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My Last Post:

This will be my last post on my web site which expires on the 24th November 2023. I have decided not to renew it as the amount of visitors is almost zero and I feel I’m just talking to myself like and ego trip which I do not like.

Humanity:

Humanity is the human race, which includes everyone on Earth. Humanity reflects the qualities that make us Human, such as the ability to love and have compassion and be creative. However, whilst these observations have been generally true in my 80 years plus on this Earth that is not where we are heading today. There has been a real change in recent times where the Earths Humanity is becoming confrontational and barbaric in nature in all walks of life and all races and religions although we say we are civilised.

History of Humanity:

Perhaps today where we say we are civilised we are no different to our Humanity ancestors who have always been barbaric and confrontational for many different reasons dating back many thousands of years ago since the Human race expanded on the earth. Is it part of Humanities natural instincts to be confrontational resulting in barbaric actions by killing each other rather than solving problems peacefully.

Civilised or Uncivilised:

We tend to think that Civilised means that a Society or Country has a well developed system of government, culture and way of life that treats the people who live there fairly and has respect for each others way of life within the rule of law. In the past and recently in Europe ‘Conventional Wars’ have occurred between Countries using Conventional Armies, which have produced significant Barbarism and Cruelty of their own.

However, Conventional War is being replaced by Terrorism, which has brought a new level of Sickening Barbarism of Humanity of all ages including Babies and Old People using ‘Beheading’, ‘Torture’, ‘Body Dismemberment’ and ‘Burning People Alive’; This is Humanity creating Inhumanity on depraved scale as we have seen in recent weeks, months and years, taking Humanity back thousands of years. We have also seen the Response on the Perpetrators of this Sickening Barbarism by significant Bombing of Helpless Civilian Populations causing massive loss of life which is also considered Barbaric. Although I was in the Royal Air Force part of the UK military for 25 years from 1961, I never thought in my lifetime I would see Inhuman Sickening Barbarism carried out by ‘So Called Humans’ in the ‘Civilised World’.

Effects of Information Technology:

However, there is another dimension to these confrontations and actions due to the ever expanding Information Technology that is generating an ever increasing rise in ‘Hate’, ‘Confrontation’ and ‘Mob Demonstrations and Rule’ throughout the world.

There is a famous saying “Ignorance is Bliss”. What that means is that in the past information about the world and its individual people was more localised through the use of newspapers and radio. Likewise the reaction was mainly local and communication of happenings by verbal means “Word of Mouth”. International happenings were seen as “None of my Business as it does not concern me”.

However, today it is very different with the use of the Computer, Internet, Mobile Devices and Television all containing personal, local and world information at the touch of a button. Humanity is totally interconnected for almost everything we do today. Therefore in most cases there is no “Ignorance is Bliss” anymore which in its self is causing Humanity to react to almost any information displayed on these Devices, whether True or Untrue.

I was one of the first individuals in the world to create Multimedia computer systems and software in the company I created (CTS) in1988, 35 years ago for the Defence and Airline industries training organisations until 2021. It is staggering that the rate of progress in Information Technology (IT) systems and software in this short period of time. The first Internet Browser appeared in 1993 which was the real start of ‘world multi-user network’ as we see it today. The other major event in 2007 was the first generation ‘i-phone’ mobile smart device followed by many other mobile smart devices that has made communication of Humanity universal through its world wide communications land and satellite networks.

Humanity Reaction to Information Technology:

The Information Technology itself is a fantastic technical complex network which allows information of all types to be shared with Humanity. However, its not the Technology that is causing major problems for Humanity; but the Information and Content and Way in which this Technology is being Used and Reacted to by Humanity.

Previously information from newspapers, radio and television was carefully edited to meet the editorial standards of most of the world, which provided some protection against incorrect news content and images that could be viewed or broadcast.

However, with the internet and mobile device networks systems and software today there is very little editorial standardisation which allows anyone to write, say or visualise anything they want. This is creating a world of information where no one appears to be accountable for what they do. For example this article written by me is not subject to any scrutiny. However having said that it’s becoming more apparent that countries are trying to monitor communications for serious security reasons.

A prime example is the use of the internet by the famous ex 2016 President of the USA, who is on public record of saying what he likes when he likes about situations and people whether its true or not (Fake News) without consequences to date. This also applies to millions of other people just like us.

The other disturbing aspect of mobile device technology is that is being used to whip up ‘Hate’ activities organising demonstrations that increase the possibility of violence. It it is also being used by organisations that are engaged in confrontations. This is very evident today especially in the current confrontation situations.

The Declining Respect for the Rule of Law

It is very noticeable especially in the Democracies across the world which are built on the ‘Rule Of Law’ that are coming under an increasing danger of collapsing due the ‘Declining Respect for the Rule of Law’.

This applies right from the Top Executive Administrators downwards to the General Public in many democracies. This is of particular concern in the USA which is the leader of many democracies where some Law Makers are challenging the ‘Rule of Law’ that includes the Justice Departments Law Enforcement such as the FBI and CIA the guardians of USA democracy. This was very evident in the January 6th Attack on the USA Capital and its supporters who still do not accept that the Election of the current USA President was legitimate.

I also notice In Europe including my own country the United Kingdom that this ‘Declining Respect for the Rule of Law’ is being replicated and expanded due to the increasing number people who have their own religions and ways of life which is different to that of normal way of ‘British way of Life’. This is causing real disagreements between the UK peoples that is on the increase due to the easy access to the Information Technology as we have discussed. I may say this applies to many other countries all over the world which again points to the ‘Failing of Humanity’

As the famous USA Reporter Michael Smerconish says “What has Happened to Times that United Us”.

I sincerely hope for the ‘Generations to Come’ that Humanity recognises these very dangerous times and tries to get back to Normal Humanity Life to avoid Humanities Extinction.

Signing Off Astra 283.com

For those that did read my articles ‘Thank You Very Much’. I guess from my this my last Article I’m becoming very cynical which is not a good thing but I do worry so much about my families and descendants life in the future based upon what I see today. Lets hope Humanity changes for the better.

Thank you and Goodbye.

Bryan Hogg BEM

Introduction.

Over the past 10 years I have seen dramatic changes in the United State of America (USA) which has weakened the USA and its Allies in their world standing and the USA internally creating a very dangerous situation in terms of our democracy and world security.

Post World War II.

After World War II the USA became the highly dominant power in the world, militarily, in stature upholding democracy and financially. Its political system and leadership provided the stability the world required and looked up to. This in general lasted until 2000’s when the decay started gradually due to the wars in the middle east, Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan resulting in the USA political upheaval. It also had an effect on the activities of Russia and China who saw the decay for themselves motivating them to become more dominant, especially China. However, I believe the decay accelerated when Donald J Trump entered the political arena in 2015 running for President of the USA.

Autocracy Versus Democracy.

Autocracy is defined as (A state or society governed by one person with absolute power). Since the mid 1900’s Dictatorship (one person with absolute power) has been increasing all over the world which has diminished Democracy (A system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives).

In 2022 there were 52 Countries ruled by Dictators and there is no sign of this decreasing in fact there is an increase in military coups especially in Africa which are anti democracy.

USA’s peaceful Civil War.

Rivalry between USA Republicans and Democrats for control of the United States House of Representatives (House) ,United States Senate (Senate) and Presidency has always been evident in the USA with the interaction of these two parties being a long accepted civilised personal debate respecting each others points of view and accepting the outcomes of the respective voting systems.

However, since Trump stepped into the political arena and becoming USA President in 2016 all that has changed creating the accelerated decay of the USA institutions and norms.

USA’s Growing Cult Civil War.

Ever since Trump started his bid to become President he has, like all con men attracted a Trump mania base in the Republican party who like his bombastic, low class, no shame, type of character, who has no real regard for the USA institutions or the political norms of the past. Whilst in office as President he was embolden to a point where he called all the shots acting like a Dictator and causing much disruption to the USA which an increasing number of Republican extremist in the public and law makers within the House liked. It was naturally assumed by Trump and this group now becoming a Cult (a system of devotion directed towards a particular figure) in this case, Trump would win a second term as President in 2020 against Joe Biden a previous Vice-President and long term Senator. Trump also told his base that the election would be a fraud if he lost.

USA’s Shameful Insurrection.

In November2019 after a huge turnout of the electorate Joe Biden beat Trump but he would not concede defeat and told his base (followers) and the Republican party that the election was a fraud and it was stolen and he had won not Biden. Almost all Trumps lawyers lost many court cases for fraud as there was ‘No Fraud’. After many attempts to get the Election nullified his Vice President (VP) Mike Pence announced in the House that Biden won having that most Electoral College votes he was to be the new President in 2020. Trump would still not concede and by his rhetoric incited the Insurrection on the Capital Building by his base before the during VP’s reading all of the Electoral College votes and announcement of the winner. This was a very shameful day for the USA resulting in deaths and injuries to law enforcement officers all because Trump wanted to stay as President just like a Dictator and could not accept he lost due to the USA people’ decision (Democracy).

USA’s Dangerous Trend to Autocracy and Decay.

