THE ROYAL GREEN JACKETS REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION SWIFT AND BOLD
JOURNAL 2013
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THE ROYAL GREEN JACKETS REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION Swift and Bold Journal 2013 Contents Foreword by Brigadier Hugh Willing CBE Royal Green Jackets Regimental Associa on Contacts External Addresses The Editor The 74th Anniversary of The Defence of Calais 23 - 26 May 1940 RGJRA Reunion Timings Victoria Crosses awarded in WWI Database Report 2013 Associa on Websites The Army Reserve in 1914 RGJRA Branches Aylesbury Band and Bugles Central England London North East North West Oxford Wiltshire Yorkshire The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum The Royal Green Jackets and The Rifles find their “Mary Poppins” Quirinus Band and Bugle Corps (QBBC) A Le er from Germany The LifeI and Times of Jeremy Keyte Why the Poppes? Alamein nomina on Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry In Cyprus 1956/7 The RIFLES 2 RIFLES The Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum (SOFO) The Rifles Benevolent Trust Green Jacket Close In Memoriam
4 5 6 7 7 8 8 9 10 10 11 11 11 14 15 20 21 23 26 27 29 31 34 36 38 39 39 40 42 46 48 51 52 53
Crown Copyright This publica on contains official and personal contact informa on. It should therefore be treated with discre on by the recipient. The views expressed in the ar cles in this journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise of the Royal Green Jackets Regimental Associa on or the Ministry of Defence. No responsibility for the goods or services adver sed in this journal can be accepted by the publishers, printers or the Royal Green Jackets Regimental Associa on and all such adver sements are included in good faith. Printed by World Print Direct Ltd, London.
Front cover: Waterloo medals displayed at The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum, Winchester.
ADVERTISERS JCB - Michael Leeming WCMT - Maj Gen Jamie Balfour G Sturman Woodturning - Glen Sturman The RGJ (Rifles) Museum - Nick Haynes Rifles Property Services Rifles Shop - Rick Millward Railway Tavern Hotel - Tommy Dooner The Riflesdirect - John Fritz-Domeney Casa da Jaqueta Verde - Pauline Hoare Bird Ba lefield Tours - Nick Bird KBR – Maj Gen Andrew Pringle Central England Branch - Peter Page
Swi and Bold swi andbold@rgjassocia on.info Editorial team: Kevin Stevens, Major Ron Cassidy MBE Artwork and producƟon: Arne Bergsand AdverƟsements: Mike Marr Seamus P Lyons
Dona ons Page 2 6 8 25 28 33 35 40 41 55 56
Swi and Bold has kindly dona ons from the following contributers: Maxwell, A Owen, D RGJRA Australasian Branch Woolstencro , R B P
The Royal Green Jackets Regimental Associa on wish to thank the adver sers who appear in this publica on for their generous support towards its publishing costs. We would also like to sincerely thank those individuals who have made private dona ons towards the cost of this publica on. JOURNAL 2013
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Foreword by Brigadier Hugh Willing CBE Chairman of the RGJ Regimental Association
It is a privilege for me to introduce this, our 6th Edition, of Swift and Bold as your Chairman. Our President, Major General Jamie Balfour, is taking a back seat after seven years of being at the forefront in steering the Association forward. He is the quintessential Green Jacket, always with the best interests of our old Regiment and its Riflemen at heart and I can only marvel and thank him for his continued dedication and commitment. He takes over as High Sherriff of Hampshire in April and our congratulations and thanks for all he does for us go with him as he takes up this important appointment. As I have recorded elsewhere in the E-zine, we are reducing the number of our annual publications to two from now onward. One E-Zine will be issued each summer – in July and this, our annual flagship magazine ‘Swift and Bold’,will be published each year in March. The sincere thanks of the Committee go to all those in the editorial team who work tirelessly to produce these publications. Only those who have ever had to do such work will realise the amount of time and effort that goes into their production; they do an excellent job in keeping us all so well informed. 2014 will see a number of anniversaries and preparations for major commemorative events in which you are all encouraged to participate or support. The RGJ Association will be represented
regionally through our Branches at national events to mark the centenary of the First World War. Secondly, the Chairman of the Museum Trustees, General Sir Christopher Wallace, has now initiated the launch of the RGJ Museum Appeal seeking support for the Battle of Waterloo Bicentenary Exhibition and Learning Space Project. The Heritage Lottery Fund has contributed £100,000 towards the cost of the exhibition, which includes a refurbishment of the Waterloo model and the first floor of the Museum in Peninsula Barracks to incorporate a Learning Space, ready for the Waterloo Bicentenary in 2015. The Appeal is to raise £100,000 to match the HLF grant. The Association committee has fully endorsed General Wallace’s initiative and we encourage all Riflemen to support this most worthy and fitting Regimental fund-raising project. Next, the Central England Branch is organising the ‘Greenstock’ Music Festival for Riflemen at Bramcote Barracks at Nuneaton during the August Bank Holiday 2014 and will be raising money for the Waterloo Appeal and C4C through the sale of tickets. And finally, this year’s Veteran’s Day Gathering at Sir John Moore Barracks, Winchester, will be on 12th July. Please make a special effort to support all these events and initiatives. When you read about the activities of our members across the country in Swift and Bold you will see that the Association is thriving. It will thrive more if you join in and encourage others that you have served with who are not members to join the Association and come to our events. As we grow older and our time as Green Jackets recedes further into the past, it is good to reflect and recall the good times in the company of our fellows and bring truth to that well-known phrase; “Once a Rifleman – Always a Rifleman”. My best wishes for 2014 to all Riflemen. Hugh Willing
E -zine
Kindly note that the distribution is to be changed from 2014. The new publishing dates for E-Zine will be 1 July and 1 November. 4 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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Royal Green Jackets Regimental Association Contacts President
Maj Gen Jamie Balfour CBE 01962 828524
admin@rgjassocia on.info
Chairman
Brig HGC Willing CBE
01580 831724
admin@rgjassocia on.info
Vice Chairman
Lt Simon Booth-Mason
01438 724703
admin@rgjassocia on.info
Secretary
Lt Col J-D von Merveldt
0207 491 4936
london@the-rifles.co.uk
Members Secretary
Mr Mike Marr
01235 548018
oxford@the-rifles.co.uk
RGJRA Manager/Editor
Mr Kevin Stevens
01865 452813
webmaster@rgjassocia on.info
RGJRA Webmaster
Mr Seamus P Lyons
01992 550605
seamus.lyons@rgjassocia on.info
Database Manager
Mr Roy Baillie
01488 658681
membersdatabase@rgjassocia on.co.uk
Guestbook/Boards Manager
Mr Mark Adams
01442 380713
greenjackets_2001@yahoo.co.uk
Branches Australian
Maj Gen Andrew Pringle CB CBE
Mr Chris McDonald
+61 (0)408 937 165 cvmcdonald@bigpond.com
Aylesbury
•
Mr Alan Grant
01296 426765 alanrgrant@aol.com
Band and Bugles
David Timms
Mr David Timms
01304 820910 secretary@rgjband.com
Central England
Major Michael Leeming
Mr Peter Page
01922 694733 petepage71@hotmail.com
East Midlands
•
Mr Mar n Coates
01623 747817 mar nswi andbold@yahoo.co.uk
Gosport & District •
Mr James Stokes
075 9004 0945 sailingagain@b nternet.com
London
Col GF Smythe OBE
Mr Gary Driscoll
01708 442662 rgjldn@ntlworld.com
Milton Keynes
Brig MR Koe OBE
Mr Gary Brewer
01908 218715 g_brewer@b nternet.com
North East
Brig NM Prideaux
Mr John Cheetham
01915 480189 rgj.north.east@b nternet.com
N. Ireland
•
Mr Len Cook
North West
•
Mr Ray Gerrard
01744 732501 ray.gerrard@talktalk.net
Oxfordshire
Brig Nigel Mogg DL
Mr Mike Marr
01235 548018 oxford@the-rifles.co.uk
Shropshire
•
Mr Tom Fairclough
01691 777172 tomfairclough@fsmail.net
Suffolk
Maj RD Cassidy MBE
Mr Gordon Pilcher
01394 215925 gordon.pilcher@ntlworld.com
South East Kent
Brig James Plastow MBE
Mr Glenn Ternent
01843 297069 Geordie_t@b nternet.com
Wiltshire
Brig G dv W Hayes CBE
Mr Gary Byrne
01985 211279 glm1114@b nternet.com
Winchester
Capt John Fritz-Domeney
Mr John Harper
01962 882481 johnharper1rgj@hotmail.co.uk
Yorkshire
Brig PJ Lyddon MBE
Mr Stuart Anderson
01757 617056 valerieanderson41@outlook.com
lenny.cook@b nternet.com
Notes: Any amendments to the above contact informa on should be sent to Roy Baillie. • Indicates that a Branch President has not been appointed. JOURNAL 2013
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External Addresses ARMY BENEVOLENT FUND Mount Barrow House,16 - 20 Elizabeth Street, London, SWIW 9RB. Tel: 0845 241 4820 Fax: 0845 241 4821 E-mail: enquiries@armybenfund.org ASSOCIATION BLAZERS Barrington Ayre Tailor. Tel: 0845 300 9014 E-mail: info@barringtonayre.co.uk Web: www.barringtonayre.co.uk MEDALS (first application) Veterans Agency (SPVA), Joint Personnel Administration Centre, MOD Medal Office, Building 250, Innsworth Station, Gloucester, GL3 1HW. Tel: 0141 224 360 SECRETARY KRRC ASSOCIATION Mr Richard Frost MBE, 52 - 56 Davies Street, London, W1K 5HR. Tel: 020 7491 4935 E-mail: krrcassn@hotmail.com SECRETARY RB ASSOCIATION Mr Geoff Pain, 75 St Catherines Road, Winchester, SO23 0PS. Tel: 01962 856249 E-mail: rba.hon.sec.g.pain@talktalk.net SERVICE RECORDS Army Personnel Centre Secretariat, Disclosures 2, Mail Point 515, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street, Glasgow, G3 8EX. (Or complete the form at www.veterans-uk.info/service_records/sar.pdf) SSAFA FORCES HELP 19 Queen Elizabeth Street, London, SE1 2LP. Tel: 0845 1300 975 E-mail: info@ssafa.org.uk THE RIFLES BENEVOLENT TRUST The Secretary, RHQ The Rifles, Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester, Hants, SO23 8TS. Tel: 01962 828526 E-mail: secbenev@the-rifles.co.uk THE UNION JACK CLUB 225 Union Street, London, SE1 0LR. Tel: 020 7633 9206 E-mail: admin@ujclub.co.uk THE VETERANS AGENCY Norcross, Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire, FY5 3WP. Tel: 0800 169 2277 E-mail: veterans.help@spva.gsi.gov.uk REPLACEMENT MEDALS Paul Symes, Medals Plus, 29 Craven Way, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 8NS. Tel: 01235 201 198 E-mail: paul.symes1@ntlworld.com THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION UK Headquarters, 199 Borough Hill Street, London, SE1 1AA. Tel: 020 3207 2100 Contact Legionline 08457 725 725
Members Database
It is important that information held on the Database is accurate and up to date, for example the Service Records. Therefore, would all members go to the Database and check content. Those requiring assistance, please contact Roy Baillie at membersdatabase@rgjassociation.co.uk. 6 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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The Editor better than a firework on a string and I am sure thinks I am taking about some furry animal. One thing that comes across strongly is the generosity of our members. To give one example just before Xmas I was offered 20+ RGJ insulated mugs free, as we are supporting the Waterloo appeal this year I suggested they should be given to the museum to sell and these were duly delivered by Jon Tate who originally had them made. Thank you John.
Kevin Stevens
Welcome to the 6th edition of Swift and Bold. Once again there are a wide variety of articlesincluding branch reports, individual entries, museum reports and articles from The Rifles, so much so that due to the financial constraints placedupon us by printing costs unfortunately some articles have not been able to be included in this edition however those not included in S&B will be included in the next e-zine in July. It was not until I took over at the helm following the sad death of Ken Ambrose a year ago that I truly started to appreciate the amount of work he put in behind the scenes and of which he never really talked about, hardly a week goes by when I do not get at least a dozen telephone calls and three times as many emails asking for information on a myriad of subjects. The people who ring me tend to be of a certain age (like myself) but in talking the years roll back and the conversation develops into one of reminiscing, the language changes into “army speak” and the wife who, after 25yrs of putting up with me,and who long ago mastered “prison officer speak” walks away once more muttering something about talking in initials and abbreviations. She cannot understand why I consider a WOMBAT
The updated association website is almost ready to launch and as I write this we are currently trying hard to break it or beta testing as it is better known, it is a completely new design which brings the website and the database together as one and is a vast improvement on what have had in the past, my thanks go to Bill Shipton and Seamus Lyons for all the hard work that has gone in to this. I would like to thank the team, Ron Cassidy, Seamus Lyons, Arne Bergsand, Roy Baillie, Mark Adams and Mike Marr for all the hard work they do, a lot of which goes unrecognised, and who make my job so much easier. Finally, have you checked your email address is up to date on the database? Each time we send out a mass email we get approximately 300 emails bounce back as undeliverable. If you are unsure then send an email to the database manager and he will check and amend your record as necessary. Can I ask also all of you to encourage those who you know who are not paid up members to join, details are inside this issue of S&B. Best wishes for 2014 Kevin Stevens Swift and Bold Editorial Team
The 74th Anniversary of The Defence of Calais in 23 - 26 May 1940 A Commemorative Service of Remembrance for The King’s Royal Rifle Corps, The Rifle Brigade and Queen Victoria’s Rifles will take place at The Green Jackets War Memorial in Calais on Wednesday 21 May 2014. For further information, please contact the London Office. JOURNAL 2013
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RGJRA Reunion Timings The Winchester Veteran’s Day Reunion on 12th July 2014 at Sir John Moore Barracks, Winchester, Hants. 1400hrs Gates open at Sir John Moore Barracks 1400hrs - 1745hrs Bar opens and Static Displays 1800hrs Form up for Parade 1815hrs Parade Service 1830hrs Chairman`s Address followed by March Past 1850hrs Sounding Retreat 1930hrs Bar and Restaurant re-opens 0100hrs Bar Closes Association members will be charged £5 entrance fee. £10 will be charged for non-members.
The Oxford Branch Reunion will take place on Saturday 8th November 2014 at Edward Brooks Barracks, Cholwell Road, Shippon, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX13 6HW. 1900hrs Bar opens 1945hrs Waterloo Band & Bugles of the Rifles commence playing 2030hrs Public Address 2100hrs Curry supper on payment 0030hrs Bar closes 0100hrs EBB closes All Association members and their guests welcome. Non-members are charged £5 admission.
Victoria Crosses awarded in WWI Lt J.H.S. Dimmer, Lt J.E.P. Butler, C.S.M. H. Daniels, A/Cpl C.R. Noble, 2Lt G.H. Woolley, L/Sgt D.W. Belcher, Rfn W. Mariner (Wignall), 2Lt S.C. Woodroffe, Rfn G.S. Peachment, Cpl A.G Drake, Bt Maj W. La T. Congreve D.S.O. M.C., Sgt A. Gill, 2Lt G.E.Cates, C.S.M. Brookes, Sgt E. Cooper, Sgt W.E.Burman, Sgt A.J. Knight, Rfn A.E. Sheppard, L/Cpl J.A.Christie, L/Sgt Woodall, Sgt W. Gregg D.C.M. M.M., Rfn W. Beesley and L/Cpl A. Wilcox. Source: The Royal Green Jackets For Valour Roll from Focus On Courage by Lt-Gen Sir Christopher Wallace and Maj Ron Cassidy.
