Semaphore Circular #651 (July 2015)

The Semaphore Circular No 651

The Beating Heart of the RNA

July 2015

Two views of the RNA Conference Drum Head Service held at Folkestone on Sunday 21 June 2015. The Service was conducted by the Chaplain of the Fleet, The Venerable Ian Wheatley QHC RN and attended by the Worshipful Mayor of Folkestone and Deputy Chair of Shepway District Council. The Conference venue the Grand Burstin Hotel can be seen in its ‘magnificence’ in the Background of the bottom photo.

RNA members are reminded that hard-copies of the Circular are distributed to each branch via their Secretary, but “silver-surfers” can download their own copy from the RNA website at www.royal-naval-association.co.uk .(See below) 1

Daily Orders 1. Folkestone Conference Report 2015 2. Biennial Parade Update 3. 2016 Welfare Seminar 4. Guess Where?

5. Pussers Rum News 6. Joke – First ever Blond Man 7. Finance Corner 8. Donations received 9. Project Vernon Update 10. National Standard Bearers Competition 2016 11. RN VC Series – Lt Holbrook 12. Veterans UK 13. Joke – A conversation in Heaven 14. His and Her Calendar 15. RNRMC News 16. Legion d’Honneur Award 17. Cheaper Train Fares 18. Calling all RNA Motorcycling Riders 19. 75th Anniversary of Dunkirk 20. Joke - Scotsman 21. AB Just Nuisance 22. National VJ Day Celebrations Longcast “D’ye hear there” (Branch news) Ship’s Office Swinging the Lamp For the Branch Secretary and notice-board Glossary of terms NCM NC AMC FAC NCh NVCh NP DNP GS DGS AGS CONA IMC NSM Throughout Contacts:

National Council Member National Council Association Management Committee Finance Administration Committee National Chairman National Vice Chairman National President Deputy National President General Secretary Deputy General Secretary Assistant General Secretary Conference of Naval Associations International Maritime Confederation Naval Service Memorial indicates a new or substantially changed entry

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Financial Controller

023 9272 3823

FAX

023 9272 3371

michelle@royalnavalassoc.com

Assistant General Secretary (Membership & Slops) 023 9272 3747

nigel@royalnavalassoc.com

Deputy General Secretary 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

Find Semaphore Circular On-line ; http://www.royal-naval-association.co.uk/members/downloads or... RNA Website – Members Area – Downloads – Circulars – Code (Shipmate)

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 3

Dear Shipmates, Well Conference is over, the sun is shining and those long summer evenings are perfect for a glass of wine in the garden or a pint down at the pub. The Conference report is the first article in the Semaphore Circular this time. Every Shipmate I talked to enjoyed the location of the clean and well-run hotel and in particular the chance of the drumhead service by the sea with the White Cliffs in the background, and fishing boats and yachts bobbing in the harbour.

The business end of the Conference went very well with a comradely atmosphere. The National Council motion to increase subscriptions after 10 years did not pass and the single alternative suggested by one delegate was rejected. It is therefore necessary to bring forward the National Council’s plan and decision to move to all-electronic communications very early in the New Year.

Circulars and Newsletters cost £25,032.67 to print and post in 2014; with Conference minutes, agendas etc on top of that. National Council Members are gathering an e-mail contact address for every branch in their area, normally the branch secretary, to act as the recipient of the monthly Semaphore Circular, Conference minutes, Agenda etc. Therefore the February Circular will be the last hard copy sent out to branches. Due to the cost and admin issues there will not be a hard copy opt-in.

The Circular is always published to the website within minutes of its completion, which is normally the 23rd or 24th of the month. Branch Secretaries or the branch contact are encouraged to distribute the electronic version of the Circ to all branch members. Other cost-saving decisions in the wake of Conference’s motion issue will be communicated as they occur, but will, for instance, include charging for HQ Open Days next year to cover the cost of catering; previously provided free-of-charge.

I would like to draw your attention to the brief on the Biennial Parade which has timings and other admin details. We look forward to seeing you there. We have the Fleet Commander (used to be called CinCFleet) as the reviewing officer and we have at least one Minister attending and hope for more. We will be presenting one shipmate with his World War 2 medals for the first time.

Anyone who is struggling with getting hold of an Ushakov medal for Arctic Star veterans should contact the General Secretary; NCM1 has a contact in the Russian Embassy and we therefore may be able to help.

We have developed, as a new idea, a His’n’Hers RNA Calendar; details in the Circ, but a great Christmas pressy for the special Shipmate in your life for a fiver.

A reminder for those who attended Conference as delegates that claims must be with us by 31 July. Claims received after that date will not be paid and will become the responsibility of the delegate’s branch (I know a lot of you don’t claim and settle anyway and a big thank you for that).

The National Council have decided that all members should now have the new style RNA membership card and that from 1 January 2016 the old style will be invalid. This is in order to introduce a different colour sticker for branches with clubs to get over legal issues regarding club membership. The old style cards will be replaced free of charge. Branch secretaries should contact Nigel with their requirements, taking care to get the membership category right, since there are separate cards for Full, Life, Associate and Associate with Certificate of Appreciation.

A £2 charge for a replacement for lost or damaged RNA membership cards will be introduced immediately, but no requirement for a Captain’s table!

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The National Council’s strategy paper is now published in the members’ section of the website (remember the code is ‘shipmate’) along with an overview which is suitable for notice-boards, or passing around at meetings.

The HQ Staff (Paul, Andy, Michele, Nigel and Chrissie) would like to say a huge thank you to the many kind words and greetings that we experienced at Conference.

It was a complete pleasure to be with such a fun-loving and generous group.

Due to staff leave over the summer period there will not be a Circular in September, so any announcements or news that you have will need to be with us for 21 July to be included in the August Semaphore Circular.

Have a great summer Paul

Well done Andy and the Lee on the Solent and Stubbington Branch for best recruiting for a small branch (now a big branch!) oh and not forgetting congratulations to Warwick Branch as well ....

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Chairman’s Chat – July 2015 Well Shipmates, another AGM and Conference weekend is over and from all the many conversations I had with delegates and observers it seems to have been much enjoyed by everyone. My journey back to Worcestershire on a bright sunny day was marred only by a 40 min crawl through the M25 car park! Once we eventually got onto the M40 the journey was fast and smooth, with Gail at the wheel to give me a rest – I chose the wrong leg to drive!!

The Conference weekend organisation was very well carried out by Tug Wilson and his Area 2 team, with special thanks to Steve Shaw who took over the role as Area 2 Conference Coordinator at short notice and his input over the last four months has been a great help to the HQ Staff, and his efforts over the weekend were immense. Now, as his tee shirt on Sunday afternoon reminded us, “It’s over, Time to put my feet up”. Well I hope those feet have been well and truly put up and have recovered from the miles covered over the weekend. Well done and thank you, Steve, your efforts were greatly appreciated.

Emily Arnold, the Lady Mayor of Folkestone, and David Owen, the Vice Chairman of Shepway District Council, were very impressed with our event, and particularly with the ceremonial at the Parade and Service on the Sunday. The Folkestone and Hythe SCC Band were very impressive and their drill in assembling and dismantling the Drumhead for the Sunday Service was beautifully executed. They demonstrated very well why our decision to support the SCC Bands whenever we can should continue, and funds paid to them will serve us better in the longer term than will the very expensive cost of requesting a Royal Marine Band.

The Conference itself was marred by the sudden unfortunate deterioration in the medical condition of Mary, the National President’s twin sister, requiring him to travel urgently up to London in the early hours of the Saturday morning, so missing the reminder of the weekend.

Fortunately his sister made a favourable recovery once her medical staff had determined the source of the infection she had contracted after a major operation. So we all look forward to Admiral John returning to our ranks with the assurance that his sister is making good progress.

John’s absence from the Conference meant that DNP Mark Slawson found himself thrown in the deep end as the Conference Chairman. His sense of humour and authority soon endeared him to delegates and he proved to be a very able deputy to the NP. Prior to the debates on the 6 Motions before Conference he reminded delegates of what their responsibilities were. Many had been given orders by their branches on how they must vote, especially on the Subscriptions Motion. The whole point of having a debate on motions is to allow delegates to hear all the points made for and against a proposed motion. If they are pre-directed as to how they must vote there is no point in having a debate. Several delegates made it clear that they fully understood the reasons behind the Council motion, some of which they were unaware of until they were made during the debate, but having been tied by the decision of their Branch they were unable to respond according to their more informed judgement. Of course Branches should make their considered view known to their delegate. But delegates should always be told, if a debate brings to light issues, for or against, that had not been known during the Branch discussion, that they use their own judgement in deciding how to vote. If that goes against the decision of the Branch they should be prepared to justify their own vote to the Branch. A delegate at Conference is the only person from the Branch who hears all the points made by the 6

proposer, seconder, or other delegates, so is really the only person who is able to make a fully informed decision. Tying his or her hand before Conference even starts makes a mockery of having a democratic debate at Conference.

I was really disappointed with the Subs debate. The vote was neither decisively in favour of an increase nor decisively against it. I would have readily accepted a very clear vote either way as a positive message to Council. But, after a debate that didn’t really focus on the facts presented, and was more influenced by pre-determined views, it was disappointing to end up with a “do nothing” result. I have always felt confident that the RNA in Conference could be relied upon to come to a clear decision, and this is why I felt so disappointed on this occasion. The National Council may now have some difficult decisions to take in trying to save the £45K of additional income we were hoping for. But that is the nature of democracy, and in words quoted by Churchill, adopted from a lesser-known source, “Democracy is the worst form of government, save for all the others.”

Well, Shipmates, your delegates had their gripe at Conference and I have had mine now so it is onward and upward as we continue our way forward. I was extremely appreciative of the personal comments of support made to me during the weekend. I think perhaps many were expecting to see me as being somewhat frail and feeble, but my last two chemotherapy sessions were cancelled because my white blood cell count was too low So I was feeling as well as I was before my sessions started at the end of March. I start again tomorrow but my chemo drug strength is being reduced slightly as my oncologist thinks the blood count was being too adversely affected by the current strength. My two young grandchildren arrive in 3 days time from California so I’m hoping I will be reasonably well enough to have fun with them, and also to meet visitors to the Naval Service Memorial in 6 days time at the National Arboretum Armed Forces Day event.

Have a good holiday season, Shipmates, and I hope you will all have plenty of good weather and sunshine to enjoy. As you know, the Sunday of Conference weekend was Father’s Day and many of you will know I am an Apple computer user. Therefore I thought I would share with you the Apple my wife bought me as my Father’s Day gift …… !! She said I am so attached to my Apple devices that she thought she would get me an Apple document to read!