Over the past 2 years Prosecutors of the USA Department of Justice (DOJ) have indicted (charged) Trump 4 times related to his activities against the USA democracy including some of his senior co conspirators. These are very serious Federal and State charges. A normal reaction of people would be to distance yourself from Trump. Not in the USA, the trend is for more people to follow Trump who is running to be President again in 2024 as they still believe his lies that he won the 2020 election. They are acting like a Cult (a system of devotion directed towards a particular figure) in this case Trump, not realising that he will do his best to become a Dictator and create an Autocracy by eliminating the USA institutions power and disregarding the USA constitution which will harm all of the people of the USA.

USA’s Increasing Political, Financial and Military Adversaries.

The effect of this turmoil within the USA is that other countries are looking to reduce the influence and status of the USA and their Allies by forming their own new alliances to challenge the USA Politically, Financially and Militarily changing the world order.

Politically:

The world is politically divided into two main blocs:

The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) bloc met for its annual leader’s summit in Johannesburg, South Africa on August 22–24, 2023. The highlight of the fifteenth summit was the agreement to admit six new member countries: Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, who will officially join the bloc in January 2024.

The main counter bloc the WESTERN ALLIANCES includes the USA, Europe Union (27 Countries), United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Australia , Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

It is believed that the direction that the USA is moving in and its rapid decay in its governance especially in the House and the possibility of Trump winning the next election is making other countries align with China in particular which they see as a more stable and powerful partner.

Financially:

For many years the USA currency (US Dollar) has been the main trading currency throughout the world, especially oil, gas and other essential commodities. It has dominated the currency exchange markets which also effects the stock markets. However the BRICS bloc are looking to change the dominance of the US Dollar by trading in their own currencies or moving to the Chinese Yuan. Once again this due to the USA decay.

Militarily:

The main world Military power has been the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) headed by the USA. This includes 32 countries with the recent entry of Sweden. In addition NATO has other alliances with Japan, South Korea, Philippines, Also the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) (USA, Australia, Japan and India). The India inclusion is a contraindication when considering BRICS.

The opposition including China, Russia, Belarus, South Africa and very recently North Korea have agreements to cooperate together if conflict breaks out world wide.

We have seen part cooperation due to Russia invading Ukraine, however NATO and its allies are supporting Ukraine with weapons and other types of Aid. Taiwan is another flashpoint where China insists Taiwan is part of China but the USA, Japan and South Korea dispute that and are supporting Taiwan with weapons for their self protection. This is also is part of the ‘South China Sea’ dispute where China claims nearly all of it. This is also opposed by the USA and all of the countries with claims to their part of the ‘South China Sea’.

Due to this situation and other desires of China world domination they have increased their Land, Air and Sea military significantly, to a point where they have the largest Navy in the world surpassing the USA again due to USA’s decay.

USA Domestic Decay

Another part of the USA Decay is the population divisions, Republican and Democrats, African and Latino Americans and White Americans some of which are White Supremacists embolden by Trumps rhetoric again. In addition the Abortion and Gun Law and Mass Shootings issues and the Republican controlled Supreme Court created by Trump. Finally, the many people who are following Trumps assertion that the DOJ and other USA Institutions are being Politically Weaponised against Trump and the Republican party is increasing. It should be remembered Trump was twice recommend by the House for Impeachment during his Presidency but failed by the Senate controlled by the Republicans.

2024 USA Decision More Autocracy or Democracy

The Presidential, Senate and House Elections outcomes will be crucial for the USA and its Allies. They will determine whether the USA will vote for Autocracy or Democracy which will also determine if the USA continues to Decay or returns to a more civilised responsible country that the world depends upon for welfare and security. If the vote is for Autocracy with Trump at the helm our Adversaries especially China and Russia will be celebrating. God Help the USA and their Allies.

Disclaimer:

These are my own thoughts from an independent viewer and are not in any way designed to interfere with the will of the USA people who’s decision is theirs and theirs alone.

Thank you for your time reading this post.

History Summary

Railway Nationalisation:

Two major UK Government Policies after World War II changed the existing Railway System in the UK. In 1947 the four main railway companies, the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS), Great Western Railway (GWR), London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) and the Southern Railway (SR) were Nationalised to become British Rail also known as British Railways. These operated using the Standard -Gauge (4 feet 8.5 inches wide) ‘Tracks’ also known as ‘Railway Lines’.

Beeching Reports and Cuts:

Since the WWII the railways were operated almost entirely by Steam Locomotives and there were a considerable amount of Railway Lines especially in the countryside known as Branch Lines, where the amount of passengers was small and the costs of running these lines were not sustainable. In 1961 Dr Richard Beeching was tasked with investigating the whole of British Rail and providing Reports to the Government. These Reports resulted in several decisions including the cutting of around 6000 lines mainly in the Branch Lines, creating the Main Lines shown in the image above. Replacing Steam Locomotives with Diesel Ones as quickly as possible. However, in the 1960’s both Steam and Diesel pulled the same type of Passenger Carriages and Goods Wagons as shown below.

It should be remembered the Steam Locomotive was a very dirty environment to work in and created a lot of CO’2 burning coal. That was also taken into account when cutting the Railway Network in the 1960’s.

Present Day Railways:

Since that time there have been enormous changes to the UK Railway Systems including transition from Steam to Diesel Locomotives and Trains to Electrification of Trains which are combined units of the Locomotive and Carriages running on the new Electrification of the Track System on the Main Lines.

The Love of Steam Locomotives

Why do so many people love Steam Locomotives so much especially those of us that were brought up with Steam Trains? First of all the Steam Locomotive is a marvel of Mechanical Engineering that creates this aura of Power, Size and Precision especially the larger ones like the Flying Scotsman originally built in 1923 and the Sir Nigel Gresley originally built in 1937. The latter was named after its designer of this and many more locomotives Sir Nigel Gresley designed. Both are still operating today. The ‘Mallard’ the same design as the ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’ holds the worlds speed record for the fastest Steam Locomotive pulling a Passenger Train of 126mph on the LNER line on the 3rd July 1938.

The Creation of the Heritage Railways

Heritage Railways in the UK are the result of the love affair we have with Steam Locomotives and Trains. Many of these operate all year round especially at Christmas and other holiday times. Many of the Standard -Gauge Heritage Railways are Branch Lines that were closed in the 1960’s by the Beeching Cuts. It is important to remember that Heritage Railways use many of these Branch Lines which are Restored and Maintained, Tracks, Points, Signals, Signal Boxes and Railway Stations to the high standards required by the UK Authorities. Most of the Heritage Railways are members of the ‘Heritage Railway Association’ (HRA) which estimates that 13 million visitors per year go to the Railways, Tramways, Cliff Railways and Railway Museums.

Typical Heritage Railway Branch Lines

There are many Heritage Railways in the UK due to the demand by the public (Millions per year) which is increasing attracting may young people to enjoy the experience of being transported in the Trains of the Past. The following is an example of the Heritage Railways operating today.

The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway:

As I used to Live in the town of Keighley in West Yorkshire many years ago I am familiar with ‘The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway’ which is a 5-mile-long Heritage Railway Line in the Worth Valley, West Yorkshire, England, which runs from Keighley to Oxenhope. This Branch Line was purchased by a Group in 1962 and became operational in 1968. It connects to the National Rail network at Keighley Railway Station. This Line and its Stations which are still in use today were built in 1864 when the Line was opened. This Railway is typical of many in the UK that have all types of Steam Locomotives and Trains for people to enjoy.

The Severn Valley Railway:

As I also used to Live in the town of Bridgenorth in Shropshire, Worcestershire many years ago I am familiar with ‘The Severn Valley Railway’ which is a 16-mile-long Heritage Railway Line from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster . This Branch Line was purchased in stages started by a Group in 1962 and became operational in 1970. It connects to the National Rail Network and other Heritage Lines network from Bridgenorth and Kidderminster Railway Station. This Line and its Stations which are still in use today were built in 1862 when the Line was opened. This Railway is typical of many in the UK that have all types of Steam Locomotives and Trains for people to enjoy.

Heritage Trains using Network Rail Main Line Tracks

Steam Locomotives were withdrawn from British Railways services in 1968. However due to sustained public interest and the Locomotive Preservation movement Steam Locomotive Trains are still running on the Network Rail Tracks in addition to the Heritage Rail Tracks. This is coordinated by the Steam Locomotive Operators Association. The typical manner in which Mainline Steam Trains are operated is for a promoter or customer to contract a charter Train Operating Company (TOC) to run it on their behalf. The TOCs are the legal entities which are licensed to operate Trains; They are responsible for providing the three-man professional Train Crew consisting of the Locomotive Driver, Fireman and a Traction Inspector and negotiating access to the Network from Network Rail. One type of Locomotive used on the Main Lines is the ‘Tornado’ 60163 manufactured in 2008 from the existing designs from the 1920’s. Others are in progress of manufacture so great is the demand for these types of Steam Locomotives and Trains.

The Steam Age Attraction

Finally, today many thousands of people visit the Heritage Railways, Young and Old as the Steam Locomotive and the older type Carriages in particular seems to attract so many of us not just the nostalgia but the way in which the Steam Locomotives and Trains make strange noises letting off Steam and creating a lot of Smoke that produces that special smell which affects your taste. Also being able to touch this magical Big Machine called the ‘Steam Locomotive’.