Glen Sturman 01908 210115 gsturman@btinternet.com www.Glenswood.co.uk 87 Burgess Gardens Green Park Newport Pagnell Bucks MK16 0NU
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DATABASE REPORT FOR 2013 association out do not hesitate to contact:Roy Baillie on moroybaillie@btinternet.com or Kevin Stevens on webmaster@rgjassociation.info. Full training will be given plus any equipment required. All expenses are met. The database is in good shape and working well. After a few crashes and other problems all now is operating smoothly.
I was hospitalized for eight weeks and unable to access the database. Kevin Stevens was also hospitalized and in a similar predicament. My lap top would not even work in the hospital due to lack of signal from mobile broadband suppliers. Of course during this period the database was not serviced and the backlog of applications and other matters was immense,it took me over a week to catch up. The above situation has brought to a head the fact that backup assistance is required. None of the association’s key personal are getting any younger if you have time to spare and would like to help your
We still are getting bounced emails where the member has not updated their e-mail. Quote from user instructions. You can only access with the combination of your registered email. Address and the created password so any change, no matter how small, will stop your access. Our total membership is healthy, lapsed members only count for 22.2%. Non Members remain steady at 42.7% of officers and 46.9% of O/Rs. Roy Baillie Database Manager RGJRA membersdatabase@royalgreenjackets.co.uk
2 DATABASE STATISTICS Total No of Records: Total No of Officer Members: Total No of Serving Officers: Total No of Officer Members of Associa on (Full or Life): Total No of Overseas Officer Members (Non Paying): Total No of Officer Hon Members: Total No of Officer Hon Lady Members: Total No of Other Officers (GJ Club/KRRC etc): Total No of Officer Lapsed Members: Total No of Officer Non-Members: Total No of Deceased Officers: Total No of Officers: Total No of OR Full Members: Total No of OR Life Members: Total No of Serving ORs: Total No of OR Associate Members: Total No of OR Overseas Members: Total No of OR Lapsed Members: Total No of OR Non-Members: Total No of Deceased ORs: Total No of ORs: Total No of Others (Widows etc): Total No of Records with an E-mail Address: JOURNAL 2013
6,155 52,7 58 32 33 7 42 3 20 622 113 1,457 909 144 16 4 133 956 2,155 276 4,593 103 3,284
36.2% 4.0% 2.2% 2.3% 0.5% 2.9% 0.2% 1.4% 42,7% 7.8% 19.8% 3.1% 1.1% 0.1% 2.9% 20.8% 46.9% 6.0%
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Association Websites Branches: A while ago, I finished redesigning all the Association Branch websites under a single brand. By this I mean that they all come under the RGJ Corporate Identity of same design, colour and font usage. Each Branch site also has its own logo in respect of which part of the country the Branch is active. In their previous state, they were all of different designs and the majority had not been updated for 2 years or more. A Branch site is a very important tool for its members. It enables them to be updated on latest news;a forthcoming event etc. and saves the Branch on postage costs. It is of no use if not updated frequently and promptly. I have promised all Branch Secretaries that within one hour of my reading their email the site will have been updated. Association Site: By the time the Journal goes to press, I hope to have the redesigned site up and running. The present site is/was bloated with old material, menu duplications etc. and in need of a complete overhaul. It now has vertical drop-down main and sub menus and is very easy to navigate. It will be also much easier to access the Association Database. The site was actually started a year ago but was put on hold due to the sad demise of Ken Ambrose. It had been agreed with the hierarchy that it would be in WordPress format. This would have made it extremely difficult and time consuming to make alterations to it (WordPress is mainly for Blogging sites) and it was agreed that I would attempt to
duplicate the site by using Dreamweaver. It took nine attempts to achieve but would have been impossible for me without the assistance of a Cascading Style Sheet expert, to whom I am eternally grateful. Photographic Archive: Since 16th June 2012 the site has registered over 125,000 views. It has 36,730 photographs and 1,529 pages. That’s the good news. The bad news is that I haven’t received any new photos for quite a while! Your photos are a historical record of your time in the Regiment. I am sure that there are many of you out there who have not sent any to the Archive. There are two ways you can send them to me: 1. Via Registered Mail to my home address (available on request or from database) so that I can scan and return to you. 2. Send scanned photos via email or We Transfer (https://www.wetransfer.com/) which is a FREE service. All scanned photos must have a minimum resolution of 300 dpi (dots per inch). Please don’t just put them in your scanner and press the button. All scanners have software that enables you to set it for various functions. If in doubt contact me (or read the Manual!). Don’t worry if your photos are damaged. I will do my best to correct them. Seamus Lyons
The Army Reserve in 1914 The Army Reserve was called out on August 2nd 1914, but a very considerable number of Reservists had already joined up when the order was issued. The Depot scheme for mobilization allowed for an influx of eight hundred men on the first day, but, as a matter of fact, so great was the rush of men to rejoin that by the evening of August 5th over three thousand had reported, including nearly the whole of the Special Reserve. To accommodate all these men in the Rifle Depot itself was impossible and large numbers spent the night in churches, school and college buildings, and many even slept in the streets. To add to their discomfort it had started to rain hard early in the afternoon and continued to do so until late in the evening.
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RGJRA Branches THE AYLESBURY BRANCH This year has been a quiet one in Aylesbury and efforts to increase membership have not proven too fruitful. We are still actively pursuing potential members but there still appears to be a problem actually getting people to attend meetings etc. Paid up membership remains stable at 20 but regular attendees are no more than fifty per cent. Recruiting has not been helped by the recent announcement that The Rifles, apart from the Cadets, will be leaving Buckinghamshire completely next year. We will obviously continue to try and rectify the membership issue. The branch dinner was held in April and once again was a success. The new President, Maj Scott-Hyde (7 Rifles), addressed those present and updated us on the Regiment. June saw the final reunion of the Bucks Bn Old Comrades Association. This has always been supported by the branch and unfortunately only one Old Comrade was able to make it this year.
The Association has now been disbanded and the branch has decided to mark the date each year in remembrance of the “old boys”. Armed Forces Day was once again held at the Rugby Club in Aylesbury. It was an opportunity for members to get together and meet up with old friends from other Associations. The weather was terrific and it made for a good day rounded off by “Tich” Raynor being awarded runner up in the County’s “Veteran of the Year” Remembrance Sunday was a huge success again with the public attendance getting bigger by the year. The weather was once again kind to us and the day was rounded off by a buffet lunch laid on by the branch at the Railway Club. The branch arranged a function to lay up the Standard of the Buckinghamshire Battalion Old Comrades Association at the TA Centre in Aylesbury. The day was a tremendous success and (To be con nued on next page)
Standing leŌ to right: Alan Grant, Maj Gen Patrick Sanders. Seated leŌ to right: Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, Derek Hawes, Nigel Viney and Raymond “Tich” Raynor. JOURNAL 2013
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(Con nued from previous page)
was greatly appreciated by the surviving members of the Association. The following press release was issued. A ceremony was held on Saturday 30th November 2013 at the TA Centre (Viney House) in Aylesbury to lay up the standard of the Buckinghamshire Battalion (Oxfordshire & Buckinghamshire Light Infantry) Old Comrades Association. This was brought about by the disbanding of the Association due to the lack of numbers. The event was hosted by Mr Alan Grant, chairman of the Aylesbury branch of the Royal Green Jackets Regimental Association. Guests of honour were HM Lord Lieutenant for Buckinghamshire, Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, The Mayor of Aylesbury, Councillor Tom Hunter-Watts and Major General Patrick Sanders (Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff) Among the other guests was Major Nigel Viney who joined the Battalion as a platoon commander in 1941 and was seconded to the Somali Scouts in East Africa. He is now the senior surviving Buckinghamshire Battalion veteran. Other veterans in attendance were “Tich” Raynor who was a member of the glider crew who secured Pegasus Bridge on D-Day and Derek Hawes who was captured at Hazebrouck, France in 1940 and spent a number of years as a POW. Many of the other guests were relatives of former members of the Association. The standard has been paraded for many years in the town and the surrounding areas at military and civic functions particularly on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday. It also travelled to France and Belgium on the many pilgrimages undertaken by the veterans over the years. Viney House was chosen as the location for the standard because of its link with the Viney family. Six of the family members served with the Buckinghamshire Battalion during the two world wars. The standard was unveiled by HM Lord Lieutenant
for Buckinghamshire who was accompanied by Major General Patrick Sanders and Major Nigel Viney. The Mayor of Aylesbury laid a poppy wreath on behalf of the Buckinghamshire Battalion accompanied by Sgt Raynor and Pte Hawes. Two buglers from 7 Rifles Waterloo Band were in attendance and sounded “Last Post” and “No More Parades Today” The Buckinghamshire Battalions can trace their history back to 1908 when they were installed as the Territorial Battalions of the newly formed Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry. The 1st Bucks Battalion served in France and Italy during the First World War and the 2nd Bucks Battalion also saw action in France sustaining many casualties in July 1916 at Fromelles which has been in the news recently following the discovery of the mass graves in the area. In the Second World War the 1st Battalion were tasked to defend the town of Hazebrouck in France to slow down the advance of the Germans during the retreat to Dunkirk. This they did gallantly but were eventually over run. Many men lost their lives and a large number were taken prisoner. Only 10 Officers and 200 men managed to get back to England. The Battalion was paid a great compliment by the enemy when during a German broadcast it was said “the defenders of Hazebrouck not only delayed the advance, but resisted in a manner truly worthy of the highest traditions of the British Army”. The 1st Battalion was reformed in 1942 and was involved on D-Day landing on Sword Beach. Post war saw a number of amalgamations and name changes and in 1967 the Battalions were formed as 4(v) Bn The Royal Green Jackets and eventually The Rifles. A comprehensive history of the Bucks Bn can be found at www.lightbobs.com We look forward to a successful 2014. Alan Grant, Chairman
“The defenders of Hazebrouck not only delayed the advance, but resisted in a manner truly worthy of the highest traditions of the British Army”. 12 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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THE BAND AND BUGLES BRANCH 2013 Reunion Report The 2013 reunion was held, as previous years, at The Winchester Club, Winchester on Saturday 12th October. The secretary – Dave Timms - made a conscientious effort to arrive at the club before members of the Waterloo Band and reunion members - but to no avail. Members from both parties where inside and outside the club awaiting his arrival. Making his way into the club, the secretary eventually set himself up with a table near the entrance, opened the books and started to sign-in -100+ - members and guests - all this before he had had a drink (to try and stave off the tremendous head ache he picked up from the previous evening). The Waterloo Band provided the bulk of musicians, music stand and music, and the annual ‘blow’ got going at approximately 12:45 with Peter Connibear (ex-Depot Bandmaster) taking up the baton. A good selection of music was played this year, which included – Amparita Roca and High On A Hill, plus a few well known Band & Bugle marches. The secretary, keen to participate, ‘had a go’ on the drums and made a right old mess of the march being played. He had no idea what it was or how it went. It even had a 2 x bar drum solo in the middle – at which he decided to take a break. He promises to do better next time - IF permitted!! Some new faces again turning up for the first time - both from the Bands and the Bugles – but notably was the first reunion for LES HODGSON, who was percussionist with 2 RGJ Band in the late 60’s and 70’s. Les had been living in Gibraltar since leaving the Army in the late 70’s and only returned to the UK in the summer of 2012, when he was finally tracked down and issued with the ‘Order To Attend’ The annual ‘blow’ over, it was then time to draw the raffle. This year there seemed to be an endless supply of prizes, some donated – a big thank you
Tony Dowd, Les Hodgson and Dave Chester catching up with old mes.
