Bill

Bill was with the American Forces in Italy during the war. He was made aware of this Branch when on holiday in Italy two years ago with his late wife when he met up with Branch member, Norman Nuttall M.M., who now resides there. They have much in common. They both have distinguished war records and a common affection for Italy.

After discussions with the Branch Chairman, an invitation was made to Bill to become a Member of this Branch. Bill was delighted to accept.

Bill is quite a character and has led a very interesting life. He was with the American Military Police serving in Italy where he met his future, now late, wife. He returned to Italy to marry her in 1946.

Bill followed his wartime military service with over thirty years in the American civil police, retiring with the rank of Colonel. During his service with the police force he held the position of Chief of Police and also Deputy Sheriff. We confess that we don't quite know what all his medals and gold stripes actually are but you'll have to take our word for it that, when you meet him, you don't need to ask.  Bill is the sort of man who you immediately know has been round the block a few times. We suspect he did a pretty good job at keeping the peace.

Bill had never been to England and was therefore invited to come over for a holiday, to include a Branch weekend in Llandudno.  From the moment we made his acquaintance he was universally popular with the Members and seemed like an old friend from the outset.

The break in Llandudno was voted a winner by those of us who went, and Bill was no exception. The entertainers visiting the hotel soon cottoned on to the fact that we had an American in our party and it was not long before he was called upon to join in their acts. This Bill did with characteristic gusto. Indeed, he very sportingly joined in all the activities taking place. The weather in Llandudno was gloriously sunny but with a bitter cold wind. Bill in particular, felt the cold and wrapped up very warm before he ventured out. Having left his hometown of St. Petersburg in Florida basking in temperatures around the 80°'s F, he found the Welsh temperature in the lower 40°s F quite a contrast.

Bill also enjoyed visiting Eden Camp, Chatsworth House, Bramhall Park, Styal Mill and the Stockport Air Raid Shelters during his stay with us. At least the Air Raid Shelters were warm! He liked watching the football on TV and turned out to be a very enthusiastic and knowledgeable follower of the game.  He gained an his interest from his Italian wife during numerous visits to her relatives.

Harry and Fred Hirst were delighted to provided Bill with accommodation. They just about managed to keep up with the pace. Bill remains in touch with the Branch and has been unfailingly generous in his support of us.  Whenever his name is mentioned at meetings, it raises a smile. We hope that one day he is able to return.