This is the story of my Royal Air Force (RAF) experiences at RAF Seletar Singapore and RAF Butterworth also known as Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Butterworth in Malaysia when I was 25 to 28 years old, 54 years ago.

Malaysia/Indonesia Confrontation

Prior to 1963, the island of Borneo was divided into four separate states: Kalimantan, an Indonesian province, which was located in the south of the island and the kingdom of Brunei and two British colonies: Sarawak and British North Borneo (which was later renamed Sabah) located in the north. As part of its withdrawal from its Southeast Asian colonies, the UK moved to combine its colonies of Borneo with those on peninsular Malaya, to form Malaysia in September  16^th 1963.

However, the Indonesians were unhappy with the intended creation of Malaysia which resulted in an undeclared war (confrontation) with the Indonesians in Borneo from January 20^th 1963 which would go on until  the 11^th August 1966.

British Commonwealth Response

Malaysia was still a commonwealth country therefore the British, Australian and New Zealand forces who were supporting the fledgling Malaysia became involved which included the RAF in Singapore, Seletar, Tengah and Changi and RAF Butterworth and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) station in Malaysia.

In support of the confrontation in it was decided to trial the Jet Provost T4 as a jungle  Forward Air Control aircraft.  In February 1966 as an Instrument fitter, having worked on Jet Provosts, I amongst others was selected to go on a special trial mission to re-construct 4 Jet Provost aircraft which were sent to Singapore RAF Seletar together with specialised ground equipment (in boxes). This was just like putting a kit car together but more complex. My responsibility was to ensure all of the Cockpit Instrumentation and Systems were installed and fully tested correctly. I also remember a dark blue Royal Navy Buccaneer was parked outside the hangar which was quite unusual.

The aircraft were test flown from RAF Seletar after re-construction which took about 6 weeks. They then were flown to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base in RAF Butterworth in Malaysia.

On completion of the construction I was on the last small team to leave Singapore for RAF Butterworth in northern Malaysia. We had to travel by train which was a 24 hr journey. The train had a steam engine and the carriages had no windows and wooden seats and beds. It stopped at every little village (Kampong) on the way up.

RAF Butterworth

We arrived at Butterworth railway station in the morning and we were met by one of our young RAF Flight Lieutenant Pilots who organized transport from the railway station to RAF Butterworth.

Sadly that afternoon he was flying one of the Jet Provost aircraft over the jungle and his aircraft hit a very tall dead tree and crashed, killing him. What was more distressing I and two others were told we were going into the jungle by lorry with some British Army men to get his body and some vital equipment from the crashed aircraft. This was a very dangerous and gruesome task as the including large jungle ants combined with many snakes and other animals in this dense and uninhabited part of the jungle.

We stayed in the jungle overnight lighting fires to keep animals such as Tigers away from our lorry where we slept as it was too dangerous to sleep in tents on the jungle floor. It also rained heavy that night so it made it very difficult for the lorry to leave and return to RAF Butterworth. However, eventually we made it back but an unforgettable and harrowing experience.

On a lighter note we all enjoyed our work and play especially playing football and darts against the Royal Australian Air Force men. We had a good football team considering we only had a small number of men to pick from.

In the 3 months at RAF Butterworth we visited Penang Island many times on social visits, however there was one night I and some of my friends missed the last midnight Ferry that used to go between Penang and Butterworth. We had to go in a Sampan, a small boat all the way across the straits and we very sick on reaching Butterworth.

Mission Completed – Return to the UK

After completing the trials mission in April 1966 we were flown back to RAF Seletar by Beverley of 34 Sqd. and after a few days back to the UK and my station RAF CFS Little Rissington via Gan and Island part of the the Maldives in the Indian Ocean Maldives on a new medivac VC10 Aircraft. An epic adventure but only the start of my association with RAF Seletar.

Return to RAF Seletar

After my service at RAF Little Rissington Central Flying School as a Junior Technician (J/T), I was advise I would be going to RAF Seletar 390 Maintenance Unit (390MU) Singapore with my family, my wife and 2 year old son in December 1966 for a number of years. The Malaysian/Indonesian confrontation ended in August 1966.

Journey from RAF Brize Norton to RAF Seletar

The journey to Singapore with my family was on board an RAF passenger Airliner the Britannia but it had to stop every 6 hours to re-fuel. Our first stop was Cyprus, then Kuwait, then Columbo in Ceylon (now known as Sri Lanka). Whilst taking off from Columbo for Singapore the aircraft hit a flock of large birds and it caused one of the engines to stop and fuel was leaking from the engine. I count myself extremely lucky to be alive due to the skill of the pilot and the fact the fuel did not explode which it could have done on the hot engine.

However, after landing it was decided that the spare parts would take several days to arrive so we all sent to high quality hotels around the coast of Ceylon not far from Columbo. It was like a free holiday which was welcome after the experience we encountered.

Arrival at RAF Seletar

After landing at RAF Changi in Singapore we were bussed to RAF Seletar for processing but it was very hot and humid which I had experience before but my wife with a young child found it difficult to get used to.

Jalan Kayu Village (Kampong)

The main entrance to RAF Seletar was near the local village called Jalan Kayu, which looked very old and the shops were no more than wooden buildings that had a strange array of goods and food, some of which did not smell nice at all. However, the people were extremely friendly and especially the owners of the grocery shops who were trying to rent their houses.

It was the custom in those days that the shop you rented the house from insisted that you do your family shopping at that shop and you had to agree to a minimum amount or they would not rent the house to you. I was very lucky to rent a house in Seletar Hills not far from RAF Seletar which meant I could use my bike to go to work.

At the top of Jalan Kayu near the main gate of RAF Seletar was a High Fidelity Sound System (Hi-Fi) shop run by a Chinese, I think was called Seng. Hi-fi was really in fashion at that time and many of my friends and myself used to spend time and money at this shop as the exchange rate at that time was 8.5 Sing Dollars to one British Pound. Another fashion was buying teak carved furniture made to your own design which was also available in Jalan Kayu.

390 Maintenance Unit (390MU)

I was assigned to 390 Maintenance Unit (390 MU) which was responsible for servicing Electronic Test Equipment and Aircraft Equipment such as Autopilots and Instruments. The Electrical and Instrument Section where I worked was a mix of RAF personnel and local Singaporeans one of which was Mr Chow (arrows) who helped me build Hi-Fi amplifiers that I designed in our own time and he became a very good friend.

Electronic and Electrical Training

At that time I was promoted to Corporal and I was very interested in Electronics and undertook a correspondence course for Advanced Electronics. This enabled me to design Hi-Fi amplifiers and systems and then build them in my spare time. Another interest was doing training in basic and advanced electronics. I was asked to do training for many RAF SAC mechanics so that they could take their technicians exams in Singapore.

The final part of my tour at RAF Seletar in 1969 as a Corporal was taken up by training Instrument and Electrical mechanics preparing them for their fitters exams in Singapore and the local members of RAF Seletar technical sections. As RAF Seletar was going to close in late 1969 the local 20 technical personnel in the Air Electrical and Instrument section asked me to teach them electronics after work in a room at work which I agreed. However, the first class to my surprise, almost 50 locals turned up.

Special Marine Craft Task

Another task of  the 390 MU Electrical and Instrument Section and I, was the modification to the RAF Seletar Marine Craft by fitting a Magnetic Compass system. This involved fitting the Flux Valve (centre) inside the bow of the boat which I was tasked to do . This was like being in a Sauna as it was so hot and very cramped as it had to be fitted as near to the front of the bow as possible.

Christmas Sadden by Beverly Disaster

Christmas in Seletar Hills was very special as many of us had a ‘pied piper’ type celebration. One family would visit a home and after a couple of drinks both families would walk to the next home and so on until the last house ended up with about 30 or 40 people all very merry. 

A Beverley aircraft XL 150 which had a two-tone brown camouflage scheme was issued to 34 Sqn RAF Seletar in March 1966. On the 15^th December 1967 it crashed into a ridge at Bukit Hantu 144 km north of Johor Bahru, Malaysia, in bad weather during a low level cross-country flight. The crew; Squadron Leader Nigel Bacon, Flying Officers David Brodie and Brian Hudson and Sergeants John Curtis, Brian George and Ernest Trigwell were all killed.

Therefore Christmas  1967 was very depressed trying to comfort his family after the Beverly Crash. This was a very sad day for me as one the Sergeants (don’t want to name) was a family friend who had a wife and children and lived in Seletar Hills.  It was even more shocking as it happened just before Christmas.

End of the RAF Seletar Tour of Duty but not Singapore.

We returned to the UK on a VC 10 in late April 1969 posted to RAF Cosford as an Instructor and thought I would never see Singapore again. How wrong I was !!

In 1992 I returned to Singapore as  the Managing Director of my own UK company Computerised Training Systems Ltd, as part of the ‘Orient 92’ UK government delegation. In 1993 I started my own companies in Singapore and Malaysia producing ‘e learning’ systems for the Singapore Air Force and Army, Singapore Airlines and others. I now live near Kuala Lumpur Malaysia retired after closing my company in December 2021 after 33 years since opening it in the UK on the 8.8.1988 (8th August 1988).