to those that contributed - and the rest sourced by Tony Dowd - who organizes the event. Raffle completed and it was time for lunch. This gave the members an opportunity to soak-up the 3 or 4 hours worth of JohnSmiths already consumed. Following lunch the secretary normally gives the ‘Annual Sermon’ (a few prepared words), BUT… a ‘no-name’ person came and borrowed a piece of paper from him earlier in the day, inadvertently borrowing the coveted ‘Words of Wisdom’. All was going so well up to that point. So the ‘Annual Sermon’ never happened, but if it had taken place the secretary would have taken the opportunity to thank a load of people for various efforts and contributions … etc. etc. The full report and more photographs will be on the Band website www.rgjband.com in the New Year. Those without Internet access please let me know, or remind me, and I will put something together for you and post it out. 07850 163548 Our next reunion will be on Saturday 11th October 2014 - make a note on the fridge. David Timms Secretary
Regents Park Memorial Service Sunday 20th July 2014 This year will be the 32th Anniversary of the Regents Park bombing and once again we will gather at the Bandstand at 11.30 for a brief ceremony and laying of wreathes and flowers those who died on that fateful day. JOURNAL 2013
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THE CENTRAL ENGLAND BRANCH It doesn’t seem like five minutes since writing a piece for the last edition of Swift and Bold although it has actually been a year, a very quick year at that!! Nonetheless, I shall put pen to paper and update you all on the activities of The Central England Branch. In the months following the last ‘write up’, the branch had a fairly sedentary first quarter from the period immediately following Ray Gaffney’s fundraiser in Tipton up to the very successful gathering in Birmingham City Centre on June 30th for Armed Forces Day. “Which was highlighted in the April edition of the RGJ E-Zine”. The event organized by Branch Treasurer ‘Guy Mynett’ proved to be fruitful in terms of profile and recruitment. The stand was manned by Committee members and volunteers from within the Branch and overall, 12 new members were signed up on the day. After that Members from CEBRGJRA gathered for the annual RGJRA Reunion at Sir John Moore Barracks in July. We were well represented with most members donning branch polo shirts for what turned out to be arguably the hottest day of the year and we were able to promote the branch with the aid of a stand blistered onto Chairman ‘Mark Picken’s’ EG Frames Stall. That proved to be a useful focal point for members to RV and for interested parties to come see what we (as a branch) have been upto with our Photograph Board which yielded a further 4 members. The reunion itself also provided us with a platform to canvass the concept of GREENSTOCK for the summer of 2014 which will be hosted by The Central England Branch. The idea being to put on a festival aimed at the greater Green Jacket brotherhood and families. Borne out of a casual conversation in Wetherspoons, Winchester the waters were tested. As a result of the feedback gathered, which was 100% positive a decision was made and from there, the die was cast. The wheels are well and truly in motion for the event with all the legalities and formalities now in place, marquee and bands booked. For those not in the picture, the event is a camping weekend at Bramcote windbreaks (to the rear of Gamecock Barracks), Bramcote, Nuneaton CV11 6QN. The event starts around 1800hrs Friday the 29th August and officially finishes at 1200hrs Sunday 31st August 2014. Friday will be live music and bar from 1800 – 2359hrs. Saturday will be a service of Remembrance performed by a padre from within 143 Brigade at 1130hrs then from 1200 – 2359hrs 14 | SWIFT AND BOLD
there will be live bands and music and the bar will be open. There will be Bouncy Castles, Food and a Merchandise vendor available. Camping will be on site for tents and campers and small caravans. There are a number of local hotels (incl Premier Lodge) and B & Bs at reasonable prices. Cost for the event is £10 person (U16s Free). For more information see Facebook pages: GREENSTOCK 2014 or Central England Branch RGJRA or visit our website: www.cebrgjra.com alternatively, contact event organizer: Pete Page at: petepage71@ hotmail.com Back to branch matters, on 21st September 2013 the branch held a social gathering at the Nautical Club on Bishopsgate St, Birmingham. The event was a low key affair though we managed to recruit Gary Creswell and raised a few pounds for The Rifles Care for casualties with the collection tins and also Ray Gaffney did his bit with the football cards. We also held our first Rifleman of the Year award. An initiative created to entice members to become proactive but more importantly, to reward those who have aided the whole of the branch through numerous means. Our first award was decided by the committee alone. This year the whole of the branch will get the opportunity to cast their vote to the individual whom they deem fit for the award. It was a very close run affair with any one from three members in the running. However, narrowly it was decided that John Kells was the man most deserved of it. John demonstrated through his commitment and generosity to the branch over a number of months that he is fully committed to the cause which just beat two other deserved runners. The prize itself was a nicely framed cane with cap badges kindly donated at the 11th hour by branch Chairman Mark Picken of EG Frames. As usual the staff and members at the Nautical Club, welcomed us in with open arms and looked after us superbly. That event was followed by our second Remembrance Parade in Birmingham City centre and following the ‘call to arms’ by event organizer and branch Treasurer ‘Guy Mynett’ the turnout was similar to the previous year. The event had been planned specifically to cater for the branch in an independent capacity. As with 2012, post parade the members moved en masse to the Nautical Club for refreshments only to find the place swamped with veterans from all (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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three services and the queue for the bar at times becoming four deep. Whilst the venue is excellent and the service and hospitality are both outstanding, a change of venue was very much needed. So upon the recommendation from branch member John J Jones, it was decided that we would take over the Shakespeare public house on Summer Row, Birmingham virtually 2 minutes from the Parade FUP. The day turned out to be a pleasant gathering and the venue was ideally suited to the needs of the branch with swift and pleasant service by our hosts. On the admin front, the Committee are pleased to announce that JCB Director ‘Michael Leeming’ has accepted our approach for him to become Branch President. We are extremely honoured and grateful to Michael for his continued support and through his generosity, we have obtained some much needed financial assistance by way
of sponsorship from JCB which has included a donation towards the hefty costs of putting on Greenstock 2014. Notwithstanding this, Michael has been very supportive in our quest to upgrade our memorial at NMA Alrewas. His liaison with RHQ RGJRA Chairman Brig (Ret’d) Hugh Willing and Lt Col (Ret’d) Jan-Dirk Von Merdvelt will prove to be crucial over the coming months as we look to put some long term strategies in place in order to upgrade/improve our Regimental Memorial. As the New Year is now upon us, our next event will be the annual fundraiser in Tipton which is organized by Ray Gaffney and looks to be another great day out for our members and guests. This year the money raised will go towards supporting the Greenstock effort. In doing so, hopefully it will ensure that the event is a truly worthwhile occasion with costs rising as we look to constantly upgrade entertainment and facilities for all those Riflemen and their families that will be attending in August. Finally at the time of writing, we are pleased to announce that we boast Branch Membership of 51 paid up members although as ever, and with the size of our catchment area could and should be bigger. Therefore, if you live anywhere within to the West in mid Wales to Kettering/Leicester in the East or North in Stoke to Gloucester/Cheltenham in the South West and looking to meet up with fellow Officers and Riflemen of our beloved Regiment, please join us. In the meantime, regards to all our fellow Green Jackets the world over we wish you all well. Celer et Audax Pete Page (Secretary)
THE LONDON BRANCH The Branch had a delayed start to activities this year, which could be attributed to the excess at Christmas Lunch in December, and some possible over indulgence over Christmas and New Year. The Committee remained committed to ensuring a full list of events for the year was planned and a Calendar of Events was distributed. It is pleasing to note that we had an increase in the Membership throughout the year and our numbers are now at their highest level since our formation, long may it last. We also decided to continue with our commitment to fund raise for Care for Casualties JOURNAL 2013
and nominated them as our main charity again for the year, however, we did not forget our continued support for one or two other organisations including our donation to the London based Army Cadet unit of the KRRC whose mini bus we provide money for to allow them to participate in a wide range of cadet activities. The Ladies Dinner night on the 26th February was held at the Victory Services Club; Marble Arch, and (To be con nued on next page) SWIFT AND BOLD | 15
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was once again well attended with a full house. Each year the Committee assume that we reached the limit of those attending but without fail our numbers seem to increase. Credit must go to the Club who manage to make room for a few more in the same setting and maintain an excellent high standard of service. The Branch invited Lieutenant Colonel Mike Smith and his wife as guests. We also invited Tony and Alison from Rifles Tours who conducted our Battlefield Tour in 2012. The Branch presented Colonel Mike with a Cheque for the sum of £5,992.70 as a donation to the Care for Casualties fund for the Rifles. Colonel Mike sang for his supper and gave a very up-beat summary of the activities that had taken place during the year and how the Riflemen had benefited from the fund over the year. He thanked the Branch for their fund raising efforts over the year especially in these difficult economic times. The Regimental Band and a number of Buglers who, as always, performed to a par excellent standard supported the Dinner and a word of thanks must be given to the Rifles Regimental Secretary, Lieutenant Colonel J Poole - Warren for assisting with the arrangements with the Band. Once the formalities were over the party began which went on to the early hours of the morning when the Club had to close. Once again the Secretary had produced an excellent DJ who captured the ambience of the evening and even manage to get the President on the floor. Not too many made breakfast but all made a safe journey home. The Branch was well represented at the annual Calais Remembrance Service in support of The Rifle Brigade, The King’s Royal Rifle Corps and The Queen Victoria’s Rifles who makes the arrangements for this day. The Branch piggybacks on the arrangements of the Victoria Rifles Association for this event and we would like to thank them for continuing to accommodate the Branch.
Memorial ceremony this year. The ceremony fell on a Saturday, and was held on the 20th July, 31 years after that the atrocity took place. A short ceremony was conducted by Richard Frost assisted by the Branch Secretary Gary Driscoll. Over 70 members
At the Regents Park Bandstand.
and wives attended the ceremony including Ruth Madoc and John Jackson, who had travelled from Wales for the ceremony followed by an informal lunch afterwards. The Branch Veterans Lunch took place in Mark Masons Hall, St James; which continues to be an excellent location for Branch activities. A good turn out by Branch Members with forty plus on parade. Our guest for lunch was Brigadier Hugh Willing, the Royal Green Jackets Association Chairman who addressed the gathering following lunch. Members proved to be in a generous mood and contributed to a raffle, which was held in aid of C4C. Many continued the movement in London before making their way home. By popular demand it was decided to re-visit The National Arboretum Memorial in Alrewas, Staffordshire. An early departure from Liverpool Street Station, which went direct to the Arboretum were lunch was taken, and then members had free time to wander and view the whole Arboretum. The local Branch of the RGJ Association must be congratulated on the condition and appearance the Royal Green Jackets Memorial, as it looked stunning in the sunlight. Early evening the Branch departed for their hotel in Lichfield and spent the evening discovering the highlights of the town. A not too early start on the Sunday morning saw the
The Branch mustered a strong contingent for the 31st Anniversary of the Regents Park RGJ Band 16 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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Branch return to the Arboretum for the regular 1100 hours Service of Remembrance and presentation, conducted in the Chapel by a volunteer Member of the Arboretum Staff. This was well worth the time as it proved to be a very knowledgeable and informative presentation and is highly recommended. The Branch returned to the hotel for lunch and a few ‘hair of the dog’ drinks before departing home. An excellent weekend made even more pleasant by t he fact that many wives attended.
Sons for £2,500 to begin the evenings fund raising efforts. This was followed by a stage managed David Dimbleby type interview between Andy McNab and the Secretary, Gary Driscoll. This provided an interesting background session on not only on Andy’s military background but also how he uses this knowledge to best effect when writing his books. His latest book was on sale which he signed and donated the proceeds of to C4C. A grand raffle had been organised from donations from individuals for which a big thank you must be acknowledged. The London Branch ‘Del Boy Shop’ was very busy which assisted with the evening’s contributions to the cause.
The other major means of raising money was our auction, which proved to be one of our best efforts yet. Contributions ranged from a unique Rifles themed rocking horse, made and donated by branch member Joe Moore, and a complete set of RGJ chronicles donated by Major General Vyvyan, to Rifles prints and an RGJ number plate by Dennis Pearce. There were many others but space does not permit to list them. There were a number London Branch Wives at the Na onal Arboretum of individual donations which are worthy of note, the contribution from John Swire Our major fund raising event for the year was an & Sons; it was pleasing to see their representive Andy McNab book signing evening, held at Davies attend this year. A contribution from the Lions of Street on 8th November. This was a change of venue Clacton-on-Sea was pledged and finally a grant from West Ham, which was due to request from the from Colonel AJ & Karen Fojt our Washington book publishers. Owing to major disruptions and Detachment. the temporary closing down of the tube network and road works in Davies Street it was a slow start The Secretary was heavenly involved at the Field of to the activities but in true Rifleman fashion this did Remembrance Service at Westminster. He ensured not deter a high attendance. The total of £8,500 that the Regimental roll of Honour was in places was raised and donated to Care for Casualties. This and the representative Green Jacket Crosses were brings the overall figure to £42,437.70 donated in place. He also took time out to try and use the from the London Branch to Regimental charities occasion to expand the Branch Membership and over the last six years. recruit a new member! The Secretary Gary Driscoll and the President Remembrance Sunday fell on 10th November and Colonel G Smythe set the scene for the evening the Branch hosted for those Riflemen who wished followed by a very well received up date on C4C to march past the Cenotaph. This was well attended activities by Rebecca Maciejewska who explained how the donations are spent to assist Riflemen in (To be con nued on next page) need. A cheque was presented from John Swire & JOURNAL 2013
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deemed a ‘Ladies Lunch’ they turned out in force, however, still did not match the mens’ contributions towards the raffle! The location in central London is very popular with members as it allows them to not only have an excellent lunch but also find time for some shopping before hand. Many make a full day of the event and move on to a number of local hostelries. The intention is to make this an annual event, which hopefully will grow in numbers as time goes on.
The President and his wife Ruth travelled to Clacton–on-Sea to participate in a donations award ceremony to represent the Branch. The Lions made good their When Prince Harry met Gary at the Field of Remembrance pledge of a donation in a joint venture with over one hundred and fifty tickets distributed with the Branch. The amount was a true surprise before the day and a considerable number on the as it was for the sum of £2,000, which was double day. It was pleasing to see that the Rifles had a their original pledge. The President gave a short separate contingent on parade and we sincerely presentation and thanked them on behalf of the hope that they will grow in numbers as the years Rifles, C4C and the Branch. move on. The Branch returned to The Royal Military Hospital Chelsea for their Spring Black Button Club Meeting. In the past the Hospital was a favourite location for this event but due to a change in management and an extensive refurbishment we have used other sites within London. The Branch currently has two members from the Hospital Patrick Cody and Joe Shortall, and we are hopeful that a recently new member to the Hospital, Alf Arnold will also consider joining the London Branch.
Prior to the Cenotaph Parade on Remembrance Sunday.
The branch assembled at the Theodore Bullfrog public house which opens its doors early for coffee and a warmer in the bank for a brave few which allows the Branch Secretary time to muster and brief those taking part. After the parade the participants return to the Bullfrog for lunch and drinks. Once again the numbers swelled and this year the count stopped at over four hundred with a substantial amount of ladies present. The numbers were especially pleasing this year as only two nights before the Branch had held a major fund raising night. The Branch Christmas Lunch was held in 86 St James, Mark Masons Hall. There was an increase in numbers, which was very pleasing, and as this is 18 | SWIFT AND BOLD
The meeting was very well attended and it was pleasing that a considerable number supported the evening. The Branch provided a buffet supper for the pensioners who joined in the events for the evening. We hope to continue using the facilities at the Hospital for our future meetings, which are held twice a year. This year we have also included a report of our Ladies Dinner night for 2014. The reason for this is that we wanted to acknowledge the involvement of Ms Claire Neal who was at the scene of the Regents Park Band Stand bombing when that dreadful event took place on the 20th July 1982. Our other guest was Major Ron Cassidy and his wife Shirley. Major Cassidy was involved with the aftermath of the incident. (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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previous year’s efforts. It was touch and go whether a band would be available for the evening and this was also the case of the bugles. It was a great disappointment that the Bugles cancelled at the very last moment on the evening as their appearance is always greatly anticipated and a highlight of the evening, however, the band were excellent and enjoyed by everyone.
Ladies Dinner Night 2014 Care for Casual es Cheque dona on.
The attendance at the Dinner was truly surprising as we managed to muster over one hundred and twenty members and their guests. The President gave a synopsis of the actions Ms Neal had taken during the very confused aftermath of the bombing. Her unselfish actions certainly saved the lives of some severely wounded riflemen and comforted others who were fatally wounded, and all in complete disregard of her own safety.
The Centenary of the The Great War is our main event for 2014 and it is our intention on the weekend of 2628th September to retrace some of the steps The Rifle Brigade and The King’s Royal Rifle Corps made in 1914, including a visit to the site of The Rifle Brigade’s gallant action fought on its Regimental Birthday, 25th August 1914. The Branch will continue to support C4C at our events over the forthcoming year. Our thoughts go out to all Riflemen and their families both past and present and for those who venture into harms way take care and return home safely.
It was decided that the Branch would present Ms Neal with a silver RGJ regimental brooch in appreciation of her courageous and caring actions on the day of the event. Once the presentation was completed it was business as usual. The whole evening was a success and after an excellent meal with wine to spare, after dinner entertainment with a disco which captured the mood of those present, continued to the early morning. Once again the Victory Services Club came up trumps and the meal and service was excellent and well managed. Thanks again must also go to the Branch Secretary with the assistance of the Committee Members for masterminding the whole evening. During the course of the evening the Secretary and the President gave short State-of-the-Nation speeches thanking members for their participation and support throughout the year. The President in particular thanked members for their most generous support in raising funds for C4C, which had exceeded JOURNAL 2013
Claire proudly wearing her Regimental brooch. SWIFT AND BOLD | 19
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THE NORTH EAST BRANCH A Happy New Year from the North East Branch to all brother Riflemen wherever you are. We have continued to be very active since the last Swift and Bold publication with no less than three Band Concerts being held in the North East this year, attended by many from our Branch. Concert One: A Salute to the Forces by The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and The Royal Signals Bands and many other singers performed at the Gala Theatre, Durham in June. Concert Two: Held in Sunderland Minster in June, was given by the Rifles Band and Bugles together with the Durham ACF Band and Bugles. A very special guest, Claire Neal, was introduced by Dave Timms. Claire’s story was covered extensively in the September edition of the E-Zine and is told in a separate article in this edition of Swift and Bold.
his Campaign Medal. Veterans Day at Winchester in July was held on one of the hottest days of the year, which certainly was a vast improvement to the previous year’s Reunion. Sadly, the downside was that there was no RGJ band to entertain the many RGJ personnel and their families who had attended. The Sunday morning after the Reunion, members gathered at Rose Cottage for Brunch with our President, Brigadier Nicholas and Amanda Prideaux, which is always a very pleasant way to finish off the weekend. Four members of our Branch entered a major event in September, the Great North Run. Eamonn Loftus, Russell Holman, Lenny Wayman and Trevor Barrs all finished the course and two managed it in under 2 hours. This was an exceptional effort by those concerned raising a very substantial amount for the various charities (including C4C) for which they were running. During 2013, we have had three official Meetings and all were well attended. Members put forward their ideas for the year’s functions. The Committee continued to work hard to meet the Branch’s needs and our membership keeps growing. We sold 255 tickets for our Reunion night in November. The event was supported by Riflemen from all over the United Kingdom and Europe and we were delighted to see them.
On 22nd May, Jake Cheetham, our Chairman, and his wife Liz attended The Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. In July three Branch members and their wives attended the Not Forgotten Association Party also at Buckingham Palace. A Medal Parade for the Royal Artillery, returning from Afghanistan, took place on Veterans Day in Sunderland in June and was attended by Jake Cheetham. A member of the crowd recognised Jake’s NE Branch polo shirt and asked which Battalion he was from. The guy then rolled up his trouser leg to display a tattoo of an RGJ badge. He introduced himself to Jake as Mike Smith, who had arrived in Sunderland to see his son receive 20 | SWIFT AND BOLD
The Remembrance Day Parade on the Sunday is the biggest of its kind outside London. There were over 100 Rfn on parade on the Sunday morning and afterwards we retired to the Roker Hotel for a buffet and a few drinks. We were honoured that the Mayor and Mayoress of Sunderland were able to join us. Continuing in a busy November, our Chairman attended The Rifles Awards Dinner at Davies Street, London. His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh and two other Royal Colonels were present. Jake was amazed to by seated next to his first platoon commander from 3RGJ in 1969, Major Johnny Pearson. Many memories and stories were relived. On 2 December 2013, Elizabeth Cheetham and (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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Kathy Bradford, attended a birthday Lunch with Clare Neal during which she was presented with a framed RGJ Blazer Badge to mark her honorary membership of the Branch. The latter end of 2013 saw the unfortunate death of two veterans in the North East.
