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In the absence of any contractual obligation, grading of rank and code of discipline, it was
difficult to weld into a team the whole-time or part-time, trained and untrained members of this service,
and it is not surprising that during the early period of freedom from air raids, and general inaction,
discontent and friction arose. Too many wanted the iron efficiency of a dictatorship as far as others
were concerned while retaining the right to decide everything for themselves and showed little consideration
for those who, at the sacrifice of leisure and amenities, were struggling to assemble and operate
a new machine, of which the plans were incomplete, the parts delivered at irregular intervals and the
design subject to frequent change. Fortunately, the majority showed a real desire to make themselves
efficient, realised the need for patience and discipline, and conducted themselves with credit in
conditions of monotony, discomfort and uncertainty. Throughout the war these "willing horses"
carried the burden, made sure that the services would function, set a glorious example in actual raiding,
gradually welded the services into an efficient and effective machine, and engendered a spirit of comradeship
and tolerance. This change was helped by the establishment of graded rank, the improvement in
general organisation and operational control, social activities, and by the courage, good humour and
appreciation shown by the victims of enemy action. In the absence of enemy activity many gave willing
assistance in the running of the general health services, helped voluntary schemes of all kinds, and by
their own efforts raised funds for worthy objects.
ORGANISATION.—In the beginning the whole burden of organisation, control and operation of
the above services fell on the staff of the Health Department, who cheerfully shouldered this extra
responsibility. With the appointment of depot superintendents and the introduction into the service of
graded rank some delegation of responsibility in regard to the daily routine and operational duties
was possible. Gradually the burden of administration was eased by the appointment of a staff officer,
a billeting officer and clerk, and two clerks to deal with wages, stores, equipment, sickness, leave, etc.,
and thus, despite the call-up to the Forces of experienced staff, the Health Department was able to
continue its normal duties and carry its share of civil defence.
GENERAL.—The response of the British Red Cross Society, the St. John Ambulance Brigade
and the Women's Voluntary Service to any requests or suggestions was immediate and gratifying.
The Police and National Fire Service co-operated at all times, and public utility companies willingly
gave assistance and information. The support and guidance of the Town Clerk and the spontaneous
co-operation and help of my colleagues in other Departments did much to make the rough places smooth.
Mr. Glisson and his staff at Hounslow Baths were particularly helpful when the emergency mortuary
was in use. Of the civil defence casualty service two members warrant special mention: Mr. Phillips,
a part-time volunteer, whose special knowledge acquired in the R.A.M.C. was willingly placed at my
disposal in the organisation of the mortuary service and in the development of a system for handling
and recording stores and equipment; and Mr. Thorp, Staff Officer, who completed his service
by supervising the closing of all depots and posts, and checking, sorting and storing the great volume
of records, stores and equipment. Of the Health Department staff who gave time, toil and talents to
this work I am particularly indebted to Dr. Roberts and Messrs. Butler, Kilby, Crandon, Davies,
Cobb and Allaway, who undertook special responsibilities.