Semaphore Circular #657 (March 2016)

The Semaphore Circular No 657

The Beating Heart of the RNA

March 2016

A new member signs up on line at City of Inverness Branch

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). Last hard copy April 2016 1

Daily Orders 1. Welfare Seminar – Update and Programme 2. 2016 Conference – Delegate Notification 3. Open Days 4. Khaki Joke 5. Shipmates and Oppos launch 6. Guess Where?

7. Donations 8. Cartoon Humour 9. RN VC Series – Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC 10. Finance Corner 11. Pussers Rum Deal 12. Scottish Rugby Burger 13. Visit to HMS QE & POW 14. Library Joke 15. Boathouse No 7 16. Supporting Seafarers Day 17. WRNS100 Update 18. Calling Shipmates HMS Tilford 19. Veterans Mental Health Services Engagement 20. 2016 National Armed Forces Day – Cleethorpes 21. RNRMCF Street Party- Naval Base Portsmouth Longcast “D’ye hear there” (Branch news) Crossed the Bar – Celbrating a life well lived RNA Benefits Page Shortcast Swinging the Lamp Forms Glossary of terms NCM NC AMC FAC NCh NVCh NP DNP GS DGS AGS CONA IMC NSM Throughout

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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Contacts Financial Controller

023 9272 3823

FAX

023 9272 3371

michelle@royalnavalassoc.com

Deputy General Secretary 023 9272 0782

andy@royalnavalassoc.com

Assistant General Secretary (Membership & Slops) 023 9272 3747

nigel@royalnavalassoc.com

S&O 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) From April 2016 the normal method of communication to Central Office and the distribution of the Circular and other important documents is by email. Please keep your email contact up to date to nigel@royalnavalassoc.com Snail Trail Mail - Postal Address 3 RNA Central Office, Room 209, PP70, Semaphore Tower, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth Hants PO1 3LT

Dear Shipmates, Welcome to the March edition of the Semaphore Circular, the days are getting longer and the daffodils are blooming. Perhaps time to think about holidays and booking the Reunion and Conference at Reading for 11/12 June – the Wokefield Park Hotel is a wonderful setting in parkland with many of us staying in the old Mansion House a grade 1 listed building. There is no evidence of the fire in the public areas – the main effect as far as we are concerned is that more of us will be accommodated in the Mansion House – which has bigger rooms and its own bar(s).

This is the second to last fully printed hard copy Circular – so now is the time to let us know if you think you will have any problems with managing the Circ by email or website download. We will keep printing for the few remaining branches that don’t have an e-mail contact. I would like to pass on a big thank you to those branches who have sorted something out. If printing costs are too much for your branch, please remember that the Club and Branch support fund is there to help, your NCM or Area Sec can advise you how to apply.

As usual let me turn to some aspects of business x

x x

x x x x x

We have been asked by Seafarers (UK) to help with their Seafarers Awareness national collection. Details are in the Circ. The hard work of applying for licenses, buckets etc has been done by them. I would be most grateful for whatever help you can provide.

Seafarers(UK) have been very supportive of the RNA and it would be good to help them out.

If you have your own collections arranged perhaps you could consider the RNA and SF(UK) as possible beneficiaries.

I hope that you have been excited by the reunion cruise arranged by the CONA travel service in September 2017. There has been a change in the single costs and number of cabins released to single occupancy following a finger-pointing re-briefing by S/M Rita Lock of our Travel Service friends.

Next month’s edition will have the Conference agenda with approved motions, the annual accounts for FY2015 and the annual Trustees report.

Please ensure that you have registered your delegate for Conference as soon as you can.

Don’t forget to book Open Days – we still have a few places see the article.

Don’t forget to book places for the Welfare Seminar – a terrific range of very good speakers and a nice setting in Weymouth – usual seminar subsidy applies.

Andy is taking bookings for the Standard Bearers competition on 7 May at HMS COLLINGWOOD. Is anyone going to knock Bob Coburn off his perch?

Some of you may have heard of the Patron’s Lunch in the Mall on 12 June 16. This is a cosy affair for 10,000 – with priority given to the charities and organisations for which Her Majesty is Patron. I am pleased to say that we have sponsorship for 6 double tickets (by Broome’s and Pussers) at a cost of £300 each double ticket. The National Council thought that this should be something for those who have gone the extra mile for the RNA, but haven’t been rewarded in any other way. Nominations were made by your NCMs and a ballot held. Those who have come out of the hat have been contacted – details will follow in due course.

The Royal Naval Children’s Fund is using the chance to hold a big lunch in the Dockyard and encourage the holding of lunches over the country to raise money for naval charities. There is a 4

note in the Circular from them; they would love to hear from anyone to help them on the big day at Portsmouth Dockyard. If you are interested in holding your own Patron’s event they can let you have details of how to go about it.

I am also pleased to report that the Shipmates and Oppos programme was officially launched by Rear Admiral Simon Williams, the Naval Secretary, in late January. This is a development of the RNA’s Shipmates programme that provides a safety net of support for Service Leavers. We have a much improved way of registering personnel on the programme as part of the Release process. The programme is fully funded by Greenwich Hospital for 5 years on a rolling review basis. We are in partnership with Greenwich Hospital, the White Ensign Association, RMA and ARNO.

The Naval Secretary with the first 4 Shipmates and Oppos members

A couple of members have given me a hard time about the use of ‘Oppos’ in the programme title and have detailed me off to change it! ‘Oppos’ came in through the express wish of the Royal Marines and was checked as correct during interviews and a focus group. The problem is that ‘Shipmates’ doesn’t mean much to bootnecks at the moment – this may change of course as they embark more on our amphibious shipping – we’ll see.

Finally do please have a read of our National President’s reflection on his visit to HMS Queen Elizabeth, the new carrier. There is a LOT of work going on in Pompey Dockyard to get the jetties ready and the Naval Base Commander is confident that they will be ready ahead of time, with the carrier coming to her base port sometime in early 2017 (tbc).

All the best from me and the Central Office (HQ) team Paul

The Naval Secretary meets S/M Mike Hesketh – National Vice-Chair at the launch with GS and Michelle

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Daily Orders 1.

Welfare Seminar - Update and Programme

For information Shipmates may wish to view the timetable for the Welfare Seminar to be held on the 19th March at the Crown Hotel Weymouth (commencing at 1000) is as follows: 1000 Capt. John Lavery on behalf of The White Ensign Association 1030 Craig Mclellan on behalf of Veterans with Dogs accompanied by Boo the Labrador 1100 Rita Lock with details on Telephone communication via The Great White Wall Silver Line & the RNA Virtual Branch 1130 Valerie Coleman Program Development Manager for Seafarers UK 1230 Lunch (This will be a one hour break.)

1330 Dr Glenford Bishop Royal Air Force Association (Welfare) 1415 Dr Nicholas Murdoch Alcohol and Drug Abuse 1500 Mrs Julie McCarthy head of Welfare Blind Veterans UK 1530 Details on State Benefits 2016 Welfare Monies Form A For information Shipmates may wish to know there will be a comfort break before lunch. Flexibility in the timings will exist to allow for questions to be put to the speakers.

Should Shipmates require any further information they are requested to contact The National Welfare Advisor Shipmate Rita Lock MBE at 02392 642234 or ritalock@virginmedia.com

2.

2016 Conference – Delegate Notification A gentle reminder to Branch Secretaries concerning Conference Delegate applications.

In order to comply with Bye-Law C1(b), Branches should forward their nominated Delegates applications to Central Office (HQ) Semaphore Tower one week prior to the Conference, preferably as soon as the delegate details are known. Any nominated Branch delegate who fails to comply with Bye-Law C1(b) will sadly be barred from attending as a delegate but will

be allowed as an observer.

Secretaries are also kindly reminded that Branches who have not submitted their accounts to Central Office(HQ) will not be entitled to send a Delegate to Conference.

Finally for information Conference Raffle tickets will be sent out in early April.

If you require any further specific information on the above please contact Nigel at Central Office (HQ) nigel@royalnavalassoc.com or 02392 723747.

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3.

RNA Central Office (HQ) - Open Days

Last year we hosted 5 Open days attended by Shipmates from the following Branches; Dublin RNA, Christchurch, Ferndown, Lee on the Solent and Stubbington, Exeter, Selsey, Alresford, Birmingham Central, Rayleigh, Chesham, Peterborough, Swindon, Corby, Marlborough and Hemel Hempstead. A fantastic time was had by all. The programme for the day includes a tour of HQ, lunch in Semaphore Tower and 1 hour Boat tour of the Harbour, which includes all the major RN sites around the harbour and many now with other uses.

It would be lovely to see Branches from further afield so If you would like to come down and stay a couple of days or overnight in the Portsmouth area to visit the other Naval attractions please contact HQ who will ensure CONA Holiday service seek out the best priced accommodation.

This year the Open Days will be held on the following dates; Friday Friday Friday Friday Friday

08 Apr 2016 (10 places available) 13 May 2016 (5 places available) 01 July 2016 (40 places available) 19 August 2016 (39 places available) 07 October 2016 (6 places available)

Branches who would like attend should apply to Central Office (HQ). Bookings will be accepted on a first come first serve basis with the caveat that a Branch that has never been will be treated as a priority.

4.

Khaki Joke – the old ones are the best.

Finding a woman sobbing that she had locked her keys in her car, a passing soldier assures her that he can help.

She looks on amazed as he removes his trousers, rolls them into a tight ball and rubs them against the car door.

Magically, it opens.

"That's so clever," the woman gasps. "How did you do it?"

"Easy," replies the man. "These are my kha-kis." (Do you get it!)(Boom Boom!!) Sorry‌.

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5.

Shipmates and Oppos – Launch 27 January 2016

The Naval Secretary, Rear Admiral Simon Williams CVO, officially launched the Royal Navy’s ‘Shipmates and Oppos Programme’ at the Navy’s HQ in Portsmouth. The Programme offers free practical advice and a support service for everyone who leaves the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Reserves.