The RGJ con ngent marching down to the Cenotaph in Sunderland.
November saw the sad loss of former Green Howard Frederick Leach from Middlesbrough, as Fred had died with no known family, a request was sent out to the military community in the North East to assist in the giving Fred a farewell worthy of a veteran had served in both World War Two and Korea. In attendance from The North East Branch was
Steve Bonallie and.Scott Connal MBE, who carried the association standard. The Christmas function was held at the British Legion Club in Sunderland on 17th December 2013, in our new Meeting Room. This Room had been out of use for over 25 years. Members and their families gave up a lot of their spare time to make the Room look really good. A suitable name for the Room will be decided in due course. We are thanking Steve Bonnalle and his ASDA colleagues for providing hampers for our raffles and also a cheque for ÂŁ50 to be donated to The British Legion. The forecast of events are as follows: Friday 4th April North East Branch AGM Saturday 8th November Sunderland Reunion Night Sunday 9th November Sunderland Remembrance Sunday Parade Finally we would like to give special thanks to Seamus Lyons and the website team for updating and re-vamping the North East website. This site is a great communication tool. Long may it continue to improve and help our Branch. Malcolm Donnison North East Branch Editor
THE NORTH WEST BRANCH It was a quiet year in 2013. Our membership reduced slightly. Our membership for 2013 stood at 31 paid up members, 12 Country Members and 8 people remain on our mailing list. Things developed over the Christmas period that has now increased our membership already for 2014 to at least 60 paid up members. Just before Christmas 2013 I met with Tom Fairclough and Mark Lydiat who gave me subscriptions for 28 new members for the year starting 1st April 2014. We also discussed the merging of the members of the Liverpool dinner to come under the branch and how to incorporate the Liverpool dinner, branch dinner and Remembrance Day. Mark is going to act as the assistant secretary of the branch and Tom is going to act as the entertainments/functions secretary. They have JOURNAL 2013
both worked hard in bringing these members under the branch which now is now growing in strength and thanks go out to them. Nothing has yet been decided but in order to clarify what you want from your branch of the association we are holding an open meeting on the 21st February 2014 at the Thistle Hotel, Liverpool at 1945hrs to discuss the roles we all play for the way forward for the branch and ways to increase the number of events throughout the year to help increase our membership. It is your association so giving the committee your support will make us stronger when we are all united as one. The annual dinner this year attracted 26 members and guests. It was held on Saturday 9th November (To be con nued on next page) SWIFT AND BOLD | 21
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2013 at the Royal Hotel, Marine Terrace, Waterloo, Liverpool. It was held in the Waterloo Suite and as the name suggests the room is themed around the Battle of Waterloo. A good omen for the 200th anniversary in 2015. Again the reputation of our annual dinner must be spreading afar as this year we had people from the Isle of Mann, Dorset and London attending. We even had Vince Wellington attend the dinner who we passed off as the great great great grandson of the Duke of Wellington but I don’t think many were fooled. A very good night was enjoyed by all especially as a free bar was laid on. This year we changed the date from the last weekend in November to the weekend of the remembrance parade. This was at the request of some members and people from afar who would like to attend the remembrance parade the following day. This seemed to work well and we are considering the same date next year. Is was also, by coincidence, Gareths birthday which he thought we had all forgotten about until we presented him with a cake near the end of the night. As we may hold the dinner on this night each year don’t expect it to be renamed Gareth Dixons Birthday Bash. It is hoped with the reorganization of the branch we can organize more functions and details of the dates will be published on the website and by email. The annual remembrance parade was held at the cenotaph at the front of St Georges Hall in Liverpool and a detachment of 40 ex Royal Green Jackets marched onto the cenotaph where a poppy wreath was placed by Bill Evans. We even noticed that this year we had ex-soldiers of The Rifles with us who joined our ranks when we marched on. We then attended a short memorial service at the Northern Ireland memorial which is in St John Gardens at the rear of St Georges Hall. It is with sadness that we have to say our farewell to Geoff Morrish who passed away in September this year. Geoff was a member of the branch for many years. At his funeral there was a good turnout of many ex Royal Green Jackets. It is also with great sadness we also have to say our farewell to Paul Holland, and again he was a member of our branch for many years and despite 22 | SWIFT AND BOLD
failing health he would always make the effort to attend out functions. On a lighter note Pat Bibby celebrated his 60th Birthday on 1st February 2014. All Green Jackets were invited and on the night many old friends who we have not seen for years were there. Once again here is a demonstration of our strength as a regiment, seeing friends from the past and taking up from where we left off. I am sure you are all well aware that the North West Branch is making a coordinated effort to raise funds to provide a headstone for Peter Uden. You may ask why the North West Branch is making this effort when he is buried in Winchester but Peter had many friends here in the North West and visited friends here on occasions. For those of you who knew Peter I am sure you will agree that he was a man with a large character and heart. He was well known throughout the RGJ family and extended his welcome every Veterans day in Winchester by opening up his home to anybody who wanted to attend his popular barbeques. If every member of every branch donated just £1 to this appeal we would have enough money to provide a headstone for Peter that his wife could be proud of. To date we have raised £200 and that is in just a few of months. The North West Branch Dinner raised £125 and another £10 was handed to me on the remembrance parade. We have no timescale to this appeal but we would like to raise the money as soon as possible for his wife Joyce. At out dinner it was announced by C/Sgt Dave Crossley that the Sergeants mess of the 4th Battalion The Rifles are now considering making a donation thanks to his efforts. We still need to raise at least another £500 for a fitting tribute to him, so please try to make the smallest of donations as this all adds up. The North West Branch are coordinating this effort so any cheques can be made out to the RGJ Association NW Branch and sent to 18 Rolling Mill Lane, Sutton, St Helens WA9 3GB. Here is hoping we all have a better 2014. Gareth Dixon, Ray Gerrard, Mark Lydiat and Tom Fairclough North West Branch Commitee JOURNAL 2013
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THE OXFORD BRANCH 2013 was the year in which the Oxford branch upped its activities and expanded its image outside the confines of the Oxford area. The first issue of the new-style newsletter, The Lightbob, was published in black-and-white in January and was followed by part-colour issues in May and September. They had much to report throughout the year. The splendid facilities at Edward Brooks Barracks at Abingdon provide a venue for a number of social activities. Two branch lunches were held in the spacious and elegant Officers’ Mess during the course of the year, on 11th April and 12th September. At the Spring lunch, attended by about 40 members and their ladies, Brigadier (Retd) Robin Draper gave a fascinating illustrated talk entitled We were young once and ..., which traced the history of the 43rd and 52nd from their earliest days, and featured not only the two regiments’ triumphs but also their disasters. At these events the catering was of the very highest standard, thanks to the new chef Simon Winter, who took over early in the year. The Friends of the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, under their Hon Secretary Lt Col Ingram Murray, were responsible for organising what was probably the high spot of the year – the Cyprus 13 Study Day. This was a seminar of presentations about the 1st Bn’s time in Cyprus in the 1950s, operating against EOKA. It was chaired by General Sir Robert Pascoe, who was a subaltern in Limassol, and the presentations were given by veterans who had also served in the regiment at that time. Some 35 branch members and other interested parties attended - one from as far away as West Wales and plenty of anecdotes and reminiscences were exchanged. A raffle organised by Geoff Day for a bottle of Commandaria St John wine raised £101 for the Veterans Charity, and was won by the author’s wife! Much of the information was recorded by members of the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Trust, with which the branch has close contacts. Members have helped in the move of the records from the Old Tannery in Woodstock to the new Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum in the centre of the town, and this is now open by appointment for research purposes. It is due to open to the public in the Spring. This year’s concert on 16th June by the Waterloo Band and Bugles of The Rifles under their Director of Music, Major Peter Clark, was blessed by good JOURNAL 2013
weather for a change, so it was possible to hold it outside. The Band and Bugles were also in fine fettle at the Reunion on 10th November, where the high spot of the performance was a display of Irish dancing by the well-built Bugler Gary Boardman – not an obvious candidate for Strictly Come Dancing! Although not quite so well attended as the previous year, the 2013 Reunion was memorable by a presentation by ‘A’ Company 7 RIFLES member L/Cpl Alex Oates. Alex, who is a student at Oxford University, spent 9 months from April to September attached to ‘B’ Company, 4 RIFLES, operating out of a patrol base in Afghanistan, and the old comrades present were interested in the details of his experiences in this particular combat zone.
The Waterloo Band and Bugles of The Rifles at the branch Reunion, 9th Nov 2013.
Following the presentation, Alex spent some time in conversation with 91-year-old veteran Sam Langford, who was telling the young reservist about his exploits in WWII. Sam served in the 52nd in France, having landed with the Royal Berkshire Regiment on Juno Beach on D-Day and volunteering for the Airborne a little later. He took part in Operation VARSITY – the Rhine Crossing – and was wounded. This conversation resulted in a wonderful photograph showing Sam (Northern Europe 1944) talking to Alex (Afghanistan 2013) and with Geoff Day (Cyprus 1956/7) listening. The one branch outing of the year was a visit in October to the Assault Glider Trust at RAF Shawbury, Shropshire. The coach party of 25, which included some ladies, was joined by 5 veterans who lived locally and was met by Godfrey Yardley, who served with the Oxford & Bucks Light Infantry in the Airborne forces during WWII and is a volunteer at Shawbury. The visitors were shown the replica (To be con nued on next page) SWIFT AND BOLD | 23
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Horsa, the model of glider used in the 52nd’s Coup de Main operation on D-Day, which has been meticulously reconstructed from drawings supplied by BAe Systems Ltd. Godfrey, who survived landing in a badly-damaged Horsa on Operation VARSITY, recounted his experiences to the party, and they were given a presentation about the history of glider development for warfare purposes. Several Oxford members travelled to the TA Centre in Aylesbury on 30th November for the laying up of the standard of the Buckinghamshire Battalion Old Comrades Association. This moving and poignant occasion was arranged by our colleagues in the Aylesbury branch who now look after the few remaining members of the Bucks Battalion OCA. A regular and highly-successful event is the ceremony of Turning the Pages in the Regimental chapel at Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford. Normally held on the first Saturday of every other month, branch members are regular attendees and readers, and always enjoy Canon Roland Meredith’s sherry party in the Priory Room afterwards, before sallying forth to explore some of Oxford’s many splendid pubs! Last May’s ceremony was a rather special one as a new altar cloth was dedicated. The Cathedral authorities asked the two organisations who share the chapel to contribute 50% of the £2,000 cost, and both the Oxford & Bucks Light Infantry Residual Affairs Committee and the Oxfordshire Yeomanry Trust were happy to contribute.
Funds from the Oxford branch and the defunct 43rd & 52nd OCA also contributed towards the £3,000 cost of a stone dedicated to the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry in Heroes’ Square at the National Memorial Arboretum, but the majority of the money was raised as a result of a very successful appeal. The Oxford branch website, which had lain dormant for some years, was revived by the RGJA’s new webmaster Seamus Lyons, and is now increasingly a repository for information and pictures of branch activities. By going to http://www.greenjackets-net. org.uk/oxford/ you can find out all about Cyprus13, the Reunion, read back numbers of The Lightbob, and more. Also going from strength to strength is the 43rd & 52nd Old Comrades Googlegroup, set up in December 2010. This internet mailing list now has over 100 subscribers and provides a useful means of exchanging news, views and information worldwide (we have subscribers in the USA, Canada and Australia.) Although not officially connected with the Oxford branch, the Lightbobs group, as it is known, has a fair number of branch members among its subscribers, and keeps us in touch with the wider constituency of old comrades worldwide. At the branch AGM in December there was a change at the top. Major Charlie Helmn, who is PSAO of 7 RIFLES, announced that he would be retiring in October 2014 after 43 years in the Army, and returning to his native Yorkshire. He therefore decided to stand down as chairman, and Major (Retd) Terry Roper, MBE TD, was elected in his place. We are grateful to Charlie for all the work he has done for us. Terry, who has been a member of the Oxford branch since 2002, served in the RGJ and The Rifles in Iraq and Afghanistan, and brings some exciting ideas to the task. Conscious that the membership has dropped slightly over the past few years due to inevitable wastage, and
Canon Roland Meredith dedica ng the new altar cloth in the Regimental chapel in Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, on 4th May 2013. 24 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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keen to involve a younger generation, Terry intends to launch a recruiting campaign among the adult members of the ACF and those leaving The Rifles. The future is not orange, but Rifle green! As the branch incorporates the former 43rd & 52nd Old Comrades Association, there is great excitement about the 70th anniversary of D-Day this year, and many of us will be travelling to Normandy to take part in the commemorative events around Pegasus Bridge. We are also planning to lay a wreath on 6th June on the grave of Major John Howard, who is buried near Abingdon, and possibly to arrange for the unveiling of a blue plaque on one of the houses in Oxford where he lived. As this year’s report is not written by Mike Marr, this is an opportunity to thank him on behalf of all our members for the prodigious amount of work he does for us as Treasurer and Membership Secretary of the branch. We would be lost without him.
Major (Retd) Terry Roper, MBE TD, the new branch chairman.
