The Semaphore Circular No 632
The Beating Heart of the RNA
August 2013
Semaphore Tower with MoD Police boats in the foreground Find Semaphore Circular On-line ; http://www.royal-naval-association.co.uk/members/downloads or... RNA Website – Members Area – Downloads – Circulars – Code (Shipmate)
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Dear Shipmates (Secretaries and our on-line readers) Welcome to our August edition of the Semaphore Circular, the Dockyard is very busy as I write with a major rock festival, an American submarine arriving and a Royal Yacht due to berth on Victory jetty. We have had some lovely and encouraging feedback on the Naval Service memorial piece in last month’s circular. I am pleased to say that we have now completed the formal submission to the National Memorial Arboretum and our artist dropped in the package on Thursday. He has been working on glass thickness and the process that will make the colours completely permanent. I am thrilled to report that the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity have given us a £20,000 grant to the memorial. The Second Sea Lord has allocated a Royal Marine Band and we have secured a VVIP – so systems swinging along really well. As you might imagine we are expecting attendance at Conference next year and the memorial dedication afterwards to be really high in our 60th anniversary year – so please don’t delay but get your hotel bookings in – form at the back of the Circ. Fast approaching is the Biennial Parade on 8 September. We now have 12 Arctic Stars to be presented and the Second Sea Lord will be joined by the veterans Minister (an RNA member). We also will have contingents from our friends in the IMC (Belgium and Holland) as well as the Irish Naval association. He hope for a good turnout from other Naval associations through our connections with the Conference of Naval Associations. So come along and meet some old mates and make some new friends. If you know of anyone who would like an Arctic Star presented PLEASE PLEASE let me know as soon as possible. There are two nice invites in the Circ from Harrow branch and RNA Uxbridge for post parade get togethers. Also please have a good think about those who might want to attend at the Cenotaph parade or if your branch would like to place a cross in the RNA plot at the Festival of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey. Again contact Nigel for either event, or if you would like to rub shoulders with the First Sea Lord and a member of the Royal Family at St Paul’s Seafarer service. There is an important note for Branches with a club on the following page, please ensure that it is passed on. Also we have just submitted model RNA rules to the FCA – more later. Finally I would like to recommend a book to you ‘We come unseen’ by RNA member Fred Read. I read it on holiday and I have to say it is written by a sailor for sailors – full of the right calls, jargon and dits - it is a fast moving story easy to read and great fun. Also any money he makes will go jointly to BLESMA and SSAFA. Details in the Circ below. I look forward to seeing you at some of the events I have mentioned – if not have a great last bit of summer and a good holiday if you are off when the schools go back. Don’t forget two things, book you hotel for next year and plan that fund-raiser for the Naval Service Memorial as our Charter Challenge project.
As ever, Paul General Secretary
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Important Notice At the back of the Semaphore Circular you will find the new C3 form for Club registration. This year you must also submit a copy of your Amended Club Rules and a copy of your most recent Accounts along with your C3 form.
These MUST be completed and returned to HQ by the due date in December, failure to do so may result in withdrawl of your licence as an RNA club and hence your inability to trade.
Daily Orders
1. Charter Challenge 2014 – RMRNC Donation 2. Biennial Parade 3. Cenotaph Ceremony 10 Nov 13 4. Field of Remberance 7 Nov 13 5. Newsflash… Royal Marine Joke 6. Ushakov Medal – Update 2 7. ITV Surprise Surprise 8. 2014 RNA Diary 9. Biennial Parade RNA Uxbridge Alternative ‘Watering Hole’ invitation. 10. We come unseen 11. Gen Dit .. has this happened to you 12. Finance Corner – Michelle 13. Guess Where? 14. MP goes to Heaven Joke 15. The Annual National Service for Seafarers 2013 16. The ACME ‘I’m back on a ship experience’ Kit. 17. Can you help? 18. The lost sailors of HMS Illustrious 19. Memory Lane 20. Reminiscing with Ray ‘Fixed Wing’ Barraclough 21. IMC Camp – Plon Germany 22. Double Seven Reunion 23. Royal Hospital School Bursary Scheme 24. A Grand Reunion for a motorcycling ‘ 25. Burnside Croft Holiday Cottage Discount Offer 26. Pembroke House Care and Nursing Home 27. Book Review 28. Film Extras 29. Hospital and Medical Care Association (HMCA) Deal
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“D’ye hear there” (Branch news) Shortcast Longcast Ship’s Office 1. Swinging the Lamp For the Branch Secretary and notice-board Glossary of terms NCM NC AMC FAC NCh NVCh NP DNP GS AGS Asap Throughout
National Council Member National Council Association Management Committee Finance Administration Committee National Chairman National Vice Chairman National President Deputy National President General Secretary Assistant General Secretary As soon as possible indicates a new or substantially changed entry
Contacts: Financial Controller
023 9272 3823
michelle@royalnavalassoc.com
FAX
023 9272 3371
Assistant General Secretary (Membership & Slops)
023 9272 3747
nigel@royalnavalassoc.com
Assistant General Secretary (Shipmates Programme Manager Circular, Events & Marketing)
023 9272 0782
andy@royalnavalassoc.com
Shipmates Administrator
023 9272 0782
chrissie@royalnavalassoc.com
General Secretary
023 9272 2983
paul@royalnavalassoc.com
Admin
023 92 72 3747
admin@royalnavalassoc.com
RNA HQ Staff continue to attempt to build a library of e-mail addresses within the Association. It would be extremely helpful if those Branch Secretaries able to communicate by e-mail would forward a short e-message to HQ to nigel@royalnavalassoc.com Snail Trail Mail - Postal Address RNA HQ, Room 209, PP70, Semaphore Tower, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth Hants PO1 3LT 4
Daily Orders 1.
Charter Challenge 2014 – RNRMC Donation
The Naval Service Memorial The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity is proud to announce its support of the The Naval Service Memorial; the first all-inclusive memorial to commemorate those who have served, serve today and will serve tomorrow regardless of rank, trade or fighting arm. The Charity’s £20,000 gift will contribute to the construction of the memorial, which will be placed in the Naval Section of the National Memorial Arboretum. Chief Executive Robert Robson says: “Graeme Mitcheson’s highly innovative design – using glass panels, sculpture and the sun’s natural rays – is a timeless piece. Robert continues: “The memorial pays tribute to all of our Navy personnel, irrespective of their rank or division, in the most touching and sensitive of ways. It will offer visitors a visually immersive space from which to quietly remember their comrades and loved ones. It is truly powerful – and this is why the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity is proud to offer its support.” To date, funding for the Memorial has been sourced from a number of supporters including the Royal Naval Association National Council and other contributors both individual and collective, yet further funds are still needed. The Memorial will be dedicated at the National Memorial Arboretum on 15 June 2014 (be there!!). Support the Memorial Donations can be made to the Royal Naval Association. Please contact Paul Quinn on paul@royalnavalassoc.com or 02392722983.
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RNA Biennial Parade - Whitehall Sunday 08 September 2013 ‘Heads-Up’
The RNA Biennial Parade will take place at Whitehall on Sunday 08 September 2013 at 1100. All Branches are encouraged to parade along Whitehall and on completion attend that post march refreshments at the Civil Service Club. The reviewing Officer this year will be the Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel CBE who will be accompanied by the Right Hon Mark Francois MP Minister for Defence Personnel, Welfare and Veterans will be there too (He is a member of Rayleigh Branch). We are delighted to report that there will be representation from the Irish Naval Association and from the Naval Associations of Belgium and the Netherlands (through the 5
IMC). An invitation has been extended through the Conference of Naval Associations for other Naval Service Associations to join us; both HMS Collingwood and HMS Sultan have agreed to provide marching platoons of Phase 2 trainees. It is important that we produce a great turn-out so that we don’t lose this unbelievable privilege so please make a date in your dairies and encourage as many Shipmates as possible to attend this prestigious event and show what a super association the RNA really is. Programme for the Day 0900 HQ staff on site, meet with Met Police Senior Officer 0915 –Civil Service Club opens for coffee and toilets (80 metres from Coach parking) 0930- Parking for coaches and minibuses in Whitehall Place All coaches + Cars to be clear of Whitehall Place by 1200hrs- Alternative parking is on the Embankment behind MOD Main Building. 0945 - All Vehicles to be parked 0945- Whitehall Place and South Whitehall closes. 1025- Parade musters and is briefed by Parade Commander. 1040 –Parade steps off, from Whitehall Place 1055- 2nd Sea Lord + Min (PWV), NP VIPs GS join the parade 1100 -Service starts, 2 minute silence 1102 –Service at Cenotaph led by the Chaplain of the Fleet 1123 – Award of Arctic Stars 1127 –Parade steps off, review by Second Sea Lord and Minister 1140 - Parade addressed by NP/Minister 1145 –Parade dismissed in Whitehall Place 1146 –Issue of Standard Bearers ‘Tots’ outside Civil Service Club 1147 –Bar opens in Civil Service Club - 2SL and Minister meets Shipmates Parking - VIP Parking for official cars will be in Kings Charles Street for the duration of the event. (this facility is very limited and the number of spaces will therefore be strictly controlled by HQ staff) Parking for coaches and minibuses will be in Whitehall Place. (Parking passes will be supplied by HQ on request) All Coaches and Cars are to be clear of Whitehall Place by 1200hrs, when London parking restrictions come back into force. Alternative parking can be found on the Embankment behind MOD building on the westbound carriageway, next to the river, only 300 metres away – there are no restrictions or charges on Sunday for coaches/minibuses. Rig - Rig for those participating will be Uniform 1B for those serving and RNA rig with Medals, Lounge Suits with RNA tie or equivalent Civil Service Club - The Civil Service Club (Great Scotland Yard) will be open for coffee and toilets from 0900 onwards ( Shipmates please note; there are no toilet facilities at the Cenotaph). On completion of the parade the Civil Service Club will be open for refreshments. Standard Bearers may leave their kit at the Club for safe keeping until after the parade. Standard Bearers are invited to receive their traditional ‘Tot’ of Pussers for their efforts and endeavours in the smoking area just in front of the Club.