The Programme, funded by Greenwich Hospital and administered by the Royal Naval Association, supports leavers during their transition to civilian life and during the important 5 years postdischarge.

Apart from the Royal Navy as the main partner, the launch was also attended by the partner charities: the Royal Marines Association; the Association of Royal Navy Officers and the White Ensign Association – as well as Senior Executives from Naval Sector Charities who work with serving and retired naval personnel.

Everyone, regardless of their rank, trade and number of days served (or whether they have been medically discharged) can call upon the Programme for practical support as often as they need it. Although most Service leavers experience a smooth transition to civilian life, some do not and the Shipmates and Oppos Programme aims to provide ‘an arm around the shoulder’ and guide service leavers through the maze of State and Charitable sector help available.

All Royal Navy/Royal Marines Service leavers will be provided with a Shipmates and Oppos Programme membership card at their point of release. The credit card sized membership card has a contact number on the back where they will find ex Naval personnel, who speak their language on the other end, and will be able to help them find the support they need.

The Programme includes an offer where members may claim one year's free membership to any of the partner associations. Those who have already left the Service can apply to join the Programme at shipmatesandoppos.org.uk.

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6.

Guess Where? An Establishment

This month can you name the Chapel of this naval establishment? It is very difficult so hear is a clue....

It is on the South Coast and it was in commission from 1939 to 1946 when it was returned to its former glory.

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!

RNAS Culdrose - HMS Seahawk

7.

Donations received for the Central Charities and the Charter Challenge

Central Charities Fund RNA – Greenford RNA – Spennymoor RNA – Spennymoor RNA – Sherborne RNA – Waterlooville RNA – Littlehampton

£100.00 £100.00 £300.00 £50.00 £150.00 £158.00

RNA General Fund RNA – Ketton RNA – Letchworth RNA – Doha RNA – Tenbury

£4000.00 £60.00 £4000.00 £100.00

C Dovey

£100.00

Naval Service Memorial Fund RNA – Warwick C Lewington S Saddington

£50.00 £50.00 £20.00 9

A Burgess Charities Trust J Lynam B Harrison Michael Sobel Hospice

£30.00 £48.88 £15.00 £15.00 £42.53

‘In memory of the late....’

JPT Torr FR Rush Colin Morris

£335.23 £50.00 £25.00

Thank you very much for your continued support.

8.

Humour.

(Acknowlegment and thanks to Tim Whyatt Australia).

9.

RN VC Series - Corporal Thomas Peck Hunter VC

Thomas Hunter was awarded the VC posthumously after an action at Lake Comacchio Italy on 3rd April 1945 He was born in Aldershot on 6 October 1923, one of five children of Ramsey and Mary Hunter (a former soldier and civil servant), who moved to Edinburgh shortly after his birth. Thomas attended Stenhouse Primary School and Tynecastle High School (where the poet Wilfred Owen had taught during recuperation in 1917) before becoming an apprentice stationer in Edinburgh 10

On the fatal day he died whilst providing Bren Gun cover to his section whilst charging across 200 yards of open ground. Thomas is buried at the Argenta Gap (CWGC) War Cemetery, EmiliaRomanga Italy.

His VC citation reads as follows; ADMIRALTY. Whitehall 12 June 1945.

The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the award of the VICTORIA CROSS for valour to: — The late Corporal (Temporary) Thomas Peck HUNTER, CH/X. 110296, Royal Marines (attached Special Service Troops) (43rd Royal Marine Commando) (Edinburgh).

In Italy during the advance by the Commando to its final objective, Corporal Hunter of "C" Troop was in charge of a Bren group of the leading sub-section of the Commando. Having advanced to within 400 yards of the canal, he observed the enemy were holding a group of houses South of the canal. Realising that his Troop behind him were in the open, as the country there was completely devoid of cover, and that the enemy would cause heavy casualties as soon as they opened fire, Corporal Hunter seized the Bren gun and charged alone across two hundred yards of open ground. Three Spandaus from the houses, and at least six from the North bank of the canal opened fire and at the same time the enemy mortars started to fire at the Troop.

Corporal Hunter attracted most of the fire, and so determined was his charge and his firing from the hip that the enemy in the houses became demoralised. Showing complete disregard for the intense enemy fire, he ran through the houses, changing magazines as he ran, and alone cleared the houses. Six Germans surrendered to him and the remainder fled across a footbridge onto the North bank of the canal.

The Troop dashing up behind Corporal Hunter now became the target for all the Spandaus on the North of the canal. Again, offering himself as a target, he lay in full view of the enemy on a heap of rubble and fired at the concrete pillboxes on the other side. He again drew most of the fire, but by now the greater part of the Troop had made for the safety of the houses. During this period he shouted encouragement to the remainder, and called only for more Bren magazines with which he could engage the Spandaus. Firing with great accuracy up to the last, Corporal Hunter was finally hit in the head by a burst of Spandau fire and killed instantly.

There can be no doubt that Corporal Hunter offered himself as a target in order to save his Troop, and only the speed of his movement prevented him being hit earlier. The skill and accuracy with which he used his Bren gun is proved by the way he demoralised the enemy, and later did definitely silence many of the Spandaus firing on his Troop as they crossed open ground, so much so that under his covering fire elements of the Troop made their final objective before he was killed.

Throughout the operation his magnificent courage, leadership and cheerfulness had been an inspiration to his comrades

King George VI presented Cpl Hunters VC to his parents at a private investiture on 26 September 1945 at Holyrood House and in September 1974 the medal was donated by his sister and nephew to the Royal Marines Museum in Southsea, where all 10 Royal Marines VCs are securely stored, the medal on display there being a copy.

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10.

Finance Corner

Dear Shipmates, Year End Returns 2014 They are still 12 Branches who have not submitted their accounts to Central Office (HQ) for 2014.

Can I please ask for a copy to be returned to Central Office (HQ) ASAP. I have informed your Area NCM that you have still not submitted your accounts, so they might offer what assistance is required.

They are: Area 2 - RNA Isle of Sheppey, Area 6 - RNA High Wycombe, RNA Swindon, Area 8 - RNA B’ham Cotteridge, RNA Bloxwich Area 9 – RNA Ketton Area 10 - RNA Kendal, RNA Todmorden, RNA Birkenhead, Area 11 - RNA Stockton, RNA Scarborough Area 12 - RNA Banbridge Year End Returns 2015 Please note the Year End Returns for FY2015 as per the Rules & Bye-Laws Page 40 B19, (c) should be returned to Central Office (HQ) by the 30 April 2016 Charities Commission Criteria Branches should be individually registered with the Charity Commission if gross annual income exceeds £5,000.00 Income Less than £10,000.00 – Annual update Report required More than £10,000.00 – Annual Return required If you need guidance on your Report or Return, please, do not hesitate to contact me or Rita and one of us will be glad to assist you. Note the Charity Commission is now chasing actively – GS can help you through the maze too.

Termly Accounts Branch Termly Accounts ending 31/12/15 are now complete, which you should have all received.

If any Branch has not received their ledger information for the year, please contact me and I will issue you a copy. At the last Council meeting (December 2015) the Council authorised change, regarding the due date on the Termly Accounts, from 2 months to 28 Days.

The Rules & Bye-Law, Page 41, B22 (A), now reads ‘The total amount of the balance due shall be remitted to the Council within 28 days of the date of receipt of the Account .

Overdue branch accounts Thank you to all the Branches in your prompt return of payment, much appreciated. However, you will be pleased to read the outstanding figure at the end of 31/12/15 has reduced from £29,000 to £17,000.00.

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BACs Many thanks for those Branches who are now starting to use the BACs system.

For those Branches that are about to use the BACs system, can I please ask, when you are entering your payment information, there is a reference box, can you please type either your Branch Name or your Branch Account Number, which you will find on your Customer Activity Summary, top left hand corner.

It makes it much easier to indentify and allocate to the correct account.

Subscriptions 2015 Branches, who purchase Membership Stickers in advance, must return stickers back to Central Office (HQ) before the end of the Financial Year.

This is so that the membership that has been recorded in our membership record can be adjusted in the year. This is not possible after the accounts have been closed and Independently Examined, and built in to the annual membership figures in the Trustees Annual Report.

Therefore, 2015 stickers returned to Central Office (HQ) will not be issued with a credit note.

Standards Fund – 18/03/16 – 17/03/17 Good News - you will be pleased to read that the price has not changed and your Standard Fund is still £8.00 To end on a light hearted note as this month’s column has been a bit heavy going Somebody sent me this joke – Love It !!

A middle-aged frumpy couple return to a Mercedes dealership where the salesman has just sold the car they were interested in, to a beautiful, leggy, busty blonde.

"I thought you said you would hold that car till we raised the £75,000 asking price," said the man. "Yet I just heard you close the deal for £65,000 to the lovely young lady there. You insisted there could be no discount on this model."

"Well, what can I tell you? She had the ready cash and, just look at her, how could I resist?" replied the grinning salesman.

Just then the young woman approached the middle-aged couple and gave them the keys.

"There you go," she said. "I told you I would get the dope to reduce it. See you later, dad."

Never mess with the old uns!

Well, Shipmates, the next article I write will be for April, so I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Easter. Enjoy chocolate munching because I know I will !!

Rita, Chrissie & I are living in hope, that the boys buy us an Easter egg, for all the grief they give us ! Bet your bottom dollar they don’t !

Yours Aye Michelle

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Pussers Rum Deal!

Shipmates will be delighted to know that Pusser’s are offering ‘Gunpowder Proof’ and ‘Original Admiralty Rum’ at a discounted price please see attached sheet for specific details

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Scottish Rubgy Burger!

This ‘Jock’ Burger was sighted at Edinburgh airport by the only Welsh speaking member of the Shipmates and Oppos team!

(So complaints to her please). If results are anything to go by It would appear the Scottish team have indulged on a few too many of these ‘Fat Boys’...... and had a few pints of ‘Heavy’ to wash them down!!