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Roy Bailey Newsletter Editor Oxford branch
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THE WILTSHIRE BRANCH RGJ Wiltshire Branch another busy year all planned and executed by our enthusiastic & tireless entertainments manager Phil Ashby you only need to carelessly mention some sort of entertainment suggestion and Phil with Val in tow has it all organised and ready to go and go they do. The official kick off was our 15th Annual Dinner Night attracting our long range members Owen & Pet Davies, Kev & Karen Dolbear & Billy & Terry Hughes, one person said Billy danced funny, was he still saddle sore from his 700mile charity cycle? We all said that’s how he dances. The din was proof all were having a good time, one waiter was certainly jumpy when someone set off an air horn as he was serving the hot soup, the finger was pointed at Tom Willoughby & Chris Herbert, I blamed Dave Moloney myself, all deny knowledge of course, fortunately no soup was spilt but Mick Slater said ‘is that a thumb in my soup’ as the waiter went off sucking his scolded digit. Phil not to let the grass grow soon had us off to Salisbury Horse Races, memorable for the persistent never ending rain we were all prepared obviously (Phil over the top with a Mae West buoyancy aid) but the many other pundits dressed as per Ascot Ladies Day were not & looked a sorry wet mess their fancy hair fascinators looked like thrushes nests, so all and sundry went for the easy option, the bar and all well indulged, by the time the tribute band started nobody noticed the rain especially as many of our number had been given a good tip and took the bookies to the cleaners the Ashby’s were all dancing and Dick Lettington was seen puffing on a large cigar. Glam Rock was the theme for our summer fancy dress Bar-B-Q this year held at Leslie McCoy’s place Roger Daultry, Freddie Mercury, Susie Quatro all attended but Alice Cooper really Bill Tyson won the best dressed (Elaine said she took hours on his make up, it was hard work to improve Bills look, we fully understand!) He also volunteered to host the next BBQ, hard rock theme, rumour has it he has a costume already; he hosted a cowboy night (note ex 3RGJ) once before. Soon it was our annual skittles night always a favourite do, the 3Bn Dave Smith with his family are regular winners, so this year he presented two trophies to go for, hoping to put his name on one of them. The warm up match did not go exactly to plan, only one of his family was left at the end, lucky for them Gary Byrne then let them of the hook as he became runner up on the last skittle. The Smiths never fully recovered by the time of the 26 | SWIFT AND BOLD
trophy competition Dave Richards was the overall winner & Norman Leaver’s wife Maureen took the Ladies Trophy. The wooden spoon was all polished up by Capt Gary Peacock in anticipation, but our Chairman Brian Darvill had to present it to his own wife Blanche – Richard CZ Ciereszko wished him luck on the walk home. Our offshore trip was to Gibraltar in October we had brilliant weather, very cheep duty free cigarettes and drink, Phil wrote off to the Gibraltar Tourist Board & they could not be more welcoming we were given our own personal minibus with Andy Parody the guide & driver with the Tourist Manager former Miss World Gail Francis-Tiron no less. The Command Warrant Officer Gibraltar WO1Gary Mitchell had us up to the Devils Tower Sergeants Mess for welcome drinks and curry buffet on the first evening followed by the WW2 inner rock tour two days later. The tourist board took us everywhere on the outside seen all the 9.2’Gun Battery & 100 ton Gun & St Michaels cave all complementary. Bob Maddocks also took a picture of Phil with a monkey sat on his head, Phil didn’t mind but it would not get off, to great joy for all, suspicions are Bob put peanuts on Phil’s hat. The trip was so good Gary & Chris Byrne; Dave & Maggs Caws, Bob & Elaine Holcombe have booked to go again. These were a few of our highlights there are a host more socials, battlefield tours etc We made the local papers on Remembrance Sunday Service & pre lunch including The Warminster Town Parade, Brian leads it with a motorcycle escort of Kev Severn aka Chambers & Michael Wakelin, 3x Greenjacket berets at the front followed by a Rifles Cadet Coy run by Chris Barnes. Supporting Charity fund raising, Curry lunch with the Ghurkhas, Bob Holcomb at the Running Club & Helping the RBL Poppy Day appeal collecting at Waitrose Supermarket with Ted Peckham (RB) in a WW2 Local Defence Volunteers uniform (LDVlook, dash, vanish) & Lee Massey in his wheelchair we do look the part, nobody has collected more for the RBL there than we have, £1101, Bill Tyson also runs the local youth Highbury Football Club, is it my imagination or is he developing an Austrian accent? We close up the year with Christmas Eve drinks Micky Walsh & Maj Baz Melia normally turn up out the blue, The Wiltshire branch is very active and centred around the Warminster Conservative Club we are always pleased to see ex RGJ if you are passing through. JOURNAL 2013
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THE YORKSHIRE BRANCH We continue to meet at the Drill Hall in Wakefield on the fourth Tuesday of each month during March to October inclusively. The branch officers have remained the same for the last several years and our president is Brigadier Peter Lyddon who has been with us since our formation in November 1997. We lost Bill Broadbent in January after his struggle with ill health for many years. He had served in Malaya where he first encountered the secretary. They remained friends for the rest of his life. Bill’s wife Diane, whom he had met in Scarborough where they had worked at a fairground there, told me that Bill had been laid out for the funeral in his regimental blazer and tie. He had been proud to have been a rifleman. Within a month of Bill’s demise came news of the death of Vernon Austin. This was not totally unexpected as Vernon had been a resident in a care home for a while after suffering several falls in his own home. Vernon had met his wife Jessie, who predeceased him, whilst training with the KRRC at Fort George near Inverness prior to his active service in Palestine. From what one reads of the campaign in that country prior to 1948 it must have been a bitter episode in his life. After Vernon was demobbed he returned to Barnsley and became a driver.His daughter Christine said that in later life he had been troubled by some of his experiences as a sniper in that harsh conflict. Early in March our ranks were reduced yet again but happily this time it was because of the departure of Sylvia and Brian Craven who were moving from Sheffield to Green Jacket Close at Winchester. There to join the other indomitable residents including Bill Gledhill my predecessor at the Yorkshire Branch. In April David Bloomfield and the secretary represented the branch at the Mayor’s Civic Parade in Wakefield. We proceeded down to the cathedral with David in his wheelchair amidst the other veterans. Inside the ancient building we found that renovation had been completed, the floor re-laid and the stonework scoured. It looked clean and bright and reminiscent of York Minster. Afterwards we two had to hurry off as David needed to answer an urgent call of nature. We were well in advance of the rest of the marchers and passed by the Town Hall saluting dais in the eyes right posture before speeding off to the car JOURNAL 2013
park. Branch members attended the annual Kohima Day Service in York Minster followed by a ceremony at the Kohima Memorial in the Minster gardens and a lunch at the Imphal Barracks afterwards. This year for the first time we had to have tickets in order to be allowed into the service. At the very last minute we discovered that the security arrangements were because The Duke of York would be present at the service and afterwards would hob-nob with the Sea Cadets in the Chapter House. To great disappointment he hove into view at the tail end of the dignitaries and clerics clad not in resplendent admirals uniform but in an undistinguished lounge suit. On Saturday 22nd June The Rifles exercised their right to march through Leeds. The Yorkshire Green Jackets, much outnumbered, marched with our comrades from the L.I and K.O.Y.L.I. Associations. We were led by an officer from one of the two other associations, a colonel I presume, who wore not the regulation officer’s bowler but a dashing Panama hat. He didn’t so much march as swagger. Later that month some of us appeared on Armed Forces Day at a large country house, Nostell Priory, the home of Lord St. Oswald whose father was an officer in that highly esteemed regiment the King’s Royal Rifle Corps, and hence a Green Jacket. Several other associations wererepresented including the Green Howards and our comrades from the K.O.Y.L.I. We also had the company of the Rifles Cadet Band from Pontefract who marched and played in their full best green uniforms despite the great heat of what in our country passes for a scorcher. We had the great excitement of a parachute drop right in our midst but the promised Spitfire fly-past failed to materialise and we had to make do with a life sized replica, exact in every detail but made from fibre glass. The Branch Lunch was held at Woolley Park Golf Club in August and it was the scene of the first sighting of our respected comrade Arnold Senior who is only able to manoeuvre his car in broad daylight. Associate member George Corker had the distinction of arriving after the end of the meal. He had fallen asleep on the journey from Barnsley and awoke when the bus reached the terminus in (To be con nued on next page) SWIFT AND BOLD | 27
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Wakefield. In November we had members of the Yorkshire Branch at Remembrance Ceremonies in Sunderland, Nostell Priory and Barnsley. The ceremony at Nostel Priory was held on the 3rd of November so as not to clash with those of Barnsley and Wakefield. David Bloomfield (2RGJ) and I were in the ranks of the veterans ‘squad’ which on this occasion was drawn up next to a large contingent from the Royal Artillery sent down especially from Catterick and containing within its ranks two charming lady gunners. After the ceremony, which was well supported by the citizens of Wakefield, we retired to the Mayor’s Parlour to which everyone was invited for refreshments. There we fell in with the two Artillery ladies who were not looking forward to the return journey by coach after the whole contingent had been entertained for the afternoon by the Wakefield Artillery Association. They anticipated that all their comrades would have had a skinful before they embarked homewards. Also on Remembrance Sunday the death of one of our wartime members, Rod Ball, occurred. He would have been 88 at the end of November. Rod spent twenty-two years mainly in the KRRC but he saw active service during the war with The Rifle Brigade. He was in the same company as Donald Harrison who is also a member of the Yorkshire Branch. During an attack by troops from the S.S. Donald was captured when his platoon was surrounded but Rod, who was in a different platoon, survived unscathed. During his later service, back by now in his beloved KRRC, he soldiered in Palestine, North Africa, Germany and Ireland. He spent the years before retirement at Winchester and Bulford. When he was demobbed he had attained the rank of (Sergeant Major) C.S.M. We of the Branch and possibly his regimental comrades knew him affectionately as ‘’Odd Ball’’ Two days after his death, Rod’s daughter Gillian phoned to say that her father had died and that the funeral service would be at Huddersfield Crematorium on the 21st of November. She said that she would like the Green Jackets to attend and to lay a wreath. She also hoped that we would be able to provide a bugler.
was not an easy task but our Chairman, Fred Williams R.B. suggested I contact The Rifles office at Pontefract. To my delight the secretary, Maxine, said that they had a K.O.Y.L.I. Association bugler available but that we would have to pay his expenses of £50. I accepted with alacrity. When I phoned the Chairman he immediately insisted that the Branch would pay. When I phoned Gillian with the news she burst into tears. On the day of the funeral every member of the Yorkshire Branch that was able gathered at the crematorium. Chairman Fred, our expert on Regimental protocol, rehearsed the wreath laying party in which he would play the leading role. The bugler, Peter Bate, ex Regimental Bugler K.O.Y.L.I., was already on parade wearing his full regalia. The Minister, a pleasant young woman, suggested we form a Guard of Honour: a double line through which the hearse would drive. After that had happened, Rod’s wife Doreen, the chief mourner, inspected us most regally as befitted the wife of a C.S.M. She thanked each of us in turn for attending Rod’s final parade. It was a lovely service, the nicest any of us had experienced, full of tributes from the family. The Chairman laid the wreath and the wreath party saluted to his whispered timing. Peter blew Last Post and Reveille (The Green Jackets Reveille) and held the final note of the former for such a duration I feared for his lungs. One remark by Rod’s son Keith summed up his father succinctly. He said that during his father’s retirement he had insisted on shaving every day and wearing a tie, even if he was only walking the dog. He added, ‘’You could take Dad out of the army but you couldn’t take the army out of Dad.’’ Stuart Anderson
www.riflespropertyservices.co.uk
e-mail: rickmillward@btinternet.com
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THE ROYAL GREEN JACKETS (RIFLES) MUSEUM
Museum Report Last year was a good year for The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum with a record 13,528 visitors (5% up on 2012), a 4% increase in shop turnover, a comfortable operating surplus and receipt of a £100,000 Lottery Fund. The Lottery grant was especially important as we need it to part-fund a £210,000 project to create a Battle of Waterloo Bicentenary Exhibition. A great deal of space was dedicated to explaining the reasons for this project and the associated Waterloo 2015 Appeal in the December Ezine. I am, therefore, disinclined to repeat what a number of readers of this edition of Swift & Bold will already know. Those who don’t know will find full details on the Museum website at http://www.rgjmuseum. co.uk/wloo15_about.asp
will have been made to the RGJ section (19662007). During 2014 we plan a temporary exhibition at the Museum from 1 August to 14 September titled ‘A Call to Arms’. This will focus on how, at the outbreak of the First World War, The Rifle Depot, Winchester, home depot of The King’s Royal Rifle Corps and The Rifle Brigade, became the focal point for the mobilisation of reservists and young men responding to Kitchener's call to arms. Huge numbers reporting for duty or being enlisted - up to 6,000 a day - were administered, given medical checks, clothed, equipped, paid and despatched to battalions for training and subsequent service on the frontline. The exhibition will be open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry 4.15 p.m.).
At the time of writing (2 February) I am glad to report that, thanks to some very generous individual donations from inside and outside the Regiment, the Waterloo 2015 Appeal is well over a third of the way to achieving its target of £100,000. However, raising the final third of any Appeal is always more difficult than the initial third, so it is going to need a concerted effort and the full support of Green Jackets far and wide to raise, and hopefully exceed, our £100,000 target. So far the response of the Association, its members and branches, has been extremely positive. I am also delighted that a growing number of Association members have embraced the exclusive ‘sponsor a medal’ element of the Appeal – see the website for details.
We shall also be giving our annual ‘Armed Forces Sunday Fun Day’ on 29 June 2014 a First World War theme.
But our efforts are not all focussed on Waterloo. By the time you read this, I hope that the refurbishment of our First World War display area costing £23,000 will be finished in good time to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the war, and that the final touches
If you have not visited the Museum recently, do make a point of doing so this year.
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Do not forget to refer to the Museum website if you want to know what else is going on, to learn interesting facts about the Regiment and to keep up to date with items of Museum news. We are also keen to hear from you if you have interesting material, objects or other items relating to the Regiment which you would like to donate to the Museum. We do not have the room to accept everything we are offered, but a number of welcome new additions to the collection have resulted from offers made during the past year.
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To contact the Museum, telephone or e-mail the Curator, Christine Pullen. Tel: 01962 828549 or e-mail: curator@rgjmuseum.co.uk To purchase items from the Museum Shop, for information about forthcoming events, and to read interesting articles about the Museum, visit www.rgjmuseum.co.uk
OPENING HOURS
From January 2014 the Museum will be open: January to March: Tuesday to Saturday 10a.m. to 5p.m. (Last entry 4.15p.m.) April to December: Monday to Saturday 10a.m. to 5p.m. (Last entry 4.15p.m.) Sundays: The Museum will be open on Sundays from 29 June to 14 September 2014 inclusive. It is closed on other Sundays and over Christmas and New Year. Visits to the Museum’s archives are by appointment only.
ADMISSION CHARGES
Adults: £3.75 Senior Citizens: £3.00 Children (16 and under): Free Students: £2.00 Serving personnel and Friends of the Museum are admitted free. Members of The Royal Green Jackets Regimental Association are admitted half price.
The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum Battle of Waterloo Bicentenary Exhibition and Waterloo 2015 Appeal We have received a grant of £100,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund but we need to raise another £100,000 by Appeal to fund this exhibition. Have you contributed? If not, please do so. To find out more about our exhibition plans and how to donate, visit http://www.rgjmuseum.co.uk/wloo15_about.asp The Museum needs your support now more than ever. Thank you.
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THE ROYAL GREEN JACKETS AND THE RIFLES FIND THEIR “MARY POPPINS” Ron Cassidy writes: I have abridged the article by Col James Ramsbotham published in the last E-zine purely because of space. When reading the article I would ask that we remember the families, wives and children who were affected, not only of those who died, but also those such as David Timms whose injuries have confined him to a wheel chair ever since. “Two hours later a second and even more devastating bomb exploded in Regent’s Park. It was detonated under the Bandstand upon which the Band of the 1st Bn The Royal Green Jackets was giving a Concert. They were playing the theme-tune from the musical, “Oliver” at the time to a crowd of over 120 people. WO1 Graham Barker, Serjeant Robert Livingstone, Corporal John McKnight, Bandsmen John Heritage, George Mesure, Keith Powell and Laurence Smith were all killed. All the Band members were injured as were a great many spectators. Panic ensued as the crowd, aware of the earlier bomb in Hyde Park, fled the scene or lay wounded shouting for help. Only one person moved calmly but quickly in the opposite direction to give succour to the dying and the wounded. Claire Neal was working in London as a nanny at the time. 31 years later, prompted by events surrounding the murder of Drummer Lee Rigby in Woolwich, she described her actions that day in a letter to the Daily Mail:
petticoat, then my uniform, to bandage heads, limbs and bodies.
“It was a beautiful sunny day 31 years ago, and, as a nanny, I had just arrived at the gates of the park with my two charges, aged seven and eight, to listen to the Royal Green Jackets playing tunes from the musical Oliver!. As we walked through the gates, a huge explosion almost knocked us off our feet. A policeman, seeing my uniform, rushed up to ask me to help the injured soldiers while he looked after the children.
I thanked the policeman, then went to hold each of the children’s hands to walk the short distance home, but they kept saying: `Nanny, Nanny, you are covered in blood. Where has your dress gone?’I must have looked a right mess, but was too shocked to realise. I just took one child by each hand and started walking back to the flat. On the way, people were milling around in their hundreds after news of the bombings had spread. Some ran up to me asking if I was all right or if I needed help.
I just couldn’t believe the terrible sight unfolding before my eyes. The bandstand was on fire and soldiers were on the ground calling `help me, help me. I can’t see, I can’t stand up’. I simply didn’t know which one to respond to first.
