ICI Long Service Awards 1965 ~ By Bob Auld

[Hughie]

March 5th, 1965

Long service awards is an Ardeer occasion
Now this annual event has become a tradition
When workers and friends in Nobel's employ
Give time honoured workers a night they enjoy
Many were meeting old friends at long last
Laughing and joking at tales from the past
We honour each other for none can? excel
The trusty old pals we all know so well
So in happy contentment we sat down to dine
With the salt of the earth, your friends and mine
Then all in their turn received an award
On each was bestowed a well earned reward.

Not without sadness mid the mirth and the joy
I saw quite a few I've known since a boy
Those childhood friends from barefoot days
I'm still their debtor in a great many ways
They taught me to reason whenever in doubt
For many did praise, and many did shout
My misty old eyes they began to cloud
God gave them the grace, but weren't they proud
Just proud: you wouldn't say bold
For all knew the name they had to uphold
As I picture the scene, I like to recall
When each in his turn, answered his call.

A moments pause to brace themselves up
For many of them had enjoyed their cup
Then soldier featured concealing their pride
For friends they often try to chide
A carefree wave, to the cheers and cries
Happy pleasure sparkling in their eyes
As down they strode trying to look casual
Head held erect, but that's not unusual
Up to the table with scarce any fluster
The camera flash just added some lustre
A few words of thanks then the presentation
Then back to their friends to share their elation.

Blithe of spirit we now face tomorrow
Hoping the blessing of God will follow
We inherit some wisdom, a gift from time
With honest fame, from this misty old clime
Autumn tints we watch them slowly blend.
As thro the years we steadily wend,
The rainbow's allure, has been chased away
With happy daydreams, that once held sway.
Clear as day each night must follow
Just as sure as time will mellow
The whims and ways of various man
Must in their turn, follow the Masters Plan.