Introduction

My Father (Dad) Joseph Lishman Hogg was born in Felling Gateshead-On-Tyne in the North East of England in 1918 to my Grandfather Edward Hogg and Grandmother Polly Lishman. After School in 1934 my Dad followed his Father being an Apprentice Non-Ferrous Sand Moulder at Clark Chapman’s Co Ltd who made components for Battle Ships built on the river Tyne and elsewhere in England and Scotland.

Royal Navy Battleship Prince Of Wales

My Dad’s main memory was that he made most of the Non-Ferrous, Brass and Bronze wheel components for the Royal Navy Battleship HMS Prince Of Wales which was launched in 1939. In 1941 during the second world war HMS Prince Of Wales along with HMS Repulse were sunk by a Japanese Navy Submarine in the South China Sea whilst protecting the Malay Peninsular known as the ‘Battle of Malaya’. This made my Dad very Sad as he as part of the Ship Building Workforce were not allowed to join the Military and all of his work went to the bottom of the sea with some of the brave Royal Navy personnel.

What is Sand Moulding ?

During the Industrial Revolution of the early from the1900’s to 1950’s Sand Moulding was the prime construction technique for making Ferrous (Iron) and Non-Ferrous (Other Non Iron) Metal components. Its basic principle is that you make a Mould of a Pattern Component using Sand in a Metal or Wooden Box and then remove the Pattern and replace the empty space with Molten Metal which takes up the shape of the Pattern known as a ‘Casting’. This is done by using a Bottom and Top Sand Mould. However, it was very important to ensure the sand was not wet as I will illustrate later.

Dad used to make far more complex component Moulds than these which required very skillful fine adjustments to the Moulds to ensure accuracy. He used specialised tools for Tools doing this work. I have seen my Dad work and its like a work of art creating the sand shapes.

The Foundry

A Foundry big and small is the place where the Moulds and Castings are made. They are usually very dusty, hot and very dangerous places to work. In a small Non-Ferrous Foundry it contains the ‘Furnace’ which heats the Metal, Brass, Copper and Aluminum contained in a ‘Crucible’ to a molten state ready for pouring into the Mould. This is done normally by two men with a special cradle holding the Crucible. Foundries also have Grinding and Polishing machines for final finishing of the Castings.

Dad did all of these actions which was very heavy and dangerous work. He also used to re-line the Furnaces with new Fire Bricks to ensure effective heating.

Non-Ferrous Metal Knowledge

My Dad had a thorough knowledge of all different types of Brass, Bronze, Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy and other Metals used for different Components. These Metals were normally stored as Ingots which were then placed in the Crucibles with some Chemicals to reduce air bubbles at times for melting in the Furnace. Sometimes scrap metals could be melted given that the content was known for example Brass as shown below.

Foundry Management

My Dad was a very Skillful and Knowledgeable Foundry Craftsman so much so he was sought after by many Foundries in England as a Manager. His first was the Partner and Manager of a small Foundry in Ludham Village Norfolk . He then moved to a Foundry in Norwich Norfolk as a Manager. Much later we moved to Keighley in West Yorkshire where he Managed a much larger Foundry.

Major Accident

Whilst he was the Manger at the Foundry in Keighley Dad received a major injury caused by some Molten Metal hitting his left Eye and his Trilby he was wearing which saved his right Eye. This was caused by two Moulder’s who did not check the Sand which was too wet. When the Molten Metal was poured into the Mould it exploded causing the Molten Metal to spray out. My Dad was very unlucky as he happened to be walking by when the explosion took place. After being taken to hospital in Bradford a town nearby and further examination my Dads left Eye was removed. Miraculously his right Eye was untouched.

Return to Ludham Foundry

After recovering from his accident he decided to return to Ludham Foundry which needed him Manage the small Foundry again due to flagging sales. This was his last position and he retired living with my Mum in Ludham until she passed away. He then lived in a Nursing Home close to my Sister in Caister-On-Sea until he passed away when he was 95 years old.

A Great Craftsman and Dad

My Dad was a great Craftsman and Foundry Manager and most of all a great Person, Husband, Father and Grandfather which we miss very much. It is important for us to remember my Dad and his profession which he enjoyed so much. Finally, I am very lucky to have 2 Cat Face Ashtrays Moulded and Cast in Brass and Polished by my Dad many years ago which I treasure very much.

Bryan Hogg Family Coat Of Arms

As the senior living descendant of the our Hogg Family, I have designed a new ‘Coat Of Arms’. Our male Family Tree that can be traced back starting with:

• John Hogg (1750)
• John Hogg (1806)
• William Hogg (1836)
• William Hogg (1866)
• Edward Hogg (1888) (Grandfather)
• Joseph Lishman Hogg (1918) (Father)
• Bryan Hogg (1941)
• KM Hogg (1964) (Son)

The Hogg Surname Origin

The Hogg Surname Origin is from Scotland, North East of England and Ireland. My Family originated and remained with my birth in 1941 in Gateshead Upon Tyne in the North East of England.

Fish to Humans

A twelve image animation produced “Animal Instinct/Photo of Daniel Lee” at San Antonio Museum of Art, (2011) shown below. It is extremely well done but is the theory of ‘Evolution’ true?

Did all the Species Evolve from Fish?

There are millions of Species on this Planet; Insects, Mammals, Birds, Reptiles and supposedly 65 million years ago Dinosaurs. Did all of these evolve from Fish? I find it hard to believe that is true. There is so much about Humans and other Species existence on this Planet and the Universe that we really don’t know anything about. Our learned scientist and others like Darwin have created this ‘Theory of Evolution’ because it ‘fits’ the story based upon Human Bones and Fossils found on the Planet.

How did the Dinosaurs Evolve?

We all know about the Dinosaurs as once again we have discovered full size bone structures of these Reptilians and through scientific aging decided they existed 65 millions years ago. However, I don’t see much evidence of how the Dinosaurs evolved from Fish!! Even at that time we are told there were still many species of Insects and Fish and Mammals already on the Planet.

How did the Fish Evolve?

We are told that the Species Evolved from Fish. However, how did the Fish Evolve? The answer normally given is that all Species derived from micro organisms 530 million years ago that were on the Planet due to the environmental conditions on the Planet within the Water.

Our Planet is Microscopic in the Universe.

Planet Earth is like a micro dot in the Universe which we know about due to images and possible theories of its composition told to us by Astrophysicists. However, we know absolutely nothing about the existence of other forms of Intelligence far in advance of our own within the Universe. Note: I did not say Life Forms as that is based on our Human Form. Even today when we talk about outer space ‘Aliens’ we always portray them of having some form of body structure like the Humans, which maybe complete nonsense.

Did ‘Alien Intelligence’ insert Species on the Planet ?

This assertion that ‘Alien Intelligence’ inserted Species on the Planet millions of years ago sounds too ridiculous to be true because of the ‘Evolution Theory’. However, look at some of the structures on the Planet, such as old Cities constructed almost 8000 to 4000 years ago such as the Pyramids, Temples and others like Stonehenge. These were constructed mathematically to the millimeter using huge shaped stones weighing tons and interlocked in some cases. Many of this constructions were perfectly aligned with the Stars and/or the Sun. How did our ancestors know how to do this? The ‘Evolution Theory’ states that the Human at that time did not have the Knowledge, Skills and Tools to create such structures.

Super Human Brain Power

Is it possible that some Humans that have Super Brain Power such as Albert Einstein and many others that have been given super intelligence by Alien Intelligence to allow mankind to design and build advanced machinery, robotics, construction techniques and computers and computer software. As we see today we are creating Artificial Intelligence (AI) using the computers and AI software which does not have a Human body form. Even the inventors of AI are very concerned that one day that AI will be far more Intelligent than the Humans and a threat to mankind.

Just Thoughts

These comments are just thoughts that have no real answers. I am not alone in trying to think outside the box and realising we know very little about our existence, who we are and our purpose on this Planet. The Universe is so vast and our Planets existence within it so very small we have to always keep an open mind and wonder if their is a God in the form of super intelligence and all knowing.

Increase in Anti-West Alliance Rhetoric:

I have noticed for the past years the increase in Anti-West Alliance Rhetoric especially from my second home in the Far East. It appears to all stem from the increase in Russia and in particular China’s move to alienate western democracy and values by trying to dismantle the World Order which has existed for the past 80 years. This is down to two autocrats, Putin and Xi Jinping who are blaming the West Alliances for the world problems of today and emerging ones of tomorrow. The West Alliance includes United States (US), Canada, United Kingdom (UK), European Union Countries, NATO Countries, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Philippines (Yellow) and other Far Eastern Countries who are being courted by China and are undecided who to support (Grey). White colour unknown alliance.

West Alliances and Democracy:

However, the West Alliances over the past years have contributed to its own demise with wars in Afghanistan and Iraq that promised Democracy which have created human and governance disasters due to lack of post war planning and implementation. The turmoil of the US Trump Presidency which has and still is having a major impact on the US and the Wests Alliances democracy itself. This has given the Adversaries of the West Alliances what they see, as reasons for change to the World Order. However, the extensive freedoms that the West Alliances Democracy model has to date should not be underestimated or forgotten by the Adversaries.