Chris Dovey

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1.

Folkestone Conference Report 2015

The Association met for its annual reunion at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone from Friday 19 June to Sunday 21 June. 500 Shipmates booked into the Hotel with over 200 enjoying the free trip to France on Saturday.

Shipmates arriving on Friday afternoon were met by the Area 2 team led by S/M Tugg Wilson (Area Chair) and the tireless S/M Steve Shaw who masterminded the Area preps for conference and was a ball of energy through the whole weekend. People settled in quickly to their rooms and the numbers in the bar swelled quickly to enjoy the generous happy hour prices – well OK the Happy Hour for the RNA was from when the bar opened to when it closed – with beer £2.50 a pint and wine at £7.50 a bottle. The harbour restaurant was busy with folk getting an early supper and either a prime position in the bar or in the ballroom for the all evening entertainment – consisting of bingo, singer and dancing girls a band and a late night disco.

The France trip got away on time for 0700 for a day in Boulogne with 6 coaches full. Fortunately before the Calais ferry workers strike. They returned for 1900 with hardly any ‘additional’ passengers trying to get into the country.

Sadly we heard very early on Saturday morning that Admiral John had to leave immediately for London to be with his twin sister who had taken a turn for the worse in hospital. The General Secretary rang Commodore Mark Slawson, the DNP, whilst he was driving on the M3 to let him know the good news that he was taking over.

Honourably, he did not turn around!

I am pleased to report a most encouraging turn-out of 96 delegates for the Conference, who were all in position in time.

After the usual ceremonial start the new Hon Chaplain to the RNA, the Venerable Ian Wheatley, treated us to a lively reflection and opening prayers.

The conference was opened by the Mayor of Folkestone, Her Worship Emily Arnold. A mum of 5 and long standing District and Town Councillor he gave a heartfelt welcome to the RNA and opened the Conference, with a definite twinkle in her eye.

The key note speech was then given by Vice Admiral Peter Hudson CB CBE RN, the Maritime Commander for NATO. Admiral Peter gave a really lively and informative update on the RN, where it is deployed, what it does and the challenges it faces (all with his notes tightly rolled in his hand). He answered some really great questions from the floor. Both he and the Mayor were delighted to be presented with Pussers Rum decanters as a personal gift.

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The AGM part of the meeting started with Shipmate Mark reading out Admiral John’s Conference Speech and Update, but adding his own twist and asides. The main theme being the recently approved Strategy for membership for the next 5 years. He took questions afterwards. In particular he thanked the 5 Command Warrant Officers for attending – which is a great privilege and benefit of our partnering arrangement.

The Chair of the SOC the announced the results of the elections Area 2 6 7 8 9 10 11 Scot

NCM Allen Ridley Williams Dovey Crawford Caulfield McQueen Hesketh

DNCM Cox Parry Warner Rooney Williamson Wright Rooney McKenzie

SOC (Allen stood down as new NCM. Elected: Sandham Downing Lyons

The National Chair and Hon Treasurers reports followed, with the Delegate from Plymouth asking his usual insightful 3 detailed questions on the notes to the Annual financial statements.

The proceedings then moved to the Conference Phase.

The first two motions from the National Council went through without difficulty, tidying up the wording of the major revision of the Charter and Rules last year. National Council Motion 3 was also approved unanimously giving full voting rights to Associate members holding the Certificate of Appreciation.

This will come into force when agreed to by the Privy Council.

NC motion 4 was a recommendation to increase the subscriptions by for the first time in 10 years, by £5/yr. 5 delegates spoke against the motion with an amendment for a 4 stage increase only gaining 31% backing, with 2/3rds required. The main motion also did not reach the required 2/3rds majority to pass with 43 of 96 voting in favour. The DNP informed Conference that there would, inevitably, be consequences as a result of the lack of a decision.

Branch motion 1 was not carried for Areas to approve NCM and DNCM nominations, with only 11 in favour. Branch motion 2 to hold the 2017 Conference in Perth was passed unanimously.

The conference raffle was then drawn the result was 1st M Quantrill Southend on sea 2nd A Hollingrake Orkney 3rd P Headington Maindenhead 4th A Wood Derry/Londonderry

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After the chance of a reviving pint or two (cost £5), Shipmates gathered for the Gala Dinner in the Harbour Restaurant with almost 500 sitting down. We were joined by 20+ from the Irish Naval Association. Area 2 provided a tot for all for the loyal toast, which was made to Her Majesty, but also was made to the President of the Irish Republic in respect to our Irish shipmates. The hotel did a great job with the food going out quickly for a good 4 course meal.

The hotel put on entertainment in the bar for us afterwards. Comradeship in the bar continued to the wee hours.

The Sunday Service was not in a church as usual since the walk is very steep, but held across from the hotel in the Marine harbour car park. Folkestone Sea Cadets led the march into position with the salute taken by the Mayor of Folkestone and the Deputy Chair of Shepway District Council. 230 Shipmates marched led by 37 standards.

The cadets formed the drumhead and our new friend Rev Ian Wheatley led a service with an inspirational, short and amusing sermon. We all enjoyed the Mayor’s 6 year-old daughter Scarlett, dancing in front of the Chaplain of the Fleet and the very serious looking VIP party.

In Admiral John’s absence the National Chair, Chris Dovey addressed the parade – thanked Shipmates for turning out and the Mayor for giving of her time. He particularly thanked S/M Steve Shaw for his tireless help and Area 2 for hosting a Conference that all agreed had been great fun and well organised by the Grand Burstin.

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2.

Biennial Parade Update

The Biennial Parade will be held at Whitehall on Sunday 6 September. The programme is as follows 0900 HQ staff on site, meet with Met senior officer.

0910 Set security points 0915 Civil Service Club opens for coffee and toilets (80 metres from Coach parking) 0930 Parking for coaches and minibuses in Whitehall Place (pass required from HQ) 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.

1010 Standard bearers brief by NCA 1025 Parade musters and is briefed by Parade Commander.

1040 Parade steps off , from Whitehall Place 1055 Fleet Commander, NP, VIPs join the parade 1100- Service starts, 2 minute silence 1102 Service at Cenotaph led by the Chaplain of the Fleet 1127 Parade steps off, review by Fleet Commander 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 - FC and VIPsmeets Shipmates 1200 Sandwiches and Chips served at no cost to participants 1200 Parking restrictions restored in Whitehall Place Rig Will be uniform for those serving and RNA rig with medals or equivalent for everyone else, polished shoes. Berets for standard bearers, optional for marchers. Standards should wear the NSM pennant (if entitled).

Briefs Standard bearers should note the early brief for them at 1010 in Whitehall place by the National Ceremonial Advisor.

Security.

All should carry photo ID and their RNA membership card.

Band

The band will be the Poole and Hearne Bay Sea Cadets.

Guests.

We hope to have contingents from the Irish Naval Association, Belgium and many friends from CONA. We will have a first presentation of WW2 medals to one veteran. The Chaplain of the Fleet, our Hon Chaplain will conduct the service. TS Tormentor Cadets will attend, act as stewards and march Wreaths.

Any branch, Area or individual may lay a wreath during the ceremony, please let Nigel know if you would like to.

Mobility.

The march is of the order of 450 metres there and 450 back with just over an hour on our feet. Those with mobility issues should make their way to the front of the FCO where an area will be reserved.

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3.

2016 Welfare Seminar

Following on from the very successful 2015 Seminar, Shipmates have requested that the seminar be held over a short weekend which would provide delegates and guest speakers a chance to have: a more dedicated wash-up period; answer individual queries; and allow time for networking. As a result it has been decided that the 2016 Welfare Seminar will be held on Saturday 19 March 2016 at the Crown Hotel, Weymouth commencing at 0930.

There will be the wide range of speakers who attended the Seminar last year which included: Veterans with Dogs ( Golden Labrador - Boo), Age Concern UK, Hosanna House, T4V (TRiM 4 Veterans), SSAFA, Veterans UK, Combat Stress.

It is hoped that they along with other speakers will be attending in 2016.

The cost will be as follows; 18th – 20th March 2016

Fri – Sun

Dinner bed and breakfast £99.00

18th – 21st March 2016

Fri – Mon

Dinner bed and breakfast £139.00

19th March

Saturday only

Dinner bed and breakfast £49.00

Saturday lunch for delegates will cost £4.95 per person (you must be attending the seminar) Saturday lunch for non-delegates will cost £8.50 per person Sunday lunch (2 Course) will cost £9.95 For Information The Crown Hotel has some rooms that have 3 or 4 steps to negotiate but no more than that and have a good proportion of walk-in shower type rooms and level access from the lifts.

(Shipmates are kindly requested to note that if this is an essential requirement then please state that on the form when you book.)

The Welfare Seminar application form is attached to this Circular and it is important that all applications need to be made through the method shown on the form and please not to HQ. If you have any further queries then please ring UK Holidays on 01603 886744. If out of hours please contact S/M Rita Lock MBE on 02392 642234 or by e-mail ritalock@virginmedia.com

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4.

Guess Where? An Establishment

This month can you name this former Naval establishment.

Please forward any other pictures to the HQ that you may have for ‘Guess Where’ so that we can publish them in forthcoming Circulars. No looking on Google or Wiki!!

Answers in next month’s edition.

Last month’s answer!

FOST Building HM Dockyard Portland.

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Pussers Rum – News

Peter Thornton the Pussers Brand Manager thought Shipmates would appreciate an update on forthcoming changes to Pussers Rum. Dear Shipmates The label of the 54.5%abv blend is changing, and as of Monday 15th June, any and all stock of the 54.5%abv rum, will be the new Black and Gold version – and also tag lined “Gunpowder proof” to highlight a) the strength of the rum, and b) Pusser’s connection to, and with the Navy and its history. This new label will really set it apart from the range, and we are very excited about seeing this out on shelves and on bars around the UK. The Blue Label will stay however – but on the more “everyday” strength Pusser’s Rum at 40%abv. The most important thing that really must be stressed here is that the rum HAS NOT changed at all. Even the 40%abv version is EXACTLY the same blend and recipe as the Gunpowder Proof, simply cut to a lower abv.

There is also the exclusive discount code that is still available to anyone who wishes to use it, we are hoping provide a larger discount close to Black Tot Day - so will be worth keeping an eye out for that. www.drinkfinder.co.uk Enter royalnavy15 at the checkout or basket on the website for a 10% discount or ring 01326 340226 “Up Spirits” Peter Please see the leaflet attached to this Semaphore Circular for further specific details.

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6.

