That's great background on something that would be good in a book, I read an exerpt that one of Smokey's pals put into a Canadian Army website about a recent foray that he and Smokey had taken into some London pubs, after his VC ribbon (or miniature) was spotted they never had to pay again, excellent read.
Back ground info like your dad gave you is all part of the big story to me, it leaves me wishing there was more, but I know from some of the tales my dad left me with, that some stories can only be recalled in the short form, we're just lucky that you are able to share.
That part about the black coveralls sure has me wondering, like was it just over his battledress? Under all his web kit?
Was he wearing black coveralls when he was firing at the Panther? Black coveralls for warmth or night camo, or just because his battledress was at the cleaners?
I've just found your dad's picture on page 88 in my book, 182 on the front fender, is that a Norton?
Thanks for the help!
Bruce