A Sword-ID Tale

Author

Sheather, Tony, RN

Subjects

Biographies and personal histories

Tags

Sword

RAN Ships

None noted.

Publication

December 2003 edition of the Naval Historical Review (all rights reserved)

My old sword remained unsheathed for years, although I became a welcome guest at several weddings; I would ascertain whether the happy couple were tall, so that I would be part of the arch, but nearest the door. When I attended Divisions, I invariably let my fingers creep down the hilt, avoiding the tricky snatch; I regularly stepped off on the correct foot – well I think I did. So there it is, snug and dry in the comer.

It hung over the fireplace for a spell, but collected too much dust and would probably get even more tarnished. It really needs another refurbishment. In 2007 it’s my sword’s 100th Birthday. I’m not sure my son will ever aspire to wear it.

Oh! I found out that swords were made in various lengths; this model is a long one.