HMS FITZROY K 553
In Boston Harbour September 1943
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Photo submitted by crewmember
Pat Godwin
Dagenham, Essex, UK
[Mr. Godwin sailed his final sea 25 March 2006]
The following email was received from
Mr. Godwin, 11 Nov 2005
I would like to tell you how wonderful the
American people are in relation to honouring WWII veterans.
I came to Portland, Maine, for holiday and stayed with friends that I met in May
2000 when I came over with a party to dedicate two memorials - one at
Casco Bay and another in St. Paul's Cathedral.
My intention was to really have a break after losing my dear wife two & half
years ago. I also wanted to lay a wreath at the Casco memorial to remember
all lost shipmates who sailed the North Atlantic and the dreaded Russian
Convoys. I was not able to lay that wreath during the first part of my
stay. I was constantly being put off by some other venue.
Friday evening, the 16th of September, I was taken to an hanger at Portland
Airport where I was received with a wonderful ovation, (un-be-known to me) there
was quite a large contingent there. I was introduced to this gathering as
a member of the Royal Navy that sailed both North Atlantic and Russian Convoys.
We later sat down to a lobster and steak supper, enjoyed by everybody in
attendance.
On Sunday the 18th, I was asked by my host to dress in my uniform, including my
medals, etc., as we were going to church at St. Paul's Cathedral. Upon
arriving I was approached by the Dean who requested that I was to carry on
wearing my White Beret during the service. This turned out to be a High
Mass in my honor. I just couldn't believe what was happening.
After the service I was taken to the Casco
Memorial where there was a Colour Guard of the USN in attendance, as well as
members of the USCG. I was assigned to a Commander of the USCG who would
look after me for this venue and also assigned two escorts. During the service I
was called to the podium by the Deputy Mayor of Portland, where he read out a
Proclaimation which was presented to me. I was then given the Key to the
City of Portland. Then, I was interviewed by a TV company. All this
was very emotional for me at the time as I had only just come out of hospital
before I flew to USA.
I did manage to get to Boston where I was able to see my e-pal of a number of
years - Anne McCarthy. We both had a wonderful time together
especially as it was the firs time we had ever met. I was really over the
moon at meeting her.
The red carpet was out for me wherever I went and I made quite a number of
friends. I shall never forget this trip as the people were so kind and
wonderful. I really look up to the people of the USA.
Thank you all very much for your friendship and generosity. "May God Bless You
All."
Love,
Pat Godwin Ex- LTO
HMS Fitzroy (K553)
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