Grapple 1, Malden Island 1957
Britain’s nuclear test veterans fight for justice
An estimated 22,000 military personnel served at Britain’s nuclear tests in the central Pacific in the late 1950s.
Servicemen who observed the explosions from Christmas Island say they had no protective gear, but were ordered to turn their backs and cover their faces with their hands. Some reported the flash was so bright they could see their bones through closed eyes, like an x-ray. Others were knocked down by the blast and burned by the heat.
Combat engineer Ken McGinley (founder of the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association) said that afterwards he was ordered to clean up piles of dead birds and bomb debris. Men went swimming in the lagoon, ate fish they caught in the blast zone, and drank rainwater collected in tarpaulins – oblivious to any risk from radioactive fallout.
Some servicemen got sick while still on Christmas Island; others became ill after returning home. Some seemed fine for decades before developing cancers and other rare diseases. Nuclear test veterans reported that their wives had high rates of miscarriages and stillbirths, and their children also suffered from birth defects and unusual diseases.
Many were convinced these illnesses were related to their exposure to nuclear radiation in the Pacific. Their questions and concerns were met with silence and denial by the British government. A bid to be recognized by the European Court of Human Rights was turned down in 1998, which said it had no jurisdiction in the case.
Researcher Sue Rabbitt Roff at the University of Dundee surveyed 2,500 veterans and their children in 1999, reporting unusually high rates of infertility and birth defects.
Britain’s Sunday Mirror newspaper took on the veterans’ case in their Justice For Nuke Vets campaign led by Mirror columnist Richard Stott (1943-2007), but the government continued to deny any links between the veterans’ health and radiation exposure.
In 2007 two scientific studies demonstrated links between the veterans’ exposure to nuclear radiation and health problems:
- A Massey University study of New Zealand nuclear test veterans found genetic damage at three times the normal rate – comparable to victims of the Chernobyl nuclear accident.
- An independent study by the group Green Audit looked at long-term effects of radiation exposure in British veterans and their families, finding significantly higher rates of miscarriages and stillbirths, infant deaths, childhood cancers, and inherited genetic deformities.
As a result of the studies, 700 New Zealand and UK veterans launched a class action lawsuit against the British government claiming NZ $36 million in damages. The Ministry of Defense countered with a statute of limitations defense, saying veterans should have made any legal claims within three years of suffering an injury, a tactic that could delay the court hearing for several years.
Following a parliamentary inquiry in early 2008, the government agreed to fund new studies into veterans’ health and agreed to pay interim compensation of 4-thousand pounds each.
Of 22,000 who served during Operation Grapple, only 3,000 are still alive.
EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS
Christopher Edward Noone, RAF
British Nuclear Test Veterans Association
It was as though the gates of hell had opened up, a curling mass of white and red-hot superheated cloud twisting and curling inside and out, covering a good percentage of the sky. It was still glowing red with heat up to half an hour later.
Ken McGinley, Combat Engineers
Jane’s Oceania
At the moment of detonation there was a flash. At that instant I was able to see straight through my hands. I could see the veins. I could see the blood, I could see all the skin tissue, I could see the bones and worst of all, I could see the flash itself. It was like looking into a white-hot diamond, a second sun.
LINKS
Britain’s nuclear test veterans win major victory in battle for justice
Sunday Mirror
Britain’s nuclear test veterans have won a major victory in the battle for justice more than 50 years after they were exposed to crippling radiation.
New call for Porton Down Nuclear test vets compensation
Sunday Mirror
They were both used as guinea pigs in Government experiments 50 years ago. But today Ken Earl has won an apology and recognition while Ken McGinley continues to suffer.
Christmas Island H-bomb controversy
BBC Inside Out
We follow one man’s journey as he tries to find out if the H-bomb test on Christmas Island witnessed half a century ago is now putting his life at risk.
500 Year Nuke Curse
Sunday Mirror
A major scientific study into the families of soldiers used as guinea pigs in Britain’s first nuclear tests shows they will suffer acute health problems for TWENTY generations.
Radiation Revelation
New Scientist
Scientists’ requests for blood tests on servicemen about to take part in British nuclear tests in the 1950s were overruled by armed forces commanders, newly declassified documents reveal.
Nuclear test veterans lose legal battle
BBC News
Veterans of British nuclear tests in the Pacific in the 1950s have lost their latest effort to establish whether their human rights were violated by the government of the day.
The dark side of the nuclear family
New Statesman
Children suffer chronic illness because grandfathers were exposed to radiation.
BRITAIN'S PACIFIC NUKES 
My father was at malden and christmas island on loan from the british to the nz ers as a meterolical officer. He has of course passed away from cancer and my mother has not recieved any compensation because the nzers say he was the british responsibility and she couldnot recieve a war pension. My health as a child born after christmas islandiscompletly different to my brothers who was born before this event. Does not seem fair she was treated this way
I was with the Royal Air Force on Xmas Is 1957/8. Now 73 I suffered strange illness’s shortly after my return completely baffling my Drs. All three gave A different diagnosis including Yellow Fever and Polio . It lasted for 6 weeks. In 2008 I had a repeat of the symptoms whilst in Asia, but this time the Tropical Deases Specialist wrongly diagnosed Denge Fever, then gave up when I recovered. One of my 4 children has Lupus
I have not been invited to have any screening or how to claim any compensation
I can attest to similar conditions. After sailing home from Monte Bello Islands, I was admitted to the Chillwell military hospital in Nottingham. Although nothing specific was found it was thought I might have an ulcer and discharged me with tablets.
This condition lasted for 2 1/2 years and whilst serving in Kenya it was diagnosed as a peptic ulcer. Vomiting most mornings was common for me.
As for claiming compensation forget it. The MOD and every government in England will ensure you will not receive a penny.
They are total liars and corrupt and always say “We were in no danger”
Hi Kenneth
Did you know someone called Donald Bishop?
Sorry Liam I do not remember a Donald
There are many thousands of vets who suffer and their children will suffer in the long term future. Politicians have not got the moral courage or backbone to finally admit that we suffered serious and deadly illness’s from Radiation. But the biggest villains are the faceless men at the MOD. Veteran of Monte Bello Island 1952 and Christmas Island 1958/59.
The Islanders are the totally innocent victims in all this, much like the Aboriginal people of Maralinga Australia
[…] https://pacificnukes.wordpress.com/uk-vets/ […]
My father was in the RAF,he was in the Pacific for the nuclear tests,he died of cancer in 1965,is this a coincidence? I don’t know,he was 31 when he died,i think maybe not,thankyou to the british govenment for hiding the truth as to what really happened.you should all be ashamed of yourselfs
I can understand your angst, losing your father at such a young age.
The MOD from day one has steadfastly denied any wrong doing,
But we all know when their lips move they are lying.
I have lost several good friends that were on Monte Bello Islands and some lost their children at birth. While our nuclear veterans die the MOD will keep on denying until the last man is gone…But what happens to our children and their children when they become sick through the radiation that their fathers went through and passéd it on to them. But don’t worry the government of the day will have their noses in the tax trough for themselves and bugger the nuclear veterans
My father keith weeks royal engineers, 1958 to 1959, passed in June with stomach, lung, and liver cancer. Could this have been the time on Christmas Island
Roy Bett 24/01/2014 – I too was at Christmas Island in 1957 on HMS Warrior and HMS Messina but on the fomer for the first test on 15 May 1957.. I am now 76 and thankfully seem to have been one of the lucky ones to have escaped any positive side effects. Only today I was reading my copy of “Mid Pacific News ” published on the day the bomb was detonated and have several photos of us in our antic- lfash gear.
