Roll of Honour

Thomas (Tom) Turner

Tom was born in Edinburgh on 28 December 1945 and on leaving school he started an apprenticeship in a local engineering works as a Blacksmith where he became proficient in the various aspects of metalworking. He was an excellent worker and was highly thought of by his employer. In 1964 Tom enlisted in 2 Troop 300 Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers TA in Edinburgh. After the Territorial Army reorganisation in 1967 he carried on with his service in 131 Independent Parachute Squadron RE TA where he rose to the rank of full Corporal. Tom was well liked and was a credit to the Sqn. In 1969 he transferred to C Company 15 Battalion The Parachute Regiment TA where he served until 1970. In search of a better life and after his marriage to Ann, he immigrated to Australia and settled in Queensland where he carried on his trade as a Blacksmith.

Tom and Ann were most hospitable and often counted amongst their guests wandering former members of 131, both from Australia itself and the UK. Indeed, it was on such an occasion earlier this year that Tom confided to John Donaldson and Kim Panton that he had been diagnosed with having a large tumour on his liver. He was very positive about the outcome and looking forward to having the tumour removed. The prospects seemed good but on 11 June 2009 Tom died in hospital during the operation.

Tom's funeral was a quiet family affair, which took place in Queensland on Friday 19 June. Ian Davidson and Alistair Burnett, two of his good friends from his days with 131 who had also settled in Australia, attended it. They helped carry his coffin, which bore his belt and red beret.

Tom was a loving husband and father and leaves behind his wife Ann and sons Glen and Stuart.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.