War vet's story
A local war veteran's experiences in the navy are among a collection of similar tales in a new book, Memories: Life Aboard KGV*.
Basil Richards of Cuckmere Rise, Heathfield, served on the battleship King George V during World War II.
The KGV took part in the sinking of the Bismarck and the invasions of Sicily and Italy.
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Hide AdAfter a spell in the Mediterranean she sailed to the Pacific, supporting air strikes on enemy oil installations on Sumatra and attacks on Okinawa.
But at the top of Basil's memory is the time he got into trouble for requesting the extra sixpence (just over two pence) a day he was entitled to as an instructor petty officer.