CSgt John Baggaridge, who died in Bedford on 14 December 2007, aged 74, was born near Pontypridd, mid Glamorgan. From 1947 to 1950 he lived in seven successive Doctor Barnado’s Homes. He enlisted aged 17 years and nine months into The Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment. After training at the Depot at Kempston he joined the 1st Battalion in the Canal Zone in 1952. He was promoted Sergeant by 1954. He also saw service in Malaysia, Berlin, Aden and with the UN in Cyprus, going on to complete 22 years service, followed by a further 15 years on the Long Service List. He was awarded the LSGC Medal with Clasp and also the MSM with clasp. At home he served at Kempston and Bury St Edmunds as well as time with The Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire TA and the 6th Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment. As a result he had a wide circle of friends and earned the respect of all those he served with.

He retired in June 1988 and set up home in Clapham, Bedfordshire and immediately became actively involved in many ex-Service organisations, including becoming the Branch Secretary of the Bedford Branch. He was respected by all who were privileged to serve with him and know him. Our sincere sympathy is extended to his wife Lois and his daughters at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are therefore with them.

RHM

Picture caption
John Baggaridge and Lois at the Regimental Day 2007.