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Remembrance Sunday – Cenotaph - 10 November 2013
The Royal British Legion will once again be co-ordinating the Ex-Service Contingents attending the Cenotaph Ceremony & March Past on Sunday 10 November 2013. All those who have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces under British Command as well as War Widows / Widowers are eligible to take part. If any Shipmate would like tickets for this year’s Ceremony (limited number available) please let RNA HQ know (by letter or email) by 31 August at the latest, please include your name, address and telephone number and a list of those attending. If any of your members require a carer for the day (one carer per participant) they must also be in possession of a ticket. Please note that those parading are likely to be standing in Whitehall for at least 1½ hours prior to the March Past then marching for a distance of over 1 mile, and quite possibly in inclement weather. Further parade instructions will be sent with your tickets which will be despatched towards the end of September. If you have any queries regarding the Cenotaph Ceremony then please contact Nigel, Andy or Philip at RNA HQ. Also note; RNA tickets will only be available for members (so join them up!) and it is expected that those with RNA tickets will march with the RNA squad
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Field of Remembrance – Thursday 7 November 2013
If branches wish to place a cross in the RNA Garden of Remembrance please place your orders with Nigel at HQ. Again those who want to attend then please forward your details to Andy or Nigel as entry is by ticket only, which you can obtain from HQ. On the day you will also be required to bring a form of ID with you, and you will need to be through the garden gate by 1015 and muster at the RNA plot, where there will be followed by a short service. The National President and General Secretary will be in attendance and the GS can be contacted on his mobile – 07850 646755 (if required)
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5.
Newsflash ..... Royal Marine Escapes Injury
A Royal Marine narrowly escaped serious injury recently when he attempted horseback riding with no previous experience. After mounting his horse unassisted, the horse immediately began moving. As it galloped along at a steady rhythmic pace, the Bootie, who has not been named, began to slip sideways from the saddle. Although attempting to grab for the horse’s mane the Royal could not get a firm grip. He then threw his arms around the horse’s neck but continued to slide down the side of the horse. The horse galloped along, seemingly oblivious to its slipping rider. Finally, losing his grip, the rider attempted to leap away from the horse and throw himself to safety... However, his foot became entangled in the stirrup, leaving him at the mercy of the horse’s pounding hooves as his head and upper body repeatedly struck the ground Moments away from unconsciousness and possible death....... To his great fortune a Royal Naval Rating was shopping at ALDI and saw him and quickly unplugged the machine.....
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Ushakov Medal – Update 2
The HQ has been informed (22nd August) that the MOD will be sending out applications for the Ushakov Medal during the next fortnight to holders of the Arctic Star Medal. The applications need to be completed and forwarded to the Russian Embassy (the address will annotated on the application forms) The Medal of Ushakov was a Soviet military award created on March 3, 1944 and named in honour of Russian Admiral Fyodor Ushakov (1745-1817) who never lost a battle and was proclaimed patron saint of the Russian Navy. It is awarded to those who show bravery in the naval arena. In 2012 Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed a decree awarding the medal to foreign veterans for outstanding contributions to the Allied War effort.
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ITV1 ‘Surprise Surprise’ TV Series
ITV are currently working on the ITV1 series 'Surprise, Surprise', which gives deserving people from around the UK special treats. A very central part of the format is the reunion items, and for 8
the show which is due to air on Remembrance Sunday, they would like to facilitate and film a military reunion. ITV film the reunions in their studio in London, having looked back at the person's story and finding out why they're keen to meet up with the person they're reuniting with. The filming would be around a month before Remembrance Day, but shown on the day itself. For further details please ring 02071574550 or e-mail surprisesurprise@itv.com or write to Surprise Surprise, Entertainment, The London Television Centre, Upper Ground London SE1 9LT. (Ed’s Note... Sorry to disappoint many Shipmates of a certain age but sadly Cilla is no longer presents. However Holly Willoughby does a pretty good job, if I say so myself!) (GS note: Back in your trousers Andy)
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RNA Diary 2014
It‘s that time of year again......... The 2014 RNA Diary is now available. This year you can buy a new cover with your diary if needed or just the Diary insert alone. We also have complete diaries too. Despite the rise in postage we have chosen to keep the prices the same as last year. Please use the order form at the back of this Circular. As in previous years the diary can be used from the 1 October this year.
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Biennial Parade RNA Uxbridge Alternative ‘Watering Hole’ invitation.
R.N.A. Uxbridge Branch would like to invite any shipmates attending the Biennial Parade on the 8th September to pop into a proper Royal Naval club on your way out of London , don’t forget the Civil Service club cannot cater for you all !!!! We will provide you with free big eats and of course a Tot or two , Our bar Prices are the cheapest around so forget about being ripped off in London for £5 a pint when ours on average is only £2.50 a pint , Free Coffee and Tea for those who have more sense !!!!. We are easy to find , come out of London west bound on the A40 and when you spot RAF Northolt on your right come off at the next exit and we are at the bottom of the slip road on the left ( see www.uxbridgerna.com ) 9
We have room for mini buses and coaches to park free of charge . All we ask is let us know if you are coming so that we can cater for you , might even try and get Geordie (ex pox doctors clerk) to come and entertain you all with a mini sods opera. Please contact us rna.uxbridge@hotmail.co.uk or on 01895 230071 10.
RNA Author – We come unseen
The GS warmly recommends this great book of submarine adventure in the Second World War off Australia. The story follows the boat’s TS and is spot on for submarine jargon, naval dits – etc. You may not be able to put a snort on afterwards but maybe after re-reading …… Proceeds go to BLESMA and SSAFA. If you would like a copy contact Frederick Read on 07813 287053 – a great prize or Christmas present, or write to him at 9 Ynysowen cottages, Cardiff road, Merthyr Vale CF48 4R. Copies are £10.99, but I am sure that if you are RNA he could manage a deal.
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Gen Dit.... Has this happened to you ?
Scenario.... 0930 Sunday morning Shipmate Wiggins relaxing at home in the conservatory with Sunday papers when the phone rings but before he could answer it a message was left.... It was the Duty Commanding Officer from HMS Raleigh saying "Chief Wiggin you are down as duty OOD today will you please phone immediately and let us know what is going on" S/M Wiggins - first thought was 24 bloody years later and I am still in the poo! Turns out that a 'Chief Wiggin' should have indeed been duty but had not turned up and, because they couldn't find a contact number for him, they looked in the local phone book! Postscript - S/M Wiggin did phone Raleigh to say he would do the duty but only if it meant spending all Sunday afternoon in the bar!!
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Finance Corner – House of Bainbridge
Michelle is on holiday she will back next month with Finance Corner, packed full of branch financial advice and information.
13. Guess Where? An Establishment! Can you name the establishment being taken in 1924 it eventually closed in 31 March 1999 and where it is? Please forward any other pictures to the HQ that you may have for ‘Guess Where’ so that we publish them in forthcoming Circulars. Answer again in next month’s edition. Last month’s answer! HMS Fulmar - RNAS Lossiemouth
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MP goes to Heaven..........
While walking down the street one day a "Member of Parliament" is tragically hit by a truck and dies. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance. 'Welcome to heaven,' says St. Peter . 'Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we're not sure what to do with you.' 'No problem, just let me in,' says the man. 'Well, I'd like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we'll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity.' 'Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,' says the MP. 'I'm sorry, but we have our rules.' And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people. They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and champagne. Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly & nice guy who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that before he realizes it, it is time to go. Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises.... The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him. 'Now it's time to visit heaven.' So, 24 hours pass with the MP joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns. 'Well, then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.' The MP reflects for a minute, then he answers: 'Well, I would never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.' ‌ So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell. Now the doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls from above. The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulder. 'I don't understand,' stammers the MP. 'Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?' The devil looks at him, smiles and says, 'Yesterday we were campaigning... ... Today you voted.' 11
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The Annual National Service for Seafarers 2013
Shipmates are invited to attend the Annual National Service for Seafarers 2013 on Wednesday 16 October at 1700 at St Paul’s Cathedral London. Any Shipmate who would like to attend this special service is requested to contact Nigel at HQ on 02392 723747 or nigel@royalnavalassoc.com who will co-ordinate ticket allocation. This information is required by 06 September 2013. All attendees will be required to bring some form of photographic ID as well as their ticket. The ACME ‘I’m back on a ship experience’ Kit.