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Many were calling `Mum, Mum, I love you - don’t forget I love you’ and `I’m sorry Mum, really sorry’. Listening to these brave men’s cries was heartbreaking. Two died as I cuddled them, and I continued to tell them their parents loved them dearly and were so very proud of their brave sons. I had to keep talking to them, knowing they would somehow have comfort in the knowledge someone was with them as they were dying. Paramedics arrived at the scene, and I helped lift the soldiers into the ambulances. It was only when the last soldier had been taken to hospital that I returned to the policeman who had been looking after my two charges. All three stared at me, totally shocked.
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way I looked. I sat my charges down and in children’s terms explained that bad things do happen and the bombing was a terrible tragedy for those poor men, horses and all their family and friends, and we must all be aware that what happened that day was, thankfully, a oneoff and probably wouldn’t happen again. The Royal Green Jacket soldiers were musicians. They weren’t in the fighting force, so the bombing was cowardly. I’ve often thought about the soldiers who survived and hope those brave men went on to lead happy lives, as I have.” Her understatement is palpable. In the midst of this terrible scene of carnage she calmly went from man to man giving all the strength, support and care that she could. When the emergency services first arrived on the scene they could not push through he crowds to access the Park, she laboured on alone. Once she felt her job was done she calmly walked away. The Royal Green Jacket Bands never played the music from “Oliver” ever again. Following the merger of the Regiment into The Rifles, the tradition remained to leave this out of any repertoire
When Claire Neal wrote the above etter to the Daily Mail on 3rd June 2013, Ron Cassidy long in retirement read it and took action. He contacted David Timms, Secretary of the RGJ Band Association and horribly injured on that fateful day he also wrote to the Daily Mail who forwarded his letter to Claire. She was delighted to finally be in touch with the Regiment after so many years. Many will have been at the Rifles Band and Bugles Concert in the Royal Albert Hall in November 2012. Those who were will never forget such an evening of music and emotion - that great space was filled with silver bugle-calls. However, many could not make it and it was decided that a version should be taken on tour around the country, especially to the Regiment’s heartlands, such as County Durham. The first was to be in Sunderland Minster on 21st June. David Timms decided to invite Claire – and she accepted. She had never seen or heard a Green Jacketed Band perform. In his specially adapted car, provided through support from the Riflemen’s’ Aid Society amongst others, he drove all the way from Dover to the North East to escort her to the Concert. There was a certain sense of expectation from everyone who was aware of the importance of the occasion. Claire was instantly identifiable - much as she had been 31 years previously, she was calmness personified in the midst of everything. (To be con nued on next page)
Mrs Nicholas Prideaux, Ms Claire Neal, Brigadier Nicholas Prideaux, Mrs Jake Cheetham and to the fore Cpl David Timms. 32 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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Many members of the NE Branch of the RGJ Regimental Association were there, including its President, Brigadier Nicholas Prideaux. He was CO of the Rifle Depot in Winchester in 1982 where the 1RGJ Band were staying. Lawrence then announced that the Band was going to play the music from “Oliver” for the first time in over three decades. He explained to the audience the events of July 1982 and how honoured we were to have Claire Neal and David Timms with us. The Band and Bugles were outstanding, accom-
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panied by the Co Durham Cadet Band and Bugles who are rightly lauded wherever they play, but Claire Neal was the star of the show. As everyone left one wife was heard to say: “she even had an umbrella she was ‘practically perfect in every way’ - she is our ‘Mary Poppins’. She has been a special member of the RGJ family for all those years, even if we were unaware of where she was. We will be much more careful of her in the future especially as she is now an Honorary member of the North East Branch of The Royal Green Jackets Regimental Association & we will ensure she does not fly off again.” James Ramsbotham
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Quirinus Band and Bugle Corps (QBBC) During the time that RGJ battalions were stationed in Germany the Band and Bugles secured an annual event – The Neusser Burger Schutzenfest, in the city of Neuss near Dusseldorf. The largest of its kind in Germany.
The events last from Friday till Tuesday each August bank holiday weekend and involve about seven thousand participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators. The concept being that local organisations derived from Militia and other traditional institutions get together and parade through the city and adjoining boroughs culminating in a shooting competition to decide a new King of the Schutzenfest. The B&B had an instant and long lasting effect on the events and was a favourite of the crowds and all participants. Their loyalty was mainly with the Neuss Riding Club formed in 1826 and one of the oldest riding clubs in Germany. The B&B attended for about 18 years in a row until the restructure of the Bands and resurrection into the Light Division and subsequently, The Rifles. However, a spark was ignited and the unique sound and appearance was obviously missed leading to a group getting the project of creating a new band and bugles styled on the Royal Green Jackets – The Quirinus Band and Bugles Corps (St Quirinus is the patron saint of Neuss). They have just celebrated their first birthday since formation and the growth and reputation is spectacular. They have already appeared at musical Tattoo’s and other functions including a joint concert with the 34 | SWIFT AND BOLD
Band of The Rifles in Germany last November. I had the great pleasure to accompany them as part of the audience for the Albert Hall concert in 2013 and was overwhelmed by their enthusiasm for the event. The next day I accompanied them to the Regimental Museum at Winchester. They were in awe of everything in it and despite my reservations about their reaction to some of the exhibits where their countrymen were our opposition they were respectful and recognised the common thread of “espirit de corps” that all rifleman possess and which I could sense in their determination to reflect that in their own Band and Bugles. Funding and sponsorship was secured andthey procured uniforms and accoutrements exactly matching the RGJ uniforms – silver bugles, riflecaps, George boots etc. etc. They have scoured YouTube, begged, borrowed and purchased anything that contained Band and Bugles footage to learn how we did things and spent many hours rehearsing our unique drill and customs. They have begged for marches that we play and have a repertoire that reflects a Band and Bugles you will all recognise – Silver Bugles, Lines of Torres Vedras, Mechanised Infantry and of course High on a Hill My good friend Peter Holthausen was one of the founders of this project and also undertook the role (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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of Bugle Major so seriously that I was reminded of that phrase that has become sinominous with a high class German marque - “vorsprungdurchtechnik”. His first outing out front was the Schutzenfest in August 2013 and I watched it live on the internet. It was the first time I had heard them play and the hairs went up on the back of my neck as they struck up with Lines of Torres Vedras through the city square. It also reminded me of the reaction we used to get that there was an increased volume of cheering and applause from the onlooking crowd as they marched through at Rifle pace. They now have a Bandmaster, Peter Hosking who joined 1 RGJ after the Regents Park bombing in 1982. Peter lives in Germany and could not believe that a band and bugles had formed so close to him and he has also thrown himself into making them look and sound authentic. So if you have a moment, take a look at their website www.qbbc.de If anyone would like to visit them, they will treat as
you as an honoured guest as Dave Timms will verify after he dropped in on them last summer. If you live in Rhine Area of Germany, they would also be happy to recruit you!! I would only add that if anyone out there reading this has music, bugles, uniform or anything that they can use, they will be forever in your debt and it will contribute to a living legacy founded on Green Jacket traditions – please contact them through their web site They are in the process of building up a music library centred on music of Rifle and Light Infantry regiments and would appreciate assistance from the current bands with copies or details of publishers to purchase music. So the spirit of the RGJ lives on in Germany – from where some of our traditions and early recruits originated Leigh Marshall Former trombone player with 2 RGJ and The Peninsula Band
Wecome to Riflesdirect the Regimental Shop of The Rifles
Riflesdirct is owned by the regiment - managed and run by the regiment - for the benefit of the regiment - with all proceeds returned to the regiment to support benevolence an welfare. Inside our shop you will find a comprehensive catalogue of Rifles uniform accoutrements and a good selection of Rifles branded general merchandise including a small selection of regimentally branded products from its forming regiments such as ties, blazer badges, lapel pins, berets etc. All of our products have been extensively sourced, sampled and authorised by the regiment to comply with the Regimental Dress Code and Rifles brand with regard to quality, durability and design. You may find similar product cheaper elsewhere - but not many. More importantly by purchasing from your own regimental shop you are assured that not only is your purchase everything it should be regimentally, but is also helping to support our Riflemen for which we sincerely thank you. Would yuo like to speak to and see somone face to face? Well now you can as Rifledirect is available on Skype Mon - Fri 0900 - 1600 GMT.
08456 - 434584 http://www.riflesdirect.com/ JOURNAL 2013
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A Letter from Germany I am one of those that married and remained in
Germany after my service ended, and although I no longer live anywhere near Minden, being a resident of Frankfurt am Main in the State of Hessen, but last X-mas I visited my children, who are now adults but live in Detmold and Bad Oeynhausen (Nr. Minden). Whilst there I took a drive to Minden, just to have a look and to see what had happened to Clifton and Westminster Barracks since the British forces left in the 1990's. Minden was never particularly economically strong and appeared to have little in the way of Industry and since the British Forces pulled out, nothing appears to have replaced the money that we clearly put into the system and the centre of the town seems to be suffering, it was hard for me to put my finger on, everything appeared to still be there but somehow everything, compared to elsewhere in Germany anyway, seemed to be a little shabby, a bit run down, and the large Karstadts Department Store down near the Weser Bridge in the Pedestrian zone, is closed and empty, Kochloffels the German version of McD's is still there, better known to most Germans as 'Kotzloffel' taken from the German for puke! Which says something about the food served there, mostly Currywurst etc, but it was a meeting place for us singles, especially on a Sunday having visited "Red Freds" nearby to get our Sunday Papers. The SKC/SSVC Cinema is gone replaced with an office block, but Red Freds itself with the "New" church (built for us by the Germans to replace the Nissan hut previously used by British forces as the C of E Church, that had stood in the
way of a new link road around the town centre), is still standing, apparently unused and showing signs of aging. After we (Plt Comd Lt Plaistow in A Coy with the OC Major Hayes) had returned from Belfast in the Spring/Summer 1982, we moved into Westminster Barracks, along with a Platoon taken from C Company, we then formed a new Rifle Company, D Company. This was part of an experiment to have 4 Rifle Company Battalions with the Support Company being broken up and forming a third Platoon in each of the Rifle Companies, this is how I remember it being explained to us anyway. I was a 432 APC driver with Wally Wickham as our MT Sergeant. Thank you Wally for the X-mas where you dragged me off my bed and got me totally legless in a pre-Xmas dinner drink, leaving me chasing the peas around the plate during the Xmas dinner cooked by your wonderful wife, and having to sleep it off on one of your daughter's beds (without your daughter just in case anyone was thinking otherwise!). But being in Westminster Barracks was a good time for us singlies, free of the RSM, with our own Cookhouse and the town and the local outdoor swimming pool full of beautiful German girls, right on the doorstep! Westminster Barracks is still largely intact, with just the former wooden Guardroom replaced with an office block and the old Vehicle Workshops behind the barracks, that we used to spend hours at night wandering around on "Stag", all gone having been replaced by modern apartment buildings. But the old barracks right on Porta Strasse that we shared with the German drivers from the Local RCT Civilian Transport Regiment, who mostly drove the white buses that were parked on the old square in front of the old block, is still there. We were on the first floor and I could still see my old room right at the entrance from Porta Strasse, the building is also now an office block. Is "Lucy" still out there anywhere, in the Summer of 1982 he had recently been released by BMH Rinteln and was still recovering from his motorbike crash (he loved his Ducati) and had been transferred from the Anti-Tanks into our Platoon, ending up sharing a room with me, but he was still on crutches. I think I owe him a belated apology as I tortured him
Wow, my old barracks block looks civilised in its modern se ng, not so bleak! 36 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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with Level 42's the "Chinese Way" which I played for hours over and over again, Lucy re-named it the "Chinese Bloody Way!" We used to cross the square behind Westminster Barracks passing the German Civilian Transport Regiment Guardroom, who fortunately for us just ignored our comings and goings, as we headed into town at night to go drinking (mostly on Simeon Strasse, better known as Sesame Street. We as a new Company did the Inner German Border Patrol, won all the inter Battalion competitions and as a Company at the time were just the best!
souvenirs after the German Veterans had held their annual remembrance day parade), these garages had been converted and were the British Primary School, oddly they still appear to be a school albeit German. All the playing fields, range and garages behind the barracks have been redeveloped and are now a housing estate, all the married quarters behind the barracks were auctioned o to locals 20 years ago. The junction of Ring Strasse and Porta Strasse, just outside the former barracks gates, is now a large traďŹƒc junction as a new road has been built to link it to the with the new road bridge in Porta Westfalica. The old road bridge that I first crossed
It was around this time that I met and later married my now ex-wife, (divorce only came after 14 years of marriage and two kids) and joined the newly formed Recce Platoon, another experiment, where the close Recce role was taken from the RAC and given to the infantry. We the Gunners and Commanders all had to attend the RAC Gunnery School up in Catterick, another part of the experiment to see if we could pass the course, we did of course! (This was years before the Warrior and its Rarden Cannon came into service). We then collected the CVR (T) Scimitars from 1 RTR up in The old Cookhouse and classrooms in Westminster Barracks. Wolfenbuettel on the Inner German in a white bus coming from Hannover airport back Border (Former border of course), they gave us all of their worse vehicles as we soon discovered, in 1980, is no more, pulled down after the new one spending more time parked by the side of the road or was built downriver. I have enclosed a few pictures breaking the tracks to be towed than racing around for those that want to know what the place now looks as we had hoped! I managed to avoid a move back like, sorry it was an overcast day and was getting to Clifton Barracks as a singly as I was now married dark as I got to town! Unfortunately I lost all my and lived at 16/6 Bunsen Strasse, Minden near the pictures from my time in the Rifle Depot, Winchester Melitta Bad. This is so I'm told, now Kleiner Moscow, and during my time in the Battalion, during my as once the British forces left all the flats were filled divorce, otherwise I would have done a before and by people from the East (Former Soviet Union), after, but if anybody has any pictures from 2 RGJ oddly the very people we thought we were there all in the early 1980's, Operation Crusader in 1980, those years to keep out! where we flew to Germany as reinforcements from Tidworth, playing the "Orange forces" working with Clifton Barracks is no more, it has been completely the US 82nd Airborne, West Belfast 1981-82, and demolished and replaced by a VW dealer (See Operation Lionheart in 1984 are just three examples, picture), all that is left is the new HQ building that but there was also Sennelager and Soltau almost was built in the far corner of the square, to the every year as well as BATUS in 1982, I would love right of the gym (see picture). All the garages are to see them. Best wishes to all the former Riflemen gone except for those next to the German War from back then! Memorial (for the previous Wehrmacht Engineer Regiment that had previously occupied Clifton Mark Turner (Former Rifleman) Barracks, from where Harry Payne obtained his JOURNAL 2013
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THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JEREMY KEYTE I have written a 52 page book to raise money for Care for Casualties. My book tells of my whole life including 40 years in the army and my 12 years with the Countryside Alliance. I graduated from RMA Sandhurst in February 1955 after which I joined the KRRC (60TH Rifles) later becoming RGJ and now The Rifles. I will highlight a few of my more interesting postings: My first posting was to Derna in North Africa at the time of the Suez crisis during which time we saw little action but spent much time enjoying leisure pursuits such as polo and shooting in the desert and a few operations. My next posting was Berlin where I was ADC to the General at the time the ‘wall’ went up – a very exciting time. We were then called at short notice to British Guiana to stop the various tribes killing each other. It was at this time that I acquired a macaw in regimental colours which was taught a lot of swear words by my batman. I then spent a year with the Royal Navy on board an aircraft carrier called HMS Victorious, commanded by a brilliant Australian sub-mariner, Capt. McIntosh who took his ship to Australia and the Far East. During this time I arranged various trips ashore, including driving in two land rovers across the Nullabor Plain and climbing Mt. Kinabalu, in Sabah. Having met my future wife, Juliet in Singapore, our next posting, as a couple was Malawi. This was a fantastic two-year posting, for which British troops were being sent out to the country to train up the Malawi Rifles. During this time, I led my men on a dangerous mission to track a phantom axeman, who was axing mud huts and their occupants in a most ghastly way. I was next posted to 1 RGJ in Celle, including a four month’s operational tour in Ulster. Having put up posters up with my face on them saying, “Help us to protect you,” the UDA changed this to “Help us to intern you.” I returned to Germany in 1977, to RAF Gutersloh, where I was GLO to the helicopter squadron, I was consequently awarded an MBE for liaising with the RAF and running a successful 2 week annual exercise. This is just a sample of what is in my book. I very hope you will buy a copy. All proceeds from the book will go to Care for Casualties, the Rifles charity for injured riflemen. The cost of the book is five pounds or more. Please make out your cheques to Care for Casualties and send them to J.V. Keyte, Wayside Cottage, Amberley, Stroud, Glos. GL5 5AA. The Care for Casualties appeal is the Rifle’s only charity, since its formation in 2007. The Rifles have lost over 60 rifleman and also 30 amputees and two who have been fully blinded and who will remain in neurological units for the rest of their lives. The main aim of the appeal is to enhance the quality of life for the casualties and also the bereaved families. 38 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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WHY THE POPPIES? The book by Peter Spira explains the origin of the Poppy becoming our national emblem of Remembrance. It is written for readers of all ages and is well timed as the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I in 1914 approaches. It covers World War I, World War II and the intervening years. With a Commendation by Field Marshal The Lord Bramall KG GCB OBE MC. To order the book visit www.rgjassociation.info. The cost of this book is £10.00 including £3.75 p&p, leaving £6.25 for the Charity. All profit from sales of this book will go to The Rifles “Care for Casualties” Appeal Fund.
