in our activities.
To move on to another point, is it good to note in the lists of new members the number of people currently serving in the R.A.N. Let’s hope that when the exigencies of the Service allow, these people will take an active interest in the Naval Historical Society, thereby ensuring its future when we old-timers pass on.
John R. Sullivan, President, ” N” Class Destroyers Association of S.A. and Honorary Life Member, Naval Historical Society.