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Please see below examples of how to recapture the RN atmosphere of the old days and simulate living on board again........
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Build a shelf in the top of your wardrobe, remove the wardrobe door and replace it with a curtain that's too small, then sleep on the shelf inside a smelly sleeping bag. Four hours after you go to bed, have your wife whip open the curtains, shine a torch in your eyes, and say "Sorry mate, wrong pit". Renovate your bathroom - build a wall across the centre of your bath and move the shower head down to chest level - store beer barrels in the shower enclosure. When you have a shower, remember to turn off the water while you soap. Every time there is a thunderstorm, sit in a wobbly rocking chair, and rock as hard as you can until you're sick. Put oil instead of water into a humidifier, then set it to "HIGH". Don't watch TV, except for movies in the middle of the night (for added realism, have your family vote for which movie they want to see - then select a different one). Leave the lawnmower running in your living room 24 hours a day to recreate the proper noise levels. Once a week blow compressed air up through your chimney - ensure that the wind carries the soot over onto your neighbours house and when he complains - laugh at him. Buy a rubbish compactor, but only use it once a week - store up your rubbish in the other side of your bath. Wake up every night at midnight and make a sandwich out of anything you can find, preferably using stale bread. Optional: cold soup or canned ravioli eaten out of the can. Devise your family menus a week in advance without looking in the fridge or larder. Set your alarm clock to go off at random times through the night and when it goes off, leap out of bed, get dressed as fast as you can then run into the garden and break out the garden hose. Once a month take every major household appliance completely apart, then re-assemble. Use 4 spoons of coffee per cup, and allow to sit for 3 hours before drinking. Invite about 85 people you don't really like to come and stay for a couple of months. Install a small fluorescent light under your coffee table, then lie underneath the table to read a book. Raise the thresholds and lower the top sills of all the doors in the house - now you will always either hit your head or skin your shins when passing through them. Every so often throw your dog/cat in the bath and shout "man over board", then run into the kitchen and sweep all the dishes and pans onto the floor whilst yelling at your wife for not having secured for sea properly.
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Can you Help.......
Shipmate PO Gary Wenn who works in the Stoke-On-Trent Careers Office and is also Hon Sec at RNA Hazel Grove is seeking your assistance. From time to time he receives items that are of Naval interest at the Careers Office by members of the public. Recently a gentleman dropped off a red photo album and some souvenir paperwork from HMS CENTUAR. It also contained a ‘crossing the line’ certificate with the name DYFRI EVANS dated 27/11/59. There is a small pouch of photographs of various aircraft and group photos of shipmates and the name on the pouch is MRS BLOOM. The pack contains 2 badges, one is AL and the other is the crest of the Fleet Air Arm, Far East. S/M Gary has also established that Dyfri was originally from Welshpool and that he had worked Heathrow Airport. As you can imagine he is very keen to get these items back to the rightful owner, so if anyone knows of Dyfri or knows his family please can they contact either the Stoke careers office on 01782214688 or Gary Wenn on 07751548467 or gary.wenn@ntlworld.com
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The Lost Sailors of HMS ILLUSTRIOUS – A final reminder...
A Small memorial service, for the lost sailors of HMS Illustrious (see last month’s issue), will be held on 12th October 2013 , led by Portland Sea Cadets who will lay a wreath at 15.00. Anyone who would like to attend would be very much welcomed. For further information please contact : Miss Diane Coleman (National Secretary) 01424 720745, Miss Ann Lefley (Hon Treasurer) 01903 771934 or Mr Mike Brockwell (Vice Chairman) 01293 520352.
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Memory Lane - Navy News January 1965
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Reminiscing with Ray ‘Fixed Wing’ Barraclough.
S/M Ray, our esteemed Honourary Treasurer very kindly forwarded this picture of Phantom 158 landing at an air station in the South of England and would desperately like to hear from any Shipmates who can spare a few hours to discuss this illustrious (do you get it!!) aircraft.
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21.
IMC Camp – Plon Germany
The 2013 IMC Sailing Camp was hosted by the German Naval Association (Deutsches Marinebund) at the German Navy Petty Officers School (Marine Unteroffiziere Schule) in Plon about 70 miles north west of Hamburg from 22-31 July. There were 7 RNA sponsored participants who travelled to Plon. Shipmate CPO (SCC) John Alcock who is a member at Spennymoor RNA acted as escort and sailing instructor along with Leading Cadet Lianna Fields and Cadet Rhys Ellis from 8 Area, Piers Sunter, Luke Cornwell and Kelly Richardson also from Spennymoor and Kieran Steadman from N Ireland. There were 24 other participants at the camp who came from Germany, Austria, Italy and Belgium. During the week the Cadets took part in a variety of water based activities including sailing two masted gaff rigged cutters/luggers. These quite heavy boats required about 10 knots of wind to get them moving and took a crew of 7-8. The cadets were divided into multi-national crews, however due to a lack of wind sailing was precluded on three of the days but alternative occupations were provided including kayaking and visits to Plon, Kiel, the German Naval Memorial, Lubeck and elsewhere. The UK cadets described the programme as “brilliant” and it ran like clockwork. They also wished to pass on their thanks to everyone in the RNA for a fantastic 10 days in Germany.
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Double Seven Reunion
NOW WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT AGAIN :-'cause without it we can't do it ,can we’ There are two weekends coming up Friday 4th October to Monday 7th £96.00 pp Plus £4.00 pp insurance and we also have the weekend 24th April to 28th April 2014 at the same price . Please book soonest to avoid disappointment, as you will not regret it and thoroughly enjoy your weekend Please book direct with Katey Lansley (bookings and enquiries) 02392 460044.
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Royal Hospital School Bursary Scheme Children from naval families could benefit from free or heavily subsidised places at a top boarding school in Suffolk, thanks to Greenwich Hospital, the Navy’s oldest charity. The Royal Hospital School’s bursary scheme is open to youngsters whose parents or grandparents are
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current or former Royal Navy members, or have served with the Royal Marines, WRNS or the UK Merchant Navy for a minimum of three years. The school is holding an information evening at Action Stations, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, on 10 September and a school open day in Holbrook, Ipswich, on 28 September for families to find out more. To book a place call 01473 326136, email admissions@royalhospitalschool.org or visit www.royalhospital.org.
