Title:INTERVIEWS WITH CREW OF HMS YORK [Allocated Title]
Film Number:ADM 6389B
Other titles:THE ROYAL NAVY IN THE GULF, 1990-1991 [Allocated Series Title]
Summary: Interview with Petty Officers of HMS York.
Description: In their mess onboard HMS York, a group of Petty Officers face the camera without much apparent enthusiasm. Asked how the ship is coping one of the men mentions the problem of airborne sand and grit which makes it difficult to keep weapon systems clean. Others mention the heat - 155 degrees has been recorded. Nearly six pints of water are needed daily by each man "just to keep up with the heat". Another comments on the impossibility of getting a cold shower. Prompted by the interviewer, one man describes conditions in the engine spaces, where the thermometer has passed its maximum mark, and men sweat so much that they must change their overalls every watch. If "a bit of kit falls over", the chief of section will stay below working on the repair - one man was below for 36 hours in temperatures over 150 degrees. The inadequate air conditioning on the messdecks and the lack of any air conditioning in the passageways are mentioned. A medic says that with men in and out of the heat all the time, many are suffering from colds and mild influenza. Petty Officer (Medic) Farrell answers questions about the system of defence watches which mean that men work 24 hours over a 48 hour period. After five weeks "its getting a bit tedious". Farrell sends greetings to his wife and family.
Alternative Title:THE ROYAL NAVY IN THE GULF, 1990-1991 [Allocated Series Title]
