WO1 Robert George (Bob) Blankley, Korean War Veteran and the first SMA (Sergeant Major of the Army), is very ill in hospital
Date: 
Tuesday, 1 December, 2015

Regretfully I must inform you that my brother WO1 Robert George (Bob) Blankley, Korean War Veteran and the first SMA (Sergeant Major of the Army), is very ill in hospital and does not have long to live.  He is suffering from multiple secondary melanoma tumors after major surgery two years ago.  He is currently in Waikato hospital, but is likely to be moved tomorrow, to the Mercy Hospice in Auckland, to be nearer to one of his sons.  I am not sure what if any visiting will be possible as, whilst he has lucid moments he has periods where he does not recognise his own sons. I will pass on any information as it comes to hand.

Regards
John (Woody) Barrett
07 549 4829
027 583 1338