Geoff Pratt joined the British Army in 1968 at the age of 15, inspired by a love of music and encouragement from his future brother-in-law, a serving musician. Originally from Sandy, Bedfordshire, Geoff began his military musical journey on the euphonium, later transitioning to the trombone. Serving with the Royal Corps of Transport Staff Band, Geoff performed across the UK and abroad, including Germany, Cyprus, and Northern Ireland during the Troubles. He recalls the tense experience of performing in Armagh’s town square while armed soldiers stood guard in nearby shop doorways - vividly aware of the dangers military musicians could face in conflict zones. In addition to his musical duties, Geoff trained as an HGV driver, enabling him to transport the band’s instruments across challenging terrain, including through politically sensitive areas under armed escort. His service also included memorable performances such as the Horse of the Year Show and ceremonial parades. Geoff speaks with pride about the role of military music in uniting people, boosting morale, and honouring tradition, and reflects with lasting emotion on the sacrifice of fellow musicians, particularly those lost in the Regent’s Park Bandstand bombing.

John Juby completed an apprenticeship as a cabinet maker before he was called up as a National Serviceman at 20, serving as a corporal in the Royal Norfolk Regiment in Korea. After initial training, he was sent to Korea, celebrating his 21st birthday en route. His journey to Korea included a stop in Hong Kong, where he had a chance encounter with his uncle, a Royal Navy officer. In Korea, he was part of the pioneer platoon and looked after the Korean porters who introduced him to local food, often lacking in hygiene. During his time in Korea, John Juby had various experiences that left a lasting impact. One of the most harrowing aspects of his service was dealing with the casualties, including his school friend, Roy MacDonald, who was killed by a mortar round. He also experienced the stress of friendly fire incidents and the harsh realities of war. Despite these hardships, he maintained a sense of duty and camaraderie with his fellow soldiers.

Jim Grundy tells of his memories from his service during the Korean War. From humble beginnings in Eccles, Lancashire to the perils of Korea, between Busan and Daegu. Born into a poor family, the early years of Jim’s life were difficult and he was glad to join the army as part of the Army Catering Corps. He adjusted to army life well, after the struggles of initial training, which he recalls and in 1949 was sent to Aldershot – his first time leaving Lancashire, before being stationed at Rhyl. It was here that the army discovered that he had trained previously as an undertaker; he was assigned a very special job and dispatched to Korea, to work as a body hunter. Jim describes his first impressions of arriving in a new country and the amicable relationship between British troops and Koreans. He talks with pride about the work done by the small group of five unarmed men, of which he was a part; who worked closely together, helped each other and established a close bond.  The work was emotionally testing, the conditions horrendous. Particular emphasis is given to the appreciation these men received, despite not being on the front line. An arm injury from an incendiary shot, put an end to Jim’s time in the Korean war and allowed him to return home. Jim’s story is one of fortitude and friendship in a heartbreaking job.