David Bartlett says “Hello”

3 Dec 2025 - I recently visited MCDOA member David Bartlett MBE and had a good long yarn with him. We have known each other since the early 1970s at HMS VERNON where David served as OIC of the Fleet Clearance Diving Team and later as DTO (Diving Training Officer). He was also a Commanding Officer of HMS LALESTON, VERNON’s diving training tender.

Sadly, David lost Dorothy, his delightful wife for 70 years, earlier this year (see my article for 30 May 2025).

David is now a resident of Admiral Jellicoe House, a naval veterans care home in Southsea, and would dearly love to see any of his old friends and colleagues for a natter. While he has serious mobility issues and is in the early stages of Parkinson’s, he was entirely lucid during our time together. Appointments to visit him can be made via the home’s reception (Tel: 023 9200 099).

Please give this your serious consideration. I guarantee you will not be wasting your time.