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The ship I was serving on was the S.S.Empire Daring we were re-called back to England from the Italian area of Operations
to prepare for, What was to be the Liberation of Europe. We loaded Armements in one of the London Docks and when we were loaded we sailed to France arriving off the Mulberry Harbour during the night.
When I awoke next morning there was all sorts of noises and activities going on.
when I went on deck there seemed ships of all sizes anchored about us. Some were warships some merchantmen. Immediately on our port side about 200 yds. away was the s.s.Harpagus
Later that morning the Harpagus was blown up. It was many years later that I discovered the the only casualty was the Captain and that the ship was salvaged and a new bow part fitted and she sailed again.
Each ship in the area was allocated an Army signaller who kept in touch with his Headquarters by using those heavy duty telephone type handsets.
As a Cadet I was assigned to the Bridge area where the signallers were and I was more or less a messenger.
During these shifts any signals were soon dealt with.
I became aware the the signaller seemed to be using one of his recievers but not makeing any notes. However before long he must have noticed my curiosity and he called me over. He then handed me one of the handsets and I was amazed that out of this hanset was coming the most beautiful dance music. He allowed me to listen a little longer and an announcer came on to welcome everyone to the A.F.N. The American Forces Network.
This was my Introduction to American Dance Music We were able to hear Glen Miller, Tommy Dorsey and Harry James and other american Singers of the day.
I shall remember for the rest of my life the Programme "Dufflebag" and it haunting signature tune "Out of my Dreams and into my Heart"
I am pleased to say that after the hostilities I was able to sail to America in this same ship and heard more of this music on their Radio stations .

JIM GOWANS

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