An understanding along with an apology, to all Icelandic people.

It has gone un-noticed for a great many years now just exactly what "went on" in your home waters and there has never been recognition of these events. It is, sadly, a human failing.

A great many good and brave men sailed to your waters and plundered your seas in absolutely horrifc conditions in the winter months, sadly never to return home to their loved ones. Few have concept of the conditions.

I talk of the mountainous seas and sub-zero temperatures...men exhausted by having to work 18 and 6...eighteen hours on deck and six hours below...day in and day out. I talk of rigging icing up as quick as you can blink and trying to hang on for dear life whilst attempting to chop ice away for fear of losing the same! All good and proud men.

Perhaps one day the truth will all come to light, as is my sincere hope! The exploitation of man, let alone resource! Sent to these waters with cattle feed indeed!!!...I never forget.

John

I will explain to the "un-knowing".

We sailed from Grimsby (and that is the only personal experience I am able to give reference to) to the Icelandic waters in the pursuit, predominently, of codfish. The trawler owners were totally and completely driven by money. As a mere boy/young man I was always confused and yet accepting to the fact that the sacks of vegetables for our consumption were sprayed with a purple dye and quite clearly marked...CATTLE FEED - NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. I could go on and on and one day, when the time is right, I most certainly will!

Again, my love to all Icelandic people for protecting me through what was most difficult and testing years for us all. I am, most fortunately, here to tell the tale.

John