Harry Marrington

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A veteran interview with

Harry, a Seaman Gunner Royal Navy Patrol Service (RNPS), served on the trawler HMT Olvina during WW2. He gives a vivid description of escorting Atlantic convoys, and a first-hand account of the D-day landings. He also paints a picture of life aboard HMS Olvina, and shares the unforgettable memories he got being one of the ship’s crew.

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About Harry Marrington

Harry found his way into navy, after initially trying his hand as an apprentice shipbuilder. He trained in Collingwood, and then joined the HMT Olvina (a converted fishing trawler).

After getting used to seasickness, Harry explains how seaman got more responsibility aboard ship and the story behind “Harry Tate’s Navy”.

HMT Olvina escorted several Atlantic convoys and it would soon serve another purpose, as Harry recalls HMT Olvina’s role in the D-day landings. Anchored off Omaha beach, Harry recounts the waves of men and machines struggling to get onto the beach amidst the German air and land defenses.

Harry shares what it was like being aboard and sleeping on the HMS Olvina, its weaponry and its close encounters with the enemy. He then reflects on his memories from that time; a particular woman who Harry sailed with, being transferred to Guildford and getting married during the Normandy campaign. His most vivid memory was of a U-boat attack which killed several Auxiliary service-women.

War didn’t change Harry, but he knows the sacrifices other men made. He wants us to remember what WW2 was about and those who fought in it.

Credits

Interviewed by:
Brig. C Elderton
Reviewed by:
Darren Chin

Transcripts:
Please note that transcripts and closed captions in the video player are automatically generated by Vimeo.

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