They consist of A juicy beef burger bursting with Scottish Pride and topped with Haggis, Black Pudding, onion rings, healthy gem lettuce, Iron-Bru mayonnaise and BBQ sauce.

13.

A VISIT TO HM Ships QUEEN ELIZABETH AND PRINCE OF WALES

Shipmates will, I am sure, be very interested in the article below submitted by the National President.

Following a chance encounter at the Fleet Air Arm Officers’ Association Taranto Night Dinner last year I was invited to join a VIP visit to our new Carriers building in Rosyth. Shipmates may be interested in what I saw and learnt on 11 February.

Why does the UK need two powerful aircraft carriers? It is all about influence. The 2010 UK National Security Strategy rejected the idea of shrinkage. It defined the national objective as a secure and prosperous UK with global reach and influence. The 2015 successor added the need to strengthen our Armed Forces, to remain the world’s leading soft power and to strengthen our Alliances. It further described the international 14

environment as uncertain and complex, with a return of state based war and erosion of the rules based international order.

We who have spent so much of our lives in the business know how maritime forces can help.

With their characteristics of access from the high seas, mobility, versatility, sustained reach and freedom of action offering political and military choice to show capability without commitment. A very recent example being the initial entry to Afghanistan where 100% of the air power was sea based. It was still 50% even at the end of this very land-centric campaign. Or before entry into Iraq when one UK amphibious brigade tied down 5 Iraqi divisions who could not be sure where our blow would fall.

Carrier Enabled Power Projection is an umbrella term which can embrace any or all of such different missions as Carrier Strike, Littoral Manoeuvre/Amphibious Operations, Defence Diplomacy from Carriers, Humanitarian Assistance and Special Forces operations. Its three core future instruments are the Carriers, the F35B Lightning 2 Strike Fighter and the Merlin Crows Nest Airborne Surveillance helicopter.

In September 2014 the Prime Minister stated that both Carriers will be brought into service. He added that they “would be a big addition to British power”. They will be National Strategic Assets not just Naval and jointly enabled by both Army and RAF. Internationally they will be a foundation for strategic partnership. Both will be available and manned for Carrier Strike and continuous amphibious readiness.

Building the Carriers has been a combined effort by all Britain’s major Shipbuilders. The main blocks several displacing more than a Type 45 destroyer have been built around the country- on the Clyde, at Birkenhead, in the South-West, Portsmouth and on the Tyne.

Power and propulsion systems have come from the Midlands and mission systems from the UK “silicon valley”. It has been truly a national effort. The whole has been and is being assembled in Rosyth- the first time ships have been built in this historic naval base and ship repair centre. Thus there has been no “we’ve always done it like this”. Rather best practise has been sought and adopted from the UK and USA. The whole activity is co-ordinated and managed by the Aircraft Carrier Alliance. This is not a legal entity but a collaboration between BAE SYSTEMS, Babcock, Thales and the Ministry of Defenceone team. The contract was renegotiated in 2013 and now includes provision for cost increases or reductions to be shared between MoD and the contractors. In all building the Carriers has sustained 10,000 jobs.

A Power and Propulsion sub-Alliance is headed by Thales and includes Rolls Royce, L3 Comms and General Electric. The power and propulsion system is all electric doing away with the need for complex gear boxes. The Carrier’s two 36MW gas turbo alternators and 4 diesel generators can supply enough power for cities the size of Aberdeen or Swindon and through her 4 induction motors can drive the ship at more than 25 knots and with a maximum range of 10,000 miles.

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This propulsion system has great redundancy and is less radical than that of the Type 45 destroyer. Much has been learnt from USN and RN experience of electric propulsion and three separate reviews have been conducted. Thus there should be no repeat of the Type 45’s occasional difficulties.

At 65,000 tons displacement the ships are the largest warships ever built for the Royal Navy. This is considerably less than the FORD or NIMITZ class US Carriers or indeed the Russian KUSNETSOV but the 4 ½ acre flight deck is comparable in size. With 32 aircraft servicing positions on the flight deck and hangar they can provide 72 fixed wing sorties per day and a peak effort of 108 on day 1. The top Carrier Strike aircraft complement would be 36 F35B and 4 Merlin Crows Nest surveillance helicopters or combinations of these aircraft and Lynx Wild Cat, Apache and Chinook suitable to the mission. She could embark as much as 50 helicopters. There is power and space for a future fit of catapults and arrestor gear if deemed appropriate. The four highly mechanised magazines can carry 5 days worth of weapons. The weapon handling system has 56 autonomous “moles”- think Amazon warehouses but for explosives.

Although comparable in flight deck size and capability to the giant US carriers the ships’ complement is vastly smaller- a total of some 1600 as against 5,600 for the latest USN vessels.

Our 1600 allows for a 900 strong air group or a combination of 2 Air Manoeuvering Companies of Royal Marines or Soldiers, a Special Forces Group and Support Group. This remarkably low figure of less than 700 Ships Company (for 3000 compartments) has been achieved by automation and designing out choke points. For example store ship should take ½ a day with 20 people as against 3 days and 100 sailors for the INVINCIBLEs. The NIMITZ carrier requires 350 sailors to prepare air weapons. QE just 36.

QUEEN ELIZABETH is afloat and all major building blocks have been assembled. 415 of the 471 cabins have been accepted and 331 of the 597 fans. The galley is completed and is immensely impressive in its design for labour convenience and hygiene. The long range radar can track a snooker ball at 20km and 1000 objects out to 400km.It is already tracking all aircraft between London and Brussels. QE should be ready for sea

by October this year but may delay her first voyage until January 2017 bringing forward Mission Systems Harbour trials for the preceding autumn. Thus the overall programme would remain at acceptance by the RN in mid to late 2017. PRINCE OF WALES is in dock with just two after sponson building blocks to be installed. She is currently running 9 months ahead of her programme through healthy rivalry and experience gained with QE. First of class flying trials with the F35B would be carried out in US waters in 2018. Initial Operating Capability for Carrier Strike should be achieved by December 2020. The equivalent date for PRINCE OF WALES is September 2023. By then the UK should have 24 operational F35B with another 12 in a training squadron. In the long term the UK plans to buy 138 F35 of which at least 48 will be the B or VSTOL version able to operate from our Carriers.

Some final thoughts.

The ship’s power output will be the equivalent of 50 high speed trains; they are 4 metres higher than Niagara Falls. They could supply 6,250 baths per day and each anchor is the size of 2 double decker buses. The hangar could embrace two Type 23 frigates. Take a regional airport, 16

stuff in all the nearby hotels, fill it full of explosives and go to sea in rough weather. There you have our new aircraft carriers. Given a 50 year life the last Commanding Officers have not yet been born. On 11 February we so called VIPs found the enthusiasm and dedication of all involved in this truly great national achievement as heart warming as it was impressive. They will provide a game changing capability for the UK in the 21st century. I cannot wait to hold my roof top parties as they enter Portsmouth.

14.

Library Joke

A man was looking for a place to sit in a crowded university library. He asked a girl: "Do you mind if I sit beside you?

The girl replied, in a loud voice, " NO, I DON'T WANT TO SPEND THE NIGHT WITH YOU!" All the people in the library started staring at the man, who was deeply embarrassed and moved to another table.

After a couple of minutes, the girl walked quietly to the man's table and said with a laugh: "I study psychology, and I know what a man is thinking; bet you felt really embarrassed, right?"

The man responded in a loud voice: "£500 FOR ONE NIGHT? ..... I AM NOT PAYING YOU THAT MUCH!" All the people in the library looked at the girl in shock. The man whispered to her: "I study law, and I know how to screw people".

15.

Boathouse No 7 – Reunion Lunches / Dinners

Based in the heart of the Historic Dockyard Boathouse No7 is the perfect venue for a Reunion Lunch or Dinner. Boathouse No7 is conveniently situated near the visitor centre, a stone’s throw away from HMS Victory and offers a unique experience of having dinner in an 18th Century Boathouse. The Historic Nautical Boathouse can seat between 120-300 guests and with Ampersand Catering being the onsite caterers you are assured a spectacular 2 or 3 course meal. You may wish to know that Ampersand Caterers are also the caterers at many well-known attractions in London including London Zoo, Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London and many more.

The discounted price includes security on the gate so the night will run smoothly entering the Dockyard after hours. They will organise the whole evening from your arrival, 3 course dinner, licensed cash bar and of course the spectacular venue.

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Alternatively if your group is visiting Portsmouth Naval Base for the day then why not consider a group lunch in the historic surroundings of No 7 Boathouse.

Lunches cost from £9.95 and Reunion dinners from £35.00+VAT per person.

If you would like any further information then please don’t hesitate to contact the events team in Boathouse No7 on 02392 731552 or email boathouse7@ampersandcatering.co.uk

16.

Supporting Seafarers Day – Assistance required please.

On Thursday 23 June Seafarers UK, formerly King George’s Fund for Sailors, will be going back to its fundraising roots in the form of Supporting Seafarers Day, hosting bucket collections at train stations and locations across the United Kingdom.

Seafarers UK are currently inviting supporters from the maritime community to join together in full force and to share the same message – to support the seafarers that our ‘island nation’ so heavily depends on.

The Royal Naval Association (RNA) and Seafarers UK have always enjoyed a close relationship and they are grateful for the support the RNA has shown them over many years. They would like members of the RNA to join them on Supporting Seafarers Day by volunteering to collect cash donations across the United Kingdom and help make a real difference to the lives of those from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets.

Whether you can offer a few hours of your time or more, there is a part for you to play in Supporting Seafarers Day. Seafarers UK are seeking Lead Volunteers who will manage and co-ordinate the collections at one of the main train stations which have already been booked or at a location of their own choice. They also need Collection Volunteers who can simply spare a few hours to join one of the collections and to represent the maritime community.

Seafarers UK has currently confirmed the following train stations for which they urgently need volunteers: x Birmingham New Street x Devonport (Plymouth) x Dockyard (Plymouth) x Edinburgh Waverley x Hull Paragon Railway x Liverpool Lime Street x London Cannon Street x London Charing Cross x London Waterloo x Manchester Piccadilly As a Supporting Seafarers Day volunteer you will receive the full support of the Seafarer UK Fundraising Team and have access to their exclusive Supporting Seafarers Day website page where you will be able to download a variety of information, guidance and details about the day.

