Airborne Engineers Association

Roll of Honour

Tony 'Titch' Shaw

After a long battle with cancer Tony 'Titch' Shaw passed away on Tuesday 15th April 2014.

Tony first joined the Army as an apprentice carpenter and joiner at the Army Apprentice College Harrogate for a three year course. On completion of his apprenticeship Tony volunteered for service in 9 Independent Parachute Squadron and on completion of Pre-Para, and selection at Maida Barracks Aldershot, he joined the Squadron in 1957. In 1958 the Squadron deployed to Cyprus and Jordan in July of that year during which time he was able to put to use his training as a C&J, building amenities for the Parachute Brigade both in Cyprus and Jordan.

During his service with the Squadron Tony was a member of the cross country team which won the Ismailia trophy in 1959 and in 1961 he was a member of the shooting team which won the 'Champion Unit' trophy against all comers in 16 Parachute Brigade Group.

On leaving the Army Tony continued with his trade of Carpenter and Joiner for the rest of his life. Being a fitness fanatic he continued his love of outdoor pursuits, particularly running. From marathons to shorter distances he won a plethora of trophies including the 'Karrimor' Two Day Mountain Marathon' and the 'Three Peaks' fell race and many others. He ran for the 'Rochdale Harriers' and later for the 'Hebbdon' Bridge Harriers'. He took up rock climbing, cycling, and skiing, all at which he excelled.

Tony was a self- disciplinarian with a great determination to win. It was only with the 'Grim Reaper' in his last race that he failed. His funeral was held on 24th April at Rochdale crematorium. He is survived by his wife Brenda, sons David, Ian and partner Diane and six year old grandson Spencer.