Threat to the West Alliances:

It is very noticeable that Russia and China have been increasing their influence on other world countries to oppose the the West Alliances and becoming Partners in their Autocratic world by the use of money in the form of grants and loans, resources such as oil and gas, technology and military equipment supply and the ideology of Autocratic Approach and Human Control under their ruling systems. These countries are major players such as India, Brazil, Iran, North Korea and many African Countries, (Purple) that are increasing which is significant and pose a real threat to the West Alliances.

The other very troubling issue is the rapid expansion of the Chinese Military who are now flexing their muscles in an aggressive manner although they say it is for defence only. Although China has never controlled Taiwan which has been a self ruling Democratic Island for almost a 100 years they have decided it is theirs. The same with the South China Sea which neither is accepted by the world bodies such as the United Nations (UN) or the West Alliance. In other words they just will do what they want and ignore the World Order which is what they are actively trying to destroy.

The Ukraine (Green) War started by Russia is part of the plot to regain the Soviet Union and once again with no regard to the world bodies or concerns. Like China who are now friends with Russia this suits the purpose of destabilising the World Order. This has been disastrous for the Energy provisions to Europe which relied so heavily on Russian Oil and Gas. It has also had an effect on Grain Supplies to other parts of the world.

As part of the threat to the West Alliance is the financial instability where countries are now actively trying to destroy the dominance of the US Dollar and other West Alliance Currencies like the Euro and Sterling by allowing transactions in their own Currencies or using the Chinese Yuan and/or the Russian Rouble for Oil, Gas and other products. This was evident in a recent visit to China by the new Brazilian President who is supporting China in their discussions regarding Currencies.

The West Alliance Response:

The threat to the West Alliance and the World Order is real and serious. It is no wonder that the West Alliance militarily is to increase their strength and deployment in Europe and the Far East for a potential World War 3 which no one will gain. The war in Ukraine and support by providing weapons is part of that required to prevent Russia acquiring Ukraine by Force which is against the World Order. The West Alliance has strengthened there military presence in the Far East including new access to Philippines bases to counter Chinese aggregation against Far Eastern Countries, Claiming and Occupying Islands in the South China Sea which do not belong to them and militarising them. In addition to signal to China that attacking Taiwan is not in their best interests.

Commercially the West Alliance is still reasonably strong and one of the Major markets of China products. The US Dollar, Euro and Sterling are still Major Trading Currencies. The Stock Markets of New York, London and Frankfurt are still the leading ones in the world. However, they need to protect against the rise as I have said in the movement away from the West Alliances Currencies.

A World Divided:

When I came into this world in 1941 it was divided between the Axis Nations (Nazi Germany, Japan and Italy) and the rest of the world including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Russia and others in World War 2.

Today we have a world divided as we have discussed which hopefully will not result in World War 3 which will bring the world to an end as we know it today which no nation wants friend or foe. However, we must be realistic as the possibility is increasing every day of World War 3 maybe due to an Accidental Incident or a Preemptive Nuclear strike by any Nuclear nation.

From what I see everything revolves around the US, China and Russia who must sit round a table and discuss this whole issue. However, if China and Russia are hellbent on destroying the World Order through their actions as described above it seems impossible for that to happen.

Therefore, the West Alliances are going to have to adapt to this situation and create their own sphere of influence and systems which will physically divide the world into two different operating regimes, without military confrontation if at all possible. This will bring an end to Globalisation as we know it which will not benefit any nation, especially China, known as the workshop of the world where a great deal of trade with them will cease.

In the coming years given that we do not have World war 3, we will see the power of Oil and Gas diminish as Electrification increases and Nuclear Power and Renewable Power increases to provide the Electrical Power increase that is needed. This in itself will reduce the reliance on Oil and Gas producing countries, mainly Russia and the Middle East.

Conclusion:

The shift in support for China in particular in the Far East is mainly due to fear of China and its influence in this area, promising more trade and financial support for big projects to benefit the smaller countries. More people are surprised and admire the advancement of China’s infrastructure and wealth gained by supplying the world with goods of all types when they visit China.

In real terms China holds the key to the future relationship with the West Alliance and we can only hope that some form of mutual understanding and compromise can be found to make the world a safer place.

As Confucius’ said “The superior man, when resting in safety, does not forget that danger may come. When in a state of security he does not forget the possibility of ruin. When all is orderly, he does not forget that disorder may come. Thus his person is not endangered, and his States and all their clans are preserved.”

Perhaps all should consider consider this saying to avoid a world catastrophe of immense proportion.

Introduction

Ludham Village is located in the county of Norfolk, England, Great Britain about 15 miles from Norwich City and about 8 miles from the North Sea. The earliest record of Ludham is 1016 when King Cnut founded St. Benet’s Abbey. Ludham was the most easterly Royal Air Force (RAF) Airfield during the second world war, created in 1941, with many fighter aircraft such as the Spitfires and Typhoons. HM King George VI and Queen Elizabeth visited the Base in late January 1943. It was also allocated to the US Air Force but never used by them. Ludham is surrounded by farms and waterways and is a close knit community with a rich history.

Ludham is part of a combination of Rivers, Broads (Lakes) and other waterways called the Norfolk Broads. These are part of the national parks and are used by holiday makers hiring Yachts, Motor Cruisers and smaller Boats.

My association with Ludham has 2 parts both related to my Father, Joseph (Joe) Hogg and my Mother Margaret (Peggy) Hogg. The first part was from 1946 to 1951 when we moved to Ludham from my home town Gateshead-On-Tyne, Co Durham. The second part when my parents moved from Keighley, Yorkshire in 1962 until about 2008 after my mother passed away in 2004 and later my father passed away aged 95.

The following is my own recollection of those times remembering I am now 82 years old and our memories can be a bit blurred at times but I will always have a great affection for Ludham and the people I met. This is story is dedicated to my Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.

Part 1 – Ludham 1946 to 1951

A few months after the second World War finished in June 1945 my Father, Mother, Sister 3 years old and I, nearly 5 years old moved to a village in Norfolk called Ludham. My Father who I called ‘Dad’, a Non Ferrous Moulder who helped to build war ships in Gateshead- upon-Tyne in North East England, where my sister and I were born, moved to become a partner in a small Non Ferrous Foundry established as R.O Brooks, in the village of Ludham Norfolk. When we arrived we first lived in a very small house on Staithe Road next to the Churchyard and Cemetery near the centre of the village.

Primary School:

When I was 5 year old in 1946 I went to the Ludham Primary School on School Road near the village centre which is still there exactly as it was except for some modernisation. I remember our Head Master called Mr Bird who I met in the village many years later. These are pictures of me at the Ludham Primary School at the age around 7 years old. I went to school with Tommy Thrower, Jenny Roll, Malcolm and Jill Parker and others I don’t remember but we were also very good friends but a bit rebellious sometimes which led us into trouble with Mr Bird. Later my Sister Audrey who is 18 months younger than me also went to the same school and was also friends with Jill Parker.

Brooks Foundry – My Dad:

The R.O Brooks Foundry was located behind the cottages on Norwich Road. My Dad who was a very skilled Non Ferrous Moulder, joined Russel Brooks in 1946 to expand the business. The image is my Dad (far left) with his Workmates outside the small Foundry.

My Dad liked his pint of Beer in moderation and was a very good dart player. He used to play for both the Kings Arms and Bakers Arms teams. I remember my Dad took me into the pubs for a very short time just to see what it was like when I was around 8 years old.

Manor Farm – Malcolm Parker:

Malcolm Parker was about the same age as me and we went to school together. His Father owned Manor Farm which was on Staithe Road on the corner with Lovers Lane on the way to Cold Harbour. Malcolm and I went everywhere together and got into trouble together as we were both young rebels. I used to go to the Farm quite often as it was on the way when we went Fishing or just mess about at Cold Harbour. They had some black and white Friesian Cows which they used to milk everyday. I remember Malcolm, me and some other boys went out to get Chestnuts to play Conkers. However, to get them we used to throw stones or small bricks to get them off the tree. However one of the small bricks fell on one of the boys head who went off crying and telling us he would tell the policeman. So we all decided to walk round the Marshes so we would not get into trouble. Wrong, when Malcolm and I reached my small house in the evening the local policeman was talking to my Dad. We both got scolded.

One year in a field opposite owned by Malcolm’s Dad was used to erect a big Circus Tent and all the different things and animals that a Circus has. Malcolm and I used to go and watch what they were doing long before the show went on for the Village.

The Manor and Grounds:

We moved from our very small house to a Cottage next to the Stables in the Manor Grounds, on the left hand side of the gravel driveway going towards the Manor House. My Mother (Mum) used to help and look after Mrs Brooks in the Manor House during the day. This was so much better as we had more room and a garden where we grew vegetables and flowers. My Dad made us a small swing that Audrey and I used a lot. We liked to be in the garden when the weather was good. On one occasion my Granddad and Grandma Onions (Mum’s Parents) came for a Holiday and stayed in a small Caravan near our Cottage. My Dad used to help out at times in the grounds and the maintain the small river leading to Womack. I remember one day my Dad and others were trying to ride a Penny Farthing Bicycle in front of the Manor House which was quite funny.