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To volunteer for Supporting Seafarers Day or if you would like more information please contact the Seafarers UK Fundraising Events Officer at hannah.scopp@seafarers-uk.org or call 020 7932 5960. Thank you. www.seafarers-uk.org/get-involved/supporting-seafarers-day/

17.

WRNS100 - Update

For information please see below a list of dates of functions for the WRNS100 celebrations.

March 2017 - The National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth will be holding an exhibition called “Women in the Navy” from March 2017 until the end of November and we hope they will encourage other Museums around the country to include the WRNS in their exhibits.

Early days for the Museum’s planning but we will let you know as we get more details and a date.

22 April 2017 - There will be a WRNS100 event for the Midlands at the Hallmark Hotel, Derby.

Booking details will be in the next issue of The Wren. The Yeovilton Branch are also planning an event on this date.

15 July 2017 - A Reception will be held at the Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich on the 15th July 2017 starting at 1300. As the only Naval venue in London where both WRNS Ratings and Officers have served during and since WWII it makes an ideal central location and some may want to make it a weekend trip.

The College will hold an exhibition celebrating the WRNS at Greenwich and will give free tours of the College to those attending. High tea and a champagne toast are planned!

4 November 2017 - Our Commemorative Service at Portsmouth Cathedral (which seats 800) will take place on Saturday 4th November 2017 at 1430, the same weekend as the Dauntless Association Reunion. A Commemorative Stone celebrating 100 years since the formation of the WRNS and women in the Naval Service will be placed in the grounds of Portsmouth Cathedral.

Afternoon tea at the Portsmouth Guildhall will follow and transport between the venues will be provided, although they are closely located (20 minute walk). The WRNS100 Project has received a very generous grant from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity towards the costs of these two events but there will be a charge for tea and transport.

24 November 2017 - A WRNS100 Scotland event will take place on the evening of the 24th.

More details will follow in the next edition of the Wren.

Applications to attend all these events will be in the Wren during this year.

Local Events. We hope that that you will want to support the Anniversary by organising local events - if you do please contact Rosemary Smith (rosemaryalicesmith@yahoo.co.uk) who will make sure your event is not clashing with anyone else’s. Later this year we will have a pack available for organisers of local events with a press release for your local newspaper, special Anniversary leaflets and pin badges, details of merchandise and promotional material available and a DVD of photo’s of Wrens from WW1 onwards to act as a backdrop for your event.

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As you know we are looking at all types of fundraising and there is a shop on WRNS100 website which can be found at www.wrns100.co.uk . We also have a WRNS100 Facebook page which is linked to the webpage and a WRNS100 Twitter account @WRNS100.

Project Group started with no money but has been actively raising funds through the sale of merchandise, encouraging donations and applying for grants and sponsorship. The Group is most grateful to the Association of Wrens, the Dauntless Association and the Women’s Royal Naval Service Benevolent Trust for supporting us. Whilst most events will be self-funding, there are a lot of peripheral costs involved in running the various events over the course of 2017 so we will be introducing other fundraising schemes.

Thank you very much to all those who have volunteered to get involved. We will need your help with the planned events and so we will be in touch in due course.

18.

Calling Shipmates who served in HMS Tilford 1965/66 Commission.

Midshipman Dan Nicholson, LM(E) Brett (Pancho) and myself L/Seamen Terry Davenport MID (Buffer) have found eight other shipmates to date and we are trying to find as many more as we can. We have arranged a re-union on Wednesday September 7th 2016 at the UJC in London, when we are staying overnight and some of us are staying the Tuesday night as well. This year will be the 50th anniversary of our commission and would like to celebrate with as many of the ship’s company that can be found. For further information please contact: Dan at tutordanO5@talktalk.net, 01202 706315 Pancho at pancho.brett@talktalk.net, 01302 883331 Terry at terrydavenport2712@gmail.com, 01348 872925

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Veterans Mental Health Services Engagement

The National Welfare Advisor Shipmate Rita Lock MBE recently received the following information, below, from the NHS concerning engagement on mental health service for veterans which Shipmates may be interested in; The NHS England engagement on mental health services for veterans is now live and the survey and supporting information can be accessed at https://www.engage.england.nhs.uk/survey/veterans-mental-health-services The deadline for responses is 5pm on 31 March 2016 and we are particularly keen to hear from the following groups:

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· · · · ·

Veterans who have or have had a mental health condition People who know veterans who they believe have or have had a mental health condition Service charities / support groups Mental health professionals involved in veterans’ mental health care CCGs

The survey includes sets of tailored questions for each of the above audiences, however, NHS England welcomes views from anyone who has an interest in veterans’ mental health and people can choose which section they wish to complete.

More information can be found at the this link; https://www.engage.england.nhs.uk/survey/veterans-mental-health-services

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2016 National Armed Forces Day 25 June 2016 – Cleethorpes Cleethorpes is hosting the National Armed Forces Day this year and those wishing to participate in the parade must complete a Parade Application Form ASAP. Completed forms can found at the rear of Circular and can either be posted or emailed to: Gavin Marshall Armed Forces Events Team Knoll House Knoll St Cleethorpes DN35 8LN gavin.marshall@nelincs.gov.uk /

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www.armedforcescleethorpes.co.uk

RNRMCF – Street Party Portsmouth Naval Base Sunday 30 May 16

Together with the other Naval charities that have Her Majesty The Queen as their Patron we are celebrating her 90th birthday this year. Along with the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children’s Fund, the Royal Marines Association, the Royal Navy Officers’ Charity and the Association of Royal Navy Officers we want to get the Naval Family celebrating with us. The official celebration is a huge Street Party down The Mall in London on Sunday June 12th called The Patron’s Lunch.

We would like you to hold your own street parties wherever you are and, in the process, fundraise for the Children’s Fund. On the Bank Holiday Monday of the Summer Half Term, 30th May, we are holding a street party of our own at the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth. All are welcome, entry to the Dockyard is free – you only have to pay for the individual attractions, and we are having a street party, small street market, band and other entertainment during the day. If anyone would like to volunteer to help on the day then please get in touch with Clare Scherer at the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Children’s Fund on clare@rnrmchildrensfund.org.uk or 023 9263 9536 and find out how to help, there will be various timeslots during the day when volunteers will be particularly welcomed.

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RNA Longcast 2016 28 Feb 4 Mar 12 Mar 19 Mar 8 Apr 7 May 7 May 13 May 29 May 31 May 10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 10 Jun 11-12 Jun 12 Jun 25 June 01 Jul 09 Jul 1 Aug 6 Aug 19 Aug 19 Aug 20 Aug 10 Sep 7 Oct 21 Oct 21 Oct 22 Oct 5 Nov 10 Nov 13 Nov 19 Nov 26 Nov 10 Dec 23 –3 Jan 17

National Arboretum – 1991 Gulf War Memorial unveiling SOC (Consider Motions National Council Meeting Welfare Seminar – Crown Hotel Weymouth HQ Open Day National Standard Bearer Competition – HMS Collingwood Area 5 Quarterly Meeting - Beccles HQ Open Day Main National Jutland event – Orkney + South Queensferry event Portsmouth/Plymouth/Belfast/Chatham Battle of Jutland Commemorations SOC AMC Meeting FAC Meeting National Council Meeting National Conference SOC (Conference Wash Up) Armed Forces Day HQ Open Day Dublin Branch Summer BBQ at the Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire HMS Queen Elizabeth departs Rosyth for Portsmouth (exact date TBC) Area 5 Quarterly Meeting - Southend on Sea HQ Open Day FAC Meeting (TBC) AMC Meeting National Council Meeting HQ Open Day Dublin Branch Trafalgar Night Dinner at the Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire - (Deputy National President Guest of Honour) Inverness Branch Trafalgar Night Dinner – GS is GoH Lee on the Solent & Stubbington Trafalgar Dinner – (DNP GofH) Area 5 Quarterly Meeting - Harwich Field of Remembrance – Westminster Abbey Remembrance Sunday – NVCh and GS at Cenotaph AMC Meeting FAC Meeting National Council Meeting HQ Closed for Christmas

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D’ye hear there’.....

News from around the Areas and Branches RNA Harrogate and District Branch Harrogate & District Branch held their Decommissioning and Laying-up of the Standard on Sunday 31st January at St Michael and All Angels Church, Beckwithshaw, Harrogate.

No 11 Area Standard was paraded, together with the Standards from Sunderland, Wetherby, York, Bradford and Leeds Branches and Standards from the local branches of the Merchant Navy Association, RAFA, and Royal Signals Association.

Our Honorary Chaplain, Rev John Smith, officiated and No 11 Area President, Commodore Paul Sutermeister DL RN, read the lesson. VIP Guests included the Mayor and Mayoress of Harrogate, Andrew Jones MP for Harrogate & Knaresborough and Lord and Lady Willis of Knaresborough.

Over 100 attended the Service followed by light refreshments and 'UP SPIRITS' where Toasts were made to The Royal Naval Association and 'THE QUEEN'. The De-commissioning cake was cut by The Mayoress of Harrogate Mrs Lynn Simms, and Mrs Elizabeth Stray, wife of our President S/M John Stray."

RNA Margate Branch Margate RNA has had to shift berth at the Royal British Legion club owing to the rising tide of debt. The legion has had to sell off the top three floors of the building to keep the club open, our old Mountbatten lounge was situated on the first floor and we have now moved into the refurbished basement.

This is particular home like for our branch deeps as we have no windows (scuttles) to distract them. Our thanks go to the club chairman Allen for accommodating us, and to shipmate Bernie Taft and his good wife Paula in their work in moving the memorabilia and furniture. Our February meeting was held in the new room and it has proved very popular 25 attending maybe because we toasted our good fortune with a tot of Pussers.

