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A Royal Canadian Navy Historical Project
In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
Remembering Allen Alfred: Years ago, respectively 1990/91, I was working as an LPN at Shaughnessy Hospital in Vancouver B.C at both Brock Farni and GF Strong Rehabilitation Center with veterans. I met a fellow, Alfred Allen, who I was told was "unresponsive" and appeared to me be introverted, quiet. I connected with him because of my avid interest in people and war history, and my family background no doubt. He recited a poem to me just out of the blue, and I was so surprised! He told me he wrote it during the War on a ship, a destroyer I believe. I asked him if I could write it down, and being a poet myself am so glad that I did. I found him to be a pleasant fellow, saw him several times, and we had such a laugh over that poem, as he thoroughly tricked me with the ending. How very clever! I imagined him sitting with his mates on that ship playing cards, wondered where he might have been at the time, winning that hand. (submitted by Jean McC.)
'Speaking of Hands'
I held a hand the other night so dainty and so sweet I thought my heart would burst with joy so loudly it did beat! no other hand into my soul so much the solace could bring as the hand I held the other night.... four Aces and a King.
by Seaman Alfred Allen, Canadian Royal Navy, circa 1939-1945
Jean is hoping to locate family of Alfred Allen. If you are related to him, or know of any member of his family that could be contacted, please send an EMAIL - and it will be forwarded to Jean.
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For Posterity's Sake 
