My late father worked for the MOD here in the UK; his job was primarily classed as floatation (effectively getting any vehicle to float, tanks, Stalwarts, APCs), but he dived, tested over vehicles/tech (and nearly died a few times) and later specialised in mine-clearing, spending time in the Falklands. He also headed up several MOD trials through the 60s-80s for Volvo/Haaglunds 'snow cat' vehicles. As a point of trivia here, he also dived on the Mary Rose as part of Alan Bax's team in 1965/66 and then as REME up until the wreck was raised.
I don't really know much about what he actually did day to day...everything was classified, but as a kid he'd take me into work with him now and again and I had access to some awesome stuff. I go on vehicle sea trials with him as well. It was really great fun.
Anyhow, a couple of years ago my cousin, who also works in the MOD just said to me, 'You haven't got a clue about your dad's work, have you?' I mean, what could I say but just shrug and say, 'No.'
At this point, he just smiled and said, 'Do you know about the German submarine in the Solent? He's a f*cking legend.'
Want to hear more?
