Where
do I start was the question I asked - as I sat down to write this again
What
about the beginning I said to myself – not forgetting to keep
it sane
That’s
a good idea, as I started to think – it must be something they
relish
When
I suddenly I remembered an important fact- it was me and after all I’m
Irish.
I
remember well being taught Corp History- from a drill instructor full
of pride
What
are we celebrating next week he did ask- as he paced, from side to side?
I
knew the answer and was so proud of myself- as I was only turned 14.
With
a smile on my face and a heart full of pride-I told him it was Halloween
Halloween
he bellowed, from 30 feet in the air – I wondered what I had done
The
Corp Birthday he shouted as he landed at my feet – don’t
ever forget it my son
My
heart sunk a bit and my pride took a dent - but I forgive him for what
I had seen
I
knew I was right and despite his response – it really was Halloween
When
I passed out, I was sent to Plymouth - to join the Group Band as you
do
It
did not take long for me to get abroad - off to Italy for the Milan
Tattoo
I
arrived on time to load the truck and happy to get there early
When
the truck departed with my trombone – it was on exercise with
the Bersalieri
I
was going to a wardroom on board a ship - and was instructed not to
touch the handrail
So
I walked up the gangway carrying my gear - remembering the advice must
be real
When
halfway up I heard a splash - and just did not know what to think
I
turned around, one man was missing - and the Band Corporal was in the
drink
I
always had a wonderful time – with fantastic runs ashore
Some
I remember, some I forget – and some may have just been a bore
With
money scarce, but friends a plenty – we stayed out from dawn to
dusk
But
no matter how difficult, it ever got - we certainly knew how to busk
I’ve
made many friends in Adelaide – I think of them every day
The
times together, are something else – the memories will always
stay
The
laughs, the fun, the barbecue – and don’t forget the beer
It’s
very difficult for me to accept – I’m missing Adelaide this
year
Enjoy
your reunion, as we know you will – forgive our A W O L
We
will return, to give you support – with many more tales to tell
We
raise our glasses to wish you the best – and toast our friends
down below
We
give you a promise for two thousand and twelve -to Adelaide we will
go
Jackie 'Paddy' Semple - 2011