St. Catherine’s Church – Choir

St Catherine’s Church is very large for a small village like Ludham built in the 14th Century but a beautiful example of architecture and construction. My Dad and I were at one time in the Church Choir. My Dad was a very good Tenor and I was a boy Soprano. We used to attend Choir practice together. The Church has 5 Bells and I liked to watch the Bell Ringers before the Sunday Morning Service. I also liked the Harvest Festival Time and Service.

Harvest Time:

Harvesting was around mid September and the Farmers needed to get their grain harvested as quickly as possible. In the late 1940’s and 1950’s harvesting involved quite a bit of manpower as the Harvester Machines were quite primitive compared to the ones today, so men like my Dad used to help. The boys like Malcolm, Tommy and I would go to the fields being harvested and try to get any Rabbits with our hefty sticks as they ran out of the crop being cut.

My Dad had an allotment on the left hand side of Norwich Road on the way to Rolls Garage. I used to help my Dad as we grew lots of vegetables like Runner Beans, Peas, Cabbage, Cauliflower and Potatoes.

Fishing – My Passion

Almost from the day we moved to Ludham in 1946 I wanted to go fishing with my Dad. He taught me how to fish and how to put the tackle together. The nearest place was Womack Staithe as we could walk there from our house. My Dad and I also went to Cold Harbour River Thurne, Hunters Yard and many other places. As I grew older I used to go to Womack by myself at times at 4am before the sun came up passed the Barnes and the Maltings on Horsefen Rd on my bicycle.

My Dad and I used to get our fishing tackle and rods from the local Albert Knight’s saddlers shop. He was well known for the tall tales he told to tourists but he was very good to the young boys in the village sometimes giving us some fishing hooks and line free. He also used to give us some good advice about where to fish and what sort of fish that were there. We used to catch Bream, Perch, Roach, Eels and other types.

Beginning of the end of my first association with Ludham:

In early 1951 my Dad was offered a very good job at a Non Ferrous Foundry in Norwich which he wanted to take. The problem was he had to get a train from Wroxham 7 miles away early in the morning to Norwich and he only had his bicycle. He decided to accept the job in Norwich and he would bike to and from Wroxham every day whatever the weather. That’s what he did for a few months but it was very tiring for him. He decided that the only way was to leave Ludham and move to Norwich. All of us including my Dad loved living in Ludham as our family had many friends but Dad could not continue traveling every day. I was 10 years old and very sad to say goodbye to my friends but we could always pay a visit to Ludham at a later date which we did.

Part 2 – Ludham 1969 – 2005

In 1969 my Mum and Dad decided to move back to Ludham. They were able to move into 5, School Close near the centre of Ludham. I’m sure that made them very happy being amongst old friends again and being back in the countryside and having a garden.

During the 1970’s

I was married and had a Son called Kevin. We visited Ludham very frequently as I was stationed at RAF Cosford, Shropshire, England, at that time. One of our family traditions was that the guys went for a beer on a Sunday about 12 o’clock and the ladies especially my Mum would cook Sunday dinner with Yorkshire puddings for us returning at about 1.30pm. My Dad and I always went out together at the Kings Arms in Ludham or the Dog Inn near Ludham Bridge or other local pubs near Ludham. We used to play Darts or Dominoes with friends. Although my Dad only had one eye he was still a good Darts player.

I was posted to RAF Cosford in April 1969 as a RAF Technical Instructor until May 1975 therefore I was able to visit my Mum and Dad quite often. I believe during this time but I’m not sure of the dates I lived in Ludham with my family for about 12 months at a bungalow Willow Way shown on the image below. This gave me the opportunity to be near Mum and Dad and allowed us to go to many places surrounding Ludham. I remember I had a Lassie Collie dog called Jamie who was about 9 years old in 1975. My Mum and Dad loved Jamie.

In July 1975 I was posted RAF Wildenwrath West Germany on the Harrier (Jump Jet) Force and my family followed. As Jamie could not go Mum and Dad wanted to look after him. Once again I was outside the country for another 4 years but I did manage to go back to Ludham once or twice during that time. Mum and Dad used to take Jamie to Cold Harbour on occasions. However, sadly Jamie died before I came back to the UK.

Whilst in RAF Germany in June 1978 with the Harrier Force I was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) by Her Majesty The Queen, the highest peace time honour I could be awarded. This made Mum and Dad very happy and on my return to Ludham in July 1979 we had a great celebration.

During the 1980’s

The 1980’s was a momentous period as I was posted to RAF Cottesmore, Tri-National Tornado Training Establishment ( UK, Germany and Italy) (TTTE) in charge of the new Tornado Aircraft Acceptance Team which the RAF received from British Aerospace in July 1980. This was a very busy time for me but we still visited Mum and Dad in Ludham quite often. I was very honoured to receive a certificate from the TTTE Commanders of all three countries. Also in April 1983 I was promoted to Flight Sergeant to take up a new post. Again my Dad and I had a few beers to celebrate on both occasions in and around Ludham.

My new role in April 1983 was to be the Officer-In-Charge of the Harrier Aircraft Ground Servicing School at RAF Wittering. This was a very important position for me but I was still in the UK so our visits to Ludham continued on occasions.

In 1985 I was posted to RAF Laarbruch in West Germany in charge of a large team preparing the Tornado Aircraft in case of war with the USSR which was quite tense at this time. Once again I was abroad and it was difficult to make it back to Ludham to see my Mum and Dad. After a very difficult RAF Germany military exercise in 1986 in which for some reason I was selected to be tested to the maximum for 48 hours non stop with my team, I felt perhaps it was time for a change whilst I was only 45 years old. In July 1986 I resigned from the RAF although I was to be promoted to Warrant Officer and joined British Aerospace in Warton Lancashire. This meant I could visit Ludham more often.

In August 1988 I started my own Company, Computerised Training Systems Ltd (CTS) in Scunthorpe Lincolnshire. The company name was in fact chosen by my Dad as he asked me what we did, I replied Computerised Training, so he said just call it that. This meant I was extremely busy but I still visited Ludham on a regular basis as it was reasonably near. Little did I know the company would last for 33 years.

During the 1990’s

This period was both challenging and stressful but I decided to expand into the Far East and to that end I exhibited at Asian Aerospace 92 which was a great success as I was able to secure a contract with Singapore Airlines and later the Singapore Ministry of Defence. For that reason I spent quite along time traveling back and forth to Singapore. This put a huge strain on my personal life resulting in my wife and I parting. However we both still visited my Mum and Dad in Ludham when we could.

Over the following years CTS expanded both in the UK and Singapore, I therefore decided to split the company CTS in the UK and CTS in Singapore. I therefore lived in Singapore from 1997 on a full time basis.

During the 2000’s

This period was both very happy and very very sad. In 2000 I was married in Singapore to a Malaysian and in late November one month early my daughter Natalie was born. My Mum and Dad were very pleased to be Grandparents again. CTS in Singapore was doing well so we planned to go to Ludham at Christmas 2001 to let Mum and Dad see there 1 year old granddaughter. As it happened it was snowing in Ludham which was nice for Christmas. We met up with the family including my sister Audrey not far from Ludham. We visited Tommy and his wife at their home and went to the Kings Arms. These are some of the images of our visit which was very enjoyable for all of us.

Natalie my daughter was 3 years old now so we decided to go to Ludham to see Mum and Dad in August 2003. My sister in law also joined us. As it happened the weather was very good. These are some of the images of our visit.

This image was taken as we were leaving 5 School Close Ludham to return to Singapore in 2003. It is very special as it is the last time I will see my Mum and Dad together.

During 2003 the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) disease broke out in Singapore. After we returned from Ludham to Singapore this had a major impact on my CTS company as all government funds were directed at fighting SARS. As it happened CTS UK wanted to provide me with work initially to do in Singapore. However, a big design task need to be done in the UK in 2004. Then things turned even worse.

I returned to Ludham on the 12th December 2004 as my Mum had a Stroke and was in Hospital in Norwich. On the 23rd December at 5am my Mum passed away. I was with my Dad at 5 School Close Ludham and broke the news to him. He was of course heartbroken as they had been together more than 60 years. Also my wife’s Father passed away in Malaysia only 5 days later on the 28th December 2004, so both of us were very upset.

I decided to stay in the UK and work with my Son on the UK’s projects. I acquired a small bungalow in Messingham near Scunthorpe as my wife and daughter would join me in February 2005. For the next few months we used to visit my Dad in Ludham but during this time my Dad decided to move from 5 School Close to a Nursing Home near to my Sisters house in Caister On Sea. I returned to Singapore and Malaysia regenerating my company CTS which lasted until December 2021 when I retired aged 80.

After this I never went back to Ludham which is always synonymous with my Mum and Dad. My Dad has also passed away but he and my Mum will always be in my thoughts as will Ludham because they are so closely related. Best Wishes to those I knew in Ludham who are still with us.

Thank you for taking the time to read this story.

Countries Visited:

I have been very fortunate to have visited many countries in the world including my original home country Great Britain including England, Wales and Scotland. My World Countries I have Visited, first started with my Norwich Technical College Trip to Belgium and France in 1955 when I was 14 years old. I have put the Countries in Alphabetical order.

