Summary
Description: Speaking notes written by Jessie Orgill Ross Beckett shortly before her death, concerning her time in Britain during World War II. Instead of describing the entirety of her three years of service, which she believes would bore the audience, Beckett will discuss the basic facts and some key events of her service; describes going to Britain to volunteer in the war effort; impressed by England's rain, fog, and blackouts; voyaged to Liverpool and met with Ministry of Labour representatives; lodged the first night in a large boarding house; description of shortages and rationing in London; arrival in Glasgow by train before Christmas [of 1943]; met with family in Glasgow; description of Glasgow; reported for duty on 10 January [1944]; describes hardships and rigors of two months in training, especially the work, the cold, and the ill-fitting shoes; physical training; given rank ACW 2 (aircraftwoman 2) and assigned as a radar mechanic; sent to Shrewsbury in April to attend technical college; describes Shrewsbury; attended class from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, with Tuesday and Saturday afternoons free, as well as Sundays; travels to Yatesbury for more schooling, describes routine there; attending church, social events and movies helped ease the stress; studied basic radar, diesels, motors, generators, aerial theory, and other subjects; sent with Muriel to the 78th Wing in Sennen; description of terrain and weather at Land's End; mention of Daphne Du Maurier's novels; description of work, pastimes, and experience of watching a ship sink; sent to Ireland for three months; promoted to ACW 1.