In 1942 I was 12 years old and a boyhood friend of Bertie Maude(13) whose father, Albert Maude, was serving on board HMS Bramble. I think Albert was either an AB seaman, or a signalman. I think he was in the naval reserve at the outbreak of the war in 1939. Albert at the time worked with George Youngers Brewery in Alloa Clackmannanshire and lived at Smithfieldloan, Alloa, in, I think a company house.

I remember the occasion of the loss of HMS Bramble, and of Berties' dad, because on the night of the 31st., Bertie and his mum were at the pictures and when Bing Crosbie sang "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas" Bertie burst into tears uncontrollably, and when his mum asked him what was wrong he said "I'm thinking of my Dad". At the time he had no idea that the Bramble had been lost, but when he was finally told of what happened I met him in the street sometime later, again crying with great despair at his loss. 

Mr. Albert Maude was a lovely man, a loving husband, and a great Dad to Bertie during a time restricted life together.

 I think, from memory, part of the official communication given to Mrs. Maude regarding her husband's fate was- " The HMS Bramble was last seen steaming towards enemy action." How simple a sentence it is to explain the loss of a loved one, but how great a feeling it brings to those of us who remember the ultimate sacrifice the crew of the Bramble made that night in their effort to secure what we now call freedom.

Although I was only 12 years old at the time the memory will remain with me for ever.

I hope this may have been some help to you.

Regards,

Philip Watson

October 2006