Paul Ellington was a 2nd Lt Searchlight Officer with 3rd Coastal Regt RA during 1942-44. He recalls his impressions of Gibraltar; how there was no blackout to blend in with Spain. He recalls how there were 26 searchlights situated on the Rock. He describes personal life and the basic comforts, sports and leisure activities. He mentions the import of Apes to the Rock, the pro-British attitude of the locals and the Spanish work force. He describes the extension of the runway, the RE tunnelling. He goes on to talk about the Ceremony of the Keys, the existence of German spies in Spain, relations with Spain and visits across the border, brothels and the problem of VD.

Copyright Imperial War Museum: Ser 214 / IWM 023174R03

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IWM Reel 3 (29 mins 37 secs)

 Elington, Paul – transcripts