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Ian (janner) Janes Monday, May 07, 2007	I've just spent a brilliant weekend at the Trecarn with the HMS Veryan Bay reunion, had a great time at the White Enson Club in Exeter. The hotel and White Enson club are looking forward to our visit next weekend, and also the Exeter White Enson Club served a excellent buffet lunch and of course the usual "UP SPIRITS". Looking forward to seeing you all on Friday 11th. I trust the weather would be as good next weekend as it was last weekend. Bye for now Janner

Tom Tolson Wednesday, May 02, 2007	No matter how I try, I am unable to get Eddie to put the correct info in our Newsletters. So please be aware of my email address and the telephone number is NOT 019246922 but 01924276922 Best wishes to all and looking forward to meeting up at the Trecarn.

Jean Freudenfeld Wednesday, April 04, 2007	My parents served in Honk Kong in 1952 and my father went aboard HMS Opossum he was given a book dated 1952 - 1954 the history of the ship's journey from Chatham on 22nd April 1952 - its full of pictures and tales. He was also given a pink barrel shaped tankard with a handle in the shape of a nude woman, on the tankard is a sailor in a bath with a woman in the bath with him and he is saying "and this Miss Jones is how a torpedo works". My father passed away in October 1984. My mother is now nearing 85 years of age and she would like these items to go into a Navy Museum can anyone suggest somewhere suitable please. I have typed up the book and It would be nice to re-print it and perhaps sell it in the Museum shop.

Zillah Engerran Sunday, March 18, 2007	Hello my name is Zillah Engerran. I am the grand daughter of John Aburn. it is my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary this year and a Mr Lewis Trinder was his best man and he would very much like to get in touch with him again. does anyone have any contact details for him ? my grandfather has given me this info Lewis Trinder left the minet org. during the world war 2 period. he lived in the Hayward's Heath or hassocks area during world war 2 where his Father operated a Pub. I think he was called up for the Royal Navy during the war & he was 1 or 2 yrs my junior so he would have been born around the mid 1920s. thank you so much Zillah

Alun Mummery Tuesday, January 30, 2007	Does anyone have any photos of HMS Opossum (ideally First Gulf War period) and/or MEM (1) W.C. Carter that I can buy?


Philip Webb Monday, November 27, 2006	My dad served on the Escort sloop Opossum U33 from Sept 47 - Apr 48. As far as I know he was engine room, finishing as a CPO. His name was John Henry Webb, k/a 'Jack'. Dad passed away last year, anyone remember him !! Have nice photo of her with pennant !!

Bob Hurley Friday, November 17, 2006	Any of the wack pack or cockney crew out there...I refer to Zooney, Tony, Jumper, and Tony Beaman, Errol Grant, Steve Forsyth. About 1986-ish! Bob

Bob Hurley Friday, November 17, 2006	Any of the wack pack or cockney crew out there...I refer to Zooney, Tony, Jumper, and Tony Beaman, Errol Grant, Steve Forsyth. About 1986-ish! Bob

Taff Kronda Saturday, October 21, 2006	Anybody know where Jan Trenoweth is these days. Last heard, he was driving lorries for Westfield's in Cornwall. It would be good to hear about Taff Parfitt as well.

Darren Wednesday, September 27, 2006	Did anyone serve with Colin Woods (Slinger) in 1969 in Malta on the opossum, he drowned and we are trying to find out how and what happened it would be the final part to our jigsaw the exact date was 13 September 1969 it was his Birthday. any help would be appreciated Darren

Richard Bovey Sunday, September 24, 2006	Just to let everyone know that my father, Bill Bovey, has recently been in hospital following emergency surgery on his aorta. He is now at home and hopefully will make a full recovery but this may take up to six months. Regards to everyone Richard 01647 252234

Dick Jay Wednesday, May 17, 2006	I am having difficulty reading the message board- am I dyslexic???

Ron Garrett Tuesday, May 09, 2006	Does anybody have any photographs of Edward Garrett who was on board the Opossum around 1954-1956 he was a telegraphist on board and was my father but unfortunately he died 4yrs ago Many thanks if anyone can help

Alun Mummery Wednesday, May 03, 2006	Sorry about delay Taff Chaffey - thanks for confirmation about Carter's service on Opossum in the Gulf War. Do you or does anyone have a photo inc. Carter that I can buy? Regards, Alun.

