Details kindly provided by John K. Head

Barry S. Gritten

16 JANUARY 1944 - 21 JUNE 1973

RAOC Corps Gazette – August 1973
CAPTAIN B. S. GRITTEN, RAOC

LIEUTENANT COLONEL A. E. YARDLEY writes:

- Barry Gritten was killed whilst dealing with terrorist explosives in Londonderry on 21 June. He was detached from 1 Ammunition Inspection and Bomb Disposal Unit for an emergency tour with 321 EOD Unit RAOC. Barry Became an ATO from the 1967 ATO course and married Valerie at the end of the course. He then joined 26 Joint Service Trials Unit for his first ATO appointment and later joined 1 Combat Supplies Battalion. He came to 1 Ammunition Inspection and Bomb Disposal Unit as ATO Catterick in June 1972, and although he had no take-over, he very quickly settled into his new job and showed considerable enthusiasm and skill. He had many friends in the Army and Police Forces in North East District and was highly regarded by all. He was a happy and devoted family man and leaves his widow and Jolyon, Anna Lisa and Toby, their three children. He is mourned by the Corps, by his many friends in the Army and the Police Forces, and by his civilian friends.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL M. H. MACKENZIE-ORR writes:

- Captain Gritten joined No. 2 Section of 321 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit on 1st May 1973 for a four-month emergency tour. In charge of the section, he led his small band of Ammunition Technicians with skill and determination during a particular difficult period. In the seven weeks prior to his death, on 21st June, Captain Gritten dealt with fifty-four incidents including one at the Derry Football Club which was extensively booby-trapped. His undoubted courage earned the respect and admiration of all who knew him. His comrades in Northern Ireland extend their deepest sympathy to his widow Valerie and their children