When, in summer of 1987, I was told to report to the late John Borg Cardona, then commissioner of inland revenue, I recognised the Administrative Block (Blk 2) as the former medical centre I used to attend from my early childhood to 1970 when the RMA and the Royal Engineers Regiment ceased to be part of the British Army and later was transferred to St Patrick’s Barracks, which I used to attend until 1977.

I still remember Dr Bonello, Dr Camilleri, the brothers Zammit Maempel and Dr Antoine Schranz. The only survivors I believe are Dr George Debono and Dr Antoine Schranz (although the latter never served in Floriana).

There were the medical orderlies but I only remember the surnames of some of them: Grixti, Azzopardi, Zahra, Calleja, Jackson, Abela and Borg. Besides these there were MMDNA nurses but I only remember one surname: Farrugia (Raffaella Farrugia?).

There were, of course, the patients, some in their early childhood and today most of them in their 60s.

I would like to organise something, maybe a Mass for those who have gone to ‘greener pastures’ and perhaps a get-together. Most of those who have served at the clinics (mostly referred by servicemen as MI Rooms) are no longer around). Perhaps the relatives of the departed can submit a photo of their dear ones.

There is already a Facebook page – Tlaqna l-MI Room – and I can be contacted either on sapianoeugene@yahoo.com or on 7920 4518.

Please let us not forget those who used to do their duty well.