Clive Hogben Sunday, April 30, 2006	Served on S19 1973 until 1976 if any one out there remembers me regards Oggie

Gail Mumby Sunday, March 19, 2006	I am looking to get in contact with anyone who remembers my father Bill Crunkhurn. He served on HMS Opossum but not sure when, although it could of been in the far east in 1955. He joined, as far as I can gather, in 1949 at the age of 15. He also served on HMS St James, and HMS Hogue. Anybody with any details of my late father, or anyone who knew him I would be grateful to hear from. Thank you kind regards Gail

Taff Chaffey Wednesday, March 01, 2006	Alan, I can confirm that Opossum did take part in the first Gulf War in 1991 and MEM W C Carter (Nick) served onboard at the time. I was an LMEM onboard at the same time.

Alun Mummery Monday, February 27, 2006	Did the submarine HMS Opossum serve in the first Gulf War (1991) and can anyone please confirm if MEM(M)1 W.C. Carter served in it during this time? Thanks, Alun.

Tom Tolson Tuesday, January 24, 2006	Just to put the records straight, I have changed my address to 8 Barmby Crescent Ossett WF5 0DR and my phone number is 01924275026. Looking forward to meting again at the Brittania Coventry

Andy Pender Thursday, January 19, 2006	Nice site some names I know from my days on S19

HMS Opossum Association - Messages for 2005.


John Reynolds Wednesday, October 05, 2005	Served on S/M Opossum 1968-70 as 2nd Cox'n.

Harry Catterson Wednesday, September 28, 2005	Has anyone any information on the demise of my old mate Doug (Yorkie) Banks of the 1952 commission? His daughter was in touch a couple of years ago but I could not get an answer from her after leaving messages.

Andy Pender Wednesday, September 28, 2005	Just to say hello to anybody that remembers me. I was on HMSM Opossum from 1976/1982

Paul (Rattler) Morgan Thursday, August 11, 2005	Hi to crew members from 1988 - 1991, looking for many crew members of the round the world trip to see if any of you fancy a get together to reminisce of that trip, and what a trip it was. If anyone interested send me an email to rattleruk@yahoo.co.uk

Mick Reilly Sunday, April 17, 2005	LRO(SM) 1977-1978... when we won Lt Poulter as skipper the day of the fleet review...! All those onboard last commish - on the round the world trip '91... if you don't already know we lost John Cassey (RSSM) to the big C 5 years ago

HMS Opossum Association - Messages for 2004.


Alan Percival Wednesday, June 02, 2004	To the web site compiler - please send me your address to enable me to pay the site rental!!! Alan, Opossum Treasurer.

Brenda Honnoraty Monday, May 03, 2004	"H" Honnoraty is my son and is now Lt. Commander on HMS Shoreham. Look him up on Shoreham's web site

Jez Heaven (Lt 1987-1995) Friday, February 27, 2004	Hi all. Great to see a site dedicated to HMS Opossum. I served on her as Signal and Communications Officer 1991-1992 and have many fond memories. Great shipmates who revelled in their depravity as diesel submariners. I remember being taught how to spell Opossum the first time I met Kev Gomm (XO)..."One P, two S's as in piss!" and have never forgotten that gem! Is anyone in touch with "H" Honnoraty or Kaffs? One other memory that makes me smile is as Corro, I would link up with the Leading Writer and together we would bin all the whinging letters asking for sticky badges, photos etc before the CO got to see them! To this day I don't think he ever questioned as to why the PR folder was permanently empty. Yours Aye, Jez

jade Croker Thursday, February 12, 2004	My uncle Cliff Hugo was on the HMS Opossum between 52/54 if anyone remembers him please contact me as he has just been told he has a brain tumour and would like to hear from anyone he served with, thanks.

tom tolson Wednesday, January 28, 2004	2004 and no messages. What has happened to the submariners who made initial enquiries? Our next reunion is at the County hotel Llandudno on weekend Fri 23 to Mon 26 April. Looking forward to seeing old and new friends.


Tom Tolson Friday, December 26, 2003	My best wishes to all ex shipmates and members of our association. For the 52-54 commission I have to inform you that Scouse Canon is now in hospital at Fazakeley Liverpool suffering from Parkinson's. I am in touch with his wife Liz but sadly Cornelius does not remember us.

Harry Catterson Tuesday, December 16, 2003	Seasons greetings to all our shipmates. Roy Cope and George Swanwick send their best wishes too for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year. I hope to see you in April.

Harry Catterson Tuesday, December 16, 2003	Seasons greetings to all our shipmates. Roy Cope and George Swanwick send their best wishes too for a Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year. I hope to see you in April.

STAN OLDFIELD. (geordie) Wednesday, December 03, 2003	Hi there Opossum's. missed last year on the net but like Les and Mike I wish all shipmates the very best of health, have a good Christmas and new year. look forward to seeing you all at our reunion. aye Stan.

