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Margaret Hodgson
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Service overseas
Service overseas
Hodgson was part of the first draft of Wrens to serve overseas. To find out more about the Wrens abroad in World War Two , follow the link.
Twenty Chief Wren Wireless Telegraphists, who had all originally trained in a course at the Royal Naval College at Greenwich, formed the draft. They were under the command of Second Officer Betty Archdale. She had taken England's women's cricket team to Australia and New Zealand a few years previously.
Letter to Margaret Hodgson's parents (RNM)
The women in the draft each received a set of guidance notes from the WRNS, which instructed the Wrens that:
'Every member of the party is to remember that they are the first Wrens to proceed abroad during the present war, and that the reputation of the WRNS in the Far East will depend largely upon the impression which they make. It is hoped that everyone will, both in her conduct and appearance, maintain the traditions of the Service.'
The Wrens prepared for their departure, receiving vaccinations and their tropical uniform. The draft sailed from Glasgow onboard TSS Nestor for Singapore in March 1941. The ship first sailed as part of a convoy before sailing on its own to Durban in South Africa.
Hodgson enjoyed her voyage to Singapore. The draft members entertained themselves playing deck games and attending dances during the journey. The meals onboard particularly impressed the British service personnel. The numerous dishes and courses were in marked contrast to the food rationing Hodgson had experienced at home.
Menu Card from SS Nestor (RNM)
Hodgson also celebrated her 21st birthday onboard Nestor whilst sailing between Cape Town and Durban. The ship's Captain, Commander FF Power, presented her with a large wooden key during dinner. The Captain, ship's officers, WRNS draft and friends all signed the key later on.
The passengers then stayed in Durban for a few days whilst the ship refuelled. The Wrens saw some of the local sights and received generous hospitality from the local people whilst there.
Wooden key given to Margaret Hodgson (RNM)
