Our D Day Memorials: Designed, Built and Erected By John Cousins

The much admired memorials that parishioners and visitors to our parish are unlikely to miss, were designed and erected by our dedicated Parish Handyman, John Cousins. It was all spontaneously on his initiative – and in his own time. They have been positioned as tribute to the British, Commonwealth and American Servicemen who so bravely played their part in the Normandy landings on D Day 6 June 1944. Far too many gave their lives or were seriously injured, but the landings were a success and heralded the end of World War II – for which we and our followers, must all be eternally thankful.

At the age of 19, John joined the Territorial Army and served for 26 years in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) TA, reaching the rank of Artificer Quartermaster Sergeant – addressed respectfully as “Q” by the soldiers – before retiring in 1995. In the following (almost 30) years, John’s memories of loyal comradeships forged by members of the armed services, have never faded; indeed John remains active in various military associations also attending the National Arboretum in Staffordshire during the REME memorial dedication, in the presence of the late Prince Philip, who he also met later at Buckingham Palace when carrying the standard of the Burma Star Association on behalf of his father. John’s father had served in various ships of the Royal Navy during World War II, from motor torpedo boats to an aircraft carrier; John also carries the standard for the Great Baddow Branch of the REME Association and Royal British Legion at appropriate memorial occasions.

In more recent times John’s REME TA unit provided support for the military presence in Northern Ireland, the Falkland Islands and Iraq. When asked of any vivid memories, John cited the televised harrowing scenes of the Sir Galahad troopship, when it was hit by Argentine missiles during the Falkland hostilities while carrying soldiers of the Welsh Guards. John had previously sailed aboard the Sir Galahad to take part in a military exercise in Europe.

John maintains that much of his early TA service, during the Cold War, was spent underground in nuclear shelters. Nonetheless various military exercises allowed him to see much of England, Scotland and Wales.

John recalled that while visiting France to visit war graves, he suffered “a heart issue”. He maintains that the action taken by his good friend, fellow traveller and co-member of the Great Baddow British Legion, Dick Shepherd, saved his life by applying first aid and speedily getting John to hospital. Such is the friendship forged between good friends with military training.

Obviously, John cares deeply in remembering the sacrifices made by members of the armed services, with so many giving the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives for their countries, our lives and indeed, the world. Perhaps John is an example for all of us and for those that will follow. Lest we forget.