South Yorkshire Times June 11, 1949

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Kilnhurst A.B. Signs for Four Years

When Able Seaman B. Smith, R.N. became “civvy street’s” Mr. Basil Smith in the spring of 1945, the family at 40, Carlisle Street, Kilnhurst, settled back with a sigh of relief. With “1939-45 and all that” behind him, Basil had a short holiday and then walked round to the Yorkshire Tar Distillers Ltd., to join up in a different way, this time alongside brother Jack (six and a half years’ Army service).

Two years, two and a half years passed, and with 1948 slipping by Mrs. Smith’s brow became troubled. Mention of “those far-away places” became more frequent, and Basil’s eyes would light up when talk got round to Italy, Greece, North Africa and the like.

October came and Basil made his decision, packed his bags, and made a bee-line for Portsmouth to sign on the dotted line, this time for a four-year spell.

Three weeks ago his ultimate desire was attained when he was told he had been assigned for overseas duty, and A/S B. Smith was among the gunnery ratings aboard H.M.S. “Charity” when she slips out of Portsmouth bound for the Mediterranean.

Basil’s latest letter arrived a week ago from Malta, one of his old bases during the war. H.M.S. “Charity” is at the moment engaged on special trials, and will take part in the Naval Regatta to be held in the Mediterranean.

As a last, defiant gesture of farewell to civilian life, Basil all obtained permission to grow a full set” -beard, sides and moustache.