Bernard 'Stan' Atkinson

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Bernard Atkinson Military Service Record 1950 - 1952

Good Friday 23rd March 1950, my 21st birthday arrived.  Among the pile of post, mostly nice, white birthday greeting envelopes, I spotted a brown buff envelope marked H.M.S. His Majesty's Service.  Upon opening, I learned that this letter was from the War Office and they were informing me that I was being called up under the new compulsory National Service legislation act of parliament that had come into force just after the Second World War finished.  This act covered all male members in the UK reaching the age of 18 years and dictated they had to serve in the Armed Forces.  At that time, the term of service was one year, but in June 1950, the Korean War started and the length of service was increased a further year totaling a two year period.

As I was serving a seven year apprenticeship having left school at 14 years of age in March 1943, I had been deferred for 3 years to enable me to finish my apprenticeship to qualify as a fully qualified tradesman.  I was now eligible to be called up.

The letter informed me I had to attend a Military Centre which was above the main Post Office in Jameson St., Hull, for a medical check up and interview.  At the end of the medical ordeal, I was passed out A1 fit to serve King and Country.  After a further interview with an RAF Officer regarding my occupation preferences, I was given two choices on the application form.  Being in the electrical trade, I had a strong interest in the Radio Communications instrument workings and repairing electrical items.  As I was very interested in radio, this was my first choice.  My second choice, Instrument Mechanic, I thought would give me more experience in a different profession but still working in an electrical field.

About ten days later, I received a very important buff coloured envelope marked His Majesty's Service.  Upon opening the letter it confirmed that I had been selected for the RAF.  Enclosed was a rail travel warrant to report at RAF Padgate for one weeks kitting out and initial training.