Thursday 24th December 1942

I started in galley again, after swearing I'd never go in galley again, but the steward is different. Forgetful but quite a nice decent chap and clean. He is very glad to have me and already we are pals. I do not have to peel spuds now as we have got a boy, tired but willing, slow to grasp anything. Some of the crew are glad to see me there, as also are some of the officers.

Typical Galley

The Yankee ship behind started firing. We thought they were in trouble, only practice.

We arrived in Belfast at 4:30 to be greeted with more firing from shore. Anti aircraft at target towed by plane. Lovely sight, puffs in sky over sea. Saw the sunken ship again. Boys no more sea sick.  Had more rum and whisky tonight, it being 1:30 Xmas morning before we got to bed. Cook and I worked all this while preparing for Xmas day. The Steward did the turkey, seven of them. We had to steam then bake them. I did the pies and the cook the puddings and cake. Enough for 47 hungry gits who won't , nor  never do, appreciate it.

Here is the Xmas Menu.

• Porridge or Corn flakes
• Ham Eggs mashed potatoes
• Tea or Coffee
• Marmalade,

Dinner

• Soup (pea)
• Turkey
• Peas and beans (French) Baked and boiled, Seasoning
• Christmas Pudding
• Cheese coffee Tea.

TEA

• Fish and Chips
• Cold Ham
• Fruit Salad
• Orange apples ,nuts
• Cake
• Mince Pies

How's that?!