Jervis Bay Bunting



By Bobbi-Jean MacKinnon Times Globe staff writer
As Reported in the "Evening Times-Globe", Wed. Nov.5, 1997

Click to Enlarge While HMS Jervis Bay underwent refit in Saint John during the summer of 1940, many of the crew struck up friendships with the dockyard workers and were entertained in their homes. Such was the case of the Boswain's Mate who became friends with Thomas Hooley and visited his home many times.

Refit completed, the Jervis Bay was recommissioned with due ceremony and in the Royal Navy tradition was issued with "new bunting". The following day she sailed into history.

The Boswain spent his last night ashore with his friend Tom and after dinner presented the Jervis Bay's "old bunting" (the White Ensign and Union Flag) to Tom in appreciation of his hospitality.

In 1961 when Tom was packing for a move, he wished to place the bunting in the care of someone who would appreciate them. Having read in the paper that Alex P Gregory had been appointed the National President of the Naval Officers Association of Canada, he offered them to Mr. Gregory. Needless to say, they were received with due delight.

In the ensuing years the White Ensign has been loaned for display in several Jervis Bay Memorials and also used to cover the caskets of former shipmates. Mr. Gregory states it will be used to cover his before finding a final home with RCL Branch #53.

Click to Enlarge On November 5, 1997, Mr. Gregory (right) presented the Union Flag that the Jervis Bay flew while in drydock to RCL Branch #53. Accepting on behalf of the Legion was Mr. Robert Squires (seated) who served under it, and Mr. W.R. Joyce (left), President RCL Branch #53.

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