- Author
- Letter Writer
- Subjects
- Poetry
- Tags
- None noted.
- RAN Ships
- None noted.
- Publication
- June 1983 edition of the Naval Historical Review (all rights reserved)
The poem “Detail Action” in the March issue, and which you state may have been attributed to “Gatey” Crawford, was in fact written by Gerald O’Driscoll, R.N.
Under the name ‘Giraldus’, he wrote some very funny and knowledgeable books, notably “Musings of a Merry Matelot”, and “The Merry Matelot Again”. I have a copy of the latter which contains the poem in question. The writings are most entertaining, but mainly to the old permanent ratings, who endured the intensive training, heavy discipline and petty restrictions of the pre-war navy.
To such people, his books may be read and re-read, and are good for a laugh every time, and in gratitude for this I would like to see honour done where due.
D.A. Walker, Ex Chief G.M.