THE MOORINGS ISSUE 24
20 July 2016
Core Values: Unity, Loyalty, Patriotism & Comradeship - Once Navy, always Navy
BASILDON ARMED FORCES DAY
WAR VETERANS and cadets marched through Basildon town centre on Saturday (25 June) to mark Armed Forces Day.
Incorporated by Royal Charter
Patron: HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN
RAYLEIGH BRANCH (AREA 5)
Cover story… The parade began at Toys-R-Us at midday and travelled through the High Street, finishing outside the council offices in St Martin’s Square. There, Basildon mayor David Harrison performed the official inspection of the colours with Garrison Commander Ciaran Griffin OBE, before the armed forces flag was raised at the Bas Centre. Cllr Harrison said: “It was brilliant. It was quite a sight when they all rounded the corner and started marching towards us. I’m told quite a crowd followed them all the way through the town. “We had veterans, air cadets and sea cadets. I felt it was quite a privilege to walk around and chat to the veterans and to talk to the young people who are in effect following on from them.”
Hundreds of islanders line Canvey streets to mark Armed Forces Day
A parade of veterans and current armed forces, uniformed youth and dignitaries, local rescue services and youth organisations marched through the town centre as part of the annual Armed Forces Day on the island. It was followed by a thanksgiving service outside the Paddocks Community Centre, in Long Road, along with a wartime exhibition of photographs and memorabilia on display in the main hall. Lorna Rolfe, High Sheriff of Essex, Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner, MP Rebecca Harris and Castle Point mayor Steven Cole, were among dignitaries who attended the event, organised by Canvey Town Council. Martin Tucker, town council mayor, was delighted with how the event was received. He said: “The event went brilliantly. Armed Forces Day gives us a chance to show our support for our armed forces.
“Without these brave men and women we would not be enjoying the freedom we have today, and I am very happy that so many people turned out to support this event. “We were lucky to have excellent weather, which meant we could see the Spitfire flypast after the service. We were very privileged to have The Band of the Parachute Regiment play for us as well as so many veterans in attendance. “Thank you to all sponsors and volunteers, who helped to make the event such a success.” Concerns were raised after flowers planted by islanders in tribute to fallen soldiers were stolen from a war memorial at the Paddocks, just days before the parade was held. Angie Wynn, the Royal British Legion’s Canvey branch secretary, says the day was impeccably observed. She said: “It was wonderful to see, and the service was very well lead by Peter Mallinson, and it was great to see so many different denominations. “The town council's organisation could not have been better and it was great to see so many showed their respect and continued support for the armed forces.” Basildon Branch Marquee with Stacey Solomon at the Essex Armed Forces Day at the Orsett Showground.
South Essex marks Armed Forces Day with parades and services HUNDREDS of people showed up to celebrate Armed forces day at events across south Essex over the weekend, with parades and services to honour our veterans and the Armed Services. Parades took place in Southend High street, Basildon High street and at The Paddocks,Canvey, to honour past and present members of our armed forces. A military vehicle was on display along Southend seafront as well as a string of other events across the county, such as a special outdoor learning event at Darlinghurst School in Leigh, to mark the occasion. The annual Armed Forces Parade in Southend included cadets, current members of the Armed Services and veterans. This parade marched up the High Street and halted outside the Victoria Shopping Centre for an open-air service accompanied by a choir and band. On Sunday from 10am until 6pm there was a free display of military vehicles at City Beach on Southend seafront, arranged by Southend Seafront traders.
BRANCH CONTACTS President:
Bob Hill
01268 780449
Chairman:
Jim Hammond
01268 414616
Vice Chairman:
Terry Barker
01268 456165
Hon. Secretary
Gary Daisley
01268 555570
Hon. Treasurer:
Margaret Day
01702 524561
Membership Secretary:
Bill Vernon
Contact details 01268 772775
Standard Bearer:
Dave Bishop
available 01268 770521on request.
Welfare Officer:
Dave Mead
01702 307922
Social Secretary:
Iain Hendry
01268 655800
Gangway:
Jack Harrison
01268 743100
Padre:
Revd. Canon Mike Lodge
01268 742151
PR Officer:
Vacant