Vale Jim Erwin

I never knew Jim Erwin the soldier but I wish I had.

My first contact with him was a telephone call regarding The RASigs Assn in about1993. Seeking answers as to where the Assn was heading at that time.

Needless to say we got off to a rocky start. Jim endured the many highs and lows of the Sigs Association during his long service to it.

However, it didn't take me long to realize how much he loved the Corps, its traditions and how dedicated he was to the Sigs Association.

I served on the committee with him for 9 years and in that time I came to value his council, commitment and friendship. Many times he would show up for meetings when it was obvious he was quite unwell. He never let this deter him from accepting the various tasks and always enjoyed being involved. Entrepreneurial skills Memorabilia. Few bob for the Assn.

I remember how excited he was about the Memorial Project. That at last the Corps in this state had a focal point where members and former members could pay their respects to those who had gone before. Bill McKeogh and myself showed up to dig the hole for the rock. Jim said "I can't dig but I will come and supervise" He measured the base of the rock scientifically and transposed the measurements onto the site. As we dug the instructions came thick and fast.

To which I finally exclaimed, "Jim it's only a dam hole in the ground". Quick as a flash the reply came back "Aaah, but it's a special hole and soon to be a special place”. That was Jim.

I remember how we accepted an invite to attend the Princess Royal's Visit

in 2000 for the rededication of the Corps Museum and how much he enjoyed the trip over and back to Watsonia in his "Maroon Henry" How he stood alongside me taking the Mickey when Her Royal Highness stopped to have a brief chat with

me after the parade. Also how much we laughed when we saw the sign on the portable Loo that had been made available for Her Royal Highness – It read "The Royal Flush"

I also remember how he showed up in Albany for the Anzac Day Celebrations in2001 after convincing his brother-in-law to accompany him on the journey at the drop of a hat.

He always loved a parade.

The last time I saw Jim was Anzac Day where he showed up in his capacity

as Unit Marshal, organising the flags and ensuring the group got their act together for the start of the march. It was obvious to me at that time that he was quite unwell. Sadly this was to be his last parade.

The Corps and the Sigs Association has lost a great stalwart and loyal & faithful servant in this state.

RIP JIM

Neville Bergin