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A Grand Reunion for a motorcycling ‘Tiffy’ S/M George Hockney BEM
Thank you to S/M Dave Clements PRO Peterborough and District Branch for this fantastic article. A must read for all you Bikers and Engineers (PS you will need your hankies!) Read On.......... Born in Peterborough in 1919 George Hockley was from solid farming family roots but he didn’t follow the plough, instead he became an engineering apprentice in 1933 with the local Brotherhood Engineering Company. At the age of 19 he moved to the London Brick Company, at Fletton, to add a further two years training to his apprenticeship; this was a Company that George was to have a long association with in his civilian life. George’s involvement with motorbikes started when be starting riding (illegally!) at the age of 13 on a 1920, 2-stroke, Levis. The need for raw power ultimately overcame him and, by the age of 16 he was on his fourth motorbike, a 1932 Excelsior that cost him £4. He rode this, in his normal mackintosh, to a Scout camp at Deal. This was quite an adventure for him. His mother gave him £1 and he brought home 6 pence! The machine was used at the camp to ferry fellow scouts to the river to wash! Don’t times change? Our story now moves on and after one more change of motorcycle George eventually purchased his first brand new bike for the sum of £63.10, a 1938 Triumph Tiger. This improved George’s ‘street cred’ enormously and he used to ferry girl-friends home from the local dances. His career in the Royal Navy started on 2nd October 1939 when signed up as an Engine Room Artificer (ERA) on a 12 year engagement. Ongoing events necessitated a bit of ‘sea time’ from George and he sold his Triumph back to Burroughs, the dealer, for £15. The war did not stop his motorcycling totally. When the ship he was aboard in 1940 was damaged in a collision during North Sea convoy duty he found himself on one month’s leave while it was being repaired. He returned to his local dealer to find that his Triumph had been sold so from and extensive range of three available bikes he chose the best of the bunch a brand new 249cc, GTP, 2-stroke Velocette at £44.7.6, a bike he was to keep for many years. In 1942, while on 6 weeks Foreign Service Leave, George and Beryl were engaged. Then it was out to the Med for George. George’s war service saw him involved in the North Sea convoys, the Norway campaign, the Malta convoys and U Boat hunting in the Atlantic among other little ‘jollies’. His ships included 16
the Auckland (sloop), Caledon (cruiser) Easton (destroyer) among others. Later in the war George found himself in Benghazi as Chief base engineer. He was once more able to pursue his passion for motorcycles with transport provided by a Matchless G3L. He also ‘acquired’ a 746cc military model Zundapp twin with sidecar; and a dog to accompany him! What with being heavily involved in setting up the base, and his service to date, he must have done a remarkable job because in August 1944 George received notification that he had been awarded the British Empire Medal (Military), and as his citation read, ‘for zeal and wholehearted devotion to duty’. It was during his time in Benghazi that George became involved with the salvage of the SS Samsylarna. The ship was part a convoy from New York to India and had been damaged in an air attack. A torpedo had struck number 4 hold and the steering gear was put out of action. The engine room flooded and the ship settled rapidly by the stern. News of the situation came in to Benghazi. Towing the Samsylarna was proving impossible due to the crew having dropped both of the anchors and now with no power to raise them. George was summoned and armed with suitable cutting equipment he was despatch by minesweeper out to the Samsylarna with instructions to cut the anchor chains. Only the Captain and a skeleton crew remained with the Samsylarna, the rest having abandoned ship. The Captain refused to allow George on board to cut the cable as “the ship is sinking” and he would have to do it from where he was! With a six foot swell running this meant leaving the minesweeper for the ‘comforts’ of the ship’s whaler with all his equipment! So, 60 odd miles out to sea, in a whaler alongside a sinking ship, with tension on the anchor chain, George duly carried out his task. This meant climbing onto the chain and cutting it away from below him. This clearly worked but as it parted George was left clinging to the chain as it bounced and swung like a pendulum as the tension was released; and he had to repeat this with the second anchor chain! Only after the job was done was George allowed on board the Samsylarna where, with only Coca Cola to drink, he stayed on the ship for the three day tow back to Benghazi where the ship was beached. It was full of military equipment for the Far East and after pumping out the flooded compartments much of the valuable cargo was saved along with 7,600 Silver bars! In December 1944 George was able to ‘scrounge’ a flight home from Cairo in a Sunderland Flying boat and on 20th January 1945 he and Beryl were married. Service life still called and George was off to Greenock working on boiler inspections, followed by a period in Portsmouth and then a trip to Gibraltar to pick up a Salvage tug and out to Bombay. George left the Navy in 1948 as a Chief ERA and returned to work for the London Brick Company where he stayed until his retirement as Senior Engineering Works Foreman in 1983. So what happened to the 249cc, GTP, 2-stroke Velocette? The Velocette remained in George’s ownership for many years, although somewhat restricted by the war it continued to give valuable service and he claimed he had even ridden it with 3 up; Beryl was pregnant at the time! Family needs post war had dictated that a side car was required and the need for a bit more power saw the Velocette sold in favour of a Model 18 Norton. George’s interest in motorcycles prompted him to join the Vintage Motorcycle Club (VMCC) (he eventually became Section President) and in 1951 he purchased the second love of his life, a 350cc, 1922, Model B (Touring) AJS. It was in poor condition, but complete, and he was criticised by Beryl for wasting the £3 it cost him! George put his engineering skills to good use and after three years painstaking work the AJS was fully restored and went on to win many Trophies at motorcycle events over the years. 17
George still owns this machine, it is roadworthy and in immaculate condition, and has not been touched apart from routine maintenance and adjustments since its restoration was completed in the mid 1950’s; a true testament to his skill and quality of the work. Over the years many motorbikes have been happily cared for at the Hockney household. George’s attention to details always showed in the smooth running of his bikes. He is meticulous, but not fussy, and has all the original bills for his bikes and a documented history of the period of his ownership. George’s late wife Beryl also rode motorcycles and in later years carried on riding on a small Suzuki and Honda 90’s. She stopped riding on her 69th birthday. So what happened to the 249cc, GTP, 2-stroke Velocette? A member of the VMCC club had mentioned to George that he had acquired a 1939 Velocette that had originally been bought in Peterborough. After a quick exchange of details and confirmation of the registration number, and to everyone’s surprise, it turned out to be the bike George had bought new in 1939. How cool was that? The new owner was in the process of restoring it, having taken a number of years as funds allowed. So how did he acquire it? It had ended up on a farm in Yorkshire and as a young boy he remembered playing on it and pushing friends around the farmyard. In later years, after he became interested in old motorbikes, he remembered that old bike on the farm and decided to go and see if it still existed, only to be told by the farmer that he had given the bike away the week before. A lad on the next farm had it and would probably sell it, as his father did not want him to have a bike. Sure enough, the bike was for sale but he would not sell it for less than £1 (Yes £1). The deal was done and although this was in the days of pounds that could be folded it was still a good deal. The new owner had promised George that when it was fully restored he would bring it to Peterborough to show him. In return, George said he would let him have the original bill from the 1939 purchase. So on Saturday, 6th April 2013 the bike was duly transported to Peterborough and George was finally reunited with the 249cc, GTP, 2-stroke Velocette he bought all those years ago. It started on the second kick and sat reliably ticking over. This must have been a wonderful and very emotional moment for George to see his old bike fully restored and running again after so many years.
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Burnside Croft Holiday Cottage Discount Offer
Shipmates fancy a holiday in the Highlands then Burnside Croft Holiday Cottage could be exactly the kind of self catering accommodation you have been looking for with two bedrooms it is situated at By – Beauly near Inverness and best of all RNA members get a 20% discount. For further information please contact S/M Bob Coburn on 01463 782162/ 77909 441990 or e-mail robertcoburn001@btinternet.
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Pembroke House Care and Nursing Home
Pembroke House is the Royal Naval Benevolent Trust’s care and nursing home in Gillingham, Kent. While the Home caters specifically for those who have served as ratings in the Royal Navy or as other ranks in the Royal Marines and their spouses, applicants from the other Services will also be considered. In addition to full time residency, the Home also provides high quality respite breaks of varying duration. The Home has consistently achieved the Care Quality Commission’s top award for setting and maintaining the highest care standards. Recently extended and improved, the Home now offers 55 en-suite rooms with approximately half allocated for nursing care. Pembroke House is situated in fine landscaped grounds with panoramic views of the River Medway and beyond and is tastefully decorated on a nautical theme. Supported by a vibrant volunteer body (the Friends of Pembroke House) the Home has an excellent relationship with the local community and enjoys regular access to the local attractions as well as events further afield. There are strong ties with the local Royal Naval and Royal Marine Associations, several branches of which regularly visit the Home and in turn invite the residents to their meetings and social events. Weekly fees for the current Financial Year (2013/14) range from £495.00 to £551.00 for residential care and £754.00 to £819.00 for nursing. Care packages are tailored to each individual and are subject to regular review as needs change; Pembroke House is not a ‘one size fits all’ care and nursing home! Local Authority funded residents are accommodated provided the fees are topped up where there is a shortfall in Local Authority funding. The Trust does not assist with funding shortfalls for new residents on the basis that its charitable funds are utilised to provide the highest standards of care and facility within the Home for all residents to enjoy at rates that are below the market average. The Trust only employs staff with the right combination of skills and personality to work in the Home that is equipped to the highest standards; our aim is to provide assisted living at the right level that allows residents to enjoy a full and as far as possible independent and active life in warm, friendly and comfortable surroundings. For more details contact the Admissions Officer on 01634 852431 or e-mail to enquiry@pembrokehouse-rnbt.org.uk ; further details may also be found on the RNBT’s web site www.rnbt.org.uk 19
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Book Review
Anatomy of the Ship Series 1. 2.
The Battle Cruiser HOOD by John Roberts £14.99 The Battleship DREADNOUGHT by John Roberts £16.99
These are two books of a series intended for the real ship enthusiast, naval historian or model maker. They are not about the life of the ship in commission but provide detailed technical information about the design and construction of two of the Royal Navy’s most iconic warships of the 20th Century. Some 70% of each book contains brilliantly executed live drawings by the author, who has been described “as the best ship draughtsman in the UK”. They also contain a brief introduction to service and design concepts of the ship and a photographic section containing images from the in-service life of the ships. Not light bed-time reading but those interested in the technicalities of warship design they are unique. Both books published by Conway/Anova Books Group Ltd. www.anovabooks.com or www.conwaypublishing.com
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Film Extras required for Hollywood Blockbuster Movie & Other Projects.
Shipmates may be interested to know that Cross Deck Ltds client is one of the UK's leading casting agencies providing supporting artists, walk-ons and stand-ins for the feature film, television and advertising industries and they are looking for forces personnel, 18 to 50 years old, for an exciting new World War II Hollywood film shooting in Britain. They would like to recruit recent Forces Leavers and veterans from all areas of the armed forces - Army, Navy and RAF. You would need to be able to travel to London. If you are interested please register at www.crossdeck.co.uk and send your CV to helen@cross-deck.co.uk. Please quote ‘Film Extra’ as the subject title or Telephone 01752 403333.
