From Mike Gibbs.

Eric,

I feel very privileged to have been on the 2009 Quiet Lion Tour. To spend time with ex-POWs Snow Fairclough, Neil MacPherson and Bill Haskell, “Uncles” so-called by our Thai guides, was an experience to treasure. These men have seen and survived the worst of man’s inhumanity to man but also the best of the compassion and self-sacrifice of mateship. When they related events in their steady measured tones, the impact was very telling. Occasionally a memory would tap them on the shoulder and we could see and share a little of their pain. The trip wasn’t just a sombre pilgrimage however, it was also a kaleidoscope of experiences, travelling by longtail boat, Thai Railways and air-conditioned bus. Enjoying exotic meals on a river cruiser, a floating restaurant, a pontoon raft, a balcony overlooking the River Kwae and luxurious well appointed hotel dining rooms. Then there was the shopping, acres of bustling, colourful, lively stalls with the excitement of seeking the right gift at the right price. The Anzac Day service of Hellfire Pass was the exact opposite and gave us all time to reflect and think our own thoughts on all who “gave their tomorrows for our today.” All in all the Quiet Lion Tour is a credit to the Burma Thailand Railway Memorial Association and I would recommend it to anyone.

Mike Gibbs.