Alamein nomination Retired police horse Alamein has continued to provide exemplary service for people despite retiring after 16 years service in the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch, Alamein has simply hung up his eye visor, nose guard and public order armour to undertake a more caring role working for the charity Caring For Life. After so many years policing the streets of London providing security for high profile ceremonial events and on other occasions being pelted with missiles including masonry and scaffolding during some of the capitals most serious disorder over the past 20 years Alamein has never wavered in his loyalty and dedication to the Alamein leading Mounted Branch Parade. humans he has spent his life serving. In May 2002 Alamein nearly lost his life when a football hooligan detonated an explosive pyrotechnic thunder flash underneath him following a Millwall versus Birmingham City football match at The Den in Bermondsey. The explosion caused Alamien to jump through a car window resulting in life threatening lacerations to arteries in his legs. He was taken to an equine hospital operating theatre where prompt treatment saved his life. Alamein returned to duty and continued to police football and other major sporting and public order events. Alamein could have been forgiven for displaying some nervousness on returning to duty but he remained courageous and continued to be a source of comfort to other horses during times of violence and trouble.
Alamein adopted by the RGJRA Alamein in his later police career was adopted by the Royal Green Jackets Association on line magazine who followed him though his policing duties and provided the police with an opportunity to promote some crime reduction advice to ex-servicemen and their families. Alamein retired from the police in June of 2013 and now helps a charity dealing with vulnerable people including ex-servicemen and woman suffering from post traumatic combat stress disorder. Alamein also assists with the treatment of children and young people who have survived sexual abuse and other horrific traumas. Caring For Life deal with many more people struggling with mental illnesses and other disabilities. The comfort and confidence gained by vulnerable people working around horses is immeasurable. Alamein has not only served with his body but he now serves with his kind and giving nature caring for those who society sometimes forgets. Alamein is the embodiment of all that animals who serve humans should be. Brave and kind asking nothing in return for all they give. Jon Taylor Police Sergeant JOURNAL 2013
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Oxford and Bucks Light Infantry In Cyprus 1956/7 Luck was on our side that day Each Battalion was assigned an area over which it carried out the tasks detailed in other articles. The Oxford and Bucks had a region extending from sea shore to the higher mountain peaks inland. I had been put in charge of the Mortar Platoon, which was somewhat under strength, on the day we were briefed to go into the high mountains, occupy a village school, and collaborate with the Paras, who had an area adjacent to ours. The aim was to flush out Eoka members who were believed to be in hides outside the remote mountain village. For Transport we had two Landrovers and an Austin K9 one ton lorry. Our small convoy, with personal kit for a week, set off without incident. My Landrover took the lead, followed by the second carrying Sgt. Towns and four Riflemen, with the K9 carrying fourteen Riflemen and haversacks at the rear. As usual the road surface changed from macadam to dirt as we progressed inland into the 40 | SWIFT AND BOLD
foothills. On entering the mountains the road, by then only one and a half vehicles wide, was cut out of the side of a gorge which became deeper as (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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we progressed. There was a sheer drop to the bottom of the gorge, I would guess over one hundred feet, where a thread of a stream glittered. We came to a sharp bend, first my Landrover, then Sgt. Towns’ went slowly round and continued on the still rising road. Then I realised the K9 had not appeared after rounding the bend. I stopped both Landrovers and as there was no room quickly to turn I and Sgt Towns, and the Riflemen, sprinted back to the bend. I feared the worst. All the men in the K9 lorry killed when it hit the bottom of the gorge. I cannot describe the relief I felt when we got to the bend. Although the K9 had left the road, and rolled, the one place where this would not cause a disaster was at the apex of the bend. The people who had cut the road bend had left a spur below the road edge. About twice the width and length of the K9. By sheer luck, the K9 had rolled on to that spur and stopped , rather than continuing into the gorge. The hoops and canvas top had kept the Riflemen in the lorry.
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A check revealed that only the driver had sustained injuries in the form of a scraped shin as he was flung about in his cab. He was game to continue. So too were the Riflemen, although their comments about the incident were quite colourful. We righted the lorry, drove it on to the track, and continued in convoy for the final mile. Mike Bullock.
Note: Michael very sadly passed away in hospital aged 80yrs old on the 4th of February 2014. He was a very keen member of Lightbobs and contributor of ar cles to the museum in recent mes. Michael served with pride in Cyprus during the 1950s. Editor JOURNAL 2013
Nick Bird: nick@nickybirddesign.com birdbattleďŹ eldtours.com
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THE RIFLES 1 and 2nd best No 2. 2 RIFLES have had a busy training year deploying contingents to Kenya and to Germany where they joined forces with 5 RIFLES to take part in Ex Bavarian Charger. 3 RIFLES have had similar hectic training schedule including running a JNCO’s cadre and they are currently providing the
Battalion Activities As a result of the drawdown in Afghanistan, 1 Rifles were stood down in the middle of the year from their planned Herrick Tour. Instead they have provided a small training team to Mali where they took over from the Royal Irish in September. Over the next 6 months the team’s role is to deliver intensive 10-week training slots to Malian units designed to develop skills and tactics from individual to battle group level. The training also gives the Malians a clear practical understanding of the standards of 4 Rifles Training in snow for their summer tour in Afghanistan! ethical conduct required of troops engaged in combat and counter-insurgency Falklands reinforcement company. operations. In spite of being stood down they have had a busy year. Highlights included a deployment 4 RIFLES deployed to Afghanistan in March, as to Kenya and two sniper pairs from 1 RIFLES part of 1 Mechanised Brigade, commanded by Brig sniper platoon taking top prizes in the Tri Service Rupert Jones formerly CO of 4 RIFLES. Acting sniper competition on Salisbury Plain. Shooting in an advisory role to the Afghan Army their role against their opposite numbers in the RAF and was to assist the progressive establishment of the Royal Marines, as well as the rest of the Army, 1 ANA as an independent and self-sufficient force RIFLES won best pair, second place pair, best No with sole responsibility for an increasing area of operations. Amongst some notable operations were forays into the Sangin and Nar e Saraj districts to back up Afghan Army led operations. Snipers from the battalion have done good work throughout the tour both in their own right and training Afghan army snipers. Mercifully the battalion has escaped without a single fatality on this deployment although there have been a number of minor WIA. 5 RIFLES have returned to their Armoured Infantry role in earnest, with cadres followed by work up exercises in the snow in March and subsequently at BATUS as part of the QDG battle 1 RIFLES Pre training for the Mali task. 42 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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group. 5 RIFLES Battle Group has completed its Foundation Training year with a Field Training Exercise, Exercise Bavarian Charger in Bavaria from 12 May - 8 Jun 13.
personnel. In addition to 5 RIFLES Riflemen, he Battle Group included B Coy 2 RIFLES from Ballykinler, a Close Air Defence Battery from the UK and Guns, Sappers and B Coy 1 PWRR, from Germany. The Live Firing was conducted at Joint Manoeuvre Training Command in Grafenwoer, which provided an excellent opportunity to develop Armour/Infan provided excellent infrastructure. On completion of the Live Firing, the Battle Group were fitted with simulated weaponssystems and pitted against the 1/4 Infantry of the US Army, who have been the local opposition down there for two years and know the ground intimately.
The Battle Group comprised of over 1,000
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4 RIFLES briefly back to Sangin.
6 RIFLES on exercise in Cyprus. JOURNAL 2013
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redundancy programme we need all the young men with Rifleman like qualities we can get.
The highlight of 6 RIFLES training year was a 2 week exercise in Cyprus with an amphibious landing and 7 RIFLES have been involved in providing reinforcements for Op Herrick as well as running an intensive recruiting campaign to meet their part in the projected target for a Reserve force of 30,000. They spent their annual camp in Denmark with the Danish Home Guard on Exercise Viking Star.
Change of Colonel Commandant General Sir Nicholas Parker retired as the first RIFLES Colonel Commandant this year and his great contribution to the establishment was marked by the commissioning of a portrait by Andrew Festing. He is succeeded by Lt General Nick Carter.
5 RIFLES Bavarian Charger.
Recruiting
Remembrance Sunday 2013
With the privatisation of recruiting in the shape of the Recruiting Public Private (RPP) partnership we have had a nervous year watching for the anticipated dire consequences of closing some of our most productive recruiting offices (South Shields is a particular example) and the removal of any RIFLES presence from any recruiting office north of a line from Doncaster to Shrewsbury. As a result of anticipating a crash in our recruiting and taking remedial action, The Rifles have weathered the initial storm in reasonable shape. However we continue to look for new ways of both maintaining contact with potential recruits and making sure our profile in The North East in particular is maintained. Old comrades of our forming regiments have a role to play in keeping our profile in the forefront of the public and encouraging friends and family members to choose The Rifles. In spite of the
For the second year running and on another glorious autumn day, The Rifles had a marching contingent at the Cenotaph parade in Whitehall on Remembrance Sunday. The contingent consisted of 40 Riflemen, who were joined by the mother of Lt Daniel Clack (KIA 12 Aug 11 in Afghanistan) and Corporal Ri
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The Rifles Casualty Capability We continue to do much to support our veterans, who are leaving the Army support cocoon, to take their place in the civilian system. The Rifles Casualty Capability (RCC) aims to ensure that all wounded Riflemen are given every opportunity to realise their full potential whether within the (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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Lt-Col Mike Smith, RCO and Corporal Ricky Fergusson MC on Remembrance Sunday, London.
Army or in civilian life and if the latter, are given assistance towards their transition out of the Army and beyond. Lt Col (Retd) Mike Smith, the Rifles Casualty Officer, co-ordinates the RCC continues to work closely with the Army Recovery Capability
zand other Service charities to ensure the Regiment is able to influence Army thinking on casualty care. Part of his remit also covers the enduring requirement to provide support to the families of the wounded and to the families of the fallen. He is doing an outstanding job and we are looking to incorporate his role into the core capability of the central RHQ hub. Our veterans have also taken on a wide variety of adventurous and sporting challenges notable amongst them being Kyle Baker, who was taken ill whilst sailing from Rio to Cape Town on the Jubilee Sailing trust vessel The Lord Nelson and ended up marooned on Tristan Da Cunha whilst his condition was stabilised. C/Sjt Danny Spender, a double amputee, narrowly failed to complete the gruelling 125 mile Devises to Westminster canoe race which has 77 portages. Maj (retd) John Pearson Assistant Regimental Secretary Communications RHQ The Rifles (To be con nued on next page)
The portrait by Andrew Festing, PRP MBE, also a Rifleman, was commissioned by the regiment to mark General Parker’s retirement and his great contribution, as the first Colonel Commandant, to the formation of The Rifles and the subsequent development of the regiment over its first 6 years of existence. JOURNAL 2013
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Danny Spender on the Devises to Westminster Canoe Race. Editorial note: In the New Year Honours List 2014 Lt Gen Nicholas Patrick Carter, CBE, DSO was awarded a KCB.
2 RIFLES 2013 has been a year of Foundation Training for 2 RIFLES. They year finished with all the companies having been trained and tested overseas and ready to launch into our Pre-deployment cycle before our final Afghanistan tour in 2015. Rather than all the companies training together they were mostly divided up amongst the other units in 20th Armoured Brigade, supporting them in their overseas training exercises. It began with A and C Companies in Kenya with the First Battalion the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment. For the six week exercise C Coy assisted with the ranges and acted as enemy, with A Coy excelling as a Rifle Company under the 1 PWRR Headquarters. Riflemen often found themselves pitted against their friends and colleagues in the laser-modified blank firing battle. B Company, not to be missed out, then deployed to a new armoured exercise in Bavaria. It was similar to MedMan, with the team from Suffield coming to deliver an armoured manoeuvre exercise on an American training area. The Riflemen found themselves well used by an Armoured battlegroup headquarters who found themselves in serious need of light troops both in the urban environment and in defence. In the mean time the rest of the Battalion were looking forward to Canada in the summer, and individuals were being sent on a handful Short Term Training Teams. These involved mainly SNCOs going to Africa and the Middle East as part of the Army’s growing Defence Engagement tasks, assisting the forces of UK allies with expertise. Those who went had a very productive time and the Battalion is looking forward to more such opportunities. (To be con nued on next page) 46 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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Other bands of Riflemen were able to get away for interesting events: for instance we were also able to exercise a very warmly supported Freedom of Ross on Wye, a platoon went to the Army Operational Shooting Competition in Bisley and two Riflemen entered the Army 100, others supported Exeter University Officer Training Corps’ summer camp. In July and August 2 RIFLES BHQ and two companies went to Alberta with a vast slice of 20 Brigade, in what was the largest exercise most of the Battalion have been on. Several thousand people and hundreds of armoured vehicles honed their skills on the heat of the plains, which was deceptively boggy at times. We could count on one hand the number of people in Battalion who could remember the last time they had been on a Medicine Man as the RGJ in 2002 in the snow. Again acting as the enemy, now to the Queen’s Royal Hussars, C Coy and I Coy tested the Blue Forces at every turn. The Battalion came away with a green light for operating as a unit as part of a Brigade, and a clean bill of health to start training for Afghanistan. We were also able to celebrate Salamanca Day in the field with an entertaining, rousing reenactment.
On Salamanca Day 2013.
