I’m going to tell you the story of my father, Norman Spurdens , who was just 22 on VE day 1945. Like many men, he wasn’t here in the UK on that day as he was still abroad serving in Greece.
I want to tell the story of this family treasure – a dented silver cigarette case which belonged to him and and undoubtedly saved his life – allowing me to be telling you about it today 76 years later.
They say smoking kills, but in this case it saved his life.
Dad had this case and his family photos in the breast pocket of his army uniform – you can see the dents in both!
Having served in North Africa with the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry, he was deployed to the Italian campaign in 1944 moving gradually northwards and by August reaching the foothills of Monte Cassino.
His battalion made an onslaught on the Incontro monastery, where Dad lead his men gallantly and bravely, though significantly wounded. Aged just 21 he was awarded the Military Cross with this citation:
“On 8 August 1944, during the attack on the Incontro monastery by a battalion of the DCLI, Lieutenant Spurdens commanded the leading platoon of the company, which was ordered to put in the final assault on the monastery.
Throughout the operation lieutenant Spurdens showed great powers of leadership, – and skill. His personal conduct was an example and inspiration to everyone. Finally, when badly wounded by a shell, he gave very clear orders to his platoon Sergeant before being evacuated.
Letters we have treasured in the family are this one from the secretary of state for war who writes “I am directed to inform you that the King has been graciously pleased to approve an award of the Military Cross to your son lieutenant NA Spurdens (276413) DCLI. in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy.”
He was sent to recuperate and convalesce overlooking the beautiful island of Capri, and then was sent to fight in Greece, not returning home till 1947.
My father was such a mild and gentle man, it is so hard for me to believe he participated in battle and conflict. It was so alien to his nature. And as a 21-year-old, how did he have such wisdom, courage and composure to do the right thing, when badly wounded and fighting for his own life?
Only once during my childhood, did I see the gallantry for my own eyes. He chased an intruder in our back garden (known in those days as a peeping Tom) up to the back fence, brandishing a garden spade and hurling a torrent of swear words at the retreating figure!
I am proud to have known and adored this man, and pay homage today to him and to all who defended the cause of freedom in those dark days.
