Warrant Officer Class 1 (RSM) RA Carpenter Royal Anglian Regiment

Obituary for Warrant Officer Class 1 (RSM) RA Carpenter

WO1 (RSM) Russell Arthur ‘Jim’ Carpenter died on 16 Jul 2012, aged 68, after a long illness. Jim served with The Royal Anglian Regiment and its parent regiments for 22 years, ending his service as RSM of 6 R ANGLIAN (V).

At his funeral on 1 Aug, the chapel was full with many standing in the aisles and outside. The large number of ex-Royal Anglians that attended was an indication of the very high esteem in which Jim was held. As it was Minden Day, Minden Roses were worn by a number of those attending.

We heard in the address that during his service career Jim was a boxer – a fighter. This spirit was evident as Jim fought valiantly against his illness.

In spite of reaching the position of RSM, Jim was also a quiet person, keeping himself to himself; but there was also something about him which said ‘don’t mess with this guy’. He was also a loyal member of the Ipswich Branch and was our Parade Marshal at various parades.

Our thoughts are with his widow Fiona and his family. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

PC