Armed Forces Day Spotlight: Gerald Gold's Unforgettable Naval Experiences

June 24th 2023 is Armed Forces Day and we want to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served in our military. Among them is our very own resident, Gerald Gold, who has shared some remarkable anecdotes from his time in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR) and the Navy.

Gerald's military career took him on an unforgettable adventure. He spent a whole year traversing the Arctic, sailing between Iceland and the Russian border. Imagine the sheer magnitude of the seas he faced, with waves that seemed like mountains. Gerald's courage and resilience in those treacherous conditions are truly awe-inspiring.

Not only did he conquer the Arctic, but he also sailed the entirety of the Atlantic. His service on the first active atomic ship, was at the forefront of technology during that time. Gerald played a crucial role in tracking submarines, serving on watch for an entire year, four hours on and four hours off. The constant high alertness required of him demonstrates his unwavering dedication to protecting our nation.

Gerald's journey also took him beneath the waves, where he spent six months aboard a submarine and specialising in underwater weapons, he received special training and fearlessly carried out his duties. Fear was unknown to him, as his commitment to his comrades and the mission outweighed any apprehension.

During his early days in the Navy, Gerald had the honour of serving as an aircraft handler. He participated in the Commonwealth tour, accompanying the Duke and Queen. Additionally, he stood as part of the guard of honour at the funeral of King George VI. These experiences were undoubtedly unforgettable, shaping his deep appreciation for the Navy and the camaraderie he found within its ranks.

Gerald's indomitable spirit shines through as he recounts a rather unexpected incident. While diving and inspecting the hull of a ship during a relatively calm period in the Arctic, he suddenly found himself surrounded by exploding hand grenades. The crew, unaware of his presence in the water, were attempting to stun fish for their supper. It's incredible how Gerald's dedication to his duty even led him to surprise underwater encounters!

Today, let's salute Gerald Gold and all the courageous individuals who have served or continue to serve in our Armed Forces. Their sacrifices, bravery, and unwavering spirit deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. Please join us in honouring Gerald and all those who have defended our nation with dedication and honour.