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Hospital and Medical Care Association (HMCA) Deal
Hospital & Medical Care Association ( HMCA) have provided high quality cost effective medical plans to members of associations for over 35 years and currently deal with some 700 professional and trades associations nationally. HMCA frequently get enquiries from a wide range of members and the following are a selection of frequently asked questions that will answer the most obvious questions regarding private medical insurance and highlight some of the benefits of the HMCA Medical Care Plan. SPECIAL GUARANTEED TRANSFER FACILITY – NO MORITORIUM OR WAITING PERIOD Can cover be transferred from an existing Plan? Will acute conditions be honoured for future? Claims once transfer to HMCA Medical Extra Care Plan? Cover can be transferred from an existing plan and future claims made for acute conditions originating at the time you were participating in a previous plan will be honoured. HOSPITAL CHOICE S FOR MEMBERS
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Can members choose a hospital in their area and close to home? Is there a wide coverage of hospitals nationally? Are there any additional charges for some London Hospitals? Members can choose a hospital in their area and close to home as HMCA have full national coverage of UK hospitals. There are no additional or extra costs for any London Hospitals. OVERSEAS COVER Are members automatically covered for overseas travel at no extra cost? Do spouses receive benefits when hospitalised abroad? How long do the benefits last? Members are automatically covered for overseas travel and at no extra cost as this is included in your plan. Spouses receive double benefits when hospitalised abroad and for up to 6 months. SPORTING ACTIVITIES What sports and sporting activities are covered? Are there any restrictions on some sports? All sporting activities are covered for members and there are no exclusions on any sports whatsoever. NHS HOSPITAL CASH BENEFIT What happens if a member is wholly treated in an NHS Hospital? What is the benefit and how long is it for? If a member receives treatment in an NHS Hospital then HMCA will pay a Tax Free Cash Benefit of £200 per night and for up to 30 nights. NO EXCESS PAYMENTS OR DEDUCTIBLES Are there any excesses or deductibles to take into consideration with this plan? There are no excess or deductibles under any of our plans. COMPARATIVE COSTS AGAINST OTHER PLANS Are subscriptions competitive with other plans? HMCA plans can be 50% cheaper than comparative plans as these plans are not offered to the General Public and only to members of Professional and Membership Associations. CLAIMS HANDLING – NO WAITING PERIOD Is there any waiting period before any eligible claims are payable? There is a first class claims handling service to support the quality of the plans for members. HMCA realise the importance of resolving and settling eligible claims as quickly and efficiently as possible to add peace of mind when members are faced with stressful circumstances during their illness. There is no waiting period before eligible claims are payable. FREE MEDICAL INFORMATION HELPLINE Is this service free of charge? What services are included? When is this service available? Can it only be used when making a claim? Can members speak on confidential matters and is there a counselling service available? This service is provided free of charge to all HMCA medical Extra Care Plan members. It is operated by fully qualified medical staff and offers a wealth of information regardless of whether making a claim. Information can be given on medical conditions, changing your doctor, social services, self-help groups and much more. This also includes a counselling service which is available 24 hours a day 365 days a year allowing members to discuss their problems in confidence and with a qualified counsellor at a time convenient to them. ADDITIONAL BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS Are there any further benefits available to members who subscribe to the plans?
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All members who subscribe to any of the HMCA Plans automatically qualify for an additional range of benefits which include £50 worth of Marks & Spencer’s vouchers after their first complete year of annual subscription, Hotel and Travel discounts and savings on a range of popular Publications and Health products. For more information or no-obligation discussion please contact our team on 01423 866985 or you can visit our website at www.hmca.co.uk for further details on the range of plans.
‘D’ye hear there’..... News from around the Areas and Branches RNA Cleethorpse and Grimsby Branch
The Biggs Dirk Trophy for the branch attaining the highest number of new members for large branches over the past year was awarded to Cleethorpes and Grimsby at Conference. The picture opposite shows the National Vice Chairman (Shipmate Keith Crawford) who was on hand to present the two oldest members of the Branch S/Ms Dennis Field (aged 90) and Leonard Davison (aged 86) with the trophy on behalf of the Branch.
RNA Knowle Branch During the recent Open Day at held at RNA HQ Shipmates Don Hitchcock (on the left) and Reg Bywell were presented with their Arctic Star Medals by the RNA President (Vice Admiral John McAnally), there were loads of branch friends with them on the day and all enjoyed the famous open Day harbour trip with a tot and slice of cake on return. The HQ staff are very proud to have met and celebrated the award with Don and Reg.
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RNA Orkney Branch Orkney Branch and Orkney Sea Cadets have great pleasure in inviting Shipmates and anyone with naval connections to join them at their joint Trafalgar Dinner and 50th Anniversary celebrations of TS Thorfinns at the Kirkwall RBL on Friday 25th October 2013. The cost will be £22 per person and will include a three course meal, plus wine at the table, and guest speakers. For further details please contact Catriona Matheson 07766217288 catrionam826@btinternet.com
No 3 Area, RNA Aldershot and Farnham Branch It is with deep regret that 3 Area, RNA Aldershot and RNA Farnham announce that Shipmate George Parker has crossed the bar aged 89. He will be very much missed by his family, friends and Shipmates. S/M George’s son has written on behalf of himself and Mrs Vera Parker to the HQ expressing their sincere thanks and appreciation for the support provided by the Standard Bearers at the funeral.
RNA Norwich Branch Norwich branch have the sad duty to report that Shipmate Ray Self crossed the bar on the 19 th August 2013.Ray was a founder and life member of the branch and served on the committee for many years. He was a member of the Landing Craft Association and was present at the D-Day landings and thereafter Far East operations. Ray represented the RNA at virtually all events throughout Norfolk and the RNA could not have wished for a finer representative. His humour and demeanour was a fine example to us all. As well as the RNA he worked tirelessly for the Norfolk & Norwich Combined Services organisation and was one of those who contributed to having the city war memorial refurbished from a dilapidated state to the fine example it is now. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him as a fine and upstanding man. May he have found a safe anchorage.
RNA Christchurch Branch Christchurch Branch are holding their annual Trafalgar Dinner on Saturday 19th October 2013 at Portfield Hall, Christchurch. There will be music, a raffle and a Bar. Tickets cost £20. To purchase tickets and obtain further information please contact Christine Payne (HON Sec) at christinepayne3@btinternet.com or telephone 01202 474819.
RNA Rosyth and West Fife Branch On the 27th July 2013 Members of the Branch attended the dedication of the Lothian and West of Scotland Branch of the Korean War Veterans new Memorial in Bathgate where they represented the RNA. On completion of the dedication Shipmates enjoyed a buffet lunch at Bathgate RBLS Club.
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RNA Crosby Branch During a recent visit by HMS Mersey to Liverpool. Crosby RNA joined up with some of the Ships’ Company at church parade and then invited them to Crosby RNA for a tot or two; or three or four, unfortunately, or in some case fortunately, they lost count of the amount of tots after four after four, oh there was also big eats on offer (but eat in some quarters is cheatin!). At this juncture gifts were exchanged the Ship presented Crosby with a ships crest, and Crosby presented the Ship with an Uckers board (no WAFU Rules!). They were also individually presented by S/M Dave Tollerton with their ‘I didn’t get mugged in Liverpool’ Certificate Such a great time was had by all that Crosby agreed to entertain HMS Mersey next time they are in Liverpool and will have an ‘Uckers’ challenge complete with trophy which will be provided by Crosby RNA. (Eds note..... BZ for providing evidence that the RNA/RN Partnering arrangement Is in fine fettle!)
RNA Margate Branch Margate Branch will be holding its Trafalgar Day Parade on Sunday 20th October 2013 at the Trinity Square Gardens memorial commencing at 11:00. Unfortunately due to Kent Highways and Police constraints the parade will muster at the memorial at 10:45 for the service which will be conducted by the Reverend Ben Crick, with the Mayor and Charter Trustees of Margate in attendance . After the service the parade will again form up and march downhill saluting the Mayor’s dais placed outside the Amberette restaurant, wheel right into Love lane and dismiss outside the Mayors Parlour. It is hoped that T/S Jamaica will provide a band to lead the parade. A Tot and refreshments will be available in the Mountbatten lounge of the Royal British Legion club, all attending are welcome to participate. For further details please contact S/M Mick Cox on 01843 604490 or e-mail mick22cox@yahoo.com
Post Conference Awards The photo shows the Chair of 10 Area, Shipmate David Tollerton presenting S/M John Arnold with a certificate of Extraordinary Full Life Membership awarded by the National Council for his outstanding service at the Liverpool Conference in providing immediate CPR to a Shipmate who had collapsed at Conference, despite John having had some difficult issues during the Falklands campaign. This required an exceptional level of personal bravery and comradeship. 24
He stood by the Shipmate as professional help arrived providing help as assistance as he could. John is a member of Crosby Branch. Interestingly, the help that arrived was a professional nurse who carried on with CPR until the paramedics arrived. That nurse was Ruth Mitcheson the wife of our memorial sculptor, who was at the Conference to explain the design. The National Council awarded her Exceptional Honorary membership. Both were wonderful examples of the RNA at its complete best.