Roy, my Dad(Wally Jackson) also served on HMS Messina at the tests. Unfortunately he passed away 14 years ago from a stroke. He was part of the East Midlands BNTVA in the 80’s trying to get recognition for all the problems ex-service men went through after the tests.
I served on Xmas island from December 1958 to December 1959 in the sergeants mess. my son was born with congenital dislocation of the hips and has suffered with leg bone problems for years. I have always blamed it on my time on the island. I never witnessed a bomb blast but the contamination must have landed on the island and will be there for many many years. I have had stomach problems for years and prostate cancer. come on British government pay everyone who served there automatically . it is so difficult to prove what caused our illnesses.
My Uncle was on Christmas Island, he was in R.A.F when they did the nuclear tests ,
he died from stomach cancer in 1983 he was 54 years old, his family never got any compensation. Disgusting using people as Guinea pigs
I was here when this happened im now 75 years old and now been told i have cancer and have been suffering with mythenia gravis and im worried this is going to affect my children in life,we deserve compensation
My father also witnessed the tests whilst on Christmas Island. I have suffered from cancer, my nephew was diagnosed with leukaemia and my child has facial birth defects. It really does make me wonder!
My father turned 80 yesterday and witnessed the testing on Easter and Christmas Island. I am his daughter and my Cardiologist asked the question whether my heart problem (endocarditis and replacement aortic heart valve) was linked to what my Father was exposed to. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
My late husband, Barry Greatorex was sent to Christmas Island 1589/59 (not exactly sure of dates). He spent a year on the island and talked about a nuclear explosion occurring close to the island. He spoke of the wave of heat that engulfed them within seconds of the explosion. He passed away at the age of 44 in 1983. He had an enlarged heart. Not sure whether this information is relevant.
Correct date with reference to Barry Greatorex. Should read 1958/59
I am a nuclear test survivor who served on Christmas Island from Nov ’57-Nov’58 and witnessed 5 atmospheric detonations, including ”The bomb that went wrong” This was a hydrogen device that was supposed to detonate at 8000 ft ,but according to those in the know ,reckoned it went off at 2000 ft due to a faulty atmospheric pressure detonator This took place on the 28th April’58. As the mushroom cloud cooled, a huge black rain cloud formed that drenched us with radio active water,that caused tight bunches of blisters and killed the hair follicles on my legs and theyve been hairless since.When the blisters subsided i then noticed large red headless lumps, that were painless but left scars When i returned to Blighty,i began to suffer stomach problems, which were diagnosed as peptic ulcers,then deuodenal ulcers and later ,colonic polyps that needed surgery I still suffer from these conditions along with spondolosis ,and bouts of excruciating constipation. Every time i meet a new doctor,i always tell them that my conditions were caused by radiation,and they look at me as if i’m mad,but usually admit to knowing nothing about the tests,and i doubt they know anything about the effects of radiation As well as the radiation we had to put up with being sprayed from the air by SGT Flit with DDT,which is now a banned substance that causes cancers I think we’d have stood more chance in a battle zone.Can i just say to my fellow survivors,Stay strong,we’ve come this far and total REspect to our brothers who have passed on RIP Spr ken johnstone,59 Airfield Construction Sqn RE
Kenneth you live in a life of FANTASY. Where ever did you get all this mis information??. You tell each Dr you got ALL your problems from radiation. What rubbish… You have NO proof. I can tell you ALL H Bombs were detonated much higher than 8000ft and let me tell you if the bomb had exploded at 2000ft ALL of us would be dead
What ever possessed you to make such a reply? Can you actually back up your claim?? I didn’t think so! Get a grip Cox!
You are talking rubbish.
You are talking rubbish sir.
I served with you on the island with 59 Sqn, I was with the advance party, you would know me as Bert Goble, I got in trouble writing to the newspapers and when I was attached to 63 plant troop at main camp. I was the Court Martial Escort for the trials held there in 1958, I even had to look after Jock Hogg, I worked down the quarry as well and shared a tent with Jim Parks, Please get in touch and I will be able to say more.
Hi Bert. We knew each other on the island.59 squd. My good friend was Bob Mcann, I saw the same amount of explosions as you. Do you remember the A bomb that was suspended by 3 x barrage balloons?
Buried underneath in a specially constructed bunker were observers. After the blast we went in within an hour just wearing shorts boots and hats. I remember Oggy as he was known setting sail on a door for Hawaii. Picked up by a helicopter. Best Bruce Newins (smoke)
Hello Kenneth
My name is Amanda and my father was also one of the unfortunates who was witness to the atomic and hydrogen bombs, the grapple series of tests.
My father and myself would sit at the dining room table by lamp light most nights, researching everything from the myriad of illnesses he had, to the elements and yeilds of the bombs.
I can relate to a statement you made earlier with regard to the one that went wrong I remember distintly the numerous conversations about this.
My father had subacute combined degenoration of the spinal cord of which he said was atribytable to Christmas island., the “the powers that be” of course disputed this for years, a couple of weeks after my fathers death, a letter accepting this illness came through the door with a back dated cheque, ironic don’t you think?
he was classed as 40% disabled of which he received a war pension each week in 1987 of £58. 00 per week.
Also in 1971 when he was flown in a jumbo jet from Cyprus where he was stationed, after my mam was informed by the hospital at acrotiri that he only had a matter of 12 hours to live. He was sent to the tropical diseases unit in scotland where he stayed for months, they patched him up and sent him on his way with no diagnosis as to what he was suffering from. They mentioned tropical sprue but the symptoms of that don’t explain why he was wheel chair bound and actually went blind oh and if that wasn’t enough they steralised him rendering him from having any more children he was in his early 30s at this time.
Me my mum and sister had to come back to england by our selves a few weeks later.
Jumping years ahead since my fathers demise I enrolled at university degree in Biomedical Science soley for the purpose of gaining knowledge pertaining to my quest.. My favorite subjects being organic chemistry genetics heamatology cell biology.
Within my studies I was facinated and still am with the periodic table of the elements, in particular the organization and structure of atoms and their idiosyncratic behavior including” half Life’s”
In retrospect a particular element involved in the bombs you and my father received” fall out” from has a half life of the same amount of years it took for the undiagnosed anomoly to befall my father.
I could talk for hours on this I shall leave my contact details email address I am wanting to fight this thing all the way and feel I have lots of knowledge I think may be if use
Prawnlips13@gmail.com
My father corporal Ray Hext served with the re in Christmas Island he sadly died 27 years ago due a heart attack he was 51 ,he spoke of the explosions, they were told to turn round, with hands covering there eyes,wearing nothing but khaki shorts ,he said when the bombs exploded he felt his skin burn from the heat, also he could see his bones through his hands. I HOPE SOME OF THIS INFORMATION HELPS AS I THINK JUSTICE SHOULD BE SERVED TO THOSE WHO ARE TO BLAME QUESTIONS SHOULD BE ANSWERED, OR ONCE AGAIN WILL THE GOVERNMENT SWEEP IT UNDER THE CARPET RAY HEXT JNR
My father served on HMS Messina during Operation Grapple tests carried out on Chrismas Island, I still have all his photographs of the Mushroom the Island and HMS Messina, he died in 2006 with cancer throughout his body, brother and sister to this date suffer with Kidney problems, if I remember correctly my mother was checked when she was pregnant.
Malcolm Waddell, My Father was James Waddell(Engine room)
5.4.2015
elizabeth dock daughter of archie morris
My father past 20.3.2014
He served alongside ken mcginley
my father sufferd various illnesses all his adult life after being on christmas island .
my mother had a still born child
all 3 daughters have had misscarriges . I also had a still born child .