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RNA City of Leeds Branch Leeds branch members were invited to the Commissioning ceremony of HMS Ceres on Saturday 6th February, this is the first Royal Naval Reserve unit to be Commissioned in over twenty years on mainland Britain and is the fifteenth in total. The Ceremony was held at Carlton Barracks, Leeds in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal. HRH inspected the Guard of Honour and on completion had the misfortune to meet the Hon Sec S/M John Rance.

2 Area Area 2 held their AGM weekend at the Great Danes Hotel in Maidstone 12th -14th February where Shipmate Colin Rickard (Paddock Wood) was elected Chairman to succeed Shipmate Tug Wilson (Chatham) who has stood down on health grounds.

The election was a tight contest between Colin and Shipmate Fred Westwood (Vice Chair) a draw being declared on the first vote; proposers were called to speak on behalf of their candidates which swung the vote in S/M Colin’s favour.

Following the meeting shipmates let their hair down with a gala dinner and hands to dance and skylark was piped, during which Shipmate Terry Dickingson (Ashford) was presented with his Legion D’Honneur medal. Terry was a gunner aboard LCP 7 during D Day and told me how lucky their craft had been, Terry’s only injury came from friendly fire when returning to UK for scrap they fired off the excess ammunition and he received three hits in his arm and backside. Although the AGM was not that well attended those that did attend had a great time and are already looking forward to next year’s bash.

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RNA Huntingdon & District Branch On Wednesday 3rd February 2016, shipmates of Huntingdon & District Branch held their Annual General Meeting at the Falcon Inn, Huntingdon. One of the main orders of business is the election (or re-election) of officials who have completed their two years in post, or have stood down.

Sadly, at this AGM, shipmate John Hard announced that he was standing down from his role as Vice President due to personal commitments. After thanking John for his time in post, S/M Karl Webb nominated one of our most respected shipmates, S/M Dawn Holt, as our new Vice President. Thankfully, S/M Dawn Holt accepted the nomination after every member in attendance agreed that she was the perfect choice for the role. Our President was also pleased to welcome Dawn, especially as he has been married to her for almost 61 years.

This is a first for the Branch, S/M Graham Holt (Cdr. RN (Rtd)) and S/M Dawn Holt (ex PO Wren) both joined the RNA 37 years ago. Before moving to Huntingdon, Graham was the President of Bridport Branch, he was elected as a Life Vice President of their Branch and remains in regular contact to date. On leaving Bridport RNA, S/M Graham Holt was presented with a Vice President’s badge; since Dawn’s election, Graham has proudly handed this badge of office to her to wear at RNA meetings. S/Ms Graham and Dawn Holt’s naval commitments do not end there, they currently have a grandson who is a serving Sub Lieutenant (and now carries Graham’s sword on Parade).

Shipmates from Huntingdon & District Branch would like to wish S/M Dawn Holt well in her new role alongside new Branch Officials, S/Ms Graham Murray (Vice Chairman), Nino Crean and Hilary Meers-Webb (as Committee Members).

RNA Ashford Branch

Shipmates George Ashdown and Alan Oliver of RNA Ashford Branch visited the Greenwich Maritime Museum (Brass Foundry Site) to present the museum with an Album of photographs of HMS Warspite and other Battle Cruisers taken by a midshipman during and after the battle of Jutland.

The Album was presented by a former member of RBL Woodchurch Kent and will assist in the Battle of Jutland presentation the Greenwich Maritime museum will be displaying later this year.

Mr Andrew Chong Han Li of the museum said "this album give us an invaluable insight into the overall picture of the day to day life onboard WARSPITE and other battle cruisers" 25

RNA Leighton & Linslade Branch Shipmates are requested to note that our Branch meeting Day is the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 20.00 and not 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 20:30.

RNA Letchworth & Hitchen Branch Shipmates from Letchworth & Hitchin Branch recently held a Branch luncheon in order to thank their former Vice Chairman, S/M Bill Poole, for his service to the Branch, and to welcome Mrs Adie Hughes as an Honorary Member.

S/M Bill has moved near to King’s Lynn, unfortunately the King’s Lynn Branch has closed, so Bill decided he wanted to remain a member of Letchworth & Hitchin Branch, albeit at a distance. As a thank you from his fellow shipmates, new Vice Chairman, S/M John Meacham, presented Bill with a certificate to thank him for all the hard work he has done for the Branch.

Shipmates were pleased to welcome Mrs Adie Hughes, as an Honorary Member she is the widow of a long standing member of the Branch, S/M John Hughes, who sadly Crossed the Bar a year ago. The photo shows S/M Bill Poole and the Branch Welfare Officer, S/M Bill Cusack, presenting S/M Adie with flowers to mark the occasion.

Branch members enjoyed their social event and presentations, especially with a buffet that had been arranged and served by S/Ms Becky, Daniel, and Penny Jarvis. The Branch has had a good start to 2016, enjoying their annual dinner last month (held at the Wagon & Horses, Gravely); the dinner was attended by around 20 members, all of which, are now looking forward to meeting up throughout the year.

Area 12 Area 12 President Shipmate Cdr P Campbell and Area 12 Chairman S/M Robert Buchanan accompanied Shipmate Sam McGookin to Thiepval Barracks on Tuesday on the 16th Feb 2016. S/M was presented with the Légion d'honneur by the French Ambassador for his services and action on D Day.

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RNA Swaffham Branch Swaffham Branch celebrated its 20th Anniversary of their commissioning on 26th January with a Buffet and music evening. The Guests of honour were Anne Thorp, Mayor of Swaffham and Shipmate Paulette Rose Area 5 Secretary and their partners.

During the evening Shipmate Pauline presented S/M David Harman a life membership in recognition and appreciation of all his work during the last ten years. The celebrations were confirmed with a toast for HM The Queen with a traditional tot of Pussers rum.

Earlier that week the Branch Chairman Tim Tryer and his wife Pauline and five other shipmates attended the Kings Lyn sea Cadets presentation evening and gave them a cheque for £250 from the branch

RNA Wetherby Branch Wetherby branch celebrated their 20th Anniversary on 20 January 2016 after originally commissioning in the Town Hall in 1996.To celebrate this achievement a social evening was held in the Wetherby Social Club, where the monthly meetings are held.

The room was decorated in with bunting and floral arrangements in Red, White and Blue along with a collection of photographs and press cuttings from over the years and a specially commissioned ‘Iced Cake’ was made for the occasion.

A number of special guests were invited that included: the Mayor of Wetherby, Councillor Harry Chapman and his wife Jean, the Vicar of St James Church, The Revd Brendan Giblin and a number of ratings from HMS Ceres (RNR Leeds), also in attendance were officials form the RBL in etherby and RNA Shipmates from Harrogate and York.

Two special toasts were made during the evening; one to for absent friends and the other to the continued success and continuation of the branch. A splendid time was had by all.

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RNA Dagenham Branch Dagenham Branch recently held a successful and well supported annual dinner and dance at the headquarters of Dagenham and Redbridge FC Ground, where the Branch were honoured to welcome Mr John Dowden and his partner as principal guests of honour. John was invited in view of his long and distinguished connection with the Merchant Naval service.

However there was another very special Guest at the dinner Dagenham Shipmate Mrs Marjorie Wilkin who attended the function with her Daughter and Son-in-Law at the venerable age of 104.

Majorie still enjoys very good health and is quite active and despite her advancing years she regularly attends branch meetings and always has a cheery smile for her fellow shipmates.

Dagenham Branch have been promoted to suggest that S/m Majorie is the oldest serving Shipmate?? Or is she??

RNA Luton Branch Luton Branch have changed meeting venue and moved back to Royal British Legion Marsh Road Leagrave, Luton and are meeting on the same days 1st & 3rd Wednesdays at 20.00.

RNA Birmingham Central Shipmates may wish to know that sadly the Nautical Club in Birmingham, that a long relationship with many Naval Associations and in particular RNA Birmingham Central, has sadly closed its doors for the final time.

Birmingham Central Branch had used the Nautical Club since it opened for branch meetings and social event. One of the last occasions was at last years Armed Forces Days when the ‘Rum Tub’, used at many Naval functions, was presented to HMS Daring Ships Company.

The Branch now meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month in HMS Forward, Tilton Road and have a new ‘Rum Tub’ thanks to a donation by the family of our late members S/M Charles Avern.

It was a pleasure to commission the new ‘Rum Tub’ with members of the Avern family recently which was followed by a Burns Night supper in the HMS Forward Wardroom. The photo above shows Chairman S/m Brian Goodwin, Rum Bosun, S/M Terry Johnson, Carol and Colin Poole, Michael and Helen Avern and Andy Nichols about top christen the tub.

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Area 7 On Sat 20 February and for the second year running, the Area 7 AGM and dinner was held in Cardiff at the Holiday Inn. This is fast becoming a popular and well attended event and has resulted in glowing reports of success from those attending – Many of whom stayed overnight.

The organisation was carried out by an Area 7 committee with, it must be said a great deal of input from the Cardiff and Rhondda branch secretaries.

Glowing reports have been received from all who attended.

RNA Londonderry Branch Please see below the programme for Belfast Branch Battle of the Atlantic Commemorations for 2016.

FRIDAY 6th MAY HMS Laurentic Commemorations, Fahan and Cockhill.

Fort Dunree Reception etc. (Times to be confirmed) SATURDAY 7th MAY. 1800 1900 for 1930

Reception in Tower Museum Battle of The Atlantic Dinner, City Hotel .

SUNDAY 8th MAY. 1015:- Muster at the RBL Waterside, Iona Terrace.

1030:- Parade marches off to All Saint’s Church.

1100:- Battle of The Atlantic Service commences.

1200:- Parade falls in and marches back to the RBL Waterside- Salute taken en’route 1300:- Light refreshments served.

All Shipmates are very welcome to join us for the weekend of Commemorations.

Should any shipmate wish to attend the dinner the cost is £30.00 per head.

Cheques should be sent to me at the address below. Cut off date is 14th April.

