Max Scard's RAF experiences
Mine clearance in Libya, scouting in Singapore and drinking rice wine in Borneo
By Bridget Conneally
Teller mines in Libya
Photo from WRVS Heritage Plus Archive
Max with Singaporean scout leaders
Photo from WRVS Heritage Plus Archive
Iban longhouse in Borneo
Photo from WRVS Heritage Plus Archive
In Singapore, Max lived above this row of shops
Photo from WRVS Heritage Plus Archive
Mine clearance in Libya
Max Scard’s time in the RAF took him all over the world, including Germany, Cyprus, the Maldive Islands, Malaya, Singapore, Iraq, Libya and Borneo. In the 1960s he completed three tours in Libya, clearing land mines laid by Germans during the Second World War - in the first sound clip Max describes clearing Teller mines.
Scouting in Malaya and Singapore
Whilst in Malaya Max began his long commitment to the Scout Association, which became the focus for his spare time for many years. In Tengah (Singapore) Max helped to establish and run a scout troop at a local secondary school, teaching them practical scouting skills.
Iban hospitality in Borneo
Later in his career, Max was attached to 225 Helicopter Squadron, providing security and support to the S.A.S., Ghurkas and Marines in the jungles of Borneo. In the second sound clip Max recalls one particular visit to an Iban longhouse and describes their unusual method of encouraging guests to finish their drinks!
At home in Hastings
In 1977 Max left the RAF and settled near his family in Hastings, where he has continued serving others, as a member of community groups and through various voluntary activities.
You can learn more about Max's life here.