Both sons suffer knee problems all children suffer from anxiety and deppression . Some have dixlexia. Kidney problems . Urinery problems . Hearing . Grandchildren have been suffering anxiety and deppression some have dixlexia and autisim adhd skin problems hearing to . It is high time this goverment mod whoever accepted what these soldiers did .they served the same as any other soldier did and should get compensation for there service . The exposure to radiation is passing right down families . It was there responsability to protect these soldierswith protection and they did not . It does not matter if this happend years ago give these people the respect and acknolegment they so rightly deserve . By not paying out you are simply saying you do not care at all for your service men and women
23490304 Spr Ernie Sharp I served along side Ken McGinley and read his book he told so many untruths about his time on the island he was a regular soldier not a conscript he new like the rest of us what he was getting into his book has so many untruths in it he has done the BNTVA and the claim for compensation a great deal of harm
My Father passed away this weekend and he too was a veteran of the Christmas Island nuclear tests. His last years were spent unsuccessfully fighting Leukemia. He knew that his illness was probably caused by the exposure but he was still proud of the service he provided for his country.
R.I.P Captain Colin Girdlestone
Hello and let me introduce myself, my name is Andrew Gray and I live in the quiet Scottish borders. My father 1921555 Cpl James Gray served in the Royal Air Force during national service time and my late father was also on the most remote coral Atoll in the world Xmas Island Kiribati for Operation Grapple. He served on Cassidy air base as an instrument’s technician on the Shackleton’s I think that were doing a string of job’s including Maritime reconnaissance out there and he was with 160 wing because thanks to me recently digging out his full colour slides from operation Grapple, I also found out on the side of one of the slide boxes that were developed in Honolulu 1957 my dad’s BFPO address for Xmas Island and it said my Dads name rank number and Tent A1, 160 wing RAF, BFPO 170, C/O Hickam A.F.B. The slides I took down to Asdas photo shop here in Gala after viewing on my projector. The colour on the slides had turned a little red over the years stored away in the attic but Asdas managed to restore them to their original colour and I am now in position of some of the best photos of the Vickers Valiant B1 Bombers of 49 Squadron during Operation Grapple. I have sent a copy of all the slides off to the 49er’s association to which I am an honouree friend now because the photos are of historical interest to the nation. I am in the middle of locating my Dads service records and my search has led me to RAF Cranwell records dept. I want to learn more about my Dads work there and throughout his RAF service, but more so I would love to find out more about my Dads work and friends on Cassidy Air Base so they might be able to paint a better picture for me as my dad didn’t like talking to much about the bomb tests because he was a quiet man and he wanted a quiet life after serving in the RAF so his siblings learned never to ask such question’s regarding the tests. If anyone on here might have known my Dad I would be so grateful to hear from you. My FB page is https://www.facebook.com/Andy.Gaza.Gray .
I forgot to mention on the above letter that my dad died at the age of 65 with prostate cancer and osteoporosis after a two year battle. I have often thought there is a link to the tests.
I have just set up a community page on Facebook for all the children and relatives of the service men that were involved in Operation Grapple. It’s a place to form new friendships and share our stories and photo’s and film footage of a time when our Dads were very young and serving for our country in one of Britain’s biggest scientific experiment. Feel free to join my page if you have a close connection to the tests.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Children-of-the-H-Bomb-Operation-Grapple-1957-58/1632593240313421?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
My late husband was on Christmas Island for the tests he had a lot of health problems he was in The Royal Engineers
I was serving on H.M.S. Scarborough at the Last set of tests in 1958 as a Trainee Engineroom Artificer 5th Class
My function was to (if required) act as a Monitor with a Geiger counter ( Artificers 5th class being expendable – Smile)
It has taken 57 years to finally get a Doctor to ask ME why my white corpuscle count is consistently LOW and did I suffer a lot of illness
My answer was No and I then explained to him why it might be and his first reaction was ” The Radiation appears to have damaged your Marrowbone
I have had and still do do have a lot of “Conditions” the first of which manifested itself at the age of 28 as Duodenal Ulcers Now was it the RUM remember 54.5% proof Neat at 1/8pint a day or was it something else ? (Smile)
A repair job was finally carried out in 1979 with a life saving Emergency op during a routine internal examination
I’ve also gone on to develop Polycystic Kidneys which the Medical profession passed off as hereditary and yet none of my children or grandchildren have inherited this trait.
Quite happy to Accept my lot in the order of things I’m now 78 and looking forward to many more years yet being a thorn in the side of the establishment, I feel my one gripe is the Issue of a Service Medal on behalf of the Nation
I see one has been struck but to then be asked to PAY FOR IT I regard as a TOTAL INSULT
It is time for one to be ISSUED to ALL who were seconded to this EXERCISE as recognition of our Service to the Crown and to be worn amongst General Service Medals
I have the same feelings as you regarding the medal The one available for purchase is a scam by a private company. I was there serving in REME.
Hello ,what year were you on Xmas island and were you part of special Enginering ?
(My grandfather was there 57/58)
3517187 SAC Bill White, Rigger. Detached to Christmas Is. August 1957 after 2.5 yr posting at 2nd TAF Jever. Not posted to Christmas Island only detachment for 4 months. Now I cannot even get proof of service there. Normally a posting will be recorded on a P.O.R (Personnel Occ. report). Not a detachment. Now 82 with ill health. spinal stenosis, tumors on rear of legs, no body hair. Now learn that children suffer peculiar ailments and deformities, Stuff their money. They have spent more on lying and falsifying records but it would have been great to leave some token of appreciation in what we all endured. (For what?) Posted to 63 Squadron at RAF Waterbeach and for remainder of service suffered mental problems. No mention of this on termination later.
The MOD found me a privileged position at the Plessey Design offices at Ilford, Essex, where I did secret work on the P 1127 (Kestrel Jump Jet) now the Harrier, I was also recruited to act in intelligence work in places I have worked in but I cannot reveal the nature of that work but how about Northern Ireland, Nigeria, Burma, Tanzania, Korea and all over Europe from 1962 until 1986. Now fully retired and with nothing but bad memories, bad back, legs and not to mention the prostate, kidneys bladder and not to mention the colostomy bag hanging from the leg, (it is primarily inserted and carried inside the urethal tube (penis). Now believe it was a;ll a dream.
I served with 1325 sqdn (Christmas Island Airways.) from the begining of 1957 till the end of 1958′ I saw all the bombs of Grapple X and Y and quite a few lesser bombs in between, The one of the large bombs Which was mentioned. by Kennith Johnson did go wrong as when the cloud started to drift the tanoy demanded that all 1325 ground crew return to make ready all the aircraft so that all hierarchy could be taken to a safer place including Sir William Penny and a host of others,
Since getting married and having four children my wife also suffered a still borne and and our three girl children suffer skltal problems and the youngest a form of dwarfisim.
I’m am eighty years old and KNOW that my time on Christmas Island has got to be responsible
colin jarman
my father sufferd various illnesses and died of cancer. went my father died he leave me a photo album with lots of pictures of the Christmas Island and the bombs going off. also in the photo album there are pictures’ of the planes landing on the aircraft Carrier my dad was on and there are pictures of the men pushing the planes off the aircraft Carrier in to the sea. the exposure to radiation from the planes must have been very high.
The picture featured is from H M S COOK We were anchored here for the bomb test en rout to New Zealand .Has anyone been compensated regarding illness caused by the tests.
After all these years the illnesses are kicking in back problems, diabites , blood pressure to name a few my wife died of cancer my grand daughter has no hearing in her one ear my grand son was plagued with eczema what next for us veterans before the government give us what we deserve is the time going by when they give us the truth when we are all gone we didnt ask for it you put us in the front line when you all sat back in your plush surroundings in the clear awaiting the outcome you didnt get it WE did
You are correct. The photograph is of HMS Cook. I took it.