RNA Wolverhampton Branch It is with deep regret that the Branch reports that their Chairman Shipmate Geoff Parry has sadly crossed the bar, aged 89. S/M Geoff was a survivor from HMS Puckeridge. Unfortunately Geoff was the fourth member of the branch to cross the bar this year. For information Shipmates should be advised that new Chairman is S/M Les Wentworth and that commencing in October the Branch will commence meeting at 1230.
RNA Burgess Hill Branch Years ago Burgess Hill Branch adopted a serving sailor LET (M) Michael Fyans who is currently serving in HMS Iron Duke. The branch is very proud of their relationship with Michael and would like to pass on the ‘adopt a sailor’ idea to other branches. Benefits include being invited to major ships events wherever Michael has served and in return he gets shown off at all the Branches significant events, as seen in the attached photos. The benefits are immense allowing Shipmates to keep in contact with today’s RN and allowing the serving Sailor to find out about the RNA! Above photo shows L to R Shipmates Doug Boud, Nigel Harcourt(Standard Bearer),Alan Hawkins and our late Chairman Mick Woodham with LET(M) Michael Fyans Opposite photo shows the Branch at the Remembrance Parade with LET(M) Fyans passing through Burgess Hill.
RNA Port Phillips Branch Shipmates greetings from Australia. I attach a selection from the Branch Newsletter entitled the ‘Port Phillips Papers’ for your information.
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Wiggy’s Waffle – August 2013 Only four months more to Christmas! I always try and commence my monthly blurb on a lighter note but unfortunately this month will be the exception. I am sure many of you will recall a departed shipmate by the name of Michael (Mick) Norton; it is my sad duty to report that Mick’s lovely lady Margaret Norton passed away recently. Apart from being a past member of the RNA (PPB) Margaret was also a member of the WRNS Association. Through unforeseen circumstances I was unable to attend Margaret’s funeral and so I asked Shirley Turner to represent the RNA membership in my absence. I thank Rodney Harrison for passing on the following update: Unfortunately David Reese is back in hospital he had extremely adverse reaction to chemotherapy as was suspended. David had been due to start a new medication from this week (the new medication is in tablet form and it was hoped he would suffer less side effects than chemo). Unfortunately his general health has not improved as his medical team expected so he is now back in hospital, he was due to undergo blood transfusions so hopefully that process may stabilise him. We wish David, Jean and family our very best wishes for a positive outcome. On a brighter note: David and Jean celebrated their Diamond wedding anniversary on Thursday 1st August. Hearty congratulations to them both from all of us. (Eds Note Ver many congratulations from Blighty) The catering last month seems to have met with approval and therefore we (the caterers) include Ham Steaks / Meatloaf / accompaniments as another selectable menu item. August’s menu will be hearty winter fare, befitting the season. From the Chairmans Table - Just to raise a smile..... Apparently it's no longer politically correct to direct a joke at any racial or ethnic minority, so try this one: An Englishman, a Scotsman, an Irishman, a Welshman, a Ghurkha, a Latvian, a Turk, an Aussie, a German, an American, an Egyptian, a Japanese, a Mexican, a Spaniard, a Russian, a Pole, a Lithuanian, a Swede, a Finn, an Israeli, a Romanian, a Bulgarian, a Serb, a Swiss, a Greek, a Singaporean, an Italian, a Norwegian, a Libyan, a Muslim, a Hindu, a Buddhist and an African all decided to go to a local to a nightclub to celebrate a friend’s birthday. As they tried to gain entry into the nightclub…………………. The bouncer at the door said, "Sorry, I can’t let you in without a Thai." Port Phillips Branch Diary Date August 11
Time 1030
1130 September 8 1030
October 12
1130 1030
October 13
1130
Function Committee Meeting Lunch Meeting Committee Meeting Lunch Meeting Committee Meeting Lunch Meeting
Comments .
Then set up for tomorrow. Trafalgar Commemoration Lunch. Catered.
Finally, Happy Birthday Down under to; Bernie Williams, Bert Attwood, Jean Rees and David Rees
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RNA Johannesburg Branch Sadly Johannesburg Branch has to report that Shipmate William (Bill) George Keeble MBE, crossed the bar, aged 96 on the 7th August 2013. S/M Bill was the President of the Johannesburg Branch for many years. Bill served in HMS Rodney during the 2ndWW and was present when the Bismarck sank and after the war visited Wilhelmshaven to greet the ‘Bismarck survivors’. He was awarded the MBE in 1992, for services to the RNA. He will be much missed by his family and friends.
RNA South Harrow Branch South Harrow Branch, as of previous years, will be holding their biannual social event on Sunday Sept 8th after the parade at the Royal British Legion Club Northolt Road South Harrow and extend a warm welcome to any branch and shipmates who would like to join us for the afternoon. There will be food and music and a tot for any standard bearers. For catering purposes, please contact the Secretary Gerry Nash on 020 8424 0211 or the Soc/Sec, Marion Edwards on 020 8248 4835 or e-mail sharbrna@aol.com of numbers attending.
RNA Bridport – 75th Anniversary Bridport Branch has great pride and pleasure in announcing that on 1 st September 2013 they will be celebrating their 75th anniversary. To commemorate this auspicious occasion the Branch is combining the annual Trafalgar Day Dinner and Dance with the Trafalgar Day Service. The Dinner /Dance will be held at Highlands End, Eype, near Bridport on Saturday 19th October and the Trafalgar Day Service on Sunday 20th October 2013 at St. Johns Church, West Bay, Bridport. Cdre Adrian Nance OBE RN has kindly agreed to be our principal guest and invitations have been extended to local dignitaries, Sea Cadet officers as well as branches within No.4 Area. Shipmates are advised that there will be no parade because it’s just a good social occasion with the opportunity to “swing the lamp”. Please contact Alan Kidson (01308 420135) or email kidson@tiscali.co.uk for further details.
RNA Bloxwich Branch RNA Bloxwich will be celebrating their Diamond Jubilee on 30 November 2013. A Church service will be held at 18:00 followed by a Dinner/Dance at Walsall Football Club. Shipmates and Standard Bearers are very welcome to attend. Further details can be obtained from the Secretary, Christine Hinder, on 01922 473613. RNA Plymouth Branch – Trafalgar Weekend -11-14 October 2013 The RNA Plymouth Biennial Trafalgar Weekend will be held at the Sefton Hotel, Babbacombe from Friday 11th October to Monday 14th October 2013. Gala Dinner. Formal Dress. 2 Nights 27
£75.00 pp, Three Nights £110.00 pp. Anyone wishing to attend then please get the details from: Sue Gutteridge. (01752) 849176. email: suzannegutteridge@ymail.com
Shortcast (Run in date order) 2013 HMS Orion Association – 07 September 2013 The annual reunion is to take place at the Holiday Inn Plymouth from September 7 to 8. For further information contact Kay West at kay.hmsorion@gmail.com Goldfish Club Reunion - 13-15 September 2013 This year’s annual reunion weekends main event is a dinner dance at The Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth on Saturday 14 September. We have a number of RN members who are graduates of the college including the present Commander of the college. Holding the event there is especially appropriate in this the 60th anniversary of the RN SAR service. For further information please visit the website www.thegoldfishclub.co.uk or contact Stuart Clay on 01772 338137. Algerine Association Reunion – 16 September 2013 Algerine Association Reunion: WRNS, RNA Groups NVA Assn. The Autumn Break will take place from September 16 to 23 at the Mill Rythe Holiday Village, Hayling Island. En-suite accommodation and facilities for the disabled are available. The cost is £224 per person, half board with entertainment each evening. All welcome, bring family and friends. HMS Berryhead Association - 15 September 2013 The first Berryhead renunion will take place on Saturday September 15, meeting place the Ibis Hotel, Bristol Centre, Explore Lane, Bristol BS1 5LL.. We have a Facebook page entitled "HMS Berryhead", it has a closed membership. I can be contacted. John Scott 02380 261563 or jgmsscott@hotmail.com HMS Jamaica Association – 13-16 September 2013 HMS Jamaica Association will be holding its AGM and re-union 13-16th September 2013 in the Britannia Hotel Coventry. Further details are available from Mac Wilkinson (Hon Sec/Treas) on 01843 582283 or boxcar@btinternet.com HMS Eagle 1952-72 Commissions – 27/29 September 2013 Important Information – Change of Venue Friends of HMS Eagle are holding a 41st anniversary ‘Nautical Experience’ weekend reunion at the Menzies Hotel, Aberdeen Airport AB21 7DW on 27-29 September 2013.On the Friday evening there will be a meet and greet and on Saturday will be a very nautical gala dinner dance with entertainment in the Ballroom Suite. For further details please contact Bill Melvin 07741 300760 bill.melvin@virgin.net