LES EVANS Saturday, November 29, 2003	TO ALL OPOSSUM SHIPMATES ALL THE BEST FOR XMAS AND THE NEW YEAR. LES EVANS.

Mike swayne Saturday, November 29, 2003	A wishing you all the best for Christmas 2003 and a happy new year see you April 2004

Ed Kennedy Saturday, September 13, 2003	Gentlemen, I have acquired a Ship's Emblem from the HMS Opossum. I think it is the same one that is shown in the gallery in the picture with the bell and on the map to Singapore. Can anyone tell me anymore about it and was it on all of the ships named Opossum? I feel that it has been painted over and I would like to get an original colour picture if possible and restore the emblem. Thanks for any info. Ed Kennedy. USA

Fred Woodhams ex A/B Thursday, September 11, 2003	I am seeking past friends, especially A/B George Tomlinson. I served on F33 from 19.6.57 to 18.12.57, transferred to Mounts Bay 19.12.57 to 11.2.58. I was quartermaster. Then to HMS Terror from 12.2.58 to 4.5.58. Can anyone help please?

Richard Morgan Wednesday, July 30, 2003	I have spoken to Mr Tolson in reference to the very highly detailed model that I have for sale of HMS Opossum as she was in her last few months of her career. She is built to 1/96th scale and no detail has been spared. I am open to sensible offers for her and am able to ship anywhere UK or globally. For more information, please email me or call me on: 07743 351 488 anytime. Thank you.

Alan Percival Monday, July 07, 2003	Enjoyed the reunion very much. Thanks to all. My e address is aolan@BTopenworld.com

Dick Charron Thursday, June 12, 2003	Alan (George) Tones. LMEM Sub Opossum mid 60's. Where are you? Can anyone help?

WILLIE MITCHELL Wednesday, May 21, 2003	Ref reunion yak. My E-mail address is wmbunts@aol.com. CU at Llandudno Willie the raffle king

George Coldwell Thursday, May 15, 2003	Did anyone serve with my Grandfather George Wogan (Ginger)? He was a stoker on the Opossum, not sure which years. Would also like to get some memorabilia from the ship. Any info would be appreciated.

Charles Parker (Fezz) Friday, March 14, 2003	Hi there I was advanced party to join Opossum in June 1957 eventually sailed her to South Africa where the whole crew transferred to HMS Mounts Bay in Simons town in December 1957 taking her back to Singapore, the skipper for both was Cdr Powell, My web site is www.stoker.demon.co.uk

Harry Catterson Sunday, February 23, 2003	Hi Shipmates, back on line in the UK after my jaunt in the sun. Am glad that the association is going from strength to strength. I would appreciate it if Rachael Banks would get in touch regarding her late Father-in - Law Dougie Banks, my old run ashore mate. Cheers, Harry. See you in May Willie Mitch.

LES EVANS Tuesday, January 07, 2003	HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OPOSSUM SHIP-MATES. SEE YOU AT TRECARN. BEST WISHES. LES.


Chris Mason Saturday, November 09, 2002	My father CYRIL MASON served on HMS Opossum during the 50's. He will be 65th on 21st November and we have a party to celebrate in Oldham, Manchester on the 24th. Please contact me if you served with my father and have any information or stories to tell and if you would like to celebrate his 65th with him. Thanks Chris

WILLIE MITCHELL. Wednesday, November 06, 2002	Sorry I missed out last year due to a slight touch of the merry dancer in the woodwork. All is now OK in that department, so if prostate does not leave me prostrate will cu next year. Bring your golf clubs, PS Welcome home Harry & Betty. Stay sober

Ricard Kavanagh Monday, October 14, 2002	I'm Jon Kavanagh's son now serving on submarines in the new SM1 now its at Faslane. I'm testing the feasibility of a reunion for the crew who paid off the Opossum if interested please contact me on my email ghost_rider2kuk@yahoo.com thank you

Harry Catterson Thursday, October 10, 2002	Have just seen the message from Rachel Banks regarding her father in law Dougie (Yorkie). I have been searching for info on Dougie since the start of the association. I am very sorry to hear that he is no longer with us, many a good run ashore we both had. I will be in touch with Rachel when I finally get settled back in the U.K. Some of you will know that I have been in Spain for just over a year now but things have not worked out. Best wishes to all the lads, see you in May. Harry.

Alan.Williams Sunday, September 15, 2002	Re: My last message. The important bit !! His name was Ivor. Williams. Sorry.

