Themes

A C Green

Article highlights

Green during World War Two

During World War Two the RNSM moved from its home in Deal, Kent, due to the nearby action in France.

The School split into Junior and Adult wings with Green accompanying the juniors first to the Royal Marine Reserve Depot in Lympstone, near Plymouth, then to a holiday camp near Douglas on the Isle of Man.

As a consequence Green becomes Director of Music of the Junior Wing. During their time on the Isle of Man the RNSM juniors become quite a presence and played several concerts in the local Villa Marina hall, boosting morale and raising money for the war effort.

Green also helped the Royal Marines Band Service by devising ways to ensure the high standards of the bands of the RNSM while serving at sea.

Royal Naval School of Music Boys Military Band Beating the Retreat, Douglas, Isle of Man 1942.
Royal Naval School of Music Boys Military Band Beating the Retreat, Douglas, Isle of Man 1942. (RMM)

Green gained promotion to Captain in 1942 due to a change in the regulations governing the length of service of his rank in the Royal Marines.

He retired in 1943 after nearly 40 years of service and took a position as a Librarian of the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

In his spare time he was also an unofficial historian of the Royal Marine Band Service and was present for its 50th anniversary concert in 1953. He died in 1974, aged 85.

A C Green's Service Medals including the MBE; 1914-15 Star; 1914-20 War Medal; Victory Medal; Defence Medal; 1939-45 War Medal; Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
A C Green's Service Medals including the MBE; 1914-15 Star; 1914-20 War Medal; Victory Medal; Defence Medal; 1939-45 War Medal; Royal Navy Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. (RMM)

Follow the link to find out more about the Royal Marines Band Service after A C Green