C.P.O. Patrick F. F. Ettie, RN

Pat followed his brothers George and William into the Royal Navy. Born and raised in Gosport, Hampshire his naval career was also predetermined by the premature death of his father. His mother, not able to raise six children by herself, sent Pat to the Royal Hospital School, Greenwich.

One of the principal aims of the Greenwich Hospital Charter being "the maintenance and education of children of seamen".

Pat served on the battleship King George V and is a survivor of the Bismarck conflict. His story is told, in part, by my cousin David on his web pages.

In April 2005 I had the great pleasure of visting with Pat at his home in Middlecroft Lane, Gosport. He was the last surviving sibling of my father George Ettie, and still very alert and independant despite his considerable years. He had indicated, at this time, his intent to paticipate in the Fleet Review to be held on the Solent during the summer. He was evidently excited about this event. Once a sailor always a sailor. As it turned out, for me, this was a very timely visit which was only the second time that I had met "Uncle Pat". The first being when I was a small child in Ireland. I am grateful to have had this opportunity. His passing marks the end of a generation.