Tributes have been paid to former Bratton Silver Band member, Allan Gullis, a veteran who has died aged 99. He served during the Normandy landings in World War II and was the last surviving member of the Wiltshire Branch of the Normandy Veterans Association.
His life was celebrated at a funeral service held at West Wiltshire Crematorium in Semington on Thursday 20th June. The service was attended by family, friends, and fellow band members who had played with Allan, as well as members of the military community, including Lieutenant King and troops from the 9th Regiment Royal Logistics Corps (RLC), formerly the RASC.
Allan was known for his musical talents as a member of several marching bands during his lifetime and as a drummer in dance bands during the war.
Throughout the late 70s, 80s and 90s, Allan played percussion with the Bratton Silver Band. In a tribute, the band said, “He was a very versatile musician and accompanied the band at many community events including concerts and oompah nights. Those of us who knew Allan will remember with great fondness his fabulous sense of humour, which amused us on many occasions.”
Allan was born and raised in Melksham and joined the army when he was about 18 years old. During World War II, he served with the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC) as a driver. He also served during the D-Day Normandy landings.
“All the tributes were wonderful at the funeral,” said Allan’s daughter, Gloria Crossley. “There were so many.”
“When Dad was in the army, he was mainly a driver,” explained Gloria. “He was actually in Germany when the Potsdam Treaty was signed in Berlin. I think he had other jobs as well; he had to clear all of the dead bodies, which he never spoke about.
“The tributes given were not just about the army, though. He was musically minded and was a drummer in dance bands. He had a dance band in the war days. He loved the big band sound and during his funeral, Glenn Miller and Count Basie were played. He was also in the Bratton, Corsham, and Melksham Town Silver Bands, which were marching bands in the carnival.”