Alan.Williams Sunday, September 15, 2002	My father served on HMS Opossum during the mid 50's, he often speaks of his time on the ship and of all the friends he made, I to followed in his foot steps and joined the RN, so I understand the importance of the friends he made. We as a family have arranged a get together on Sunday 6th October to celebrate his 70th birthday, this will be held at the Royal British Legion club in Blaenau Fastening, North Wales. It would be fantastic if some of his old ship mates could come and celebrate with him. Please contact me all who knew my father, especially if you think you can make it on this date.

Ken Heap Tuesday, August 06, 2002	Hi there, I have just joined the Association recently. I am in contact with Eddie Summerfold, we were both on the 1954-56 Commission. I have just been looking through your site, and came across three pictures of myself and Eddie, it was a nice surprise to see them. Great to see this site I will be a regular viewer from now on. Anyone out there that remembers me you are welcome to email me. Good Luck to you all Ken Heap

HMS Opossum Association - Messages for 2001.


Dick Jay Tuesday, October 16, 2001	Tony Blackler, Just seen your message, please get in touch. If Les Lilley is looking in I have been trying to locate you. Understand you live in Alphington?

Russell Pemberton Tuesday, October 16, 2001	Hi, My father Sid Pemberton (A/B JX710573) served on the HMS Opossum (U33 at the time) in 1946 and 1947 in the far east. He has recently passed away. I am able to send some photos of this early commission in the far east. I hope you find them interesting. He seems to have spent time in the "Forward mess" I have some photo's of the other seamen, but in most cases no names.

Mike & Dot Gibbins Sunday, September 23, 2001	Great site. My husband's grand father THOMAS DAVIS was a Armourer in the Royal Navy and on his marriage in 1903 to a Emily Mortimer his place of Residents at the time was HMS WILDFIRE if any one knows of THOMAS or EMILY we would love to here from you, reason tracing family history. Regards Mike & Dot Gibbins

Stan (Gordie) Oldfield Friday, September 21, 2001	Hi Ken getting to grips with the computer (hell of fight) at last. Hope all is going well with you and yours as well as doing a good job on the net. my email address is stan2leylineone. net All the very best. Stan.

LES EVANS Thursday, August 30, 2001	PLEASE ENTER MY E/MAIL ADDRESS TO YOUR GUESTBOOK CHEERS! LES. PLEASE ENTER MY E/MAIL ADDRESS TO YOUR GUESTBOOK CHEERS! LES.

Mike Swayne Tuesday, August 21, 2001	Please add my e mail address for me all the best Mike

AC (Tony) Blackler Saturday, August 11, 2001	Anyone serving on Opossum 1954 commission to 1956 in Hong Kong, was LEM. AB Warwick Jay, or Jan Franks please let me know. I will be posting photo's on the net as soon as my son digitizes them. I used to play cricket for the Navy and Tennis/Sail with the Navigating Officer who I cannot recall his name.

Susanne Dougherty Friday, July 27, 2001	Would like to find anyone who served with my late father-in-law, William Alfred Dougherty a sea-cook.. Served: Pembroke x 16 Dec 1939 - 8 Jan 1940, Wildfire II (tender- Solitaire) 9 Jan 40 - 31 Jan 40), Badger (tender-solitaire) 1 Feb 40 - 29 Apr 40, Badger (solitaire) 7 May 40 - 10 May 40, Victory 11 May 40 - 7 June 40, Europa 8 Jun 40 - 11 June 40, Duncluce Castle (Varanga) 12 Jun 40 - 31 Oct 40, Balder (Varanga) 1 Nov 40 - 8 Dec 40, Eaglet (Varanga) 9 Dec 40 - 5 Feb 41, when he was discharged as physically unfit. He was ill for several years, and died in 1947. It is a long shot, but maybe someone remembers him, or was serving on these vessels about that time. I believe it was escort duty in the north. Iceland. Forgive my ignorance, but I would like to know more of the conditions, which I should imagine were harsh. Thanks in anticipation. Susanne.

HMS Opossum Association - Messages for 2000.


K. Hindmarsh HMS Comus Sunday, December 17, 2000	What a good web-site you have.

Phil Gregor Tuesday, December 12, 2000	I am trying to find any information what so ever about my grandfathers Naval history. According to his certificate of service he served on The Europa 27/05/1942 - 20/08/1942, St Tudno(MMS85) 21/08/1942-3103/1943, Hannibal(MMS85) 01/04/1943 -04/01/1945, St Angelo (Hertor vii) 05/01/1945 - 25/01/1945, Europa 26/01/1945 - 29/03/1945, Wildfire(H.L.328) 30/03/1945 - 10/01/1946 release date. if anyone can help with pictures, ships history and campaign history I would be very grateful.

Alan Percival Saturday, October 14, 2000	Look at the pictures at the end of the gallery from the 56 - 57 commish -- come you lot get in touch.

