John Guthrie – End of the War

Release and Resettlement

By 1945, the end of the war was in sight, and the government issued this Release and Resettlement booklet to all serving personnel.

This explained their rights and how they could return to their former (or a new) life in “civvy street.”
 
Where life would be very different!

Soldier’s Release book

Each soldier was also issued with an individual Release Book. . .

. . . confirming their period of service, and including a personal reference from their final CO.

John was released from the Army in Austria on 24th May 1946, almost seven years after he had volunteered for four years of service!

Testimonial: “In his wide experience of active service Sapper Guthrie has always been outstanding for his enthusiasm and for his sound common sense. He is an able and competent engine hand who is fully conversant with stationary engines. Known for his absolute reliability and his great willingness he has served the army well.”

The inside rear cover of the John’s paybook

In a happy footnote, on the inside rear cover of John’s pay book is the name & address, of
Miss N. Pratt. 25 Halmyre Street. Leith

John had met her while in uniform and on leave. They were married on 24th December 1948, and had three sons.

Eight Years of “Doing his Bit”.
The proud sons of a Sapper, John, Gordon and George Guthrie. 2022.