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2004 FFR Land Rover 13FM87
Aintree Barracks, Tuesday 7th September 2004.
Ex 55 Signal Squadron FFR Land Rover 13FM87 1974 - 1981 Steve Brisk has been in contact and helped Alan Knell with information about the history and service details of a former 55 Signal Squadron FFR Landrover 13FM87. Alan has restored the ex-MOD lightweight Land-Rover FFR, which he now show's regularly, complete with Larkspur radio kit installed in various configurations. Alan was Invited to bring along and show 13FM87 at one of the Liverpool Branch meetings (September 7th 2004). 13 FM 87 was built in the Land Rover factory in Solihull on 30th January 1974, and delivered to CVD Hilton the next day. It was issued to 55 Signal Squadron (V) on 6 June 1974. On 25 February 1981 it went to 8 Field Force HQ and Signal Squadron, and then on to 6 Light Infantry (V) on 26 October 1981. It stayed there until it was sold off on 16 November 1987. Vehicle data: Truck, Utility, FFR, 1/2 Ton, 4x4, Rover Series 3. Alan had competed his 240 mile round trip from Lemington Spa across to the Aintree Barracks in Liverpool at around 16:00Hrs. I am told the journey wasn't too stressful considering he has a 'fish fryer' trailer on tow. Following the branch meeting it was all hands down to the floodlit garages of 59 Signal Squadron. Once the vehicle had been parked the branch members inspected, scrutinised, examined and gave 13FM87 the full works. We couldn't find fault with the vehicle, it's C42 and C11/R210 radio installation or the accompanying paperwork; Radio Ops Log Books Message pads etc. We are pleased to report 13FM87 passed the rigors of the branch inspection with flying colours. A few ex 55 Signal Squadron members even passed comment 'I don't remember it ever looking that clean'. Some onlookers were observed with one hand on their chin and the other hand vividly trying to re-create the motions of the tuning procedure for the C42 and C11/R210. 13FM87 even drew interest from some of the 'younger' serving members of 59 Signal Squadron. The ex 55 Signal Squadron personnel Chris Dennis, Joe Brougham, John Stanson and Steve Brisk were invited to sign the visitors book. On completion of the inspection it was back up to the Sgt's Mess for a presentation from our branch Chairman Jim Carruthers; a RSA Liverpool wall plaque and a bottle of wine with personalised labels to commemorate the occasion were gratefully received by Alan Knell. Our thanks to Alan Knell for bringing 13FM87; Sgt Ted Littler for arranging accommodation; A special 'thank you' to Capt G DOWNEY PSAO 59 Signal Squadron for allowing us to hold such an enjoyable event. Yet another good time was enjoyed by all! 
(27 photos in total)
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