A couple of years ago Mavis Cromack wrote a letter. She intended to write the story of her late husband Pte Fishwick, but age and infirmity have taken their toll, and the task is proving too much. Perhaps it would be timely to publish Mavis’ letter, and its enclosure, in honour of Pte Fishwick, L/Col Outridge, and Mavis herself.
Dear Jan
…My first husband was Charles E. Fishwick (known in his unit as “Albert” – he was from Lancashire!) NX48278. He was lost on the Centaur and served in 2/12th F.A.
…In 1943 when I should have been notified by the Army of his loss I wasn’t. I didn’t know where to enquire—such knowledge has advanced much since those days and I was a shy country girl. I’d heard that L/C Out-ridge was a survivor, and my husband had great respect for his C.O. so I was bold enough to write to him. En-closed is a photocopy from this gracious caring man, as you can see by his reply.
Actually the Army told me they’d notified my father-in-law in England yet Charles’ pay book was in order with my name as next-of-kin. My father-in-law never re-ceived that cable—just mine.
Yours sincerely Mavis Cromack.
Transcript of the enclosed photocopy:
My recollections of Albert will always be those of a lad who refused to lower his standards of work and living and I am very grateful to him for a true loyalty throughout our trials and tribulations. He was one whom I frequently selected to go on detached duty which often meant carrying out treat-ment without a medical officer to rely on. On no occasion have I felt anything but proud of his work and wherever he worked the officers at that unit asked for his return when he was relieved. He attended a school for AAMC at Darwin and did very well and I really feel he loved his work and the school seemed to be a great stimulus to him.
Nothing I can say can console you in your great loss which is shared by the whole corps and the nation but when we start again—as we will—those who are gone have set a standard for us in the best British tradition and none more so than your husband.
Yours very sincerely
L. M. Outridge, Lt. Col.
Laying flowers on behalf of Mrs Mavis Cromack in memory of her late husband, Pte Charles E. Fish-wick 2/12th FA. Point Danger 2009. For many years Mavis at-tended the Service at Point Dan-ger, but this year she was unable to be present.