In 1967 I was asked to help revive a B.B. Company whose Captain was a good friend. I became a warrant Officer in the 107th Belfast connected with St. Nicholas Parish Church on the Lisburn Road in Belfast. I undertook my basic training in 1968 and continued to serve until 1972 when the troubles were affecting everyone and it often took me 45mins to 1 hour to travel a journey which today we would do in 20-25mins.

I had married and was living in Carrickfergus and had joined Joymount Church. 2nd Carrickfergus then became my home company for 13 years, until the establishment of a Church Extension charge at Downshire. I had been serving on the interim Kirk Session and was asked to form a new company which in 1886 was enrolled as 6th Carrickfergus.

After serving 10 years as Captain I stood down although continuing to serve as an Officer. In 2001 I was asked to understudy Brian Smyth who had indicated his intention to retire after 35 years in the post of Battalion Secretary and was elected as Secretary in 2002.

During my time as an Officer in Carrickfergus I have been involved in all committees of the Battalion and have been also been involved at NID level in the activities committee, drill judging and serving on the staff of various training courses mainly Queen's badge Leadership and OBT/YLT. I have recently been appointed a Brigade Training Officer.

I have been married to Elizabeth for 34 years and heve two daughters Beth and Sally. We have all served as Officers in 6th Carrickfergus and between us have given 60 years of service to the Boys' Brigade.