Tuesday 29th November 2011
The launch of David Walsh’s book, ‘A Duty to Serve: Tonbridge School and the 1939-45 War’, took place at Skinners’ Hall on 8th November. Nearly 200 guests attended, many of whom had contributed to the book their own first-hand experience of this unique period of Tonbridge’s history. The Headmaster, Tim Haynes, welcomed the guests, and Sir John Leahy spoke about the book and about his memories of being at school during the war. David Walsh explained his motivation in writing the book and thanked all those who had helped, particularly the late Bevil Mabey who had made a very generous contribution to cover the costs.
The project had taken David about eighteen months, from the initial idea to publication, and he was grateful for the many inspiring individual stories which OTs and their children had given to him. He felt that all Tonbridgians should feel a great pride in what that wartime generation endured and achieved, and the book was dedicated to them. All the proceeds from the book are going to the Tonbridge School Foundation.
Anyone wishing to purchase a copy should email je@tonbridge-school.org with their contact details. The shop will then be in touch regarding payment and delivery.
David Walsh and his family