In June 1941 at my digs in Weirs Lane I received an instruction from the R.A.F to report to the reception centre at Cardington near Bedford. A travel warrant was enclosed. John Butler, my pal, came to see me off. We were the only two people on the platform so early in the morning and just as the train was about to pull out, John handed me something, shook hands and said, "Cheerio mate - take care" then, leaning out of the window I waved to John until I couldn't see him anymore. I settled down alone in the corner of the compartment to open what he had handed to me. It was a serviceman's bible in R.A.F blue and inside was written "To Den from all those who love you at South Oxford Y.P.F." I slowly closed it and was glad I was alone because I didn't want anyone to see me cry.