First ever Blonde Man Joke.....

An Irishman, an Englishman and a Welsh Blonde Guy were doing building work on scaffolding on the 20th floor of a building.

They were eating lunch and the Irishman said, 'Corned beef and cabbage! If I get corned beef and cabbage one more time for lunch, I'm going to jump off this building.'

The Englishman opened his lunch box and exclaimed,'Cheese again! If I get cheese one more time I'm going to jump off, too.'

The Welsh blonde fella opened his lunch and said, 'lamb again! If I get a lamb sandwich one more time, I'm jumping too.'

The next day, the Irishman opened his lunch box, saw corned beef and cabbage, and jumped to his death.

The Englishman opened his lunch, saw cheese and jumped, too.

The blonde guy opened his lunch, saw the lamb and jumped to his death as well.

At the funeral, the Irishman's wife was weeping.She said, 'If I'd known how really tired he was of corned beef and cabbage, I never would have given it to him again!'

The Englishmans wife also wept and said, 'I could have given him tuna, I just didn't realise he hated cheese so much.'

Wait for it..............(Oh this is GOOD!!!)?

Everyone turned and stared at the blonde chaps wife. She said....................., 'Don't look at me. He makes his own lunch ...'

(Editor’s note; I promise they get better!!)

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Finance Corner –

Dear Shipmates, It was lovely to talk to so many Shipmates at Conference; I do hope that all of you who attended enjoyed themselves. I look forward to seeing and talking with you all next year at Reading’s Conference, which I am sure that you will be interested to know the HQ staff are already working on.

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Year End Returns There are 21 Branches who have not submitted their accounts to HQ for 2014.

Also, please note the Year End Returns as per the Rules & Bye-Laws Page 40 B19, (c) must be returned to HQ by the 30 April. If you have any queries regarding your Year End Returns, please do not hesitate to contact Rita or myself.

Branch Official Information Form Please would all branches who change Branch Officials be kind enough to forward a ‘Branch Official Information form’ and e-mail it to either michelle@royalnavalassoc.com or rita@royalnavalassoc.com . You can obtain this form from the RNA Website or you can ring for a copy.

The reason we ask that you do this is to ensure HQ records are correct and more importantly not cause any further upset or embarrassment to any Widow / Widowers.

Delegates Travel Expense Form Please note – Delegates that attended Conference please ensure you complete your Expenses Claim form and return to HQ by 31 July 2015 in order to allow Michelle to calculate Pooled Fares.

Thank you for your continued co-operation Yours Aye Michelle

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Donations received for the Central Charities and the Charter Challenge

Central Charities RNA Chard

£60.00

Charter Challenge Just Giving

£7.50

Charities Trust

£11.38

‘In memory of the late....’

S/m Mary Elizabeth Marsh S/m Jessie Marsh S/m Scott Brundage

£ 105.85 £20.00 £400.00

Thank you very much for your continued support.

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9.

Update –The Project Vernon the Minewarfare and Diving Monument

Please see below an update concerning Project Vernon the Mine Warfare and Diving Monument Campaign •

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• • •

Total funds raised, at over £235,000, reflect a very successful recent year for Project Vernon - we are over two-thirds of the way towards the sum needed to achieve the final goal Offsite construction of the plinth components will start later this summer: we have all the necessary planning permissions in place and designs reviewed Subject to passing the £330,000 target threshold, we will soon start (hopefully early next year) on the scale model of the monument itself Monument miniatures and limited edition print sales continue to contribute well to the campaign: see our e-Shop web page for details...

There are two major fundraising events organised this year: the first is on 5th June in Portsmouth, then the second in London, later this year All support and contributions are warmly welcomed, as ever!

The Project Manager David Carey would like to thank everyone who has supported the volunteer team: He said that the end goal is now firmly in sight and he really appreciate those who have made a contribution towards the final success!

10.

National Standard Bearers Competition 2016 - Diary Date / Heads Up

Shipmates may wish to be aware that the 2016 National Standard Bearers Competition will be held in HMS COLLINGWOOD on Saturday 07 May 2016.

Specific details will be announced in the Semaphore Circular nearer the date. If you have any immediate queries please contact S/M Mick Kieran the National Ceremonial Officer, 07593 573301 or mick.kieran@virginmedia.com

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11.

RN VC Series - Lt Norman Douglas Holbrook VC RN

Lt Norman Holbrook was awarded the VC during operations in the Dardanelles, Turkey in December 1914.

He was born in Southsea Hampshire on 9 July 1888 and was educated at Portsmouth Grammar School. In 1903 he joined the RN at BRNC. On completion of training he served in HM Submarines F3, V4 and E41 before taking command of HMS B11 on 30 December 1913.

He was in command of the submarine HMS B11, an old and obsolete craft built in 1905. Notwithstanding the difficulties of a treacherous current in the Dardanelles, he dived under five rows of mines and torpedoed and sank the Ottoman ironclad Mesรปdiye, which was guarding the mine-field. In spite of being attacked by gunfire and torpedo boats, Holbrook succeeded in bringing the B11 back to the Mediterranean, When they got back to safety the B11 had been submerged for nine hours. For this action he was awarded the VC. After reaching the rank of Commander Holbrook died on 3 July 1976 at Midhurst, Sussex. He was buried at St James Old Churchyard, Stedham, West Sussex. He is probably the only VC recipient to have a town and (until May 2004) a local government area named for him. On 24 August 1915, amid a wave of anti-German feeling related to the First World War, the name of the New South Wales Eastern Riverina town of Germanton was changed to Holbrook to honour the recent VC recipient. He subsequently visited the town on three occasions. His widow, Mrs. Gundula Holbrook, donated his medal to the Council of the Shire of Holbrook in 1982. In 1995 she made a substantial donation towards the establishment of a submariners' memorial in the town, and in 1997 visited the town to unveil it. A bronze statue of Holbrook stands in Germanton Park, Holbrook

12.

Veterans UK

Veterans UK, the MOD organisation that administers pensions has recently implemented changes to the Veterans UK Helpline in order to increase call answering capacity and overall support to Veterans. Work will be completed by August 2015 it is hoped that this will produce a modern state of the art system that will be able to better support the Veterans Community. The new system will facilitate call routing; to allow the best placed staff member to assist a Veteran as efficiently as possible; callers reporting bereavement or calling from overseas will get priority routing to the first available operator.

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13.

Joke – A Conversation in Heaven....

Betty Hi! Wanda.

Wanda: Hi! Betty. How'd you die?

Betty: I froze to death.

Wanda: How horrible!

Betty: It wasn't so bad. After I quit shaking from the cold, I began to get warm & sleepy and finally died a peaceful death. What about you?

Wanda: I died of a massive heart attack. I suspected that my husband was cheating, so I came home early to catch him in the act. But instead, I found him all by himself watching TV. Betty: So, what happened?

Wanda: I was so sure there was another woman there somewhere that I started running all over the house looking. I ran up into the attic and searched, and down into the basement. Then I went through every closet and checked under all the beds. I kept this up until I had looked everywhere, and finally I became so exhausted that I just keeled over with a heart attack and died.

Betty: Too bad you didn't look in the freezer … ………we'd both be still be alive.

14.

His and Her Calender The brand new 2016 ‘RNA His and Her Calendar’ is now on sale from Nigel’s Bazzar......

Cheap as chips at £5.00 (which includes cost of posting).

So let’s have your orders by snail mail, phone or E-mail.

Brilliant Stocking filler for Christmas........

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15.

Royal Naval and Royal Marine Charity Update

Please see below a letter forwarded from RNRMC for Conference.

Dear Shipmates, It is a pleasure to address you personally at this year’s Annual Conference following another year of growth for The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC).

This growth is represented, not only by the funds you have helped us raise, but also through closer working relationships with the Charity and the Royal Naval Association.

By electing us as your Charity of the Year 2014/15, your branches raised an incredible £15,038.46 for the RNRMC. Nationwide, from Bridport to Brightlingsea and Rugby to Rosyth, your members accepted donations for us, took part in our Road to Twickenham fundraising challenge, sold merchandise and held concerts in aid of the Charity – thank you! These valuable contributions are truly helping to make a difference in supporting our sailors, marines and their families, for life.

I would like to give a special thank you to those of you who have – and are able to – offer us the gift of your time.

Members like Keith Ridley of the RNA National Council were able to volunteer their time to represent the Charity at a variety of community and Naval events. We are keen to continue developing similar relationships with your members in the future.

I know that the general public have a wealth of admiration and respect when they meet former serving personnel at our events and I urge you to be in touch if you are able to offer similar support.

As the Charity continues to distribute record sums of money year-on-year to deserving projects, the need to raise funds more becomes ever greater.

This year we anticipate our output to be in the region of £8 million, which is testament to the support of organisations such as the RNA in spreading the word and assisting our work.

Once again, I thank you. I look forward to your continued support and it is a privilege to embrace the Royal Naval Association as a part of our growing Naval Service family.

Yours sincerely,

Lauren Wileman RNRMC

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16.

Legion d’Honneur Award

The Government of France has told the UK Ministry of Defence that it wishes to recognise the selfless acts of heroism and determination displayed by all surviving veterans of the Normandy landings, and of the wider campaigns to liberate France in 1944, by awarding them with the Legion d’Honneur.

This recognition extends beyond the troops who actually landed on and fought their way up the beaches 70 years ago, and will include Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel who operated in support of the landings.

Requests for the award should be made using https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dday-70-application-form-for-award-of-the-legion-dhonneur , or hard copy at rear of Circular, which will be processed by the Ministry of Defence, who will forward the details to the French authorities.

The French authorities will then make all the final decisions on the awards.

Any veterans wishing to apply for the award, or anyone enquiring on their behalf, should either send the form to: Personnel and Training – Defence Services Secretary – Commemorations Floor 6 Zone C Ministry of Defence Main Building LONDON SW1A 2HB Or email it to people-dssec-commemaug1@mod.uk STOP PRESS .......... Further Update from the General Secretary We have had a number of queries regarding the slowness with which the Legion D’Honneur is being sent out to those D-Day (and supporting) veterans who have made their application. GS had a chat to Captain Chris Clough RN, the Naval Attaché in Paris about this issue. He reported that initially the French authorities were surprised by the large number of applications (over 3,500), and they were initially reluctant to increase the presentation rate of 50 a month (to all recipients French and English), in order to preserve the value and standing of the medal. The UK Ministry of Defence offered to help and provide personnel and after initial rejection this offer has now been taken up and they hope to have completed 1,000 this month and all remaining medals within 6 months. Anyone that has a particularly urgent requirement due to ill-health please contact the GS and we will let MoD know to see what can be done.