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HMS Invincible (Falklands 82) Reunion – 27 September 2013 Annual Reunion to be held at the Savoy Hotel, Skegness from September 27 to 29. For details contact Tim Jenkins at g0nz0bign0se@aol.com or see the website at http://www.hmsinvincible82.co.uk HMS Ocean Association – 27 September 2013 26th Annual Reunion and AGM takes place at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from September 27 to 30. A very warm welcome is extended to all ex-Oceans (R68 or L12), their families and friends, whether Association members or not, to join us on this happy occasion. For full details contact the Secretary, Jim Hogan JP at jimhogan1@sky.com HMS Ajax and River Plate Veterans Association – 02 October 2013 Open to all who served in the Cruiser 1935/48 or Frigate 1963/84 or are relatives of those who did so, or indeed of those who served on any of the previous Ajax. The 48th annual reunion takes place at the King Charles Hotel, Gillingham from October 2 to 3. A reunion dinner will be held on the Wednesday evening and a memorial service, followed by the AGM, on the Thursday morning. The Association is always looking to increase its membership, particularly Frigate crew. For details of the reunion and membership, please contact the Membership Secretary, Judi Collis at h.m.s.ajax.rpv@gmail.com Full details of the reunion, membership and much more can be found on the Association’s new website at www.hmsajax.org HMS Tartar Association – 04 October 2013 HMS Tartar Reunion will take place at the Three Queens Hotel, Stafford, on 4th October 2013. Further details from Ron & Brenda Brain, 01326 317814, e-mail: brain533@btintertnet.com Hong Kong Flotilla (Tamar) Association – 04 - 07 October 2013 Annual Reunion and AGM takes place from October 4 to 7 at the Grand Atlantic Hotel, Beach Road, Weston Super Mare, BS23 1BA. Total cost of weekend £125.10pp, (Single room extra £15pp). £25pp Deposit secures your place. All are welcome. Did you serve in Hong Kong (Tamar) or supporting departments ? Then come to the Annual Reunion in October 2013. This vibrant association is for those who served in Hong Kong (& Tamar) The Hong Kong Flotilla association with HMS Tamar, Hong Kong, is one of the few associations actually growing as the years go on, more enjoy the comfort and familiarity amongst Royal Navy Veterans than ever. Hong Kong Flotilla have so much support from Full and associate members and their families, they now hold two Reunions per Year! The Hong Kong Flotilla Flotilla (Tamar) was commissioned in 1949. It first comprised of IMS, MMS, Flame throwing LCA’s and ten Motor Launch patrol craft. Only the Ml’s were eventually retained to patrol throughout the fifties. The tragic Hong Kong Pearl River Incident when HMML 1323 was shelled by a Chinese Gunboat, when seven crew were killed, is commemorated at every Reunion. The Hong Kong duties were deemed to be on active service. Ten Motor Launches were equipped with a 6 pounder anti-tank (& enemy junks) gun, forward, and 20mm Oerlikon aft. The ML’s were replaced by Minesweepers in the late fifties and other category of patrol vessels were employed until our British departure from Hong Kong, in 1997.
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Hurry and book as we generally fill the hotels. To book contact Peter Yeates at peter.yeates@tesco.net Type 21 Association – 10 October 2013 The third annual reunion will take place October 10/11. A finger buffet at St Leven’s Inn on 10th, with the AGM (lunchtime) and main reunion event on 11th at The Royal British Legion, Crownhill, Devonport. If you served on any of these fine ships join up on line, tell all your oppos and indicate your intention to attend this year. Photos from previous reunions are posted on the website. Contact David Woollard at davidwoollard813@btinternet.com or see the website at http://www.type21club.org.uk HMS Eskimo F119 Association – 11 October 2013 The 13th Annual Reunion, will be held at The Tillington Hall Hotel, Staffordshire from 11-14 October. This year includes a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum on the Saturday. Sunday, we have been invited by the Officers and Cadets, to a parade at TS Eskimo's Sea Cadet Unit, Widnes, followed by a buffet, laid on by the Cadets. We are a great bunch and have a great time and still have lots of stories to catch up with. Bring along your wife, partner, girlfriend or your friends, all are very welcome. The ladies are delightful and will not bite. Looking forward to seeing you all there. Looking forward to seeing you there. Contact Allan (Taff) Martin at clearwaterbrook4@aol.com TON Class Association The Ton Class Association will holding their AGM at the Prince of Wales Hotel, Southport on Saturday 12 Oct 2013. For further details and to book in please contact the Honorary Secretary Peter Down on 01449 721235 or e-mail peter.avoca@talktalk.net
HMS St Vincent AGM - 12 October 2013 The HMS St Vincent Association AGM will be held at St Vincent College, Gosport and the Reunion Dinner at Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea on 12 October. For further details please contact soapy_watson@hotmail.com or 01329 310078 and http://www.hmsstvincentassoc.org/ and bookings to IOW Tours on 01983 405116. HMS Illustrious Association – 18-21 October 2013 The Annual Reunion will be held at the Tillington Hall Hotel, Stafford from October 18 to 21. We will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the formation of the Association. Further details from the Secretary, Diane Coleman at dianecoleman@talktalk.net HMS Lowestoft Reunion – 25/27 October 2013 The HMS Lowestoft Association Reunion will take place over the weekend of 25 - 27 October at Tillington Hall Stafford for further details e-mail www.hmslowestoft.co.uk or please contact Richie Farman 15 Folkestone Road –East Manchester M11 4LP 07775 793778.
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HMS Mohawk Reunion – 25 October 2013 This reunion will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Mohawk's launch in 1963. It will be held over the weekend Friday 25 Oct – Sunday 28 Oct 13 in at The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Abbey Road, Barrow in Furness, Cumbria, LQ14 5QR. Barrow in Furness. Details from the HMS Mohawk website : http://www.hmsmohawk.org.uk HMS Relentless – 30 November 2013 The first official reunion of the Association will be held on 30th November 2013 in Chatham and we would like to contact as many ex-shipmates as possible. Our website can be found at www.hmsrelentless.co.uk Any enquiries should be sent to: secretary@hmsrelentlessassociation or padre@hmsrelentlessassociation 2014 HMS Ariadne Reunion – 7 March 2014 3rd Annual reunion is at Richmore Hotel (Tel: 01303 773435), 146 The Esplanade, Weymouth DT4 7NP from March 7 to 10 2014. Former members of any of the commissions are most welcome to attend all or part of the weekend. Please contact Dave Sprinks on 01761 239221 for more details. HMS Protector Association Reunion – 11-14th April 2014 A grand reunion and AGM will take place at the Suncliff Hotel Bournemouth from 11-14 April 2014. For further information, details and booking form please see the website www.hmsprotector.org or Doug Harris at Dougatspindrift@aol.com or on the dog and bone 01495 718870.
RN Party 6789 (HMS Saker) RN Party 6789 (HMS Saker) Mixed Manning Demonstration USS Claude V Ricketts DDG5 (ex Biddle) 1964/65 are holding their 50th anniversary reunion of the Mixed Manning Demonstration commission to be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Washington DC. USA on 25 29th July 2014. For further information in the first instance please contact Pat (Spider) Raines tel. 00 34 951 06 9968 or 0844 774 t5448 e-mail info1@birdbuffs.net.
RNA Longcast 2 Sep 3 Sep 7 Sep 7 Sep 8 Sep 20 Sep 11 Oct 12 Oct 12 – 14 Oct 18 Oct 18 Oct 31
RNA Chelmsford – 75th Anniversary Plaque unveiling – Essex County Library RNA Chatham – Drill Shed Memorial Service/ Merchant Navy Service National Council meeting UJC Area 11 Meeting - Redcar Citizens Priory Club ( Host Redcar Branch) RNA Biennial Parade - Whitehall HQ - Open Day 4 HQ - Open Day 5 Area 2 Committee Meeting - Minster Working Men’s Club – Isle of Sheppey RNA Plymouth Biennial Trafalgar Weekend 12-14 October 2013 RNA Dublin Trafalgar Dinner RNA Falmouth Trafalgar Dinner
19 Oct 19 Oct 19 Oct 19/20 Oct 20 Oct 21 Oct 27 Oct 01/14 Nov 10 Nov 11 Nov 12 Nov 16 Nov 23 Nov 23 Nov 30 Nov 7 Dec 14 Dec 2014 01 Mar
RNA Chatham – Trafalgar Dinner – King Charles Hotel Gillingham RNA Christchurch – Trafalgar Dinner RNA Crosby Branch Trafalgar Dinner - GS RNA Bridport – 75th Anniversary and Trafalgar Night RNA Margate - Trafalgar Day Parade RNA Frome Branch Trafalgar Dinner - GS 10 Area – Autumn Area Conference – Atherton Arms Hotel Manchester M46 commencing at 1200 RNA Liverpool – Poppy Day Street Collection. RNA Chatham Remembrance Sunday - Great Lines Gillingham RNA Chatham Armistice Day FAC Budget Meeting - Great Lines Gillingham AMC Meeting Area 2 Delegates & Observers Meeting – Gravesend RNA Club FAC Meeting Budget for FY 2014 RNA Bloxwich Diamond Jubilee Dinner /Dance NC – Budget for FY 2014 Area 11 Meeting Newton Aycliffe Navy Club (Hosts Newton Aycliffe Branch) Area 11 AGM & Area Meeting – The Clarence Working Men’s Club (Hosts York Branch ) National Standard Bearer Competition – HMS Collingwood
17 May
Swinging the Lamp – September 2013
Date 1st
Year 1870
Entry First successful RN firing of Whitehead torpedo.
