IN CELEBRATION OF 09/03

Many years ago,well 1945 to be exact, a member of my family tragically lost his life whilst serving his country in the 2nd World War. He was my Grandma's Dad. Serjeant Alfred Mumberson.

Pre Alex i did used to think about the sacrifices he and his generation made for us but i tend to think about him a bit more. This is because my son Alex was born on the same day Alfred was killed. Coincidence i here you mutter but what chances would you get from a bookies on my son being born on the same day as his Great-Great Grandfather? Puts it into perspective hey.

I have just come into possession of a book,kindly given to me by my Grandma called a distant drum written by CAPT J PEREIRA. The Cap was the Coldstream Guards' 5th Btn's Intelligence officer. The same Btn Alfred was part of. My Grandma has informed me that in the latter part of the book an ambush takes place on behalf of our Nazi colleagues and the words" Are you ok Alf?" are spoke. She says she isn't sure if they are referring to the same Alf but it's enough to bring back those memories,enough to make her not read on.Alfred was killed during the battle of Rhineland,one of the most un-necessary and brutal battles to ever take place. The securing of this region along with the bridge was imperritive and unfortunately many lives perished. He is now buried in one of the Commonwealth War Graves situated in Reichswald Forest War Cemetry Germany. Consequently i have now made a promise to 3 people , my Grandmother , my son and myself. I will take my son (and hopefully my Grandma) to see Alfreds place of rest once Alex is old enough to appreciate the sacrifices made by Alfred and millions of others , sacrifices made so bravely and without a 2nd thought for their own wellbeing so that i can be sat here now writing this tribute.

Well Alex is 6 weeks old tomorrow and wow what a bonzer!! Today he weighs in at 10lb 8oz and he seems to be growing so well. It's amazing how events can turn your life around so drastically. My brother David seems happy with his "new friend" and my friend Roy is finding life hard on his own after parting from his wife and son. all i have to say is whatever life holds for you or wherever life takes you,rest assured the journey is something to remember.