17.

Cheaper Train Fares??

There is a new website on the market called Trainsplit, in association with Raileasy, and is dedicated to saving money on train tickets. It does so by using a system called Split ticketing.

Split ticketing works by amalgamating cheaper tickets along that route, say, Birmingham to Derby, Derby to Sheffield, Sheffield to Leeds. This is perfectly legal and provides perfectly valid 20

tickets - but only if the journey stops at the appropriate various destinations en route. You don't have to disembark, but you must be able to.

You'll have to carry a few more tickets, but happily you'll be carrying more money that you've saved too. A recent example of savings is that a shipmate recently booked a return single ticket to Birmingham from Cardiff and saved £42 on the fare quoted by the train operating companies. Very much worth a try if you need to travel a long distance by train. As we all know the UK train ticketing system is a minefield when it comes to getting value for money so this is a practical way of turning it to your advantage, rather than getting frustrated. https://raileasy.trainsplit.com/main.aspx

18.

Calling All RNA Motorcycling Riders Shipmates may be interested to read the article below concerning the formation of an RNA Motorcycling Riders Club.

If you are interested in forming an RNA ‘Riders’ Branch please contact either Andy or Nigel at the usual contact details in HQ.

On the 6th of June 2015 at The Royal Marine Barracks Stonehouse Plymouth, The RMA Riders branch was officially former for the purposes of mutual camaraderie, support and remembrance for like minded Royal Marines with an interest in motorcycling to support and further the aims of the RMA and wider Royal Marines community through public awareness, fund raising and events. http://www.rma-riders.uk/ I am emailing you to share this in the hope that a similar branch may be considered for the RNA. Having also been a founder member of The Royal British Legion Riders branch, I am aware of how many bike riding Matelots there are who would enjoy the company of former and serving shipmates on two wheels to further the aims of the RNA. Regards Graham Barber Chairman The RMA Riders Branch

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19.

75th Anniversary of Dunkirk – Commemoration Service

A commemoration service was held to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Dunkirk in the gardens of Admiral Ramsay in Bughtrig Graden, Coldstream on Sunday 7 June 2015.

The service was attended by over 180 people from the Naval community including; RNA, RN, RM, , Association of Wrens and one WW2 Veteran Bill Siddle from Leitholm.

20.

Joke - A Scotsman and his Wife.......

Nigel Huxtable and his wife walked past a swanky new restaurant in Southsea.

"Did you smell that food?" she asked. "It smells absolutely incredible!"

Being a 'kind-hearted Scotsman', he thought, "What the heck..., I'll treat her!"......................

So, they walked past it again...

21.

Able Seaman Just Nuisance AB Just Nuisance was a Great Dane born in Rondesbosch Cape Town on 1 April 1937 (I know what you’re thinking....... he was not an April fool!) and crossed the bar 7 years later in 1944. He was sold to Benjamin Chaney, who later moved to Simon's Town to run the United Services Institute (USI). Just Nuisance quickly became popular with the patrons of the institute and in particular the ratings, who would feed him snacks and take him for walks. He began to follow them back to the naval base and dockyards, where he would lie on the decks of ships that were moored at the wharf. His preferred resting place was the top of the brow. Since he was a large dog even for a Great Dane (he was almost 2 metres (6.6 ft) tall when standing on his hind legs), he presented a sizeable

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obstacle for those trying to board or disembark and he became affectionately known as Nuisance.

He was allowed to roamed freely often following Sailors onto the train for Cape Town some 22 miles way and once discovered would be thrown off by the train guard. Sadly the train company wasn’t amused and threatened to have Just Nuisance put down. The Sailors were outraged and under pressure Naval Command decide to enlist him by the book and as a member of HM Forces could travel for free on the local trains.

He was enlisted on 25 August 1939. His surname was entered as "Nuisance" and, rather than leaving the forename blank, he was given the moniker "Just". His trade was listed as "Bonecrusher" and his religious affiliation as "Scrounger", although this was later altered to the more charitable "Canine Divinity League (Anti-Vivisection)".

To allow him to receive rations and because of his longstanding unofficial service, he was promoted from Ordinary Seaman to Able Seaman.

He never went to sea but fulfilled a number of roles ashore. He continued to accompany sailors on train journeys and escorted them back to base when the pubs closed. While many of his functions were of his own choosing, he also appeared at many promotional events, including his own 'wedding' to another Great Dane, Adinda. Adinda produced five pups as a result, two of which, named Victor and Wilhelmina, were auctioned off in Cape Town to raise funds for the war effort.

Nuisance's service record was not exemplary. Aside from the offences of travelling on the trains without his free pass, being absent without leave, losing his collar and refusing to leave the pub at closing time, his record shows that he was sentenced to having all bones removed for seven days for sleeping in an improper place — to wit, the bed of one of the Petty Officers. He also fought with the mascots of ships that put in at Simon's Town, resulting in the deaths of at least two of them.

Nuisance was at some point involved in a car accident. This caused thrombosis, which gradually paralysed him, so on 1 January 1944 he was discharged from the Navy. His condition continued to deteriorate; on 1 April 1944 he was taken to Simon's Town Naval Hospital where, on the advice of the naval veterinary surgeon, he was put down..

The next day he was taken to Klaver Camp, where his body was draped with a White Ensign and he was buried with full naval honours, including a gun salute and the playing of the Last Post. A simple granite headstone marks his grave, which is on the top of the hill at Klawer, at the former SA Navy Signal School. A statue was erected in Jubilee Square in Simon's Town to commemorate his life.

The Simon's Town Museum has an exhibition dedicated to his story and since 2000 there has been an annual parade of Great Danes from which a lookalike is selected 23

22.

National VJ Day 70th Anniversary Commemorations

I am certain that Shipmates would wish to be aware of the forthcoming of the national programme of commemorative events being held in London on Saturday 15 August 2015 in order to mark the 70th anniversary of VJ Day and to recognise all those who served the Crown in the Far East during WW2.

For information the event is being managed by the RBL and as with the recent VE Day 70 Commemorations and they are keen to ensure that as many veterans as possible from this campaign are given the opportunity to take part.

The programme of events will be as follows: Saturday 15 August 14:00

15:00 15:30

18:00

Drumhead Service and Flypast on Horse Guards Parade.

NB: This element of the commemorations will also be open to the direct descendants of veterans who are no longer living or who are unable to attend in person.

Veterans’ parade down Whitehall.

Afternoon reception for veterans and VIP guests at College Gardens, Westminster Abbey hosted by The Royal British Legion Close In terms of eligibility to attend these commemorations, the requirement is that all veterans are Burma Star or Pacific Star holders. Widows of those who held this military decoration are also eligible to attend. Veterans will be able to bring along a direct family member and also a carer if needed, and widows will be able to bring along one guest or carer.

We also acknowledge, however, that some veterans are regrettably no longer with us, or others are unable to make the journey to London in person to attend the commemorations. For those who fall into this category, we are also offering the opportunity for one of their direct descendants to attend a key element of the VJ 70 commemorations on their behalf; the Drumhead Service which will take place from 14:00 – 14:30 on Horse Guards Parade.

Any help you are able to offer in order for us to establish contact with these very special target audiences would be much appreciated. As with VE Day 70, all those wishing to attend will be required to complete an accreditation and security clearance process. However, in an attempt to keep this process as simple and straightforward as possible, we are offering the option of either an e-mail or postal application process. For those who would prefer to complete a postal application, we will be posting a supply of covering letters and accreditation forms that I hope you can distribute among your immediate community as appropriate.

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There are two versions of both the letter and the form: 1. Accreditation for Veterans and Widows (To attend full programme of events including the Drumhead Service, Parade and Afternoon Reception) 2. Accreditation for Direct Descendants (To attend Drumhead Service only).

Further supplies of accreditation forms can be provided as necessary, or downloaded via the following link: www.britishlegion.org.uk/vjdayvets.

There will also be a facility to claim a financial contribution towards travel expenses. This contribution will be available for veterans, spouses (if applicable) and one guest/ carer. Or, for widows, plus one guest/ carer. Further details for how to claim this will be provided directly once accreditation has been successfully submitted and confirmation received.

The closing date for all applications is Friday 17 July. We expect all submissions to be approved – with accreditation confirmation, joining instructions and pass collection details provided to all confirmed guests – no later than 24 July.

We do hope that you are able to help us bring this programme of commemoration to the attention of as many qualifying veterans and their families as possible so that they may have an opportunity to attend. Should you have any further queries relating to this event, please don’t hesitate to contact the VJ Day 70 Events team on 0203 053 7015 or email vjday70@britishlegion.org.uk.

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RNA Longcast 2015 03 Jul 11 July 13-22 July 18 Jul 23 Jul 23 Jul 29 Jul 30 July 01 Aug 15 Aug 15 Aug 21 Aug 22 Aug 05 Sep 06 Sep 19 Sep 03 Oct 09 Oct 09-12 Oct 14 Oct 23 Oct 31 Oct 5 Nov 7 Nov 7 Nov 8 Nov 14 Nov 19-21 Nov 21 Nov 05 Dec 24 Dec – 4 Jan 2016 13 Feb 20 Feb 28 Feb 12 Mar 19 Mar 7 May 10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 11-12 Jun 20 Aug 26 Aug 10 Sep 19 Nov 26 Nov 10 Dec

HQ Open Day Yeovilton Air Day IMC Sailing Camp - Croatia Dublin Branch – Summer BBQ (Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire) ARNO AGM + Reception, HMS President CONA Conference - Portsmouth Mid Year budget Review Culdrose Air Day Area 5 – Quarterly meeting- Southend On Sea AMC 70th Anniversary of VJ Day HQ Open Day FAC National Council - UJC Biennial Parade - Whitehall Northern Ireland Veterans’ Association – Service of Remberance National Memorial Arboretum RNA Bletchley Branch 50th Anniversary Celebrations HQ Open Day RNA Plymouth – Biennial Trafalgar Weekend – GS attends Babbacombe Hotel Babbacombe.

Annual National Service for Seafarers, St Paul's Cathedral Dublin Branch – Trafalgar Dinner ( Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire) NI Festival of Remembrance – National Standard parades Field of Remembrance – RNA plot and service with CoF Festival of Remembrance – Albert Hall National Standard parades Area 5 – Quarterly meeting- Harwich Remembrance Sunday AMC IMC Executive Council FAC National Council HQ Closed for Christmas and New Year AMC Meeting FAC Meeting National Arboretum – 1991 Gulf War Memorial unveiling National Council Meeting Welfare Seminar – Crown Hotel Weymouth National Standard Bearer Competition – HMS Collingwood AMC Meeting FAC Meeting National Council Meeting National Conference AMC Meeting FAC Meeting National Council Meeting AMC Meeting FAC Meeting National Council Meeting 26

D’ye hear there’.....