Michael Humphreys Sunday, October 08, 2000	My father Harold Humphreys was a Royal Navy wireless telegraphist between September 1942 and May 1946. He died in 1992 and I would dearly like to find out anything about his wartime experiences. According to his Certificate of Service he served at or on the following Victory; Collingswood; Europa; Mantis (MGB 89: Boscowan? (Tokyo II); Pembroke; Baldyr: Bacchante; Wildfire; Marshal Soult; Colombo Thanks for any help that you can give Michael

RICHARD BOVEY Friday, September 22, 2000	My father is Bill Bovey. He was on the Opossum in 52 - 54. I just wondered if anyone remembers him? If so could you please get in touch! Richard Bovey

Harry Catterson Saturday, September 16, 2000	To George Elliot Have now had two enquiries for Chris Clarke. Would prefer that you phone me rather than giving out address over the net. 01642 881770

George Elliot Thursday, September 14, 2000	Please could u send me information on Chris Clarke as I am a friend that was on this ship with him on the 56-57 commission. Please could you email me the information thanks.

George Elliot Thursday, September 14, 2000	Please could u send me information on Chris Clarke as I am a friend that was on this ship with me on the 56-57 commission. Please could you e-mail me the information thanks.

Harry Catterson Saturday, September 09, 2000	Please note my new email address for any new messages. will inform all other shipmates.

Simon Silver Thursday, September 07, 2000	My Grandfather was Lt Commander M.M. Bright DSC RN (1890-1965) Do any of you remember him? Or can tell me any stories about H.M.S Wildfire circa 1942-1943.He was also at H.M.S Miranda 1941 anyone heard of that one. Many Thanks For any help in advance. Simon

Harry Catterson Tuesday, September 05, 2000	To Barry Jenkins. Am still awaiting your decision on joining us Baz. I am letting you know this in case you have been in touch and Mail may have been lost. Harry

Danny Siggers Tuesday, August 22, 2000	Great site mate, carry on the good work. Have a question and favour to ask. Can anyone provide international call sign and pennant numbers for any ships they served on? I get requests for this type of information and once received will make available on the Naval History site. Yours Aye

Harry Catterson Friday, July 07, 2000	Still waiting for Mike Swayne to get in touch. subs are due Mike. Cheers, Harry

K.Slater Wednesday, July 05, 2000	Sorry I missed the last three reunions, all due to ill health. Anyway I am now on the mend and I hope to meet up with you all again next year at the Trecarn Hotel.

M.SWAYNE Friday, June 02, 2000	TO HARRY HAVE BEEN TEMP OFF LINE NOW OK BUT STILL NEW TO THE INTERNET

Harry Catterson Sunday, May 21, 2000	I see Mike Swayne has visited the site. If you are reading this Mike why not get back in touch.

James Tobin Sunday, May 07, 2000	My name is James Tobin and my father (James Tobin from Oderin Is. Nfld sailed under the White Ensign during WW2). I have been able to ascertain the names of a few ships that he may have sailed on: HMS Ganges from 02/10/40; HMS Europa from 13/12/40 & 21/05/43; HMS Wildfire (Garinais?) from 07/01/41; HMS Wildfire (Bungay?) from 01/10/41; HMS Forte (Royale Juliette?) from 11/06/43; HMS Victory 1V Base of Discharge; HMAS Sea Snake. IF anyone is able to relay to me any info about these ships, the theatres they fought in and the specific functions of the above mentioned ships, I would be most grateful. Thank you for allowing me to sign your guestbook.

M SWAYNE Saturday, April 29, 2000	A/B 54-56

Peter Melton Saturday, April 22, 2000	I joined HMS Opossum in 1945 on her maiden voyage.

Harry Catterson Thursday, April 13, 2000	Hi Mick Lobb, Your father Jan served on the last commission in the Far East on H.M.S. Opossum. A few of his shipmates of the same commission are attending our reunion which is this weekend in Blackpool. I will make some enquiries. If you have an email address I would appreciate you letting me know it. Regards, Harry.

Mick Lobb Monday, April 10, 2000	Pleased to find a site dedicated to the Opossum. My father ('Jan') served on her prior to her return to UK after her last commission in the Far East. He transferred to HMS Mount's Bay but sadly died in Singapore before he could return home himself. If anyone out there has any, repeatable, tales or memories of him, I would appreciate hearing from you. Best wishes to you all .......................

Nigel Saturday, February 12, 2000	Great site. What is the Antipodeans connection?

K J Carson Saturday, January 08, 2000	Hello to all who see this. Had to have at least one serving member of the Royal Navy in here. Good Luck.

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