Norman
How are you mate long time no see remember me taff jones the terrible 4 YOU ME CLIFF AND SBA
My dad Stanley Templeton was at Christmas Island, he was there with the Royal Navy. He had to help lay all the detonators and wiring (he was bomb disposal). He said they were told to turn their backs when the explosions happened and were actively encouraged to eat all the fish which were floating belly up in the sea, he said there were hundreds of dead fish. My elder sister was born with congenital scoliosis, which was diagnosed when she was at school. She required major surgery, and was one of the first children to have a Steele rod graft. I was found to also have a milder form of congenital scoliosis, but later in life. My parents always believed the spinal deformities were due to the bomb testing and lack of protection. Sadly my dad died at the young age of 68yrs, due to a rarer form of vascular dementia (progressed rapidly and aggressively over 2 years which is when he died).
Hi Colin, I was on the aircraft carrier at the same time 1956/7 and probably have the same photographs. The aircraft being pushed over the side were Avenger aircraft (American). They were past their sell by date which was the reason they were disposed of. I still have the newspaper produced by the Royal Engineers on Christmas giving all the details of the firsts bomb going. I also still have the Operation Grapple handbook (Naval Edition). I am now 78 and although i have had a few problems I think I was one on the luckier ones.
Hello Roy , I am currently working with a gentleman who was on 1325 flight from Dishforth in 1956 to Christmas Island , I am supporting him in trying to find his old comrades from that time , and more about the tests , he has lost due to several moves all his photos , do you know of any website I can or organization I can contact, regards Dawn
Dawn, Further to my previous reply I have in may possession a copy of the newspaper printed by the army on Christmas Island on the day the first H Bomb went off. Unfortunately it is in the old foolscap ( slightly larger than A4) but I have scanned it and will willingly send it to you if you let me have his or your e-mail address. Failing that or if it is easier I will photocopy and send it. With the size it is very slightly a jigsaw.Regards, Roy
Hi Dawn, Thanks for the contact. I don’t know of a website but I have just purchased a book about it all called “Between Heaven and Hell”. I haven’t started it yet so I cannot comment on it but the Amazon reviews rate it quite highly. It is available from Amazon in various forms. I have got the kindle edition so I don’t think there will be photos in it – the hard back may well have. Hope this is of some help.
Regards,
Roy
My dad was in Christmas Island with the RAF I have a photo of the bomb
Hi Dawn, As I haven’t heard from you since my reply I was just wondering if the reply reached you..
Regards, Roy
sorry for delay I have your replys today ,my e-mail address is dawn.whitehead@sssft.nhs.uk I would be grateful for any documents and information you can send me
i am trying to locate a RAF serviceman who served with the gentleman i am helping who has given permission for me to give his name its Michael John Sargent known as John, he would dearly like to find out what happened to his friend unfortunately we don’t know his first name as he was always known as Taffy Jones, he was living in Abberdare in south wales and went to Johns wedding also john visited him at his home when they were serving together ,i have managed to get a photo of them together taken the day before they left for Chirstmas Island in November 1956 but wondered if you have any suggestions what else i can do. regards Dawn
thank you for the copy of the newspaper ,I am currently putting all the information together and this is a big help thanks again. regards Dawn
Hello Dawn, Bill White here (still) I don,t know if your Taffy Jones is (or was) one of my mates that you referred to . If so, I first met Taffy at St. Athan No 4 School of Tech Training in1953. If this is the same “Taffy” he was not a national serviceman. He was posted to a UK RAF station and I went to 2nd TAF. We met again on Christmas Island in November 57 but on different Squadrons. If this is the same Taff he will remember “Styx”. A name I was given early in the piece. There were a lot of Welsh “Nasho,s on the Island and some were sent to Malden Island and I would reckon that they were the most exposed. Interesting that from 22,.000 persons there only 3000 remain. Does that include the 2 WVS Ladies? I now live in Australia and of course the Brits are infamous for the treatment of indigenous people at Maralinga all through the 1950s period. Most of whom are passed on but they got the same treatment as all the rest of us whilst alive. OK, My medical treatment has been varied with the usual comments that suggest the specialists know nothing about radiation sickness or effects thereof. I am just another aged person that requires a body transplant. Even a brain transplant would not get me to visit Maralinga either. I note that hundreds of refugees or illegal immigrants are sent to Christmas Island. The accommodation looks OK but I wonder if soil tests were carried out before those unfortunates were sent there!! I concur, If you want a Nuclear decoration (Medal) you need to buy one but you also need to have proof of posting, name of C.O, Squadron etc.. on and on and on. I could swear but only at the ” Brass” that sent us there. Brass my A**e . There weren,t too many standing in the open were there. Plenty of Taffy,s, Jock,s a few Micks in the Engineers and we thought we were as safe as the R.N but we were all wrong, were we not? By the way the Taffy Jones I knew came from Abergavenny.
Hi Bill. I was on there for 1958 tests now cooling off on Australia Sunshine coast. Do you know how many of us are still standing in Oz ?
Wrong Xmas Island, Bill. The tests were carried out on Xmas Island in the Pacific.
I was on the island in 57/58 working in the vehicle w/shop with the Reme i was in the R/Engineers as a mechanic No. 23312417 Geoffrey Spedding is there anyone remembers me I now live in Australia
Geoff
I think the government got off with murder m y mum said dad was a change d man when he came back unfortunately my dad was there twice I might have had a better dad but I know Christmas Island broke him as a person I might of had a real dad if it wasn’t for all his bad memories of that plas
Roy I believe my father John Freeman also served on HMS Warrior and maybe the aircraft carrier, as he used to tell stories of them pushing old aircraft off the back into the sea as in your link. I would be interested to know if anyone knew my father who sadly passed away in 2010 from cancer. He also suffered from MSA for many years before, and like everyone else I always thought the tests may well have had something to do with that..
I was there in 1956/57 how do I join the Veterans .I was on Malden Islands
Hi Peter, I hope you are as well as I am. We were going to meet up sometime since I moved to Hampshire but it didn’t happen, maybe we could rearrange and try again?
I joined the vets but at that time they didn’t seem very interested in servicemen on the island 1956/7. Also there was some problem with where the money went that I, along with others donated towards something for the islanders. I stopped my subscription although I have thought of rejoining if things have settled down.
Hopefully speak one day.
Bedt regards,
Dennis
Dennis Hammant, RAF fire section, Operation Grapple, Christmas Island.
Hi Dennis it was good to see your message, look forward to going over the times we had before and after H Bomb test.Garrison Photographer was a position I did enjoy.
April 5, 2017 at 1:58 pm Hi again Peter, I live near West Meon in the Meon Valley, Hampshire. It would be nice to meet up somewhere.. Can’t remember where you live but I guess there must be a half way house that would be good for us both. I am available most days. I have just turned 80 so nice to know we are two of the lucky ones.
Best regards for now, Dennis.
Sent from my iPad
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Hi Dennis sorry for not replying to you ,so many things have been going on .I have had to delay our meeting but things have settled down now ,so am looking forward to us meeting up .Peter.
My father is Ken McGinley who was at Christmas Island and founded the British Nuclear Tests Veterans Association and was Chairman until 2000. My dad has fought tirelessly for the veterans and for justice and has been to the European court twice and travelled all over the world campaigning for human rights.
I am very proud of my father and all he has done.
Hi Louise my name is Amanda and I remember your dad I have met him albeit at my fathers funeral but never the less.
