On a troopship bound overseas

9th January 1942: War brings men from all walks of life together, with military service bringing many new experiences

John Colville had worked in Downing Street throughout the Blitz, now he left the shattered city behind. The destruction around St Paul's Cathedral caused by air raids on London is softened by a heavy dusting of snow. A mobile crane and truck can be seen at work to clear up some of the debris, January 1942.