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S/mate Frank Brown, Hon. Secretary, RNA Londonderry, 4, Myrtlefield R0ad, Kilfennan, Londonderry, BT47 5PG.

Shipmates are requested to please note the change of venue to RBL Waterside! And that you should be aware that the programme may be changed at short notice should the occasion arise.

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CROSSED THE BAR – Celebrating a life well lived David Tollerton – Crosby Branch It is with great sadness that Crosby branch have announced that Shipmate David Tollerton has crossed the bar.

He will be much missed not only by his wife Andrea and family, Shipmates form Crosby and Area 10 but by the whole RNA family as he was a most popular Shipmate. S/M David standing in the RNA was significant and was recognised at funeral by the attendance of the National Standard, National Chairman David passing the Conference Batten to 8 and General Secretary at his funeral; in addition Area after a brilliant Conference at Liverpool to many Shipmates from his Branch and Area.

David was a very active member of Crosby Branch acting as Chair for many years.

Always proud of his roots as a stoker, he was a man of many talents – a poet, novelist, musician, comedian, TV star (Bargain Hunt), and talented administrator. He supported and guided 10 Area to a most successful Conference in Liverpool. He provided wide advice to the Conference study group, the NC Strategy Group and helped GS with the occasional disciplinary case in another area.

David enjoying a tot at an RNA Open Day (he hated this shot!!!)

A modest man (except when on the stage with his guitar) he helped Mencap clients with support in daily living and visited and supported inmates in his local prison. He bollo**ed the GS for not choosing his design for the Naval Service Memorial!

All in Central Office (HQ) are greatly sadden at his loss and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Andrea, and his wider family. Tave Dave.

It is with great sadness that Alresford RNA must report the loss of two much loved and greatly admired shipmates.

Albert (Bert) Symonds Albert (Bert) Symonds (1920-2015) joined the Royal Marines during World War II, taking part in the D Day landings. A long-time member of the Branch, he was our first Standard Bearer and for over 20 years took a full and active part in branch Mess Nights and activities. Bert’s conversation was characterised by wit, warmth, honesty and humility and he was as welcoming to new members 31

of the Branch as he was a loyal friend to the long-standing ones. The funeral reflected the man, not only in the depth of love and respect that was expressed but also in its style and dignity.

London-born, Bert had expressed a wish for a “proper London send-off”: the gleaming horsedrawn hearse approaching in the winter sunlight, RM beret and medals placed with precision on the draped coffin, was a sight that his shipmates will not forget.

James (Jimmy) White James (Jimmy) White (1923-2015) was also a World War II veteran, serving all over the world including both the Arctic convoys and D-Day landings. Although he only joined the RNA in the last few years, he immediately fitted into the Branch and it was clear that his naval experience remained an important part of his life and character. Jimmy was also a highly respected local business man, who had created a successful family firm and was an integral part of local community life.

Both Jimmy and Bert died peacefully on Christmas Day. They will be much missed by their families and by the shipmates of Alresford RNA.

James (Jim) Hayes – Buxton and High Peak Branch S/M Jim Hayes served in the RN as an AB from 1940 to 1946. He spent most of this time in Minesweppers based in the Channel and North Sea. He was very much involved in D Day operations included sweeping the lanes before the invasion and then towing the Mulberries across the Channel to the various beachheads Jim was a respected member of the Buxton & High Peak RNA and leading member of the Showman's Guild in the North of England. Shipmate Jim crossed the bar at age 93 and will be missed by his fellow Shipmates at Buxton.

Bryan Eastwood – March Branch I regret to inform you that very sadly Shipmate Bryan Eastwood crossed the bar on Monday 15th February in Peterborough City Hospital, aged 75.

Bryan, was a full member of March Branch and was one of the longest serving, he joined in August 2004, soon after its commissioning. He was also a very loyal Branch Member, attending all the Branch functions and meetings possible, until his final illness.

S/M Bryan joined the Royal Navy at HMS Ganges from Arethusa as a boy of 16 years of age, and served in the Fleet Air Arm at various Naval Air Stations and on several Aircraft Carriers during his 22 year career and attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer.

His last draft prior to discharge was to the school at HMS Daedalus as an instructor.

He will be sadly missed by all his shipmates at March.

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John Gamlin - Chelmsford Branch John was a tireless worker for the Association, having occupied many positions in the branch and was awarded Life membership.

For the past 11 years he was Secretary,taking over from the previous secretary without any hand over. S/m John had also been Vice Chairman in 1986 and 2004, Area Delegate 1999, and Conference Delegate since 2008.

John served in the Fleet Air Arm, of which he was very proud, and along with his wife Mel, ran the local Arctic Convoy club, organising a lunch each year for them. After leaving the RN he worked for Marconi Systems until retirement. He was a fountain of knowledge and kept the branch up to date on all aspects of the Association. At Branch,Area and Conference level he will be sorely missed, a hard act to follow and an anchor for the branch, which has had quite a few members cross the bar in 2015, However he will be missed more than ever by his wife Mel, who as our Treasurer gave him so much support in his work , as a team they were our backbone, He was 79 when he crossed the bar, no age at all

Ken Reith – Rosyth & West Fife Branch It is with sincere regret that Rosyth & West Fife Branch records the passing of one of its most loyal members, Kenneth Reith. Ken, aged 88, crossed the bar on 7 December 2015 after losing his battle with mesothelioma.

He was born in 1927 and joined the Royal Navy in 1943 at the age of 16 at HMS Bruce, which was a shore establishment just along the east coast of Fife, not far from the then Royal Naval Air Station HMS Jackdaw at Crail. On completion of his training, Ken was drafted to HMS Diadem which was a light cruiser on Russian convoy duty. Ken never spoke in detail about the conditions, but he did say it was like ‘going to hell and back’! Ken was a member of the Russian Convoy Club and attended all the annual reunion gatherings at Loch Ewe. This was the departure point of the merchant ships taking supplies to Russia. Many of those ships never made it back. Ken visited Russia on many occasions to receive medals as a token of thanks from the Russian government.

Ken also served on a number of other ships during his career and rose through the ranks to attain the rank of Lieutenant Commander and was awarded an MBE. 33

Ken was the Vice Chairman of the Rosyth and West Fife RNA branch until 1999. He remained a full member and gave loyal support to the branch right up until a few months ago, even attending the Branch Meeting on his Wedding Day to Frances in February 2015! He was awarded Full Life Membership in 2015 for all his efforts and dedication.

Many RNA members attended his funeral in Dunfermline, and, as well as the Rosyth & West Fife Branch, the standards of the City of Edinburgh and Scottish Area were present along with a Bugler from the Royal Marine Corps of Drums (Scotland).

Ken will be much missed by all who knew him.

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RNA Members Benefits UK Holiday Group /CONA Holiday Service x

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 x

Significant discount form Veterans UK www.veteranfunerals.co.uk Tel 07889 009393

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard x

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

Organisers of Reunions should be aware the CONA Travel will match or better any other ‘like for like’ Reunion/Group Trips bookings so why not give them an opportunity to impress you. 0844 264 2122 conatravelservices@justforgroups.co.uk

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Shortcast (Run in date order)

Shortcast 2016 Royal Naval Engineering Association – 18 March 2016 Royal Naval Engineroom Association: 23rd Annual Reunion on 18 to 21 March at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea. New members welcome. Monthly news sheet for ‘out of towners’. Details from Bob Styants at bob.styants@btinternet.com HMS Collingwood Association – 01 April 2016 Reunion will be held at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from April 1 - 4. All members, guests and former shipmates welcome. For further information please contact Shirley Winn, IOW tours at enquiries@iowtours.com or tel 01983 405116 or visit the web site www.hmscollingwood.weebly.com or email hmscollingwood42@gmail.com HMS Surprise Association - 01 April 2016 Annual reunion will take place from April 1 to 4 at the Hadleigh Hotel, Eastbourne. All members, guests and former shipmates are welcome. Interested in attending or getting in touch with your former shipmates? For full details contact Geoff Prentice at geoff.prentice@virginmedia.com HMS Hermes Association – 7 April 2016 Reunion at the Holiday Inn, Plymouth from April 7 to 11. Bookings through Isle of Wight Tours at 01983 405116. For further information contact Jim Loveday at hmshermes@btinternet.com HMS Illustrious Association Southern Branch - 4-7 March 2016 The HMS Illustrious Association Southern Branch will be holding their Annual Reunion in Bristol between: 4-7th March 2016 and more details on booking this event may be found at http://www.hmsillustriousassociation.com and click the bookings tab.

HMS Newfoundland and HMS Kenya – 8 April 2016 HMS Newfoundland & HMS Kenya: Veteran’s annual get together will be held from April 8 to 11 at the 3* Carlton Hotel, Torquay. This invite is open to any shipmate, RN or RM, who has served on board and is also open to those who have not been members of the past associations and those who have served in other ships of the Colony class.

There are no official meetings only trips ashore, lamp swinging and a Gala dinner so why not join us? Details available from Alan Waite at alan04@live.co.uk HMS Loch Fada F390 Association – 8 April 2016 The 19th annual reunion will take place at the King Charles Hotel, Chatham from April 8 to 11, includes AGM at 1030 on 9th with TOT time at 1200 (no mismusters) & Reunion Dinner at 1830.

A coach outing to Greenwich on Sunday or the Walking Bus to Chatham Historic Dockyard. For 36

booking & more info contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 email: enquiries@iowtours.com & mention F390, or Frenchy Sec F390 at f390.sec11@virginmedia.com RN Shipmates Association – 8 April 2016 Has your Association hung up its banner? Are there now too few to have a reunion? There is no need to miss out on the camaraderie we are all used to and there is no need to ‘forget’ your old shipmates.

An RN Shipmates Reunion will take place at the Tillington Hall Hotel Staffordshire from April 8 to 11. Friday and Saturday see us finding old and new shipmates with a lot of Lamp Swinging.