Australia

I have traveled from Singapore to Perth twice, many years ago, taking a 4 hour flight, with my Singapore Chinese friends to see my Australian friends and attended the Australian Rules Football game at its stadium. Also went to Freemantle just south of Perth centre which is an oldy worldy sea side type of town with terrific fish and chips and steaks which you cook yourself, plus the beer of course.

Austria

My experience of Austria during the mid 1970’s was mainly the driving from Germany to Venice for summer holidays stopping at places in Austria on the way. There were two routes. The first Munich to Salzburg and then through the Alps on very winding and mostly relatively narrow two way roads to Villach, Udine and Venice. This was towing a caravan which was more dangerous but the scenery was beautiful especially when seeing the mountain lakes with the green/blue water. The second was from Munich to Innsbruck then to Verona which was the latest dual carriageway to Verona and Venice which was much safer but longer. I went both ways on my two holidays in Venice. I notice now the Salzburg to Villach road appears to be dual carriageway.

Belgium

Belgium was the first world country I visited with my Norwich Technical College Trip to Belgium and France in 1955 when I was 14 years old. The first place we went to was Blankenberg a sea side town near Knokke-Hiest which my first impression was the smell and taste of Belgium’s black coffee. We then visited Ghent and the Belfry which I still remember climbing the spiral staircase and being defend by the clock bell.

Many years later I visited Belgium many times visiting Antwerp, Liege, and Bruges and driving through Belgium on the E40 from England via the Ostend Ferry Port whilst serving in the Royal Air Force in Germany.

Canada

The visit to Goose Bay Royal Canadian Air Force Base in Canada was for about 6 hours only whilst we refueled our RAF VC 10 Aircraft on route to the Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas Nevada USA. It was heavy snow when we landed and we had to wait until the snow storm stopped before we could take-off for Las Vegas. On the return journey from Las Vegas USA to the UK we stopped again at Goose Bay for a few hours but we had severe turbulence over the USA prior to landing at Goose Bay so it was good to get off the Aircraft although it was still very cold with snow.

Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

In 1966 whilst traveling from England to Singapore to start my Royal Air Force tour of duty, the RAF Britannia Aircraft had to stop in Columbo the capital city in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) for fuel. On leaving for Singapore our Aircraft had a bird strike on one of the engines on take-off which forced us to land again. As it was a serious problem which required need spare parts, so we were housed in a high class Heritage style Hotel on the sea front in the south of Ceylon for 5 days. After a frightening time during take-off it was like having a luxurious holiday.

Denmark

During my time in Royal Air Force Germany we operated some of our Harrier Aircraft from a Denmark Air Force base north of Esbjerg for a period of time. We drove there and back as a convoy from Germany to Denmark taking all of our support equipment. This was in early spring so it was quite cold but the Denmark Air Force personnel were very friendly.

France

The first time I visited France was on my Norwich Technical College Trip to Belgium and France in 1955 when I was 14 years old and visited Lille not far from Ghent in Belgium. I flew to United Airlines HQ in San Fransisco using Air France from Paris in 1989 two weeks after the San Fransisco earthquake. I remember the Air France male flight attendants were not very helpful at all during the flight and refused to speak English. In the early 1990’s I visited Paris and Disney Paris with some friends for a few days seeing the Eiffel Tower and River Seine. Also in the mid 1990’s I drove my BMW 750i from Calais to Swissair, Basel in Switzerland via Reims and Belfort through many Tunnels with my staff for a Training Presentation to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and world Airline Executives for a few days which took 11 hours there and 11 hours back at one time reaching 130mph only stopping for food and fuel. Although a long drive it was very enjoyable seeing all the different scenery.

Gan (Maldives)

In 1966 Gan in the Indian Ocean was a Royal Air Force (RAF) Airfield and Base. Its Aircraft Runway stretches almost the whole length of the Island. I was allocated to a VC10 Hospital Flight on my way back from RAF Singapore to England which had to stop for 5 days for the patients on board who were moved to the Gan RAF Hospital for treatment. This gave me and my colleagues chance to enjoy diving off the Pier and swimming in the beautiful clear waters with all the colourful fish just like a holiday. The VC10 just managed to take off at the end of the Runway very close to the sea. Today Gan is part of the civilian Maldives holiday complex.

Germany (West)

I was posted to Royal Air Force (RAF) Harrier Aircraft 20 Sqd Wildenwrath in 1976 and then to RAF Harrier Aircraft 4 Sqn Gutersloh which was nearer the East German border in 1977 until 1979. This was a very tense period with the Cold War between NATO (West Germany) and the Soviet Union controlling (East Germany). In early1985 I was posted to RAF Tornado Aircraft 20 Sqn Laarbruch until my RAF retirement late in 1986. I visited, driving on the German Autobahns that has no speed limit, to many places in West Germany from Hamburg in the North to Munich in the South such as Cologne and its beautiful Cathedral. The other significant part of Germany is the mighty River Rhine which is used for Commercial Barges and Tourist Boats which I have been on. It originates in Switzerland flowing through the whole of Germany and ends in the Netherlands. I also visited the Mohne Dam which was breached during WW2 by the RAF famously known as the ‘Dambusters’ using the ‘Barnes Wallis Bouncing Bomb’. However it was back to original glory when I visited it.

Hong Kong

Most of my visits to Hong Kong have been before China took it over. I visited on business talking to the Hong Kong and world movie companies and the other times on holiday. I also visited Macau only a short boat ride from Hong Kong. I have always enjoyed being in Hong Kong with its Ferries, Trams and bustling population.

Indonesia

Indonesia a country of extremes and is a huge area made up of many islands many of which are not shown in the map. The areas that I have been to are shown in the circles. Jakarta the capital and Bandung were two places I visited for business trips for a Training Contract which I eventually terminated with an Indonesian Aircraft Manufacturer based in Bandung in the 1990’s developing the N250 Aircraft. Bandung City is a place of two halves, the very rich who live in very expensive large houses away from the city centre and the very poor who live in a shanty town environment. I used to fly from Singapore to Bandung in a Merpati Airlines old Fokker 90 Aircraft which I did not like as they were very old.

Bintan is a small Indonesian island just off Singapore that the Nirwana Resort Hotel shown in the image below has a very special place in my heart for personal reasons some 24 years ago and is a super holiday place. Bali which I have been several times long ago is also a very good holiday place having beautiful beaches with Balinese Dancers in their traditional dress that perform typical dances of Bali. I enjoyed being on the Jet Skies as the water can be quite wavy and going on a large Catamaran Boat to another Island to see the Coral and Snorkeling.

Italy

I had two distinct reasons for going to Italy. The First was with the Royal Air Force (RAF) where we went to the Island of Sardinia (Sardegne) near Cagliari for exercises. At weekends I (arrow) would take my team to the north of the Island where we relaxed in our camp site near the beautiful beaches. The second was on two holidays trips to Venice driving from Germany through the Alps and Austria via Salzburg and Innsbruck and parking my caravan near the Venice beach and then visiting Venice itself. Venice is a very unique place where the ‘streets’ between the buildings are in fact small waterways where the ‘Gondolas’ small boats, shown in the image below, taking people and tourists from one place to another. I also took the opportunity to visit the beautiful port city of Trieste not far from Venice.

Kuwait

On my way to Singapore on the same Royal Air Force (RAF) Britannia Aircraft shown in the Ceylon part, we had to stop for refueling at Kuwait. This was a very unpleasant experience as we had to get off the Aircraft and were all, about 100 of us, put in a small room ,no air conditioning, no refreshments for about 6 hours. We were not allowed to leave the room as there were armed guards outside. I was very pleased when we left for Ceylon.

Laos

I visited Laos for a few hours whilst at the Golden Triangle at Chiang Rai in Thailand. This is where Laos, Myanmar ( Burma) and Thailand all meet in the middle of the Mekong River. I went across the mighty Mekong River in a small boat to the Tourist Market in Laos. It was important not to stray into the Myanmar part of the river as it was banned. I also went to the Golden Triangle Arch which is in Thailand but you can see Laos on the other side of the river.

Luxembourg

I visited Luxembourg whilst I was stationed at RAF Wildenwrath in Germany for a couple of days. It is surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany and is a very beautiful small country with many old buildings.

Malaysia

Malaysia has been my home for the past 18 years, however I was first in Malaysia in Feb 1966 with the Royal Air Force at RAF Butterworth in North Malaysia. Malaysia consists of three countries, Sabah, Sarawak and the Malay Peninsular States with the capital Kuala Lumpur. I have visited many places in the Peninsular, like Penang, Malacca, Johor and surrounding Islands such as Redang Island which have beautiful beaches. My home is in the state of Selangor which is near to Kuala Lumpur and is generally a very nice country with a multicultural people who are generally also very nice, as long as you don’t get involved with politics and religion. Malaysia is famous for it Petronas Twin Towers, its production of Palm Oil and Holiday destinations throughout Malaysia and its surrounding Islands.

