RQMS John Richard Owens
16.11.25 - 27.3.06
John Owen served with the Worcestershire Regiment throughout his soldiering career. His first contact with the Territorial Army was when he was posted as PSI to HQ Company 7th Bn The Worcestershire Regiment TA based in Worcester. He later moved as PSI to A Company based in Dudley. In 1967 when the Territorial Army was radically re organised he moved to Kidderminster as Q PSI to form B Company [Worcestershire] Mercian Volunteers. He continued at Kidderminster until his retirement from the Regular Army. He then became the civilian Vehicle fitter and continued in this capacity until final retirement. During this time he was also RQMS to the 1st Bn Mercian Volunteers.
On the February 19th 1980 he was awarded the Commander in Chief's Commendation presented by Major General J A Ward Booth OBE GOC Western District for his contribution to the Battalion.
It would take far too long to relate the many highlights of John's career, but his commitment to B Company in particular cannot be ignored. Due to his hard work, dry sense of humour, enthusiasm and drive B Company was able to make a good start in the new Volunteer world. His support in many other areas enabled the Company to develop strong links with the local community.
On his final retirement from the service environment he began another successful career as a nurseryman; He was still working when he was taken ill. John will long be remembered by many of his colleagues who served with him; both regular and Volunteer. Mercian was represented at the funeral by Lt Cols Jeavons and Clarke, Capt Adams and Band Sgt Obrey. At Worcester Crematorium on 3rd April 2006
