4 years ago
I was a Cadet there in January 1971 for the 3 year...
I was a Cadet there in January 1971 for the 3 year course. Can't believe that was almost 50 years ago. Memories come flooding back as I see the pictures.
The instructors especially. Instructor Harcus made us fitter without a doubt. Drill Instructor Fred Knight marched us till we dropped. Sergeant Ern Kirk was the fastest person I ever saw on a typewriter.
If he caught you looking at the keys, he would wack you on the knuckles with a bamboo cane he carried which he called "Sticky McCane". He used to say "Sticky McCane's the name... Wack... You won't look at the keys again. He was right. Superintendent Meldrum, who you were always on the lookout for as you had to salute him. I remember getting up with the words over the intercom by Fred Knight..." Get on parade". The lining up in order of our phases outside the mess hall. Uniforms and logos have changed since then and the slogan for SA Police on their joining brochure was "Salus Populi Suprema Lex" meaning.. The safety of the people is the highest law.
I am retired now at 66 years and living in WA now, but Fort Largs will always be a special part for me.
I take my hat off to all the young men and women who join the Force. Best career ever!