My hero

The last few days I’ve been working my through a mountain of letters and documents from Pop’s place. It’s a laborious and monotonous task, one that has not been kind on my back, but I’ve enjoyed learning more and more about this man whom I adored. I only wish I knew all this about him when he was alive. It makes no difference really; I love him still the same, but I feel that I missed out in not knowing all these little factoids about him while he was here with me.

Last night I scanned some letters of recommendation written when he was a young man, younger than I am in fact, and that was the straw that broke the camel’s back. I went outside for a smoke and was suddenly wracked with quiet (yet violent) sobs and burst into tears because my heart felt so heavy with loss. Most days the sharp pain of grief is a not-quite-distant memory, but I guess these things are bound to happen from time to time, especially considering it has only been a little over a year.

Below are some excerpts from the letters of recommendation. The photo is one of my favourites; it shows the cheeky grin that I loved so much.

1929 (aged 15), written by his headmaster from high school (which was a technical college more than a high school):
“He, by honest application to his studies, quickly achieved a position at the top section of this school. He has shown himself quick to apprehend, & honest in effort.”

1930 (aged 17), written by his college teacher/supervisor:
“It affords us pleasure in having the opportunity of saying a word in favour of R. Stanley. He has been a student at this school for the study of mechanical drawing and machine design, attending day classes for a period of twelve months, and has been regular, persevering and interested in his studies. We can recommend Mr Stanley to anyone requiring the services of a draftsman, and the drawings which he can produce will bear out all we can say of him.”

1931 (aged 18):
“It gives me great pleasure to testify to the exemplary character of Ronald Stanley. I have known Ronald for a period of about four years… Ronald possesses a very genial disposition, is thoroughly conscientious and reliable and has more than the ordinary initiative. I have no hesitation in recommending him to any who wish to employ an honest and trustworthy lad, and one who I believe will make good.”

1935 (aged 21):
“This is to certify that the bearer Ronald Stanley is personally known to me as an experienced and capable car driver. He is a very careful and reliable driver, takes interest in his car and I would have no hesitation in recommending him to any person or firm requiring services of a thoroughly reliable and competent driver.”

1936 (aged 22):
“The bearer, Ronald Stanley, was in my employ as a driver of my utility truck for six months ending 2nd January, 1936. I found him honest, capable and efficient in carrying out his duties.”



1937 (aged 23), Scouts Association:
“Holding positions of trust and responsibility, he has shown himself to be most obedient, punctual and honest, and with it a loyal and capable leader. I have no hesitation whatsoever, in recommending him for any position of trust for which he may apply, and will be only too please to give a personal reference on his behalf.”

1937 (aged 23):
“I have known Ronald Stanley for the past 15 years and have always found him to be a very honest trustworthy young man and would recommend him to any one as a truthful and outspoken employee.”

c1945 (aged 30 or so), written by his boss:
“I have always found Mr Stanley to be very dependable and accurate in his designing and drawing, and energetic and intelligent in all his duties, and I will be exceedingly sorry to loose his services.”