I have been trying to get in touch with him for years your dad and my dad were good friends and I know he held my dad in high regard I have posted a reply which I will attach here with a but of info that I would love you to pass on it has my email address on I would be most grateful to you thank you in anticipation
Amanda Kent
R: E John Robert Willis
Prawnlips13@gmail. Com
Louise
No presudice
Sorry the main thing I wanted to say with regard to the nay sayers or minority who post negative comments about your father,
I can only assert that people must find your father very interesting to be able to nearly dictate your dads rank and number maybe they may be able to tell you what he was wearing that day.
Ah well to each his own, at least tour dad got a book sale out of it.
Maybe a more apt profession would be something like a secret shopper, of a film of book critic.
Hold your head up girl and be proud of your dad
Amanda
Aforementioned attachment to forward please
kenneth johnstone Spr Royal engineers on February 13, 2015 at 4:13 pm
I am a nuclear test survivor who served on Christmas Island from Nov ’57-Nov’58 and witnessed 5 atmospheric detonations, including ”The bomb that went wrong” This was a hydrogen device that was supposed to detonate at 8000 ft ,but according to those in the know ,reckoned it went off at 2000 ft due to a faulty atmospheric pressure detonator This took place on the 28th April’58. As the mushroom cloud cooled, a huge black rain cloud formed that drenched us with radio active water,that caused tight bunches of blisters and killed the hair follicles on my legs and theyve been hairless since.When the blisters subsided i then noticed large red headless lumps, that were painless but left scars When i returned to Blighty,i began to suffer stomach problems, which were diagnosed as peptic ulcers,then deuodenal ulcers and later ,colonic polyps that needed surgery I still suffer from these conditions along with spondolosis ,and bouts of excruciating constipation. Every time i meet a new doctor,i always tell them that my conditions were caused by radiation,and they look at me as if i’m mad,but usually admit to knowing nothing about the tests,and i doubt they know anything about the effects of radiation As well as the radiation we had to put up with being sprayed from the air by SGT Flit with DDT,which is now a banned substance that causes cancers I think we’d have stood more chance in a battle zone.Can i just say to my fellow survivors,Stay strong,we’ve come this far and total REspect to our brothers who have passed on RIP Spr ken johnstone,59 Airfield Construction Sqn RE
Reply
AMANDA LOUISE KENT on May 12, 2017 at 2:29 pm
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Hello Kenneth
My name is Amanda and my father was also one of the unfortunates who was witness to the atomic and hydrogen bombs, the grapple series of tests.
My father and myself would sit at the dining room table by lamp light most nights, researching everything from the myriad of illnesses he had, to the elements and yeilds of the bombs.
I can relate to a statement you made earlier with regard to the one that went wrong I remember distintly the numerous conversations about this.
My father had subacute combined degenoration of the spinal cord of which he said was atribytable to Christmas island., the “the powers that be” of course disputed this for years, a couple of weeks after my fathers death, a letter accepting this illness came through the door with a back dated cheque, ironic don’t you think?
he was classed as 40% disabled of which he received a war pension each week in 1987 of £58. 00 per week.
Also in 1971 when he was flown in a jumbo jet from Cyprus where he was stationed, after my mam was informed by the hospital at acrotiri that he only had a matter of 12 hours to live. He was sent to the tropical diseases unit in scotland where he stayed for months, they patched him up and sent him on his way with no diagnosis as to what he was suffering from. They mentioned tropical sprue but the symptoms of that don’t explain why he was wheel chair bound and actually went blind oh and if that wasn’t enough they steralised him rendering him from having any more children he was in his early 30s at this time.
Me my mum and sister had to come back to england by our selves a few weeks later.
Jumping years ahead since my fathers demise I enrolled at university degree in Biomedical Science soley for the purpose of gaining knowledge pertaining to my quest.. My favorite subjects being organic chemistry genetics heamatology cell biology.
Within my studies I was facinated and still am with the periodic table of the elements, in particular the organization and structure of atoms and their idiosyncratic behavior including” half Life’s”
In retrospect a particular element involved in the bombs you and my father received” fall out” from has a half life of the same amount of years it took for the undiagnosed anomoly to befall my father.
I could talk for hours on this I shall leave my contact details email address I am wanting to fight this thing all the way and feel I have lots of knowledge I think may be if use
How many test vets are left alive
today 1st Nov 2016
My Grandad William John Silk Warrant Officer 1st Class was in charge of oil om Xmas Island. He was my hero and sadly passed away in 1998 From Unknown Heart Disease. My Nan is still alive at 94, would she be able to claim this compensation? Does anyone recall my Grandfather from Xmas Island. I have what I believe is the only Telephone Directory left in existence for the operation.
Hi. Mark. I served on HMS Messina at Christmas Island
for the November 1957 Grapple X Test. I was 20 at the time and have suffered with various heart problems since.I emigrated to South Africa in 1969 and know nothing of any compensation you mentioned in your letter. Kindly let me know any details if possible. Kind regards, Ray Towsey
Hi Ray.
Were you the Ray Towsey who joined up in 1954 and Was at Ceres 1954/55. If so we were classmates and you possibly relived me on Messina. Regards Roy Bett
I was on h m sMessina 1956/1957 I saw three nuclear tests
For the past thirty years I have had various illness
Which include heart surgery
Pancresitis
Remove of gall bladder
Two operations on my prostate
Knee operation
Cacanail spur
Thyroid problems
Lupus
Ice cold toes summer and winter
Restless legs
Nerve damage
Small fibre neuropathy
Anti-to/said antibodies
I was there 1957 HMS COOK you look like you are suffering I have a lot of problems but not so many as you cheer up mate we are all still trying to get this government to listen perhaps our new prime minister Mrs May will help us out.Many many of our lads have lost their lives and nothing has been done our blast was operation GRAPPLE YOU NEVER KNOW WE MAY GET OUR COMPENSATION BEFORE ITS TOO LATE
would anybody know or remember my granddad albert hamilton he was from northern Ireland I have seen pics of him in Christmas island but I never knew what he was doing until now thanks
I have many pictures here and momentos of my Grandad from Christmas Island. Where can I post them
Hi Roy,
Yes that was me..Kindly contact me on towseyer@netactive.co.za. Kind regards, Ray.t.
Hi Mark Penfold and/or Roy Betts
I have some interesting photos to share and I don’t seem to be getting my messages properly on to this website – are you receiving them?
regards – Ray Towsey
Hello everyone, I was on Christmas Island 1956/7 and was part of the advance party being the first on the island at the start. I was part of the RAF fire section based at the main camp and on the airfield site.
Is there anyone out there who was with me during that time?
Two of my close friends were John and Benny, if you are still around I would love to hear from you.
I have a large amount of photographs and colour slides if anyone is interested in seeing them.
Best regards to all,
Dennis.
Hi Dennis
I was also with the first group sent to Xmas island with the RAF, I was a store man, I flew from London to Suva and then to the island by HMS Warrior does this ring a bell with you? I live in Australia and am 81 years old, my name is John Payne if you reply to me I will phone you I am no good at this texting.
Regards John
Hi John,
I also flew to Nadi in Fiji via Prestwick, Iceland, New York, SanFrancisco, Canton, Honolulu and Fiji, then a long bus ride to Suva. We stayed with the Fijian Army for two weeks before boarding the MV Devonshire to sail to the island. What a great adventure at 19 years old.
Which stores on the island were you in, main camp, airfield or Port London? It’s possible we met up as there were very few of us in the advance party.
Tel-: 01472 398042
Cheers,
Dennis.
hello my dad was on christmas island in the sixties when these tests were going on although im not sure of the exact year, he was ill for years before he died of cancer in 2011, my sister died of cancer in 2014 aged just 40 my dear mother passed in april 2016 cancer aswell.my dad was 4248323 sac dunne royal air force john dunne he was from kilburn north london thanks regards paul dunne
My grandfather was at the nuclear bomb testing on Christmas island in the 50s can have an insight into what health risks I might have or develop ?
