Sirmooree Summer 2015

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Colonel Johnny Lawes has also written about Peter Jones:
“I first met Peter in Dehra Dun in 1946 when I was an 18-year old 2nd
Lieutenant and he was a distinguished young Major in 9GR with a DSO and
one eye. My earliest impressions of him were of a very distinguished figure
in a dinner jacket with a black patch over one eye scintillating at many
parties at the Dehra Dun Club and other mess parties and gatherings. His
mother and mine were friends so he heard of my arrival, gave me lots of
good advice, and enrolled me in the 2GR/9GR cricket team. I was at Peter
and Pat’s wedding in Singapore on 11 August 1951 and they remained
friends of mine and were always very kind and hospitable.
Peter was a Company Commander and Battalion 2IC in 1/2GR during
operations in Malaya from 1948. He was transferred to 2/2GR on 12 July
1956 following the death of Bill Truss and Pahalmansing Gurung. He
commanded 2/2GR from October 1960 until April 1963.
I was Commandant 2/2GR when Peter was Colonel Brigade of Gurkhas in
1968. He was very helpful to me and all COs over rundown and
redundancy problems. He was awarded the CBE.
After retirement he was Honorary Secretary of the St John Ambulance
Brigade in Winchester from 1974 to 1984 and was awarded the Order of St
John.
He was a very keen and good cricketer and opened the batting for
Sandhurst and played against the MCC. He played for 2GR throughout his
service. He was also a keen golfer and played both games until prevented
by old age and illness.
Peter was a superlative officer and gentleman. He was a brilliant and
gallant leader and commander: strict and firm but kind and thoughtful with
a great sense of humour. He was dedicated to his men’s welfare and, of
course had a very extensive knowledge and understanding of all matters
military. He was very popular with all his juniors and those under his
command.”
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