News from around the Areas and Branches RNA Plymouth Branch RNA Plymouth will be holding their 11th Biennial Trafalgar Weekend on Friday 9th October to Monday 12th October 2015 at the Babbacombe Hotel, Babbacombe. Cost will be 3 nights (Friday to Monday) Dinner, B&B (Gala Dinner Saturday) £115.00 or 2 nights (Friday to Sunday) £80.00 For further details please contact Sue Gutteridge, Social Secretary. RNA Plymouth.

Tel: (01752)849176. E.suzannegutteridge@ymail.com.

RNA Bletchley Branch Bletchley Branch will be holding a small Church Service and Parade of Standards to celebrate their 50th Anniversary on Saturday 03 October 2015 commencing at 1400.

The service will take place at St Mary’s Church, Church Green Road, Bletchley MK3 6BL (There is ample parking available) and Standard Bearers should muster at the Memorial pathway at 1330.

All are welcome to attend but for catering purposes it is requested that you contact the Branch Secretary S/m David Corrigan at; 9, The Lymes, Bletchley MK2 2JN Tel 01980 366226 or 07541 790601. Alternatively you can e-mail the Vice Chairman G.POTTER61@btinternet.com

RNA Bangor Branch Shipmates from Bangor Branch recently visited the Naval Service memorial at the National Arboretum in Alrewas.

The photo shows (L to R) Branch Chairman Norman Leslie and Shipmates B Connolley, D Gilbert at the NSM during their visit.

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RNA St Neots & District Branch HQ received a lovely article sent in by Tom Mumford, St Neots President reporting on the 40th Anniversary celebrations of the Branch On Monday 11th May, a number of Shipmates from the St. Neots Branch met for an informal lunch to celebrate the 40th anniversary of our Standard Dedication.

On this date in 1975, our Branch proudly marched through the Town, led by a 50 strong band from the Coventry School of Music, accompanied by Shipmates and Standards from 25 Branches of No 6 Area. Taking the salute was the then President of the Association, Rear Admiral T.V.Briggs.

Having Commissioned the Branch in 1972, it took two and a half years to raise the necessary funds to purchase the Standard, associated equipment and the promotion of the event. Financial records of the time show that the total cost was £800, not a huge sum by today’s standards, but at the same time, H.Q. annual subscriptions had just increased from 75p to 80p and one could purchase a three bedroom detached house & garage for £5,000.

(No exaggeration, I bought one and still live in it) The quality standards of the 1970s must have been somewhat superior to those of today when one considers that our Standard still looks as good as it did then. A testament to the care of our two Standard Bearers, the late S/M Pete Wale who carried it from 1975 – 1995 and S/M Keith Ridley, who took over the duty in 1995 and continues in post today.

An apt piece of music for the lunch would have been “Oh what happened to you, whatever happened to me” (the signature tune to the TV series “Whatever happened to the likely lads”) as memoirs of the day circulated around the tables. Unrecognisable photographs raised questions like “Who the hells that” with answers like “It’s you”!!!! Also circulated was the Order of Service and a press cutting from the Hunts Post (or whatever it was called then) with the headline “Big day at St. Neots for RN Association”. Also displayed was the event advertising poster, hand crafted in colour, and now mounted and framed (courtesy S/M Alan Brown) and preserved for however long we survive.

The luncheon presented a happy day with happy memories, tinged with sadness for some great names and characters that have crossed the bar. We will remember them. Now it’s on with business as usual, seeking out new members and looking after those we already have.

Another month later we got together for a cream tea in Betty Bumbles in the market square. Over 40 years on cream teas and pints have made their mark.

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RNA Falmouth Branch In conjunction with Falmouth Town Council and the Parish Church of King Charles the Martyr, for the 33rd successive year Falmouth Branch of the Royal Naval Association are coordinating the annual Sea Sunday Parade and Church Service on Sunday 19 July 2015. This annual event has become one of the highlights of the Civic and social calendar in the town, and traditionally takes place on the third Sunday in July each year.

Whilst the parade will consist predominantly of naval and military personnel, veterans’ and youth organizations and Civic dignitaries, we stress that it is not confined to these groups entirely, RNA Falmouth Branch issues an OPEN INVITATION to all who have an affiliation to the sea or seafaring to participate, either parading or attending the church service.

PROGRAMME: 10.00 10.20 10.40 11.00 12.00 (approx)

Civic and other invited guests assemble in the Council Chamber Parade assembles on The Moor Piazza March to the Parish Church of King Charles the Martyr Sea Sunday Church Service Parade re-forms, march to Events Square

12.15 (approx)

Parade dismissed.

A reception will be held in the Learning Centre, National Maritime Museum, for participants in the parade and invited guests.

To assist with the planning of the event (particularly the catering arrangements) it would be appreciated if you would complete the attached Pro Forma, and return it to the address below, as soon as possible.

NAME of Organisation/Association/Unit etc:……………………………………………..

Name of Contact:……………………………………………..

Tel. No:- …………………………………………e-mail:- ................................................. …………………………………………

Other contact details (optional) …………………………………………

Numbers: Marching: ……………………..

Standard Paraded?

Yes/No* Not marching/Church only: ……………………..

Attending Reception (number): (to assist with catering arrangements) ………………………

Please complete and return to the address below (if possible before 12th July.)

RNA Falmouth Branch, S/m Ron Burdekin, Hon Sec, 23 Glebe Close, Mawgan, Helston, CORNWALL TR12 6AA e-mail Falmouth.royalnavalassoc@yahoo.com tel 01326 221851 or 07810 404418

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Area 7 Shipmates may wish to be informed that Area 7 have filled the following posts following elections; Elected to President:-

S/M David GRIGGS (Haverfordwest Branch)

Elected Life Vice President:-

S/M Doug HUGHES (Cheltenham Branch)

Elected Life Vice President:-

S/M Melville HOWDEN (Cardiff Branch)

RNA Huntingdon & District Branch On the 27th May 2015, shipmates from the Cambridgeshire region joined the Royal British Legion in their campaign to remember service personnel killed during the First World War. Shipmates Karl Webb (Huntingdon), Keith Ridley and Mike Milne (St Neots) were invited along as the service was going to commemorate the life of Stoker Clement Metcalfe Freeman of St Ives, Cambridgeshire.

Shipmates Karl Webb and Keith Ridley paraded their Branch Standards whilst shipmate Mike Milne took on the role as duty photographer. The Service was held at St Ives War Memorial and was attended by the Mayor, Councillors, VIPs, the RBL and RNA and residents of St Ives.

The following week, Huntingdon shipmates were out once again, this time shipmates Karl Webb and Pete Aston took the Branch stall to Huntingdon’s annual Riverside Gala. This year the Branch have a new PR item for the children (and some adults) to play, Pete Aston had built a large Battleships game; children simply drew a numbered ball to see if they could ‘hit’ one of the warships on the board. Shipmate Karl Webb took part in a live interview with Huntingdon Community Radio during which he informed the listeners of the aims of the RNA and the charity work the Branch carries out within the local community.

With visits from the Mayor of Huntingdon, shipmates Hilary Meers-Webb, Graham and Becky Murray, a number of former Naval service personnel, and visitors to the Gala, the Branch has once again been seen out and about in the community and, with luck, have some new recruits join us in the coming months.

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Photographs show shipmates Karl Webb and Keith Ridley with the RBL Standard Bearers at St Ives War Memorial, shipmate Pete Aston demonstrating his Battleships board, and final, shipmates Karl Webb and Pete Aston with the Mayor of Huntingdon, Councillor Bill Hensley.

RNA Helston Branch Shipmates from Helston Branch attended the Cornwall Armed Forces Day at Torpoint on 20 June.

A great time was had by everyone which included their Vice Chairwomen Josie Locke, who didn’t actually march. The Veterans parade started at 1100 and was led by the Royal Marine Band Plymouth and followed by a variety of Standards and local military associations. The afternoon programme featured demonstrations, marching bands & static displays and in the evening a fireworks display and entertainment by live bands.

The photo above shows Helston Hon Sec, Joe Locke, the tall distinguished man, his words not mine!, in the middle with the Falkland’s medal and S/m George Scott, a committee member in the dark glasses.

RNA Bexhill Branch It’s the Rum what does it!!

You may remember that in last month’s Semaphore Circular ‘Up and At’em Chatham’ Branch ‘boasted’ that they had 5 members who have achieved 90 years or more, the eldest being 96. Is this a record or do you know better?

Well S/m Fred Clayton informed us that Bexhill Branch can ‘black cat’ that .............................

Dear Semaphore Circular, I would like to put a claim in for the Bexhill Branch having eight Full members who have achieved the age of 90 years or more. We can also better the eldest member of the Chatham Branch with a member who will be 98 on October 16th 2015.

To better that, we have a former Associate member who attends our Social gatherings on a regular basis who will be 101 on the 27th June.

Sorry Chatham you seem to have a Branch of youngsters. The Sea air does it for us.

(Editors Note; What about the Rum!!!)

Yours aye Fred Cayton Hon Sec Bexhill Branch Unless you know better??????

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RNA Cambridge Branch Shipmates may wished to be informed that the Cambridge branch of the RNA is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year. To mark the celebrations, they recently had a group tour of the Cambridge City Council Chambers and tea in the Mayor's Parlour, which was later followed by a formal meal on the 22nd April, attended by the Mayor and her entourage.

Sadly Branch membership has been in decline and they would so like to invite new members to join the branch and enable them keep going and reach their 50th Anniversary. If any Shipmate knows of anyone who might like to join would they be kind enough to point them in their direction. (Contact details below) The Branch appointed Rev'd as their ‘Bish’ last November and to celebrate his appointment S/m Simon will be holding a commemorative Service on 01 November 15. Please contact Rev’d Simon Whittaker on 07833 794260 or S/m Lesley Dace (Hon Sec) on 01223 560643. https://www.facebook.com/RNACambridge

RNA Skipton Branch On the 6th May, 2015, the Skipton Branch organised and hosted their 2nd Ushakov Medal ceremony in 6 weeks. On this occasion, the venue was The Legion Club in Colne, Lancashire.