How can scum government do this shows us their real agenda
Will everyone stop getting their nikkers in a twist. We all know we have been done over by the MOD. From the time they posted us CHI till now. I’m not waiting with baited breath for Mod to do the right thing. Its like getting blood from a stone. In my humble opinon I will be chasing angels before I get anything. By the way!. I’am Vic Coop 4185671 SAC retired. Spent twelve months sunning myself in the rays of atom bombs 1958/1959. For the lad who beleaves a bomb went off at 2000ft, please get your facts right before your next bold statement. To our committee all power to your elbow see you in September. Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
Hi Vic. I totally agree with you . we were young and naive. Our MOD took us for granted.
I was onboard HMS COOK when we ships company witnessed the H BOMB explosion since leaving the Royal Navy in 1960 ive had skin problems which no doctor has explained why to this day .I m sure being in the vicinity lead to my problems but as usual MOD dont want to know im 84 years old perhaps they will own up waiting for us all to pass away
Podger you’re definitely right about the MOD.
I was on the island in late 1956 for the first tests i work in the transport w/shop with the r.m.e.e i was an r.e mechanic. I am interested was there any bars or medals for the service
My father was scheduled to go to Christmas Island, but at the last minute was pulled out for health reasons. Astonishingly, we were recently with him in a hospital waiting room and found ourselves in conversation with two other gentlemen who had both been on Christmas Island. What are the chances?!
Hi again Peter, I live near West Meon in the Meon Valley, Hampshire. It would be nice to meet up somewhere..
Can’t remember where you live but I guess there must be a half way house that would be good for us both. I am available most days.
I have just turned 80 so nice to know we are two of the lucky ones.
Best regards for now, Dennis.
Hi Dennis sounds a good idea I live in Pagham just outside Bognor Regis .
If we can decide a place for us both to meet would be fine bye me.
Looking forward to having a chat with you ,I often think back the times we met on the airfield while I was doing my job taking official photos.
Great, looking forward to it, will start searching for somewhere, if you have any ideas please say.
Cheers for now,
Dennis.
Hi again,
How about The Castle Inn, Rowlands Castle? It’s around the half way mark between us. A lunch time would be good for a drink then if we get hungry we could have a bite.
You are welcome to give me a ring if you prefer, 01730 829469.
ATB Dennis.
Hi Dennis your suggestion is fine bye me ,if you could let me know what day and time ,
Friday and Saturday’s are out ,I work those days gives me something to do.
cheers for now.
Peter.
How about Wednesday 26th next week at around midday?
Hi Peter,
Any thoughts about this Wednesday 26th?
ATB, Dennis.
Hi Dennis sorry about the delay have been trying to rearrange one or two thing’s ,but unfortunately haven’t managed it so far.
Is it possible we could pick another date which of course is convenient to you ,will you be on your own?, or will you have company, if so Toni my wife may come .
Regards Peter.
Originally I was coming alone but if you would like the ladies there Ann could come?
Hi All,
My dad was included in a class action suit against the UK Govt, a few years ago, but we’re now not clear what happened to it? We know it was dropped by one London firm, but passed to another. Does anyone know what the status of the action is, or where we can find out more?
By the way, he was the Corporal Mike (or “Alf”) Barker, RAF, not sure precisely who with, but c.’57-8 Christmas Island… if that rings a bell, please let us know. Sadly, he passed away in 2014, after many years of many illnesses, including cancers, fused vertebrae and a host of unknowns that eventually took him.
Nice website, thanks.
Regards,
Chris
Hi Peter,
Any more thoughts on meeting up with or without the girls and when?
Regards, Dennis.
Hi Peter,
Not having heard from you I hope you are well?
Best regards,
Dennis.
Hi Dennis sorry about not coming back to you sooner ,had so many things going on ,but still looking forward to us meeting up,I will when we meet up be on my own .
Best regards Peter
Hello Peter, very pleased you are well, I was getting worried for you not hearing back.
Meeting up will be good, is the Castle Inn at Rowlands Castle still alright for you?
I am fairly flexible so what dates do you have, give me a few so I can sort one out.
All the best,
Dennis.
My father Master Pilot GH Richardson was involved in operation Grapple as a Lancastor bomber pilot .
Does anyone remember him . He died some 10 years ago , and I am having difficulty in getting information of his time in the RAF .
Please help .
Raymond Richardson . Son .
I left a message here the other day . It’s disappeared . Why is that .
It was regarding information reqd about my father master pilot GH Richardson who flew lancastor bombers while stationed at Christmas Island for the H bomb tests . Does anyone have any information please about him .
Hi I was serving on Xmas island during the grapple series 1956 to 1958. The only aircraft on the island were 3 Dakotas 1 Hastings and a helecopter plus a small single engine crop sprayer piloted by captain flit (nick name) all the bombs were dropped by Valiant, Vulken and Victor aircraft but No Lancastersx
I was there in1956/1957 with the RAF and there were no Lancs, however we did have Shackleton MK2s.
Shackleton aircraft were used to patrol the area not lands. The bombs were dropped by the Valiant and balloon tethered in two cases.
I was on the island we arrived on HMS Warrior 1956 – 1957 was a mechanic in the truck w/shop working with the REME as i was in the ROYAL ENGINEERS is anybody out there that worked with me
Geoff
Yes I was REME and in the workshop 1958 59. We worked on all the vehicles plant and generators pumps etc. No 2 Special Engineering Workshop REME. Observed 5 tests.
I know but they were based on the island.
Well I never saw Lancasters in my time there and the Vulcan that visited,came one day and left the next more or less. The Vickers Valiant was the workhorse for the bomb drops. Canberas were used for sampling too. Shackletons were always in the air patrolling the area
No the Lanc was never there but some people thought the Shack was a Lanc.
I was on HMS Warrior for the first three tests, and was a mess mate of Roy Beet. How are things ,Roy? I am in pretty good health and have had no after effects fro the tests, although my daughter was born premature and has had problems with having children of her own. I feel so sorry for all the guys who have suffered because of the time spent in the Christmas Island area. There can’t be too many of us left now.Take care and God Bless , everyone.
Hi Glynne, have only just picked up your message from July 2017. I am pretty well thanks but have not been without problems. Major one was removal of brain tumour which left me deaf on one side and do get Head pains if I am not careful. We also lost twin girls whilst we were in Singapore, born prematurely but thankfully my two boys are fine and so are their offsprings. Enjoyed the book by the midshipman, it answered a few questions. Hope you and Josie are still keeping well. Regards, Roy
I was one of a RandR group who went to Honalulu on the Warrior during the first test, you were probably on board then?
NO we did not go to Honolulu as we came off the carrier you must of got on to go on your trip as we got the job of getting ready for your mob. i remember building boat so we could fishing on weekends and having B/Q with our officers. And the only time i saw anything about the bomb was in the cinema at night with the film of the bomb being drop over Malvern Island and we use to go and watch the Pan AM PLANES COME IN TO TAKE SOME OF THE LADS BACK HOME FOR DEMOB
Geoff
Ray Hyde Xmas 1958 REME Trying to donate “An Uncertain Future” book to any Australian vets ! Where are you ?
My Dad was out there during these tests. He died in 2013. I’m about to clear the loft at home as my Mum just died.
If I come across any memorabilia, would it be of interest?
I’m just wondering if anyone was in the RAF Air Movements team on Xmas Island for Grapple X and Y. My husband was there. He was a regular in the RAF. He was Sgt Day. ‘Taff’. On return home he had many mysterious ailments. He left the RAF IN 1970, but was a changed man, and then after 4 years of all sorts of illnesses culminating in heart operation etc, he died January 1982, a blessed relief for him.
