Frank Edward Hannaford

Corporal Frank Hannaford worked for Devon County Council as a lengthsman.  His two eldest sons were also Auxiliers in Brixham Patrol along with his brother-in-law Frank Williams. His wife's cousin, Sydney Williams, was also an Auxilier in Mullion in Cornwall and they often visited after the war. It can only be wondered at how the conversation went when they first saw each others lapel badge. His wife Mabel found some Mills bombs stored under the bed and asked what they were. Fank told her she didn't want to know so she insisted they were removed. A keen gardener, he would, in later life, always start garden bonfires with a small explosive devise!

His unrivalled local knowledge of the landscape meant Frank was in charge of the logistics. It is said he always had an escape route planed. He was a true countryman and excelled at field craft. A quiet and gentle man he was hugely patriotic.

He served with the Royal Army Service Corps throughout World War 1 as a driver but working closely with the war horses. He first served in France 30th August 1915 and was awarded the Victory, British, and 1915 Star medals. At some stage during a lull in fighting, Frank's Commanding Officer organised a "Grand National" horse race. Frank won and was awarded a fob watch. He married Mabel Annie Williams 24 July 1915 in Brixham before going away to war. He was stationed at Pirbright Camp in Surrey at the time.

Frank Hannaford and Sergeant Walter Minns were of a similar age and had both witnessed the horrors of the Great War. Though they made sure their men were well tested, disciplined and ready for their intended roll they also kept a fatherly eye on their young charges and managed to get a few out of some sticky situations.

After the war Frank often represented the Brixham Branch of the British Legion on Remembrance Day at the Albert Hall.