Hugh
was born in Epsom, Surrey on 13th July 1946.
He had a
strong military background since his father was a regular officer
in the RAF, and also three uncles had served in the army.
One
in particular, Lt. R. M. Bussell (Eric), had a fascinating
history, since he served as a platoon commander in A Company, 3
Para, at Arnhem, actually reaching the bridge. He was wounded and
captured, but managed to escape, and hid with Dutch civilians
until betrayed and executed three weeks later.
Hugh
always hoped to become a regular soldier and began in the Infantry
Junior Leaders Battalion, in 1962 at age 16. However he had to be
medically discharged a year later due to suffering severe
frostbite of his feet.
After
recovery he was able to join the Honourable Artillery Company
where he was able to do some parachute training and jumps.
He
came to Australia in 1971 and, amongst other unusual jobs, drove
cattle trains in the Northern Territory
Since
he came to live in Victoria he has been an enthusiastic member of
BAFA, and has served in several capacities over a long period on
the Committee. At present he is Care and Support Officer.