The presentations were made once again by Mrs. Lisa Vokorina, who was accompanied

by Mr. Sergey Belyakov, the third secretary of the Russian Embassy in London. Mrs. Vokorina was presented with a bouquet of flowers by the grateful veterans and a box of chocolates by Mrs. Shirley Haigh, a former Wren and a stalwart of the Skipton and District branch. Mrs. Vokorina was most surprised to hear that Mrs. Haigh had visited both Archangel and Murmansk many years ago whilst on board MV Russ and had been escorted down the Kola Inlet by a Russian submarine to the shore base, where she proceeded to take photographs!

Hadn't she heard of the Cold War....................

As with the recent award ceremony the seven recipients were also presented with an additional peace medal, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of VE day on the 8th May, 1945.

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The above photograph of the occasion shows the seven recipients, Andrew Stephenson MP (far left) Mr.Sergey Belyakov (third left) Mrs.Lisa Vokorina (fifth left),and the Mayor of Pendle, Graham Roach (far right) . The photograph was donated courtesy of The Johnson Press Group.

4 Area Shipmates of No 4 Area and the Reunion Committee attended the The Not Forgotten Association Garden Party held at Buckingham Palace. A cheque for £2000 was presented to M/s Rosie Thompson Head of Events. The money was raised at their Area Rally held at The Durrant Hotel, Bideford, East Devon.

The Reunion Committee of No 4 Area Annual Rally , shown having a splendid afternoon out at a rather special place.

RNA Cardiff Branch For information the Cardiff Branch has now moved venue and date of meetings. They will now meet on the FIRST Monday of the Month at:The United Services Mess Westminster Chambers Wharton Street Cardiff CF10 1AG The next meeting is at 19:30 on Monday 6th July 2015. The less formal fortnightly ‘Beanos’ will continue to be held in the City Arms (Opposite Millenium Stadium main entrance).

RNA France Nord Branch Mark Whelan, the Branch President, laid the RNA wreath at the Naval Memorial in the British Gardens, Caen, during the annual 3 Division commemorative service on 5th June on behalf of the France Nord Branch.

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RNA Maidstone Branch Maidstone RNA Annual Sea Service will take place at Maidstone Civil Service Club Recreation Close Maidstone Kent ME14 5AZ for sat nav’ers. Shipmates are requested to muster at1400 for a 1440 start. Standards will be paraded from the Club to St Luke’s Church for the rededication service and return March Past with Cdr Helliman RN, Captain of HMS President taking the salute with the Mayor and Mayoress of Maidstone in attendance, the parade will be inspected on return to the Civil Service Club where there will be a buffet and bar plus entertainment.

A traditional Tot for the Standard bearers will be provided followed by a Sunset ceremony which will be performed at 1800 along with the Handover of Area Parade Marshall’s duties from S/m Harry Cowell to S/m Steve Susans. The remainder of the evening will be spent having fun and frolics along with a bit of lamp swinging and raffle until 2045.

The cost will be £5.50 per ticket, children under 12yrs £2.75 for the finest buffet in the southeast and entertainment. Standard Bearers will be free and made very welcome so come along and give our branch your support.

If Branches would confirm numbers wishing to attend and ticket requirements as early as possible to help with catering for the numbers tickets will be sent on receipt of payment or can be booked and paid for on the day so come along and enjoy yourselves.

All applications for tickets should be sent to the Secretary: S/m John Cooper 10 Froyle Close, MAIDSTONE, Kent, ME16 0RQ john.cooper.773@btinternet.com 01622 675895

Please tear off slip and return with cheque to the above address Ticket Application (tickets will also be available on the day) Branch requesting tickets .......................................................................................

Standard Attending Yes/No ...................................................................................

Number of tickets @ £5.50 ................................ @ £2.75 .......................................

Total amount sent .................................................................................................

Address for sending tickets ...................................................................................

Area 6 HQ received this immediate dispatch from Area 6 rep S/M Karl Webb concerning the Folkestone Conference which I am sure Shipmates would be interested to read.

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A great time was had by shipmates from Area 6 during the 2015 National RNA Conference. On arrival at the Grand Burstin Hotel, shipmates dropped off their kitbags and gathered in the main bar for a couple of social drinks and a chance to catch up with old ‘oppos’ from bygone years (Area 6 PRO, s/m Karl Webb met up with s/m Shaun Brosnan (President, Scarborough RNA) after last serving together onboard HMS Berwick, 31 years ago).

After scran, shipmates were able to relax in the ballroom with live entertainment, bingo, and of course plenty of dits being spun.

On Saturday morning, VIPS, officials, delegates and observers gathered in the ballroom for the start of the Conference – the details of the conference, and the Parade on the Sunday, will not be written here as the proceedings will be covered in full on the HQ website and in the Semaphore Circular.

Members of Area 6 agreed that this was one of the best Conferences they had attended; BZ to Area 2 shipmates and HQ staff for all the hard work that went in to ensure we had a successful conference. We all look forward to seeing the photograph galleries in due course, for now the photographs here show Area 6 shipmates on the day of the conference and Area 6 Standard Bearers after the main parade and drumhead service (including a chance for a tot to end the weekend).

RNA Londonderry Branch Shipmates may be interested in the article below which was received from S/m Eddie Lavery, Hon Treasurer of Londonderry Branch reporting on Londonderry’s 70th Anniversary Commemoration of the end of the Battle of the Atlantic.

Saturday 9th May 2015 - The day started with the branch Shipmates assembling at 10:45 in the Fahan Church of Ireland, Co. Donegal grave yard to take part in the Service of Remembrance for those sailors who lost their lives at the sinking of HMS Laurentic during the First World War. The Area (12) Standard was paraded by S/m Eddie Moore and S/m Arthur Lapsley paraded the Londonderry Branch Standard, wreaths were laid by S/m Eric Mitchell on behalf of HMCS Sackville, Canada’s Naval Memorial, S/m Bill Slater on behalf of the MN and S/m Robert Buchanan on behalf of the Londonderry Branch RNA. The Still was piped by S/m Frank Brown, the poem Morning Dawn was read by S/m Eddie Lavery.

On completion of the service it was off to Fort Dunree to enjoy a light lunch and plenty of it, after which the branch Shipmates made their own way home to rest up and prepare for the annual Battle of the Atlantic Dinner in the City Hotel.

19:30 found Shipmates and Honoured guests upstanding to receive the Area 12 Standard and Londonderry Branch Standard, Standards received by Area 12 President S/m Cdr Peter 35

Campbell and Branch Chairman S/m Robert Buchanan. Honoured Guests, Lady Moyra Campbell, Thomas Kerrigan, Deputy Mayor for Derry and Strabane, Cdr. John Gray (SNONI), Canon John and Mrs Mayes and 92 year old Shipmate Tom McFarland, Veteran of the Second World War who serving on minesweepers and destroyers escorting North Atlantic and Russian convoys, Tom was presented with an engraved Irish coffee glass depicting the International Sailor Statue and the fourth verse from the Morning Dawn poem.

Shipmate Tom McFarland was accompanied by his son Tom, Royal Marine Ret’d, Both Shipmate’s of the Limavady Branch.

An excellent dinner was served up, and by all accounts, thoroughly enjoyed by all present.

Cdr Peter Campbell read a letter from H.M The Queen and proposed the Loyal Toast. He then went on to give a detailed account of the war at sea and the Royal Canadian Navy’s role keeping the sea lanes in the North Atlantic open during those dark day of 1939 to 1945. He also talked about the role played by the USA in establishing port facilities on the River Foyle. Cdr Campbell then proposed a toast to “The Veterans”.

Sunday 10th May 2015 - Overcast sky's, raining on and off, not too promising for the annual Battle of the Atlantic Church parade to All Saints Clooney this year for the first time assembling at the Royal British Legion Iona Terrace. 10:00 the rain stopped parade form up at 10:15 moved off at 10:30 lead by the Churchill band turned right into May Street turning left onto Clooney road passing through the traffic lights into Clooney Terrace arriving at All Saints Church 10:45hrs.

The Church service was well attended with no empty seats.

After the service the parade commander S/m William Doherty called the parade to attention marched on the Standards and got the parade on its return journey to Iona Terrace The salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant of The City of Londonderry, Dr Angela Garvey, accompanied by Councillor Thomas Kerrigan Deputy Mayor of City of Derry and Strabane DCC, Councillor Morris Devenney (MLA) & Cdr Peter Campbell (RN ret). "outside what was the main gate to (HMS Sea Eagle)”. Note Cunningham building in the background.

Yes, the rain started on the return journey but not too heavy at 12:30 the parade arrived in Iona terrace where Shipmate Robert Buchanan as Area (12) and Londonderry Branch Chairman, addressed the parade and inviting all present to join with the RNA branch for a light lunch in the RBL Victory room. The lunch was organised by Shipmate Mrs Lesley Buchanan and prepared by the Burt Tennis Club, a well laid out spread and plenty for everyone.

36

This was the 70th Anniversary of the end of the Battle of the Atlantic and the 17th year the Londonderry Branch Shipmates have held a Commemoration Parade and Service in memory of all those who paid the Supreme Sacrifice during the Battle of the Atlantic 1939 - 1945.

"No stone or flower to mark their graves"

CROSSED THE BAR - Obituaries Eric Drayton - Corby Branch Eric Drayton, President of Corby branch crossed the bar on 6th June, aged 94 years. Eric was one of the most valued and loved members of Corby branch and will be sorely missed. Sadly, he had lost his wife of 71 years, Lilian, also a shipmate, earlier this year and it was one fight too many to recover from.

Eric was a veteran of nine Arctic convoys on HMS Cumberland as a baby engineer, followed by HMS Ajax in 1944 as a Killick, where he took part in the D-Day operation; the South of France landings; the Greek landings and the repatriation of the remaining crew of the Graf Spee. He also served as a PO on HMS Mutine, minesweeping in the Med, then HMS Pelican. He was later recalled for the beginning of the Korean conflict on HMS Franklin He had married Lilian in 1944 and when discharged in 1948 was able to resume his married life.

Since leaving the RN he has been a founder member of the Corby branch, a founder member of the Cumberland Association, a member of the Ajax Association and President of the Royal British Legion, taking part annually up until this year in the Poppy Appeal.

He leaves a loving and close family behind, all girls who have been hit with a double tragedy this year with first their Mum then their Dad going. His ‘naval style’ funeral was held on 23rd June at Kettering Crematorium where he was escorted by Standards and piped in with a boatswains call and finally the last post, as befits a true hero. He will be much missed.

Eddie Butler – Cardiff Branch Sadly Cardiff branch would like to inform shipmates that members of Cardiff Branch recently attended the funeral of Shipmate Eddie Barber.