2nd
1945
3rd
1939
4th
1995
Merchant ship losses from 3 September1939 to 2 September 1945: 4,786 vessels of 21,194,000 grt. War declared against Germany. Winston Churchill appointed First Lord of the Admiralty for the second time. ‘I . . . sent word to the Admiralty that I would take charge forthwith and arrive at 6 o’clock. On this the Board were kind enough to signal to the Fleet “Winston is back”. So it was that I came again to the room I had quitted in pain and sorrow almost exactly a quarter of a century before, when Lord Fisher’s resignation had led to my removal from my post as First Lord.’ – Churchill, The Second World War, Volume 1: The Gathering Storm, p.365. RN Detention Quarters (RNDQs) at Portsmouth closed and all personnel in detention transferred to the Military Corrective Training
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5
th
1979
6th 7th
1959
8th 9th
1991 1754
10th
1862
11th
1919
12th
1920
13th
1985
14th 15th
1918 1995
16th
1940
17th
1965
18th
2009
19th 20th 21st
1914 1941 1867
22nd
1914
23rd
1977
24th
1850
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Centre (MCTC), Colchester. Funeral of Admiral of the Fleet the Earl Mountbatten of Burma in Westminster Abbey. Interred later that day in Romsey Abbey. HM The Queen approved the eligibility of all ranks of the armed forces for appointment to the Distinguished Service Order. Keel of frigate Nubian laid by Mrs Unwin, wife of Rear-Admiral J.H. Unwin, Admiral Superintendent of Portsmouth Dockyard. She was paid 5s which represented the piece rate for the job. Minehunter HMS Walney launched, fourth of name and first of class. William Bligh, future Captain of HM Armed Transport Bounty, Director (64 guns) at the Battle of Camperdown and Glatton (56 guns) at Copenhagen, Vice-Admiral of the Blue, born at Plymouth. Britain’s first timber-hulled ironclad, Royal Oak, launched at Chatham. She carried 25,000 sq ft of canvas, and her reciprocating engines, powered by 20-psi steam, drove a 19ft-diameter hoisting propeller. Hermes, first ship to be designed, ordered, and built as an aircraft carrier, launched at Armstrongs on the Tyne. Completed at Devonport. Sunk by Japanese naval aircraft off Ceylon 9 April 1942. The Nab Tower, a 9,000 ton concrete and steel structure designed as a permanent link in the anti-submarine barrage in the Dover Strait but incomplete when the war ended, was towed from Shoreham by two naval tugs and sunk off Portsmouth as a replacement for the Nab lightvessel. The structure settled with a 1.5 degrees list to the S.W. A workforce of 3,000 men had been secretly drafted-in for the construction project which cost ￡1,250,000. Orpheus made last submarine visit to Manchester. There was a firm liaison with Exide, which made submarine batteries. HMS Argus commissioned: first flush-deck carrier. HMS Thunderer, RN Engineering College, Manadon, paid off. Training transferred to Southampton University. First German parachute mines dropped on London. Seventeen out of at least twenty five failed to explode or were fused to delay detonation. The Admiralty Board have approved in principle a recommendation by the Committee on Television in HM Ships that suitable ships (frigates and above) should be fitted with the basic installation to enable recreational television sets to be used on board. DCI(RN) 1397/65. The National Museum of the Royal Navy formally launched at Portsmouth Naval Base. Royal Marines landed at Dunkirk. Gibraltar harbour attacked by Italian submarine Scire with chariots. The first ‘time and percussion fuse’ introduced. The RNAS mounted the first British air raid on Germany. Four aircraft left Antwerp, flying over the Rhine and Ruhr, to bomb the airship sheds at Cologne and Dusseldorf. Three turned back because of fog but Fl/Lt C.H. Collet– a captain RMA – pressed on and dropped three bombs at Dusseldorf: one missed and two failed to explode. DSO. (Collet was the first RNAS officer to loop-the-loop.) Frigate Complex at Devonport Dockyard, originally known as Leander Frigate Complex, developed over No. 2 Basin and enclosing Nos 5, 6 and 7 Docks, opened by Dr David Owen. Galatea docked as demonstration of facility. Rum ration halved by withdrawal of evening issue.
25th
1953
26th 27th
1776 1941
28th
1969
29th 30th
1758 1950
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First Type 14 frigate HMS Dundas launched by J. Samuel White at Cowes. First of the Blackwood-class to be completed was HMS Hardy by Yarrows, Scotstoun, on 15 December 1955 Horatio Nelson appointed acting lieutenant in HMS Worcester. The Navigation School housed since 1 January 1906 in the Old Naval Academy, Portsmouth Dockyard, and seriously damaged in an air raid on10 March 1941, completed a move to the requisitioned Southwick House over Portsdown Hill and was commissioned as HMS Dryad. First RM deployment to Northern Ireland, 41 Cdo RM on Spearhead duties. Horatio Nelson born. RM Barracks at Chatham closed.
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2013 Christmas cards For Christmas 2013 a new Christmas card now in a smaller size than previous years. These are available with envelopes at £5 per pack of ten. You can also still buy the St Albans Christmas card at £5 per pack of ten.
Orders should be sent to HQ Semaphore Tower and be accompanied by a cheque or payment details for the total value. From: ................................................................Branch/Member Please provide................ Packs of2013 Christmas Cards @ £5 per pack Please provide ..............Packs of ten St Albans Christmas cards @ £5 per pack Deliver the order to S/M………………………………............ Address…………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………..................……………………………… …………………………………………….............. ………………………………………………………Post code………………… Find enclosed a cheque to the value of - £ ..................made out to The Royal Naval Association OR debit the ..........................................Branch for £.................. Or charge to my Credit Card/Debit Card; the details of which are: Credit Card/Debit Card Card No .................................................................... Card in the name of :...................................................................................... Valid From: ..................... Expires .................... Three Digit Security Code (where applicable) ............................................... Card holder’s address if different from delivery address Address ……………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………… ……………………………...... Post Code:……………………………
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2014 Diaries The 2014 diary will be sold as the diary part only, price £5. If you need a diary with the blue crested cover it will cost £7 If you need a complete new diary eg Cover, Diary plus Address book, they can be ordered for £8. Cost includes P&P within the UK. Orders should be sent to the address below and be accompanied either by a cheque for the total value or instructions to debit a Branch Account. To: Royal Naval Association, Room 209 Semaphore Tower (PP70) HM Naval Base Portsmouth PO1 3LT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Order form From: .................................................................Branch Please provide ……………… 2014 RNA insert Diaries @ £5 .00 each £ ...................... Please provide ……………… 2014 Diaries with Cover @ £7 .00 each £ ...................... Please provide ……………… Complete 2014 Diaries @ £8 .00 each
£ ......................
TOTAL £............ Deliver the order to S/M………………………………………………………… Address ……………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………… ……………………………...... Post Code:…………………………… Find enclosed a cheque to the value of - £ ..................made out to The Royal Naval Association OR debit the ..........................................Branch for £.................. Or charge to my Credit Card/Debit Card; the details of which are: Credit Card/Debit Card Type ........... ...... Account No .................................. . Card in the name of :................................................................. Valid From: ................................ Expires ..................................................... . Three Digit Security Code (where applicable) ............................................... Card holder’s address of different from delivery address Address ……………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………… ……………………………...... Post Code:……………………………
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FORM RNA C/3 APPLICATION FOR ANNUAL PERMIT FOR A REGISTERED ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION CLUB (To be submitted to RNA Headquarters by 7 December 2013) PART I 1. Name of Club in full ..............................................................................................................(a) 2. Registered Office Address ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................ Tel.............................................Post Code...................................... 3. Premises owned by : Club/Branch/Other..................................................................................(c) 4. Membership as at 31 October 2013 : Life........................Full........................Assoc........................ (e-1) ANNUAL PERMIT 2014 5. The Club committee herebye applies for the renewal of the Annual permit and undertakes to comply with all the conditions therein. (e) 6. The Club Committee confirm that the Club is registered with the FSA and has submitted their accounts. Dated ....................................... Signed by Hon Secretary................................................................ Dated ....................................... Signed by Chairman....................................................................... PART II The Committee of the ......................................... Branch of the Royal Naval Association has examined the above application and supports it. (b) The present paid up membership of the branch is: Life......................Full...................Assoc...................... (a) (b) Signed by the Branch Hon Secretary................................................................. Dated............................ PART III Number.......... Area in which the ....................................Branch is situated recommends that National Council approves this application. (b) Signed by the Area Hon Secretary .......................................................................Dated............................. PART IV This application is approved by the National Council. Signed on their behalf...................................................................
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