After summer leave there was an opportunity to take a breath and broaden our training. Some Riflemen went to Cyprus where one of our very qualified JNCOs trained them in SCUBA diving. Folk competed in the Infantry in sailing and skiing. A team went with Maj Bill Kelsall to Everest Base Camp, with a bugle played there on Remembrance Day. Boxing training resumed, with inter-Coy Boxing in November. The team reached the Army Semi Finals last year and several boxers are Army standard. The Rugby team too remains in the very highest places in the Army Premiership, amongst the Welsh teams of course: the Welsh Guards and Royal Welsh. 2014 will see A Coy deploy to Bastion in Helmand to train all soldiers as they arrive into theatre; later in the year much of the rest of the unit will go to Kabul in support of the new Officer Academy and other British interests. There will also be a unit move to Lisburn this summer to keep us busy! Capt M C Shawyer JOURNAL 2013
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THE SOLDIERS OF OXFORDSHIRE MUSEUM
The original Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry museum was created in 1925 in Cowley Barracks in Oxford and was moved by the TA Association to the TA Centre in Slade Park Barracks in Headington in 1968 after the formation of the Royal Green Jackets. From then it included an Oxfordshire Yeomanry element in the form of a small reserve collection and the late John Willoughby was curator there for many years. It remained in Slade Park, admittedly rather hidden away, until 2008 when Oxford City Council took back the site for housing. Reprovision arrangements were made for a new TA Centre in Abingdon but not for the museum and so its contents were boxed for storage and an uncertain future. Enter into the story at this point Colonel Robin Evelegh, well known to many Green Jackets, and Colonel Tim May of the Oxfordshire Yeomanry (Queens Own Oxfordshire Hussars – the QOOH) and also known to Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Green Jacket Territorials because of his Eastern Wessex TAVRA work in the 1980s and 1990s. As senior figures in these 2 county regiments they saw the need for a home for the collections of the two regiments and their archives. Thanks to their bold and imaginative initiative the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Trust (SOFO) was formed as a partnership between these 2 county regiments with the extremely ambitious plan to find a site and build a new museum. We continue to see this partnership venture as crucial to the long term success of SOFO. General Bob Pascoe was its first chairman. 48 | SWIFT AND BOLD
The cost of such a private venture was daunting especially as the effects of the current recession were biting hard and Government funding was never an option. Wonderfully however private donors have enabled us to raise the necessary funds to build and, imaginatively, Oxfordshire County Council made available a site at a peppercorn rent in the grounds of the county museum in Woodstock. As the photographs in this article show the building is now complete and SOFO are about to fit-out
SOFO museum in Woodstock.
the new museum with a view to opening it to the public in the early Summer. As we go to press the archives of the two regiments are installed in the new building and, staffed by a gallant band of volunteers, the research centre is up and running. It is a matter of great sadness to all of us engaged in the project that Robin Evelegh died in 2010 and never saw his dream of a new home for the collection of the 43rd and 52nd realised. (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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For most of the time since the closure of Slade Park most of the artefacts from the old museum have been stored at Upper Heyford on the old USAF base there. Since 2008 (?) however, a small part of the collection, together with the archives, were lodged in temporary office space on the edge of Woodstock and that is where a small team under Major Hugh Babington Smith as project manager, looked after the archives, built up our teams of volunteer researchers and set about raising the additional funds needed. For many years ownership of the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry museum collection had been split between the Royal Green Jackets Museum at Winchester and the Oxf and Bucks Lt Inf Museum Trust in Oxford. With the closure of Slade Park the last of the Oxf and Bucks Lt Inf collection was finally transferred to the RGJ Museum Trust but the archives and a substantial part of the artefacts remain in Woodstock under the care of SOFO. The Oxfordshire Yeomanry museum collection remains in the ownership of their regimental trust, but is also in the care of SOFO. The strapline beneath the SOFO logo, Conflict and County, is central to our determination to be a key player in the county’s recognition of its heritage.
There are no other military museums in Oxfordshire but up and down the land there are plenty of under visited regimental museums. As an entirely privately funded enterprise and with no prospect of State financial assistance the SOFO museum must have broad appeal throughout the county if it is to become an essential element in the local educational system and if it is to attract on-going funding from independent grant making trusts. Out of this the idea was born to use the museum to tell stories of conflict as it has affected the county and its people over recorded history. Located in the heart of the country and with evidence close by of the Romans, the Civil War and the Cold War this presents us with fascinating opportunities to look at a vast span of history. Central to it however will always be the collections of the county regiments and their timelines will be the first stories that will confront every visitor as he enters the museum. The National Army Museum and the Imperial War Museum have endorsed the SOFO aims and approach as a pattern for military museums of the future. Like most military museums in the land 2014 will be a busy year for SOFO. Fitting-out the new museum is due to be completed by the end of May and we shall open our doors to the public after that with a formal opening splash in the Autumn. In addition to our Research Centre, the new museum will boast a modern archive and collections store, display galleries and a substantial meeting, conference and entertainment area. Running around the building we shall have a cloister gallery which we see being used for temporary exhibitions, both from the stored collection and visiting displays (national touring exhibitions and local artists bringing an exciting dimension to our ongoing stories of Conflict and County). The first exhibition in this area will cover the first 2 years of World War I – “Oxfordshire Remembers the Great War” – and already our researchers report increased demand from local historians, families and schools keen to find out more about their WW1 past. The Oxfordshire Museum, just opposite the Bear Hotel in the middle of the town and only 400m from the front gate of Blenheim Palace, already attracts a large number of visitors annually. We believe that the new SOFO museum will reinvigorate the whole site and attract new audiences drawn to the unique stories, objects and archives that we have to offer. The displays in the galleries will be a great resource
Canon Adrian Daffern, Rector of the benefice of Blenheim, blessing the new building and the SOFO enterprise. JOURNAL 2013
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for families, young children, school visits, life- long learners and keen social and military researchers who want to learn more about the impact of conflict upon the county. Equally conflict continues to affect the county today with the presence of several military installations and units at bases such as Bicester, Abingdon (Dalton Barracks is there and also Edward Brooks Barracks, the home of A Company 7 Rifles) and the RAF at Brize Norton. By placing key moments from history alongside current military actions, the museum will play a part in keeping this important heritage alive. In addition to the Great War, our opening displays will include stories of: • The Battles of the Oxf and Bucks Lt Inf: Thanks to the chronicles of the Regiment and the support of the RGJ Museum Trust in Winchester we have a rich archive on the history of the regiment, with highlights from Bunker Hill, Waterloo, Nonne Boschen, and Pegasus Bridge; momentous times indeed with personal stories from letters home, diary extracts and newspaper reports. Discovering what life was like for a rifleman and what he went through give us an image of a regiment brought together through training and leadership to carry out remarkable feats of arms and endurance in the defence of the realm. •
Churchill: Winston Churchill was an enthusiastic and committed Territorial and a long serving officer in the QOOH. He commanded the Henley squadron 1905-14 – even his appointment as Home Secretary 1910-11 did not get in the way of this! – and was Honorary Colonel at the time of his death in 1965. He was born at Blenheim and is buried at Bladon, close to Woodstock.
•
Airpower: In Oxfordshire the Royal Air Force have a very significant presence both today and historically. We have to hand stories from the days of the Royal Flying Corps, the air reconnaissance flights from RAF Benson which were so crucial to the success of D Day and the Cold War. This includes details about the nuclear armed F111s based in the county until the late 1980s making Oxfordshire a target facing total destruction for thirty years during the cold war, a fact many didn’t realise at the time and that more have
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Winston Churchill in the QOOH.
forgotten now! •
Modern Conflict: It is important in SOFO that visitors can see a direct line from the conflict stories of the past to those Services people serving and working in Oxfordshire today and especially to our modern regiment The Rifles. This display will feature accounts from serving military personnel and their families about what life is like both on the frontline and waiting at home during military tours. Museums are not only about recording the past but also about bringing the rich and varied voices of today’s military community to a larger stage and providing the framework for collecting modern day accounts of daily life. Such accounts are of course the historical archive of the future.
Volunteers have long been a vital part of SOFO in research, staff support and exhibition planning and we are always keen to hear from anyone with a real interest in people and heritage and can spare some time, whether with visitors, assisting with our education and outreach capabilities or working with the collections. As we prepare to open the museum during 2014 we are especially keen to hear from (To be con nued on next page) JOURNAL 2013
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anybody who might have a little time to volunteer to help us run our new building. We very much hope that former Green Jackets will be interested in supporting this new ‘regimental museum with a difference’ and will think about getting involved or joining the Friends of SOFO. For details please visit our website or contact Ursula Corcoran, our Museum Director: Ursula Corcoran museumdirector@sofo.org.uk
Some of the Oxf and Bucks Lt Inf research team at SOFO. From leŌ: James Pearson, Robert Drummond-Hay, Michele Baston and Steve Berridge.
Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum. Harrison’s Lane, Woodstock OX20 1SS T: 01993 813832 www.sofo.org.uk The Soldiers of Oxfordshire Trust is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (No. 7842383) and a registered charity (No. 1145408)
THE RIFLES BENEVOLENT TRUST General All members of the regimental family, past or present, should be alert for cases of hardship, which need and want assistance, and take the time and trouble to bring these, in confidence, to the attention to their local Rifles Regional Office, RHQ in Winchester or appropriate Battalion Welfare Office. Application of Income – Eligibility The income and capital of the Trust can be used to give assistance in any of the following cases: a. The relief in deserving cases of those eligible who are in distress as a result of wounds, sickness or other causes beyond their control. b. The relief of widows and dependent children of deceased officers, riflemen or soldiers in needy circumstances. c. The maintenance, education or, advancement in life of children of deceased officers and soldiers for whom no parent or relative is able to make provision. d. The granting of allowances or financial help JOURNAL 2013
e.
(by way of a grant) in the cases of distress to officers, riflemen or soldiers, widows or dependent children to assist them in temporary difficulties or enable them to gain suitable employment. The granting of relief in cases of hardship or distress to dependants of officers, riflemen or soldiers, whether relatives or not.
Requests for assistance a. Applications from those serving should be made through the chain of command. There is an application form (Rifles Benev 1) which is passed to the Commanding Officer for his recommendation and onward to Regimental Headquarters for action by the Assistant Regimental Secretary Finance. b. Ex-Officers, Riflemen and Soldiers or Civilian Dependants. Individuals should make applications in the first instance to the nearest office of SSAFA Forces Help or The Royal British Legion (Welfare Agencies) who will send a report to RHQ or the appropriate office. SWIFT AND BOLD | 51
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GREEN JACKET CLOSE 16th January 2014 1.
Green Jacket Close consists of 21 units off Stanmore Lane, Winchester. Details are: a. 3 x semi-detached 2 bedroom houses, built in 1904 b. 10 x 1 bedroom flats, built in 1904 and converted in the 1960s c. 2 x 1 bedroom flats, 2 x 2 bedroom flats, and 4 x maisonettes, built in 1966
2.
Update of residents: a. Marital status There are 26 residents consisting of: Couples x6 Widows x2 Widowers x4 Divorced x4 Separated x3 Single x1 b. Age groups of residents: 2 in 50s 11 in 60s 8 in 70s 3 in 80s 2 in 90s c. The 24 residents' ages add up to 1,859 years. The average age being 71 years. d. Regiments: 1 x Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry 3 x King's Royal Rifle Corps 2 x Rifle Brigade 3 x Rifle Brigade/Royal Green Jackets 4 x Green Jacket Brigade/Royal Green Jackets 7 x Royal Green Jackets
3.
Eligibility Green Jacket Close accommodation will be let to: a. A married couple, civil partnership or partnership (of not less than 5 years standing in the latter case) where the qualifying ex serviceman is aged 60-70 years (except in special cases), and subject in the case of the ex serviceman to service qualifications in The Rifles or one of its forming or antecedent Regiments. b. Any individual aged 60-70 years (except in special cases) who has the requisite service qualification in The Rifles or one of its forming or antecedent Regiments. c. A Regimental widow, civil partner or partner aged 60-70 years (except in special cases), subject to the necessary service and marriage or partnership qualifications.
4.
Application a. It is quite acceptable to apply to be put on the waiting list before the age of 60 is reached. Applicants should apply to the Rifles Secretary Finance, RHQ The Rifles, Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8TS. b. Applicants should bear in mind that the homes are covered by a Trust Deed, regulated by Charity Commissioners. As such, the Rifles Benevolent Trust is required to allocate vacancies to those in need of assistance.
5.
Charges Applicants should be aware that all properties are unfurnished and residents pay their own Council Tax, water rates and utility bills and also a maintenance charge of approximately ÂŁ65.00 per week.
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IN MEMORIAM
OBITUARY NOTICES 2013 Ambrose, C/Sgt Ken MID Warwick, Capt The Hon David Cecil Symington, Michael Douglas Kinrade, Steve Webster, Andrew Lewer, Charles LIoyd, Johnny Ginley, Brian Glassett, Tommy Worsley, General Sir Richard, GCB OBE Berry ,Chris Hill, Cpl Keith McCabe, QMSI George Marafono, Fred MBE O’Brien, Sgt Mick Ryan, Major Christopher Higgins, Lt Col F H G Connor, Don Taylor, Major David MC Chadwick, Dave Tubridy, Dave Miller, R S Smith, John William Cornell, Brigadier JR CBE Ramage, Mark Beresford Manley, James Blair, Sgt Ramsey Eadie, Frederick Danby, George Evans, C/Sgt Tom Collett, Major Ray Higson, Horace Boles, Sir Jack MBE DL Causton, Derek Dike, C C Pepper, C/Sgt Brian Roberts, Sjt Michael Williams, Capt F A MBE De-Friend, Bob Elsbury, Frederick Herzfeld, Fred
3GJ 3RGJ 1RGJ KRRC RB 2RGJ 3RGJ 2KRRC 2/3 RGJ 2RGJ 1RGJ RB/Royals 2RGJ 4RGJ. APTC - Attached 3 RGJ SAS 1RB 3GJ 3RGJ 3 RGJ, later commissioned in TAVR OBLI 2GJ 2RGJ 1OBLI 3RGJ 3RGJ RB 2KRRC RB/RGJ QVR/KRRC 3RGJ 4RGJ OBLI/3RGJ/SAS 3RGJ RB/3RGJ KRRC 2/3RGJ RB 3RGJ RB 3RGJ 1/3/5RGJ KRRC/2GJ/2RGJ 1/2 KRRC 2GJ 2 Rangers/9KRRC 1RGJ
9th January 2013 22nd January 2013 25th January 2013 1st February 2013 2nd February 2013 7th February 2013 10th February 2013 10th February 2013 21st February 2013 23rd February 2013 25th February 2013 18th March 2013 Date not confirmed 28th March 2013 3rd April 2013 5th April 2013 9th April 2013 11th April 2013 13th April 2013 14th April 2013 Date not confirmed 26th April 2013 4th May 2013 5th May 2013 22nd May 2013 30th May 2013 Date not confirmed 30th May 2013 10th June 2013 19th June 2013 24th June 2013 24th June 2013 1st July 2013 10th July 2013 Date not confirmed 19th July 2013 31st July 2013 1st August 2013 10th August 2013 Date not confirmed Date not confirmed (To be con nued on next page)
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(Con nued from previous page) Hennessy, Nicholas Robert Morrish, Geoff Pickford, Lt Col Anthony Crook, Dave Beerman, John Greenwood, Major P C Swift, C/Sgt Patrick Jarrey, Band Master A M Hands, Tony Gerahty, Colonel Peter Echlin CBE Baron Plunket, Captain Robin Rathmore Holland, L/Cpl Paul Bailey, Sgt F GJ MM Gillman, John MM Kingsmill, Corporal Gordon Harold Walter MM Hughes, Colin Lamb, Cpl Peter Fullick, Major Roy Francis
3RGJ RB/3RGJ LI/1RGJ/Rifles 1RGJ RB 3RGJ RB 3RGJ 2/3RGJ/Royal Irish RB/3GJ/3RGJ 2 RGJ OBLI/1GJ RB 3RGJ KRRC KRRC RB 1RGJ 2GJ 2RGJ RB/OBLI
2nd September 2013 16th September 2013 24th September 2013 30th October 2013 12th October 2013 15th October 2013 31st October 2013 2nd November 2013 6th November 2013 15th November 2013 16th November 2013 1st December 2013 Date not confirmed Date not confirmed 5th December 2013 5th December 2013 15th December 2013 26th December 2013
LEST WE FORGET “They shall grow not old, As we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn; At the going down of the sun and in the morning; We will remember them.” The brief information given above is supplemented by full Obituary entries on the Royal Green Jackets web site`In Memoriam` Bulletin Board at http://63196.activeboard.com/forum.spark?forumID=63196 54 | SWIFT AND BOLD
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