The Way Ahead (1944)

William Hartnell: Sgt. Ned Fletcher

Quotes 

• Lt. Jim Perry : My old battalion were all Territorials so I haven't had much experience of these men just called up. Do they usually make complaints?

  Sgt. Ned Fletcher : Lloyd, sir?

  Lt. Jim Perry : Yes.

  Sgt. Ned Fletcher : Well, all soldiers like a bit of a grumble, don't they sir? After all, it's not very funny to run when you feel like walking, or to stand up when you could do with a sit-down, or to have someone shouting at you when you're doing your best. No, I believe it does the men good to let off steam a bit, sir.

  Lt. Jim Perry : Yes, if, if that's all it is.

  Sgt. Ned Fletcher : Well they're new sir, but there's some good men there. Lloyd for one. he hasn't got the hang of things yet, but he's got the knack of handling men alright. He's a bit of a nuisance now, sir, but later on, he'll make an NCO.