Anyone that served on Christmas Island during the U S test 1962 and is “suffering” and would like to get in touch for a chat… please contact me at deegtee@gmail.com !!
My late father also served on Kiribati Christmas Island on Cassidy air Base as he was in the RAF doing national service. He died at the age of 65 with Prostate cancer and osteoporosis. During the years of development of these bombs the scientific boffins were also testing out radioactive gasses from nuclear sites across the UK on it’s own people to see what the effects would be. The Government will never stop the cover up regarding the tests sadly. Look up my page Children of the H BOMB on Facebook where I posted my Dad’s Christmas Island photos a couple of yrs ago.
Andrew Gray
grayandy65@gmail.com
I was on HMS Warrior with Roy Betts for the Tests in 1957.I have the photos that most of us veterans seem to have and often look at them and wonder how may of us are left. I am now 82 and in very good health and seemed to have got away unscathed, unlike many others present at the Tests. My daughter however was born prematurely and has had a still birth and has a handicapped boy. Possibly the results of my being at Xmas Island.Little did we think in those days that 1957 would come back to haunt us. Good luck and God Bless everyone.
My father John Freeman was also on HMS Warrior during the tests. We have photos of him and his ship mates wearing their “protective gear” with the mushroom cloud behind them. We also have pictures of the planes being dumped at sea. Father passed away in 2009 he suffered for many years with MSA, and I myself the first born have no focus in my left eye from birth. Coincidence possibly, however I think not like everyone else.
The lasting effects of radiation sickness just gets passed to the next generation and My mother after my father served on Christmas Island ☢️ My sister and siblings all with effects of lasting sickness.My own wife has developed MS and they put it down to lack of vitamin D maybe the professors should look at the links between servicemens families and there children. I agree treated like cannon fodder and used as Guinea Pigs. Danny Brennan son of a Royal Engineer passed sadly and also my wife’s father Royal Navy also passed both served around the same time in service.
For the lasting effects all generations after should be screened and deformities logged just like the links between drugs and pregnancy.
CANCER it is just a horrible episode in our countries military history.
Still I keep with me memories Ubique they are everywhere.
Hi Peter,
Hope you well, looking forward to meeting up?
Best regards,
Dennis.
I served on the island in 1956 what is this about compensation been in pay as i have not heard any thing i was with the royal engineers No.23312417
?
Could you please send me the any information in regards to the compensation for service on Xmas island as i was there in 1956 in The Royal Engineers as Sapper G Spedding No.23312417 . We travel on the HMS Warrior. With thanks
Geoff
I have recently been given a book called H Bombs and Hula Girls written by Michael Johnston, who was a Midshipman on HMS Warrior during the first 3 tests. It is an interesting book and gives a lot of insight into
what went on at the time.I believe that it is available on Amazon etc if anyone is interested. All proceeds go to the RN Benevolent fund.
Hi all, I am just sitting with my grandad, Derek Earles, he was on National Sevice in the Christmas Islands between 1957 – 1958 in the Royal Corp Signals, was anyone else there or know of someone there at that time in the signal corps. He will be 80 years old this November thanks you hayley
Hi Hayley
I know its a long time since your post but I’ve just found this site. My Dad Peter Lilly was also there with Royal Signals . They were brave young men
I was on Christmas island from 1956/1957 with THE RASC duwks at port camp and left their on HMS WARRIOR and remember the planes going over the side I am now 81
[…] Read more… […]
Hi Dennis we are all fine ,Happy new Year to you all ,still looking forward to meeting again after all that time ,will contact you very soon.
Best regards Peter.
Really looking forward to that day Peter.
Best regards, Dennis.
Hi Dennis Happy New Year to you all ,we are all fine looking forward to us meeting up ,sorry for such a delay in replying to you Best regards Peter.
Hi Peter have you got the right Dennis,my name is Dennis Casson i was at Christmas island from 56/57.dennis
Hello Dennis,
Yes Peter has the correct Dennis. Peter and I were on the island together in 56/57. He was the army photographer and I was in the RAF fire fighting section, mainly working the airfield.
Regards, Dennis.
Hi Peter, Thank you and A Happy New Year to you all. Since we last communicated we have moved back to Lincolnshire. It has been on our minds for some time.
I guess we will never meet up now which is sad as I have been looking forward to our getting together.
All the very best.
Dennis.
I think as all of us ex vets do no matter who leads our government our case goes to deaf ears..Why oh why dont they listen are they waiting for all of us to leave this world.Refugees seem to be the topic they are listening to them why dont they listen to their own country men who are suffering of no fault of their own we didnt ask to watch or take part in any nuclear tests but as of now we are all given to suffering come on Mrs May you seem very possitive help us before it is TOO late
Does anyone remember Robin ( Bob) Hector Marshall Upshon. He was at the “Operation Grapple” Cancer and other ailments took him on 1st August 2017 RIP. Any help would be appreciated. Barbara
My father joined Navy at age 15. He served on three ships over a period of time.
They were patrolling and stationed at sea 6 months after some tests.
There were all drinking and using desalinated water on ship.
Like the troops today in Iraq and Afghanistan using water with depleted uranium.
Your country Loves you.
I remember Grapple Z based HMS Resolution 1958- 1959
My father Ronald Wilkinson served in the Royal Signals at forward control and was on Christmas island for the grapple tests often talks of the dirty bomb he was in hospital on the 60th anniversary of this being dropped . He is 80 years old now with various health problems . It would be so nice to hear from anyone who remembers him
I was in the Royal Navy Darren didnt know your dad but I can sympathize with you on your dads illness Imyself am now 83yrs old and over the years ive suffered with numerous skin alergies and my grand daughter has lost the hearing in her one ear my grandson also has alergies Lost my wife through cancer but thats just my story of many many ones from the veterans the government has turned a blind eye towards our claim but look after these immigrants with kid gloves never mind all us lads who were serving our country but didnt volunteer to be guiney pigs for their benifit my service was on board HMS COOK en rout to the far east for survey duties we had no idea we were being used but the Captain and officers must have known we were stopping over if not why was all the anti flash gear stowed on board the mind boggles as said YOUR COUNTRY LOVES YOU KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK BALLOCKS
My Father in law Kenneth Boyce served on Royal Navys HMS NARVIK, when the plane dropped the bomb onto Malden Island, they anchord 12 miles from the shore, they were told to have their backs to the drop cover their eyes so they couldn’t see the bright flash but once it was dropped they all had turned round to see the mushroom forming.
Ever since then, he’d suffered collapsed lung, Suffered 7 spontaneous pneumothorax, emphysema and asbestosis, duodenal ulcers
He also suffered MI and subsequent heart disease and triple heart bypass.
The Navy, discharged him from service due to his Spontaneuos Pneumothorax, Respiratory problems.
Maybe, not all but especially the respiratory conditions he suffered, my Mother in law, June, is sure that had been the result of the bomb.
My mother in law, also suffered A miscariage and lost a baby 3 days after birth.
All he received was the pension. He never received a lump sum of any kind or any compensation.
Yet, my mother in law has seen his fellow American servicemen being compensated. She feels, aggreived that our country and government have been in denial of what happened to him and all those who served at the time and not been recocgnised for their services.
I was in the REs on Christmas Island in 1957/8. I to saw many explosions. In one instance we went into an A bomb blast site 1 hour after detonation to release scientists in a special bunker at ground zero. All we wore was boots a hat and shorts nothing else. I remember the rough grass catching alight after walking on it. I also recall RAF planes flying through the blast cloud to collect samples.I must be one of the fortunate ones as I am reasonably healthy and fit at 79 years of age. Bruce Newins
My father (Malcolm Ralph) was on Christmas Island while he was in the RAF. Although he is still alive and in reasonably good health I know their first born died at 2 days old due to a growth abnormality. My son and myself have both suffered thyroid problems over the years.