Eddie ‘Crossed the bar’ on Sunday 24 May aged 90 and, like many others of his era, spoke little of his war experiences. However it is known is that he was a 'stoker' and served in submarines in the home fleet at the beginning of the war, he then spent some time in Australia before ending up in the Far East on 'VE' day. His wife believes that he witnessed the signing of the surrender aboard USS Missouri and visited Hiroshima. It is also believed that he was serving in HMS Indefatigable when the ship returned to the UK bringing home prisoners of war.

RIP Eddie - one of the 'Silent service’, who will be much missed.

RNA Members Benefits 37

UK Holiday Group /CONA Holiday Service •

Variety of special deals for both Groups and Individual. 1% of turnover thorough CONA Holiday Service is returned to the RNA. http://www.royal-navalassociation.co.uk/news/323/members-holidays-service

Coleman/Ansvar Insurance Discounted Branch and House hold Insurance - 01323 744149 http://www.thecolemangroup.co.uk/coleman-insurance-brokers/organisation-specific/cona

Funeral Service •

2 ½ % discount form Wessex Funeral Services

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

•

RNA member entry just £10 plus four guest at £10 each provides access to the all attractions including the Submarine Museum, RM Museum and Explosion!.

Legal Services

Free 30 minute legal advice with Coffin Mew. armedforces@coffinmew.co.uk 0800 827168

Breakdown Service RAC Breakdown and recovery service asec@arno.org.uk or 0207 4025231

38

Type 42 Association - Reunion 002 15 July 2015

Shortcast (Run in date order)

Shortcast HMS Eagle Association – 11-13 September 2015 Friends of HMS Eagle are holding their 43rd reunion in the North Queensferry over the weekend of the 11-13 September 2015. All ex ‘Eagles’, their wives, partners and families are invited. For further details please contact Bill Meevil 01224 820603, 07741 300750 or Danny Du Feu 07966 258103. There is a ful programme with visits and entertainment ‘laid on’ HMS Jamaica Association - 18-21 September 2015 HMS Jamaica Association AGM and Reunion will be held at the Burlington Hotel Eastbourne over the weekend 18-21 September 2015. Please contact Mac Wilkinson (Hon Sec/Treasurer) on tel no 01843 582283 or e-mail mgwilkinson22@talktalk.net.

HMS Ocean Association - 25 September 2015 28th Annual Reunion Dinner and AGM will be held at the Tillington Hall Hotel, Stafford from September 25 to 28. A warm welcome is extended to all ex-Oceans (R68 or L12), families and 39

friends, whether Association members or not. Details from Secretary, Jim Hogan at jimhogan1@sky.com Regulating Branch & RN Police Association – 02 October 2015 Regulating Branch & Royal Navy Police Association: Annual Reunion takes place from October 2 to 3. It takes place at HMS Excellent. All retired Regulators and serving Naval Police are welcome. For more information see the website at http://rba93.com or contact the Social secretary, W Dick at maawgd@sky.com HMS Arethusa Association - 02 – 05 October 2015 HMS Arethusa a Leander Class Frigate was launched in 1963, commissioned into the Royal Navy in November 1965 and after twenty four years of active service worldwide, was de-commissioned in March 1989. She was the eighth ship to bear this name.

One of twenty-six Leander Class Frigates built for the Royal Navy, she was the last warship built on the Isle of Wight at the shipyards of John Samuel White & Son in Cowes, just above the chain ferry.

In 1989, following her de-commissioning, a group of former RN personnel who had served in her got together to form the “HMS Arethusa Association”. The Association has held twenty-six reunion gatherings in various parts of the UK, all of which have been attended by eighty to one hundred former crew, families and guests. Also represented in the Association were members of the 7th HMS Arethusa, a Cruiser in commission from 1935 to 1950, with meritorious service in the Second World War. On the weekend of 2nd to 5th October 2015, HMS Arethusa Association is to hold its 27th, and final, reunion, on the Isle of Wight at The Melbourne Ardenlea Hotel, Shanklin, to commemorate fifty years of service by the ship and the Association. Following this, the Association will disband and carry on as a social group for those members remaining.

Anyone who has been associated with this ship, either during the building, during her active service and the follow up Association is invited to attend this reunion.

Full details can be obtained from – Isle of Wight Tours Ltd., 3 New Road, Lake, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 9 JN. Telephone: (01983) 405116. Email: shirley.winn@iowtours.com Or – The Honorary Secretary, HMS Arethusa Association (Tom Sawyer) Email: rolandsawyer3@sky.com HMS Eskimo F119, 1966-68 Commission - 02 October 2105 The 15th Annual Reunion, will be held at The Best Western Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from October 2 to 5. All Eskimo Commissions are welcome to attend, bring along your wives, girlfriends, family and friends, but please contact Taff Martin first to make sure he has your contact details before Booking Information of the reunion are sent to you. Looking forward to seeing you there. Contact Allan (Taff) Martin at clearwaterbrook4@aol.com

40

HMS St Vincent Association – 02/05 October 2015 The H M S St Vincent Association AGM and Reunion Dinner welcomes all members to the re union weekend 2015 which is being held over the weekend Friday 2nd October – Monday 5th October 2015 at the Royal Beach Hotel Southsea Portsmouth. The AGM will be held in the establishment (By kind permission of St Vincent College) on Saturday 3rd October. The AGM commences at 1100 ( Doors open at 0900), and so plenty of time to re new acquaintances, visit the Museum, buy your replacement “slops” and luncheon afterwards in the College Dining Hall.

Coaches will be laid on from the hotel to take you across to the College in Gosport as part of your re union package.

If you wish to attend and haven’t completed your attendance form during the last re union weekend, then attendance forms will be mailed to all members in early December from Isle of Wight Tours. The address of Isle of Wight Tours is:Isle of Wight Tours, 3 Lake Road, Lake, Sandown Isle of Wight, PO36 9JN, Telephone 01983 405116 Or Soapy Watson on 01329 310078 (M) 07786565485, soapy_watson@hotmail.com HMS Ulster Association – 02/05 October 2015 There will be a reunion weekend from October 2nd, 2015 to October 5th, 2015 at Smiths Hotel, Weston-Super-Mare. Further details and to download booking forms see www.candoo.com/ulsternorrie/reunions.html - or please e-mail ulster@candoo.com Not internet friendly? Call Norrie Millen at 01626 779409 and leave message if no answer. The re-union is for all commissions 1943-1980.

HMS Tartar Association - 03 October 2015 Annual reunion at the Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough from October 3 to 5. All ex-Tartar’s and wives are welcome, come and meet up with old shipmates. Bookings to be arranged by IOW Tours on 01983 405116 HMS Ajax and RPVA Association - 07 October 2015 The 50th Annual Reunion is to be held at the King Charles Hotel, Gillingham, Kent. Dinner on 7th October, with Church Service and AGM on 8th October. Family members of crew who served in cruiser and crew members who served in the frigate are most welcome.

Application forms available from Malcolm Collis at malcolm.collis@gmail.com or download from http://www.hmsajax.org/ HMS Lowestoft Reunion – 9 October 2015 The 5th annual reunion of the HMS Lowestoft Association will take place at the Royal Beach Hotel, St Helens Parade, Southsea PO4 0NR from October 9th to 11th 2015. All ex-Lowie's 1961-1985 and guests are welcome. For booking & more info contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 or email enquiries@iowtours.com or email: ian@hmslowestoft.co.uk or visit http://www.hmslowestoft.co.uk

41

For information, the HMS Lowestoft Association held their 4th Annual Reunion at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea over the weekend 17-19 October, celebrating 53 years since the ship first commissioned. The successful and memorable event was attended by 150 ex Lowie’s, partners and guests, including 3 former Commanding Officers, Admiral Sir John Treacher, Captain Jimmy Chestnutt and Captain Charles Buckle. Vice Admiral Sir John Webster the Navigating Officer from the first commission and Vice Admiral Sir Nicholas Hill-Norton the First Lieutenant from 1971-73 were also present.

HMS Jupiter Association - 9 October 2015 Reunion and AGM will be held in Middlesbrough at the Thistle Hotel from October 9 to 11, to mark 40 years since Jupiter was adopted by the City. Anyone who served on Jupiter, a member of TS Jupiter, has a story to tell about the many visits, or would like to join us during the weekend please contact ken.williams@xlnmail.com or visit www.hmsjupiter.co.uk Type 21 Association - 9-10th October 2015 The Type 21 Association reunion will be held on Friday 9th and Sat 10th October 2015.

Attendees should travel down the ‘pointy head Highway and muster in the St Levans Inn The programme for Saturday is - AM - AGM, PM Evening Events to be confirmed. for more information please contact ; Paul Gower PRO & Events Organiser Type 21 Club 07446196733 www.type21club.org https://www.facebook.com/groups/type21club/ HMS Llandaff F61 Association - 9/11 October 2015 The annual reunion will take place in Scarborough 9th - 11th October for details http://www.hmsllandaff.co.uk/reunion2015.htm. We are always looking for old members of the crew to come and swing the lamp and share a moment or two of your past.

HMS Repulse Association – 16 October 2015 HMS Repulse Reunion Association is holding their next reunion from October 16 to 19 at The Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea. For more information or booking forms contact Frank Scutt at frank.scutt@gmail.com or see the website at http://www.hms-repulse.co.uk HMS Glory Association - 16 October 2015 Our next half yearly reunion will be at the Ascot Hotel, Derby from October 16 to 17 with a Trafalgar Dinner on Saturday night. Any former shipmates are invited. For more information contact Bernie Cohen at b.cohen2@ntlworld.com HMS Naiad Association - 16-18th October 2015 HMS Naiad Association reunion will take place at the Liner Hotel Liverpool over the weekend 1618th October 2015. For further please see the website or e-mail antony1960@hotmail.com HMS Fife Reunion – 17 October 2015 The HMS Fife reunion will take place at HMS Nelson Warrant Officers and Senior Rates Mess on 17 October 2015, 1900-2359. For information about this reunion or to register your interest in attending please contact Warrant Officer 1, Darren Emmerton at darren.emerton459@mod.uk Survey Ships Association – 24 – 27th October 2015 42

The Survey Ships Association will be holding its twenty-first reunion at the 4* Menzies Mickleover Court Hotel, Derby, on the w/e of 24th – 27th October. For information on membership and reunion please send a SAE to: The Secretary SSA,17 Eliza Mackenzie Court, Lindisfarne Close, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 2SB, e-mail: secretary@surveyships.org.uk, or telephone 023 9232 4795.

HMS Relentless Reunion – 27 November 2015 The 3rd annual Reunion of the HMS Relentless Association will take place at the Royal Beach Hotel, St Helens Parade, Southsea, PO4 0NR from November 27th to 30th 2015.

