With a Morse Key and Rifle One Man’s Humorous Attempt to Survive the British Army

This book was written in the beginning of 1960 to make sure that no facts were forgotten or exaggerated by the time factor. Only the rough edges of the writing have been polished a little, the basic facts and incidents are exactly as they happened. It is guaranteed to all be true. Read, and try to stop laughing! At the tender age of 18 in mid December 1957 Graham left the cosy world of apprentice compositor in the printing trade and compulsorily joined the many thousands also serving 2 year’s National Service. He used those 2 years to learn a lot, some things about the army, but mainly about life from the many and varied people he met along the way. Leading a charmed life, he managed to enjoy himself in the army, at the army’s expense, and keep out of trouble. His demob papers, written 6 weeks before he was demobbed, state “He is a disciplined soldier who works hard.....” If only they knew! On demob in December 1959 he went on to finish his apprenticeship and then went round the printing trade in London for experience. He soon realised he wanted to work for himself in a small team and that is why he became a newsagent and retired at 52 years of age. In retirement he took a course in blacksmithing as a hobby and also joined a writers’ group. His hobbies also include motor-homing and cycling with his Brompton. He now at 83 takes life (just) a little easier and is proud of Carole his wife of 58 years and 2 grown up children and 3 grandchildren. However, he still does not understand the rules of life.