Netherlands

The Netherlands also known as Holland is one of the World Countries I have visited the most living outside of the country. There are two main reasons. The first is that whilst in the Royal Air Force (RAF) stationed at RAF Wildenwrath and RAF Laarbruch I used to go shopping very often to Venlo and Roermond as it was cheaper than Germany and it was nice to have a day out. Also, I used to go out for day trips to places like Eindhoven, Maastricht, Aachen, Nijmegan and Arnhem. The second was having holidays and business trips to Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam where the Ferry from Hull in England used to dock. Also I used to fly from Singapore to England via Amsterdam Schipol Airport where I changed Aircraft. The Dutch (Netherlands) people are very friendly and most speak English. Holland is very famous for their Tulip flower Fields, Windmills and their Wooden Clogs (Shoes). Overall its one of the best places I have visited.

Singapore

Singapore has been a significant place for me for many reasons. In February 1966 I arrived at RAF Changi and the moved to RAF Seletar to rebuild 4 Jet Provost Aircraft to help with the Malaysian/Indonesian confrontation which ended on the 12 August 1966. Singapore gained its Independence on the 9 August 1966. In December 1966 I was posted to RAF Seletar Electrical / Instrument unit for 3 years. I lived in Seletar Hills near RAF Seletar. In those days Singapore was a very different oldy worldly place, such as Jalan Kayu the nearest village to the RAF Seletar Base and Seletar Hills.

I returned to Singapore in 1990 and the in 1992 for the Asian Aerospace Exhibitions as Managing Director of my own company CTS. In addition in 1992 I was invited to give a demonstration of our Training software to the Chief of the Singapore Navy, on board the Aircraft carrier HMS Invincible which was docked in Singapore as part of Orient 92. I would meet him several more times as a Singapore Minister of Defence and Education when I opened my my Singapore company in 1993. This generated new business with Singapore Airlines, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and the Singapore Ministry Of Defence that meant I needed to visit Singapore almost every two weeks from the UK. For personal reasons I then decided to live in Singapore in the mid 1990’s until 2003.

I was at Orchard Road for the 2000 New Celebrations with another 500 thousand of people. In March 2003 the virus SARS broke out in Singapore forcing me to close my Singapore company and move back to the UK for a short while. Singapore was very different to the 1960’s with modern buildings everywhere you looked but also preserved heritage sites. Today RAF Changi and RAF Seletar are civilian Airports with Changi being one the biggest and one of the best Airports in the world.

Sweden

I visited Sweden in the winter of 1989 to acquire work from SAAB the Car and Aircraft company based in Linkoping and Stockholm. I decided to drive using my brand new BMW 518i by using North Sea Ferries from Hull in the UK to Gothenburg in Sweden. When I arrived in Gothenburg at 1am after a very long and rough sea journey, it was freezing and I was lucky to see some Taxis one of which helped me find my hotel.

The next day I drove to Linkoping although it had been snowing and the temperature was well below freezing. However, the scenery on the way was very beautiful and I stopped at some small Cafe’s on the way. The Swedish people were very friendly and spoke English very well as its their second language. I eventually reached Linkoping and the next day visited the SAAB factory for my meeting.

The next day I left Linkoping and drove to Stockholm the capital of Sweden for another meeting with SAAB. Again the weather was very cold with snow flurries on the way but reaching Stockholm it was very busy. My meeting was the following day so I had chance to see a small part of Stockholm. Although SAAB showed a lot of interest in CTS and our Training Systems and Software, it was so new that they were hesitant to accept this completely new approach to training. After the meetings I then drove back to Gothenburg from Stockholm that took me about 8 hours through this beautiful country which I enjoyed very much for the few days I was there.

Switzerland

I visited Basel in Switzerland for a Presentation to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and about 300 World Airline Executives regarding the Computerisation of Training for the EASA Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Engineers for world wide use, hosted by Swissair. As I have said it took me about 11 hours from my office in Scunthorpe via the Channel Tunnel and France to Basel by my BMW 750iL car shown below with my own number plate. ‘Hogg for CTS’ which was my company.

My team and I stayed for a few days in Basel during the Summer before and after the Presentation discussing the EASA Part 66 Computerised Training aspects, costs and development time. It was clear that after the Presentation the Airline Executives were concerned regarding these aspects but were pleased that these were highlighted by me as they thought this would be a very easy and quick thing to do. It was decide much later that the Airlines would make their own arrangements for EASA Training. Basel was a very nice place with many shops and places outside Cafes and Bars and very friendly people. It also has a very comprehensive Tram System to allow people to get around without having to have a car as they were banned from parts of the city centre.

Thailand

Thailand is one of places I have visited the most due to proximity to Malaysia and ease of access. Visits have been for holidays only on the beautiful beaches and surrounding Islands and for shopping and sight seeing. One of my favourite places in Thailand is Krabi in southern Thailand. I remember some years ago we stayed at the Railay Beach Resort and Spa for Christmas which is a collection of individual cottages and has entrances from Railay Beach and Pool and from the rear Pool and Beach. The sun set is stunning and the beach and sea are idyllic.

We have also visited Pattaya City south of Bangkok which also has a very beautiful Beach and other attractions as most sea side towns have.

One of the best Thailand Islands (Koh) I have been to is Koh Lipe a small Island in the South Andaman Sea. To get there we took a flight to Langkawi Island part Malaysia and through customs to the Thailand part. Then a ferry from the Thailand part to Koh Lipe by a large Ferry which takes about 2 hours. We stayed on Koh Lipe for a few days going out to even smaller islands by Speed Boat. There are also smaller boats called ‘Long Tailed Boats’. The reason is that the engine drives a propeller through a ‘long’ shaft. The waters around Koh Lipe and the other Islands are so clear and green / blue with white sand its just so beautiful and well worth the journey to get there.

Bangkok the capital of Thailand is a bustling city with many places to see but many people go for the large shopping centres where you can spend a whole day buying almost anything you want especially clothing. Chiang Mai is a much smaller city with many types of Temples and is an oldy worldy place with a character of its own. The night markets are a special attraction for locals and tourists.

United States of America

I have visited the United States of America (USA) twice. The first time was in 1985 with the Royal Air Force when we were attached to the Tactical Air Command at the Nellis US Air Force Base Nevada only a short distance from Las Vegas. We arrived from Canada in our RAF VC 10 Aircraft. I was in charge of my team and responsible for final ‘pre-take-off’ clearance of our Tornado Aircraft. As such I had access to a car and Oldsmobile the same style and colour as the image below which allowed me and my senior team members to travel around during our long weekend off duty.

During our off duty time we visited the Hoover Dam in Nevada and then drove through the Nevada Dessert to Disneyland and Universal Studios in Los Angeles which was extremely busy and then to Sea World in San Diego. From San Diego we traveled back to Las Vegas to the casino Hotel we were living in. Were were in Las Vegas for 5 weeks which became quite boring. We then flew back to the UK via Canada in our RAF VC 10 Aircraft.

The second time was in November 1989 only 2 weeks after the Loma Prieta 7.2 Magnitude Earthquake in California including San Francisco. Many of the Highways had collapsed on top of each other. I had already arranged a meeting as Managing Director of my own company Computerised Training Systems Ltd (CTS) with United Airlines in San Francisco. This was to discuss the possibility of creating their Maintenance Training software. After the meetings I had some spare time and some of the United Airlines guys showed me around San Francisco and the famous Golden Gate Bridge. They also took me to a restaurant / bar way up a very high hill overlooking San Francisco Bay area. Overall at that time it was very enjoyable and a unique experience on both my visits to the USA.

United Arab Emirates

I have visited the United Arab Emirates several times for business and pleasure. In 1993 I had a contract with GEC Marconi to develop Computerised Training for their In Flight Entertainment System installed on Emirates Airlines (EA) Aircraft which is based in Dubai. Therefore I worked with the EA Cabin Crew which involved me going to Dubai on a regular basis. I stayed at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel which is shaped like a wave (right). The beach and facilities were fantastic. Whilst there in 1993 I saw the Burj-al-Arab (left) being built. Dubai City was a bustling place with very beautiful high rise buildings near the major river.

Still on the business part I exhibited my company CTS at the Dubai Air Show in 1995 as CTS was now known in this area. I had this CTS Stand especially built in the UK which was modular for transportation, that was used in Dubai and other exhibitions around the world. In addition I had meetings in Abu Dhabi another beautiful City in the UAE.

On a private visit I stayed at a Small Beach Resort which is no longer there but was very relaxing away from the glitz of Dubai City and High End Hotels that I have stayed. Overall Dubai at that time was affordable and less commercialised, however today it has expanded into a rich mans destination as it is a stunning place.

Vietnam

I visited Ho Chi Minh City in South Vietnam once with my Chinese friends. It is a bustling city with an enormous amount of Motorcycles. This is the preferred for of road transport but the shear number and the way there seems to be no rules for movement is amazing. The problem is walking across the road, you simply have to walk into the traffic and the traffic will go around you but its frightening the first time you do it.

This impressive building is the City Hall which overlooks a huge Square in the middle of Ho Chi Minh City that attracts a lot of tourists. The famous ‘banh mi thit nuong’ is a crusty bread roll withe items inside which is also known as a Portuguese Bread Roll. The Bread is fantastic!!

Conclusion

Thank you for looking at this long post and I hope you found it interesting. There are so many places in some countries I have visited which have not included as I have been so lucky to have traveled the world in my life experiences.