All ex-Rusty R’s 1942-1968 and their guests are welcome. For booking & more info contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 or email enquiries@iowtours.com. Or contract Association Secretary on 02392 599640, email secretary@hmsrelentless.co.uk.

Swinging the Lamp - July

Date 1st

Year 1977

Entry WRNS became subject to Naval Discipline Act. Spanking included.

2nd

1867

3rd

2009

4th

1961

5th

1920

6th

1979

7th

1941

8th 9th

1943 1976

Navigation Branch gave up blue cloth between their stripes and rearranged their buttons to denote their branch.

On return from a six-month deployment in Afghanistan, 3 Cdo Bde, Brig Gordon Messenger, marched through Exeter. HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, Captain General RM, took the salute at the Guildhall before a service of remembrance in Exeter Cathedral for the thirty-two men lost in action (and 144 wounded) in Helmand Province over the Winter 2008/9. The RM and RN members of the brigade gained two DSOs, two OBEs, five MBEs, two CGCs (Acting Cpl Bradley Malone and Mne Steven Nethery, both of 45 Cdo), seven MCs including one to Able Seaman Class 1 Kate Nesbitt (20), the first naval female recipient, for her gallantry under fire, one DFC, eighteen MiDs and seven QC VSs. Operation Herrick 9.

815 NAS commissioned at RNAS Culdrose with Westland Wessex, the first helicopter to carry a full ASW system.

Landing parties from Royal Sovereign, Revenge, Venetia and Westcott assisted in occupation of Mudavia by Greek forces, Ceres, Royal Oak and Resolution having landed troops at Lapsaki, Dardanelles.

Admiral Sir Terence Lewin promoted Admiral of the Fleet and became CDS in September.

US forces relieved the British Garrison in Iceland, five months before the United States entered the Second World War. Liberator R/224 sank U-514 in Bay of Biscay (43.37N, 08.59W).

Last WRNS officers’ passing out parade at RNC Greenwich; salute taken by Rear-Admiral D.W. Bazalgette, Admiral President. Top cadet 43

10th

1839

11th

1935

12th

1794

13th

1980

14th

1984

15th

1958

16th

1795

17th

1981

18th

1833

19th 20th

1779 1915

and winner of the last Canaletto print was 3/O Katherine Corbett.

Training transferred to BRNC Dartmouth.

The wood paddle frigate Cyclops launched at Pembroke Dockyard.

She was 12ft 3in longer than her more famous sister ship, Gorgon, and displaced 1,960 tons. They were the first steam vessels over 1,000 tons. Cyclops served in the Syrian campaign of 1840 and the Russian War, and helped to lay the first Atlantic telegraph cable in 1857.

Admiralty Fleet Order No. 1684. ‘The order to “Splice the Main Brace” is to be regarded as authorising the special issue of a ration of one eighth pint of rum to each officer or man of or over 20 years of age who desires it. Officers and men under 20 years of age may receive a special issue of one-twentieth pint lime juice and 1 oz. sugar, and a similar issue may be made to other officers and men who do not desire the rum ration. No money in lieu is allowable. The issue of the special rum ration is to be made under the general conditions laid down in King’s Regulations and Admiralty Instructions, Art.1827, Clauses 2 and 3, except that the time of issue may be arranged as considered desirable.’

Capt Horatio Nelson, Agamemnon, while ashore at Calvi in Corsica, observing fire at the French-held Calvi Citadel, suffered permanent damage to his right eye when incoming fire threw rock fragments into his face. ‘I can distinguish light from dark, but no object.’ A plaque on the rock in the Quartier Donateo upon which he was standing reads ‘Ici NELSON dirigeant le feu d’une batterie contre CALVI perdit un oeil 12 Juliet 1794’.

Francis Pym, Secretary of State for Defence, announced decision to replace Polaris force with four Trident-armed submarines.

Peacock, the first of the new Hong Kong patrol craft, commissioned at Rosyth. Guest of Honour was Sir Murray MacLehose, lately Governor of Hong Kong. First of five ships, all built by Hall Russell of Aberdeen. Sold 1 August 1997 to the Philippine Navy and renamed Emilio Jacinto. Sister ship Plover commissioned at Rosyth 20 July 1984.

Midget submarine Stickleback (ex-X51) was handed over to the Royal Swedish Navy at Portland by Capt P.J. Cowell RN, Captain SM5 and renamed Spiggen. Boat returned and became museum ship at IWM Duxford in 1977.

Shutter Telegraphs started to carry signals from Admiralty to Chatham in fifteen minutes, given clear weather.

‘Concern has been growing for some time that the cookery book in current use by the Royal Navy, Practical Cookery by Ceserani and Kinton, does not fully meet the requirements for cookery in the Fleet . . .’ – DCI(RN) 412/81.

HRH Princess Victoria, in Portsmouth with her mother, HRH The Duchess of Kent, for the launching of the brig Racer, went on to visit her first warship, HMS Victory. ‘All the ladies partook of the beef and potatoes, served on wooden platters, and drank of the grog’ – The Times.

Lime juice ordered as remedy for scurvy.

Second and last use of a decoy submarine in anti-submarine operations. Trawler Princess Marie Jose (sailing as Princess Louise) in 44

21st

2004

22nd 23rd

1903 1759

24th 25th

1940 1797

26th

1905

27th

1808

28th

1983

29th

1954

30th

1948

31st

1970

Fair Isle Channel, with submarine C 27 (Lt-Cdr C.C. Dobson) in submerged tow, encountered U-23 (Oberleutnant zur Zee H. Schulthess) which opened fire. The telephone link with C 7 failed but she slipped successfully. Her first torpedo passed astern but a second sank U-23. These decoy operations were planned and mounted in strict secrecy; trawlers and submarines berthed well apart and left port independently. However, the U-23 survivors were not segregated from other German prisoners and internees and the project was fatally compromised.

MOD announced that twelve warships would be paid off within two years: destroyers Cardiff, Glasgow, Newcastle; frigates Norfolk, Marlborough, Grafton; MCMVs Sandown, Inverness, Bridport, Brecon, Cottesmore, Dulverton. Personnel to reduce from 37,500 to 36,000.

Destroyer/frigate strength to reduce to twenty-five, SSNs to eight, MCMVs to sixteen. Orders for Type 45 air defence destroyers to reduce from twelve to eight. ‘I do not instinctively welcome the early disposal of good ships and these have been most difficult decisions.

They are however essential if we are to ensure that the finite resources available to defence are targeted at the requirements of the 21st century rather than what we inherited from the 20th.’ – Admiral Sir Alan West, First Sea Lord.

Opening of first Royal Navy School of Music.

Victory laid down in the old single dock (now the Victory Dock) at Chatham. Present was William Pitt the Elder whose government had announced a major building programme of first rates the year before.

Portsmouth Dockyard seriously damaged by enemy air attack.

Nelson’s right arm, shattered in the repulsed attack on Santa Cruz in Tenerife in the Canary Islands, amputated on board Theseus by French surgeon M. Ronicet, a French Royalist refugee from Toulon.

The new RN Hospital, Chatham, on ‘a breezy site some 200 feet above the Medway’ and staffed by nine medical officers, one head wardmaster, seven sisters and seventy sick berth attendants, opened

by HM King Edward VII. Pickle, which had taken home Collingwood’s dispatches after Trafalgar, wrecked off Cadiz.

‘The Admiralty Board regrets that the RNSS is on the move again after twenty-five most successful years as part of HMS Pembroke during which the high standards of training in the Supply and Secretariat Branch have been maintained and improved. They wish the RNSS all good fortune in their new home at HMS Raleigh’ – MODUKNAVY WAA/A21/A2J 281630ZJUL83.

A RN Sea Hawk FB3 aircraft, piloted by Lt J.R.F. Overbury from Boscombe Down, flying from London to Amsterdam, established a new air speed record for the 223.98 miles of 23 minutes, 39.7 seconds at an average speed of 568 mph.

Criminal Justice Act removed flogging from list of naval punishments. It had been suspended since 1897.

Last Tot issue. A daily ration of rum became clearly inappropriate in the highly technical Navy. The ration was finally stopped by the Admiralty Board.

45

ADMINISTRATION FORM Regarding the proposed veteran NAME AND SURNAME; ADDRESS AND CONTACT DETAILS :

DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH :

NATIONALITY :

RANK :

ROLE OCCUPIED : AWARD TO BE BESTOWED : Chevalier de l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur FRENCH DECORATION(S) HELD :

REASONS JUSTIFYING THE PROPOSAL : TEN LINES MAXIMUM THIS PARAGRAPH WILL DETERMINE THE SUCCESS OF THE PROPOSAL – PLEASE GIVE BRIEF DETAILS OF SERVICE IN THE CAMPAIGN – UNITS SERVED WITH, ANY SPECIFIC ACTIONS FOUGHT (SERVICE IN REAR ECHELON, ON SUPPLY VESSELS ETC STILL QUALIFIES FOR THE AWARD)

Date and Signature of claimant

46

PUS

UM R

R’S SE

PUSSER’S RUM REVAMPS LABELING SYSTEM

In order to eliminate world-wide confusion and create a more unified line of labels, Pusser's Rum is revamping the labelling system of the flagship Admiralty blend, utilizing assigned colours unique to each proof.

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS: (Pictured Left)

Pusser's Rum new Blue Label 40% abv Original Admiralty Blend (Pictured Right)

Pusser's Rum Black Label "Gunpowder Proof" 54.5% abv Original Admiralty Blend and Strength

EFFECTIVE DATE: 1 JULY 2015

This may come as a surprise to vendors and customers in the United Kingdom who are accustomed to the Blue Label representing a 54.5% abv. The original Pusser's Blue 54.5% abv will be rebranded as Pusser's Gunpowder Proof in new black and gold packaging. The introduction of a lowered 40% abv, branded as the new Blue Label, will allow Pusser's to regain distribution on naval bases where the maximum strength allowed is 40% abv. There has been no change to the rum blend.

Pusser's flagship Admiralty blend is the only rum blended in exact accordance with the Admiralty specification last used when it discontinued its daily ration on July 31, 1970, ending a tradition that lasted over 300 years. Aged for a minimum of three years, experts and epicureans alike laud Pusser's Rum as rich and full-bodied, with an unsurpassed smoothness due to its "pot-stilled" lineage.

/pussers

Pusser’s Rum Ltd. is dedicated to crafting premium dark rums using time-honoured traditions and techniques. Please sip responsibly.

@Pussers

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