Sunday will see us at the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas where you can lay your own wreath to past shipmates. Reunion enquires and booking forms from enquiries@iowtours.com or Stamped self-addressed 9 x 6 inch envelope to RN Shipmates Reunion, 7 Heath Road, Sandown, IOW PO36 8PG. You don’t even need to have belonged to an Association. All the planning has been done for you. Just come, ‘Swing The Lamp’ again and …… remember.

HMS Dunkirk Association – 15/16 April 2016 The HMS Dunkirk Association Annual reunion will be held at the Newington Hotel York on the 15th and 16th April 2016. For further info please contact J.Carroll jcarroll@jandecarroll.plus.com or ring 01692678721 The photo opposite shows last year’s reunion dinner in full swing

HMS Illustrious Association Northern Branch – 18 April 2016 The Northern Branch of the HMS Illustrious Association with be holding their annual reunion on the 15th - 18th April 2016. For further details of this event please go to our New Website: http://www.hmsillustriousassociation.com and click on the: BOOKINGS tab.

V and W Destroyer Association – 15-17 April 2016 Reunion to take place at the Dolphin Hotel, St Ives, Cambridge from 15 to 17 April. To book ring 01580 466966 and mention the V&W reunion. Carers and family members are also welcome.

Don’t forget to book before the end of January. Bill Forster an associate member whose father served In HMS Venomous will record interviews with veterans attending the reunion, describing their service. Previous interviews can be heard here http://vandwdestroyerassociation.org.uk/recordings.html Bill Forster can be contacted at venomous@holywellhousepublishing.co.uk HMS Phoebe Association – 29 April 2016 HMS Phoebe Association, Cruiser (C43) & frigate (F42): Have their annual reunion from April 29 to May 2 at the Parkbury Hotel, Sandown, Isle of Wight. All cruiser/frigate shipmates are welcome to join us. Please contact Bob Hobbs at Robert.hobbs1949@sky.com for more information

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HMS Bulwark, Albion and Centaur Association – 6 May 2016 The 2016 Reunion Weekend is booked the Bosworth Hall Hotel & Liesure Spa, Market Bosowrth, Warwickshire from May 6 to 8. Please contact the Secretary, Denis Askham at askhamd@orangehome.co.uk or details

HMS Wizard and Cadiz Association – 6 May 2016 Reunion at the Inglewood Palm Hotel, Torquay from May 6 to 9. Membership is open to all who have served in Battleclass V & W Destroyers and type 15 Frigates.

For more details contact Jim Watkins at jimandleah@hotmail.co.uk

HMS Euryalus Association – 20 May 2016 All commissions reunion from May 20 to 22 in South Shields. Contact Florrie Field at cf002e5349@blueyonder.co.uk or Blood Reidy at johnr9520@gmail.com HMS Hermione Association – 20-22 May 2016 HMS Hermione Association will hold its annual reunion from May 20 to 22 at the Best Western, Feathers Hotel, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool. Anyone wishing to join us will be made most welcome that also includes families of those lost onboard. If you are planning to book, call 0151 709 9655 and quote ref: Hermione Association.

Federation of Naval Associations – 20 May 2016 AGM/Social and reunion at Prince of Wales Hotel, Southport from May 20 to 23. Has your Association wound up? This is an excellent opportunity to meet up with those wishing to carry on regardless. All are welcome with no frills or drills. Details and booking forms available from Robbie Robson at robbie.fna@virgin.net HMS Cavalier Association – 20 May 2016 Reunion will take place from May 20 to 23 at the Victoria Hotel, Torquay. Bookings by Isle of Wight Tours on 01983 405116 HMS Coventry D118 Association – 21-22 May 2016 Reunion will take place on May 21/22 at the GIs Association, Whale Island. Muster for church service at 1015 at the Still & West Public House, Old Portsmouth on Sunday.

Full details can be found on the website at http://www.hmscoventry.co.uk/reunion.php or contact Chris Howe MBE at chris.howe@systematic.com

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848 Squad, Royal Marines - 21 May 2016 The first and maybe the last reunion will be held from May 21 to 22 at the Belmont Hotel, Leicester. For full details contact Barry Lewington at barry.lewington@yahoo.co.uk HMS Belfast Association – 17 June 2016 The 2016 Association Reunion will be held over the weekend of 17 - 19th June at the ‘Tillington Hall Hotel’, Stafford. A visit and Tour of the National Memorial Arboretum will take place. See the ‘Seahorse’ for full details. Enquiries & Bookings can be made to - enquiries@iowtours.com or to Dave Gibbon at gibbon35@gmail.com Places are limited so please book early.

HMS Liverpool Association – 11 June 2016 Reunion takes place on June 11 at the GIs Association, Whale Island, mustering at 1200. Our association is made up of those who served on the Cruiser and the Type 42 Destroyer and new members are always welcome. For more information and membership details contact John Parker at info@hmsliverpoolassociation.org.uk HMS Sirius F40 1966-1993 Reunion - 18 June 2016 50th Anniversary of Commissioning Reunion at HMS Drake on 18 June 2016. Details available at www.hmssirius.info or Facebook page, H M S Sirius (make sure you leave the spaces) or contact Andy Ayres at andrew.ayres519@mod.uk or andyrayres@gmail.com HMS Lincoln Association - July 2016 The HMS Lincoln Association from the 68/69 commission are planning their 2016 reunion in the City of their name Lincoln. On September 12, 1970 the ships company having marched through the streets were given the freedom of the City. The association are now in the planning stages of returning for a reunion in July 2016, and early indications are that the City authorities are delighted it’s going to happen, and joint events are being organised.

The association would like to hear from any ex Lincoln crew members from both commissions and of course any who took part in the Freedom march, who would either have been 68/69 commission or the 70/71 commission there was a mixture of personnel from both.

They are invited to contact Mike (Yorky) Sutcliff at hmslincoln@yahoo.co.uk to see if they would like to join us for this rather special reunion event.

The Fisgard Association – 01 July 2016 20th Annual Up Spirits and Sods Opera featuring Shep Woolley at the Royal Maritime Club on July 1 with July 2 seeing a visit to the Fisgard Museum, HMS Sultan and the Green and White Dinner Dance at the WO & SRs Mess, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth For more information contact Mike Bell for Up-Spirits & Sods Opera at mick_bell@hotmail.com and for the Dinner Dance contact Bradley at bradleys@mountpleasantcottage.wanadoo.co.uk or check http://thefisgardassociation.org or see the Fisgardian.

WRNS - 12 August 2016 A 50th anniversary reunion is planned for all ladies who joined the WRNS during 1966, event to be held on 12th August 2016 in Portsmouth. If you would like to join us, and/or know anyone else who would like to, please contact either Barbara Cotton (nee Binks, Victory 206) at 39

barbaracotton46@btinternet.com or Maxine Higgins (nee Parish, Theseus) at maxine_higgins@yahoo.co.uk We look forward to renewing and making new friendships HMS President - 13 August 2016 A reunion for current and former Shipmates of HMS PRESIDENT in London has been arranged on board HMS PRESIDENT, London RNR Unit for 13/08/2016 at 12:00. All current and former Shipmates of the Unit are welcome to attend. A 'HMS PRESIDENT Reunion' Facebook page has been set up or further details can be obtained from rcopland47@yahoo.co.uk.

HMS Valiant Association – 13 August 2016 The 50th Anniversary reunion and celebrations will take place in Plymouth Dockyard and HMS Drake on August 13, 2016. The proposal is to have a ceremony on the jetty next to Submarine Valiant.On completion there will be a reception and buffet lunch at the Senior Rates mess. There is an indoor and outdoor bar and in the evening will be a small buffet supper. The event is open to everyone who served on HMS/m Valiant throughout her career. The day is intended to be a family affair to be enjoyed by all.

Please indicate your wish to attend and numbers to reunions@wearehmsvaliant.com so that regular updates re hotels and arrangements can be sent to you. Please include when you served on Valiant plus department and a contact phone number.

HMS Swiftsure – 3 September 2016 HMS/m Swiftsure (Swiftsure 86 + 30): First reunion to be held September 3 at The Weston Mill Social Club, Plymouth. £5.00 per person. Buffet included. All who served onboard including partners welcome. For further information contact antonybadman@hotmail.co.uk HMS Crane Association – 23-25 September 2016 HMS Crane Association U23/F123 (1942-62): Reunion and AGM at the Doubltree by Hilton Hotel, formerly the Gateway Hotel, Nottingham from September 23 to 25. All ex-Cranes and friends welcome. Details from Joe Smith at cranebird@btinternet.com HMS Arethusa Social Weekend – 30 September 2016 HMS Arethusa: Social weekend at the Savoy Hotel, Skegness from September 30 to October 3.

For further information contact Isle of Wight Tours at enquiries@iowtours.com or tel: 01983 405116.

HMS Eagle Association – 07-09 October 2016 HMS Eagle - Commissions 1952-72: ‘Friends of HMS Eagle’, are holding a 44th Anniversary ‘Nautical Experience’ Weekend Reunion at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Bristol, from October 7 to 9. After the very successful last 9 Reunions held around the UK – All ‘Eaglets’ plus wives/partners & guests are very welcome to celebrate the 44 years since the ‘Mighty E’ decommissioned in Portsmouth in 1972.

There will be a ‘Meet & Greet’ on the Friday evening in the ‘Park Suite’, followed on the Saturday 40

with various Tours from the Hotel, including visits to Brunel’s ‘SS Great Britain, ‘Harbourside’ boat and railway trips’ plus Heritage Museums. The evening is taken up with a very Nautical Gala Dinner and traditional ‘Up Spirits’ enactment, followed by dancing and entertainment in the ‘Ballroom’, which includes the local Sea Cadet Unit, ‘Bristol Adventure’ performing ‘Colours’ & ‘Ceremonial Sunset’. (All Commissions 1952-1972 are very welcome. Hotel accommodation at very good rates.

For details, please contact Main Organizer, Danny du Feu (Ex-L/Sea(Boats) Email: ddf.photography@gmail.com or Events Sec. Bill Melvin (Ex-L/PTI) Email: bill.melvin2@btinternet.com. See you there!

