Mr Arthur (Alan) Smith

My Dad – the gardener.

~ Pam Martin

Alan Smith was called up to the Army in 1942. After completing his basic training in Shrewsbury, Alan was posted to The Royal Corps of Signals as a Wireless Operator. He served for a year in Egypt, and was then transferred to Italy, where he saw combat with 73 Medium Regiment of the Royal Artillery before being transferred back to the Signals Office.

Alan was mentioned in dispatches for his gallant and distinguished services in the Mediterranean and, throughout his career and retirement, wore the bronze oak leaf on his 1939-1945 War Medal with enormous pride.

Alan joined The Royal Star & Garter Homes as a resident at our Solihull Home in October 2013, where he could receive specialist care from a team of supportive staff to help him live life to the full.  Always a keen gardener, Alan took great pride in looking after the terrace and hanging baskets in the Solihull Home. He was absolutely delighted when the Home’s Linley garden won the ‘Best Community Area’ Award in the annual Solihull in Bloom Competition.

Alan and his family very kindly allowed the Charity to share his story in our publications, helping to raise awareness and funds for the care of fellow veterans in our Homes.  He will be greatly missed, and the deepest sympathies of everyone at The Royal Star & Garter Homes go to Alan’s family.