John Leahy

Adrian Hayward-Wills writes:

Serving with John Leahy was a pleasure.

I first met John on Tuesday September 8th in 1981, we trained, served and laughed in the same 
Platoon - Alamein Platoon - and we were even billeted in the same room! He was in possession 
of a fine and keen sense of humour which enabled him to make and retain friends quickly.

An aspiring military professional, he was able to adapt quickly to the physical demands of 
Junior Infantry training and demonstrated considerable tact and diplomacy when dealing with 
others and as I have said before, great humour when dealing with difficult and demanding situations. 

Within the confines of the RAOC Apprentice College Corps of Drums, John was skilled enough to play 
the Lead Tipper on the Snare Drum, often playing solo when required. This was particularly evident 
in the Freedom Parade of Viersen in Germany, where the Corps of Drums accompanied the RAOC Staff Band in 1982.

During Exercises he was always calm under pressure; his most endearing characteristic was his enthusiasm 
and dedication to all tasks, this is turn earned him quick promotion. In short, John’s decision-making 
skills were deliberate, calculated and for the benefit of those other Junior Leaders around him.

John Leahy inspired others and will be missed by his family and those that had the unique and fortunate 
pleasure of meeting him.