PORT ANTONIO, Portland:SPORTING A broad smile and looking as happy as a lark, Patsville Hendricks, who served in World War II, was honoured on Sunday during a Poppy Day ceremony to honour those who fought gallantly in the war.
The 86-year-old World War II veteran, who spoke with Rural Xpress, said he is a proud Portlander who served in the British army from 1944 to 1947.
"It was an honour to serve in the British army," said Hendricks.
He added: "And, yes, there were many challenges as the British soldiers looked at us as the scourge of the earth, and they didn't like our colour. Nevertheless, we proved to be their equal and were perhaps even better at what they did best. There were fears among us, but the training that we received helped a lot, and it was probably because of that why I'm still alive today. We lost men, colleagues, and friends, which was expected, but thank God I am still alive and well."
Hendricks is the only surviving member of his battalion, which fought gallantly in several countries in Europe, including France and Germany. He also went to Saudi Arabia for a brief period, where he discovered a totally different culture and style of religious worship.
The veteran recounted that when he first left Jamaica in 1944, he went straight into training in Yorkshire and went on to serve in parts of the British Isle. He added that his enlistment in the British army did not come easily as many British nationals protested their inclusion, which was further compounded by racial comments and other forms of discrimination.
"Today, I hold no grudge or ill feeling towards anyone. When I returned to Jamaica in 1947, the reception was overwhelming, and that was probably my proudest moment. I am healthy and can still hobble around without any real pain, with the exception of a little arthritis. At first, I was a bit reluctant about accepting today's (Sunday) honour and recognition, however, I thought better, and hence, I am present. Hats off to those who have passed on, and I will continue to enjoy the land of my birth."
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