William (Bill) Speakman VC.

[Fouro]

It's so sad to hear that Bill passed away five days ago on 20th June at the Royal Hospital London, home of the Chelsea Pensioners. Click on to html for more info.

William Speakman VC - victoriacross

Fouro.

[Doc Vernon]

Thank you for this Fouro yes indeed very sad ,may he rest in Peace.

[Charlie Hannah]

Very Brave Man .Rest in Peace Bill .

[john walker]

What a brave man R.I.P. As an afterthought as he worked on the mail boats (Which ones U.C.L.?) Did anyone sail with him or know of Him ?

[Chris Isaac]

What a brave man R.I.P. As an afterthought as he worked on the mail boats (Which ones U.C.L.?) Did anyone sail with him or know of Him ?

I first met Bill in 1971 when I was 2nd Officer on Pendennis Castle and he was Master at Arms. He exemplified the expression “walk softly and carry a big stick”.

When it was required to go down to the working alley to sort out a problem Bill was always first choice to take with you.

He would often visit the bridge at night for a chat and a cuppa. I cannot recall the subjects of the conversations but I do remember that his exploits in Korea were not among them.

Years later, probably around 1978, my then wife and I were visiting relations in Durban. I happened to mention one evening my knowledge of Bill and what he did to earn the VC. The very next day we were in OK Bazaars in Durban and as we stood waiting at the checkout a big hand landed on my shoulder and a familiar voice said “Is that Mr Isaac?” A remarkable coincidence. Bill was now working as store security.

Bill died on 20 June 2018 aged 90
He had also sailed on Windsor Castle the year before

[Fouro]

Bill's Obituary and Funeral arrangements.
Click on to html.

https://www.kosb.co.uk/sergeant-will...54418945312500

From one soldier to another, R.I.P. my brave friend.

Fouro.

[Geoff Langford]

It's so sad to hear that Bill passed away five days ago on 20th June at the Royal Hospital London, home of the Chelsea Pensioners. Click on to html for more info.

William Speakman VC - victoriacross

Fouro.

Hi
Bill Speakman was born near where I was born in Altrincham Cheshire and I can recall bills Homecoming after he had won his VC, all the schools were given the day off to go and see his Civic reception. it was a big occasion.
Geoff Langford

[Fouro]

Just a few words to remind everyone that the funeral for the late Sergeant William Speakman VC will take place in The Wren Chapel, Royal Hospital Chelsea, on Thursday 19th July 2018 at 2pm.
Could be a big send off for him.

May he R.I.P.

Fouro.

[Keith at Tregenna]

Thanks for the update / reminder Fouro.

Regards,

Keith.

[robpage]

I remember him well when I was on the Pendennis Castle in 1971/2 , he was master at arms , would have the odd beer as he passed the cabin doing a clock round , big man in many ways