Wedding day pic prompts some naval contemplation

Nov 6 2008

THE ‘Together Forever’ article in last week’s Advertiser caught my eye, mainly because of the original wedding photograph which is very similar to my own. When I was married I was wearing my Merchant Navy uniform, albeit with two braids as Third Engineer Officer, and of the same style, which is of Royal Navy form.

My congratulations to both Mr and Mrs Laird on their recent golden wedding anniversary. John is wearing the braid of Third Mate and my guess is that he was serving with BP Tanker Company, as I did, or with Clan Line.

Both these merchant companies were recognised as having given significant service and support to the Ministry of Defence during World War II. As a consequence, officers were granted the privilege of wearing Royal Navy-style braid. They were the only two companies to receive this.

During the Falklands War, nine BP tankers supported the fleet, so continuing their service.

One of them actually brought a number of fit ‘survivors’ back home.

It would be good to know if this information is accurate.

Name and address supplied.