HMS Lowestoft Association – 7-9 October 2016 The 6th annual reunion of the HMS Lowestoft Association will take place at the Aztec Hotel, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4TS from October 7th to 9th 2016. 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 HMS Tartar Association – 07 October 2016 Annual reunion at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from October 7 to 10. 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. Contact linpowe@btinternet.com for further information.

Bay Class Frigates Association – 17 October 2016 Reunion at Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from October 17 to 19, 2016. All ex-Bay Class men and guests welcome. Contact Doug Turk at doug.turk@ntlworld.com for details.

Survey Ships Association - 28-31 October 2016 The Survey Ships Association will be holding its twenty-second reunion at the Aztec Hotel, Bristol on the w/e of 28th – 31st 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.

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Swinging the Lamp - March 2016

Date

Year

Entry

1st

1907

2nd

1911

3rd

1807

4th

1941

5th

1902

6th

1993

7th

1814

8th

1872

9th

1686

10th

1956

11th

1708

12th

2009

Cap ribbons and bedding issued in lieu of a gratuity, and ready-made uniforms instead of material to be made up. Loan clothing introduced.

First four officers, chosen from over 200 applicants, reported to the Royal Aero Club’s aerodrome at Eastchurch on the Isle of Sheppey for pilot training in private aircraft provided free of charge:Lt C.R. Samson, scout cruiser Foresight; Lt R.Gregory, armoured cruiser Antrim; Lt A.M.Longmore, HMTB 24 and Lt E.L. Gerrard RMLI, cruiser Hermione.

The squadron under Vice-Admiral Sir John Duckworth engaged the Dardanelles forts on the return passage from Constantinople.

Transportation of Imperial troops from Egypt to Greece. Ended on 24 April, when the evacuation began. Operation Lustre.

Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service constituted by Order in Council, replacing the naval nursing sisters.

Retirement of CPO W. Price, last of the ‘promised men’ who joined the RN in 1948 and in 1970 were guaranteed employment until age 65. He served for twenty-two years at the RN Detention Quarters, Portsmouth.

Provisions of uniform regulations of 19 September 1810 extended to the Governors of the RN Hospital and Asylum, and the LieutenantGovernors of Greenwich Hospital and of the RN College, Portsmouth.

The wood screw frigate Ariadne, sailing to Gibraltar, hove-to when a seaman fell overboard from the main topmast crosstrees 130 miles off the Portuguese coast (40.15N, 12.10W) In an unsuccessful rescue attempt both ship’s cutters were swamped and two officers, Sub-Lts Jukes and Talbot, and eight men were drowned.

Pepys signed contract for purchase of rum in lieu of brandy for HM ships at Jamaica.

World air speed record of 1,132 mph (1,823 kph) set by Lt-Cdr Peter Twiss, OBE, DSC and bar, RNVR, flying from Boscombe Down in a Fairey Delta 2 between Chichester and RNAS Ford, Sussex. The first person to fly at over 1,000 mph.

The Cruisers and Convoys Acts allocated prize money to captors at the Crown’s expense; a great incentive to captains and crews.

The first woman in RN to win the MC. Able Seaman Kate Louise Nesbitt (21), a medical assistant attached to 3 Cdo Brigade, for ‘exemplary gallantry’ during a Taliban ambush in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Kate, all 5ft tall, ran under enemy fire and saved the life of L/Cpl John List of 1 RIFLES who had been hit in the neck. Her MC was awarded by HRH Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace on 27 November 2009. Operation Herrick. Citation: ‘Nesbitt’s actions throughout a series of offensive operations were exemplary; under fire 42

13th

1823

14th

1757

15th

1980

16th

1858

17th

1912

18th

2002

19th

1847

20th

1832

21st

2007

22nd

2003

23rd

1922

24th

1960

25th

1945

26th

1912

and under pressure her commitment and courage were inspirational and made the difference between life and death, “She performed in the highest traditions of her service.”

Admiral of the Fleet the Earl of St Vincent died. ‘We expect too much of men; we do not make sufficient allowances, and perhaps we are too apt to over rate the services we render them’ Admiral Byng executed on board Monarch after being court-martialled for dereliction of duty. ‘At 12 Mr Byng was shot dead by six marines and put into his coffin’ – Master’s Log, HMS Monarch.

Fire in A1 boiler room in the commando carrier Bulwark during a visit to Philadelphia. Damage considered too costly to repair.

Shannon’s Naval Brigade at the capture of Lucknow by the forces under General Sir Colin Campbell. Naval Brigade manned all the breaching artillery on one side of the Gumti River. Indian Mutiny Medal: clasp ‘Lucknow’Battle Honour: Lucknow 1857.

Capt Lawrence Oates, 5th Inniskilling Dragoons, died in Antarctica by walking out into a blizzard in a vain attempt to improve the chances of survival for Capt Scott’s party: ‘I am just going outside and may be some time.’ It was his 32nd birthday.

Fearless, last RN steam-powered surface warship, entered Portsmouth for the last time on return from the Indian Ocean.

Admiralty order that Wednesday 24 March be observed as a Day of Public Fasting and Humiliation, Divine Service to be specially performed in recognition of Irish Famine. Reaction of ship’s companies and their pursers not recorded Navigating, Medical and other non-executive officers adopted the uniform jacket of the Executive branch, distinguished by the pattern of their button.

Explosion of a self-contained oxygen generator (SCOG) in submarine Tireless while submerged under the Arctic ice killed two crew members.

Two Sea King Mk VII of 849 Sqn A Flight, flying from Ark Royal on vital ground surveillance missions to support Royal Marines ashore on the Al Faw peninsula, collided over the northern Arabian Gulf. Two pilots and five observers killed. Posthumous MiD to Observer, Lt Tony King.

Operation Telic.

Submarine H42, Lt D.C. Sealy RN, sunk with all twenty-six hands in collision with the destroyer Versatile, Cdr V.L.A Campbell RN, during 3rd Submarine Flotilla tactical exercises with the Atlantic Fleet off Europa Point, Gibraltar. The submarine surfaced 40yds ahead of the destroyer which was steaming at 20 knots.

Yarmouth, first of nine Rothesay-class antisubmarine frigates, commissioned at John Brown’s, Clydebank, by Capt H.R. Hewlett RN, shortly to be Captain (F) Sixth Frigate Squadron. The first ship to be equipped with the new Seacat missile.

World’s first deck landing of a high-performance twin-engined aircraft; a de Havilland Mosquito Mk 6 from RAE Farnborough on Indefatigable off Ailsa Craig and Arran piloted by Lt-Cdr Eric ‘Winkle’ Brown RNVR. Leonard James Callaghan, later Lt RNVR and Prime Minister, born at Portsmouth.

43

27th

2006

28th

1996

29th

1968

30th

1912

31st

1956

The last Sea Harrier FA2 squadron, 801 NAS, paid off at RNAS Yeovilton, having completed operational flying on 9 March.

RM School of Music, Deal, closed and band training moved to old RNDQs in Portsmouth Dockyard. RM at Deal since 1861.

The beginning of the end of the fathom. The first of the new metric Admiralty charts, No. 3105 of Chiba Ko in Tokyo Bay, published, with depths and heights shown in metres and decimeters. This was followed on 5 April by Chart 2247 of ports in the Black Sea, and on 12 April by Chart 438 of Boulogne.

Capt Robert Falcon Scott RN and the remainder of his party died in the Antarctic. ‘It seems a pity but I do not think I can write more.’ ‘For God’s sake, look after our people.’

HMS Siskin, RNAS Gosport, paid off and following day commissioned as HMS Sultan as a TE for ratings of the Mechanical Engineering Branch. The new establishment was named after the old ironclad Sultan which served until 1943 as the RN mechanical training ship in Portsmouth Harbour.

44

Delegate to Annual Conference 2016 Branch secretaries should note the following before submitting their application. (a) Each Branch must comply with Rule 16(c), (No Branch shall be permitted to send a delegate to the Conference unless it has observed the regulations of the Association in regard to the return of balance sheets, the payment of subscriptions and the formation of Branches. This provision has no application to the right of, and expectation for, ships and establishments to send a delegate to the Conference.) but subject to Rule 10(c), (Associate members are eligible to act as a Branch Delegate at Area meetings and Conferences, provided that they have completed three years continuous membership of the Association immediately prior to election as Delegate) and has been in commission for at least three months by the date of a Conference shall be entitled to nominate one eligible Association Member as its Delegate to attend a Conference. (a) Each Branch nominating a Delegate shall send details to the HQ to arrive not less than one week before the date of Conference. A Branch may change its nominated Delegate provided the Council is notified not less than twenty-four hours before the Conference.

Branch

Area

Name of Delegate Car registration

Passenger Name

Delegate’s Address

Telephone No

Post Code

e-mail Number of Observers Name of Branch Hon Secretary Contact telephone No: (if not branch Hon Sec) Contact e-mail address Name and Address for correspondence (if not branch Hon Sec) NB: A Delegate will not be confirmed as such unless or until the Branch Balance Sheet for 2015 and Annual Subscriptions for Branch Members for 2016 have been received in RNA Headquarters (Rule 16c).

Should either not have been received in HQ, the Delegate will not be accredited and will be admitted as an Observer (without Pool Fare cover).

45

':24'55+10 1( +06'4'56 61 2#46+%+2#6' +0 6*' 2#4#&' #4/'& (14%'5 &#; 0#6+10#. '8'06 ,70' %.''6*142'5 #. 4)

Representing Association /Organisation _____________________________

Name ________________________ Service Number ___________________ Address & Contact details__________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Standard Bearer

Yes / No

Marching

Disabled open bus Yes / No

Yes / No

Organisation standard ______________

Route lining Yes / No

Please note!

Dress code for participants in the Armed Forces Day Parade: Beret or service cap (if available) Blazer or dark suit with medals Clean Shoes

The parade will be over a distance of 1.6 Km ie. from Market place to Cromwell Rd, those unable to march are encouraged to take the open top bus. Those not wanting to March may form up for route lining.