My father was in the REME. His name was Kenneth Walter Boston. I have found records online that indicate he sailed into Hawaii in March then to New York on 24 March 1958. I assume the tests came afterwards. What other records came I find please?
I served on christmas island, did two tours as a regular soldier.operated a bull dozer on the star mix site, saw five tests including the so called h-bomb one that dropped too low and i remember the rain that never was afterwards. you are correct in saying there were no officers around during the noisy times, god bless all the vetereans geoff (brummie) partridge
Hi my dad Charles Towner was stationed on Christmas Island 1957-1959 he was a LAC during his time in the RAF. He was also stationed at RAF Northwood. He didn’t actually witness any of the A Bombs going off. But he was there for three of them. For the last 20-30 years he has had peripheral nerve damage (He’s nearly 81 now) no one else in his family has had that problem. Unfortunately, also his wife and son passed away with Motor Neurone disease. Now, I do not know if there is a relationship between these illnesses and radiation exposure. He’s questioned his doctors about it and been met with an unequivocal no! But you can’t help thinking that what if his exposure led to his wife and sons very rare illnesses later on in life. He would love to be recognized for his part in operation Grapple, but unfortunately the Government petition has now been closed. He reminisces so much about his time on the island, mostly the bad food and the stark contrast between the English and American troops provisions. But the friendships he made during his RAF days will live with him forever. Wouldn’t it just be the decent thing for everyone who served on the Islands during operation Grapple to receive an official recognition?
I to was on Christmas Island 58/59 over the years I have various major illnesses including cancer removing my stomache removed, tripple bipass and a couple of other jobs!!. I only receive a small forces pention. Bought my medal.
Hi Dennis I am so sorry to read you have moved back to Lincolnshire ,but somehow I feel we will still meet up.as you are aware my two daughters are in Lincolnshire ,give me you phone number, mine is 01243263795,I often rember the times when I was taking photosfor for my CO up at the airfield and you appeared in your Dennis fire truck ,they were good times .
Hi Peter, my number is 01472 398042 or mobile 07810470843.
It would be great to meet up sometime. My son Tony lives in Lincoln so I see him more now rather than just once a year when he visited us in Hampshire. You may not know, his mum June died a year ago so he lives alone but has a lady friend.
Looking forward to the day, take care.
Best regards,
Dennis.
Hi Dennis I can understand why you have moved up there my daughters I don’t see often the younger one especially. I have made the hint but Toni doesn’t want to.move up there my older daughter I do see now and again, so it looks like we will have to make a trip up to them.thanks for your phone number I will be in touch.
I also look forward to that day,take care.
Kind regards Peter.
Hi Dennis hope you are welland the family, Teresa my eldest daughter said she met your son recently ,and he mentioned you had moved back there and was living in one the bungalows his mother had, and also mentioned a helicopter you may have,if so very nice ,in the mean time stay healthy
Kind Regards Peter.
Hello Peter, Yes really settled up in Lincolnshire and very happy. Your information via Tony is not quite correct, we bought a house in a village near Ludford called Great Tows. It’s sits in some 12 acres of garden and new woodland. I don’t have a helicopter but do have an aeroplane which I keep at a friends farm strip just down the road. Shame Toni doesn’t fancy moving up as there many benefits and not just the cost of living being a lot lower. Hope you can get up some time to visit your family, if you do please let me know we could meet up. Take care and stay well. Best regards, Dennis.07810470843
HI,
I would just like to confirm that there were no Lancasters on Xmas Island,however the Shackleton,which was ,looked very like the Lanc from which it was derived.
I was with 206 Squadron and witnessed the first three drops from 20 miles range,taking photographs.I subsequently had a cancerous prostate removed in1996.
Ken Topaz
well Pod, you got to 84, SHOULD’T worry too much mate!!!
Ken, did you know an airman on 206 Sqdn. by the name of Johnny Leighton? He was from Northern Ireland and was on Operation Grapple.
Compensation is being mentioned again. I won’t hold my breath. Also some talk about a medal . Who needs a medal . It won’t do those poor guys who have suffered and died over the years . We will all be gone in the next few years, then they can sweep it all under the carpet. I want to live to be 100 just to stick it up the govt.
I served on Christmas Island in 1958 and witnessed several H bomb explosions. I was with the RAF 217 Helicopter Squadron. Now aged eighty two I must be one of the lucky ones. However I did suddenly develop Type 1 diabetes in 1971 ? Miserable time spent there with alcohol being one’s only relief. Charles James
Jimmy. I was on the Island 57/58 and saw the same as you . My Regiment was the Royal Engineers. We built the radar tower, part of the airstrip and various roads. Regrettably we are all getting old now and the government is waiting until we are all gone before they recognise our contribution. Don’t live in hope.Regards Bruce Newins (bruin or smoke) nickname.
I was RAF on the island 1956-1957 as part of the advance party before anything was built, touch wood also one of the lucky ones, now 83. For the unlucky men I fear they will never be recognised for their sacrifice.
i also served on the island with the re. did two tours, saw five tests and enjoyed the company of some grand lads. i wonder how many have made old age.was it worth it? did you sing the nick nack paddy wack song ending with “days to do, just a few” it came from the film the inn of the sixth happiness, god bless all who remember the island
I was with the RAF fire service based mainly at the airfield although our section house was opposite the main camp guardroom. I didn’t know many army lads as they were usually at the main camp. I did have a good friend Peter Gingell who was the army photographer and another called Ernie ? Not sure what he did. Some good times mixed with a few bad ones. Wish I could touch base with some of my fire section friends.
Is there anyone out there that work in the vehicle w/shop R.E.M.E IN 56/57 I AM 23312417 R/E Geoffrey Spedding and also sail out on the A/C Warrior
Hi Geoffrey thanks for the phone call what a surprise, you said you sailed out on the HMS Warrior ,but I think you ment SS Charlton Starr,it was nice talking to you so many memories, perhaps we could meet sometime.
Good Day Peter I am Sapper 23312417 Spedding and i sail out of Portsmouth on the HMS Aircraft Carrier Warrior to Xmas Island via Kingston Jamaica and the Panama Chanel. I worked in the REME Transport W/shop .Our Squadron was disband when we left the Island Sail back to home on the Empire Clyde to Liverpool and finish my service in Germany
Hi Geoffrey , I was a crew member of the Warrior , and it was a good trip out to Xmas Island . Like you I saw the first three tests .The trip home was even better , taking in all of South America .I am one of the fortunate ones . I am 86 shortly and have had good health most of my life . Lately I have lost some of my hearing , and developed emphesema but consider myself fortunate when i read about the problems some of the lads have had . I hope you are keeping well . Take care .Taff Parry (
ex Royal Navy )
I did not the Gale we sail thru althro i was one of the lucky ones i did not get seasick and am very well compare to some of the lads
Ray Hyde Xmas 1958 REME Trying to donate “An Uncertain Future” book to any Australian vets ! Where are you ?
Let me know if it can come to a good new home.
As I was part of the original RAF force on the island we were taken to Honolulu for a break on the Warrior which was most enjoyable. Our journey to Christmas Island took us from London Heath Row upto Greenland via Scotland, across to the US and on to Fiji where we waited about two weeks for a troop ship for the final part of the journey. All in all a very memorable and mostly enjoyable time.
We came onto the island and your mob took our place on the Warrior for your break
Thank you very much Geoffrey, I wonder if I had your hammock?