Issue No. 12 December 2015
The 'Peacetime Christmas' Issue
In this issue: ◆
Christmas in the Trenches
A historical perspective on Yuletide trench life during WWI ◆
Robbie Clark
97-year-old WWII veteran on being greeted by Rommel and surviving as a P.O.W. ◆
Meet your BLOs
We delve in to the minds of our Briefing & Liaison Officers, five years after their introduction to our Charity ◆
Interview: Glenn Haughton
We talk to the new Army Sergeant Major about his role and running the London Marathon for our Charity
Editor’s Letter Welcome to the first ever Christmas issue of FrontLine magazine. It gives me great pleasure to be writing this letter having just completed my first year at ABF The Soldiers’ Charity – what a fantastic 12 months it has been! It has also been an extraordinary year of anniversaries: amongst others we have seen the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta; the 200th anniversary of Waterloo; a continuation of the WWI Centenary commemorations; the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and the 70th anniversary of both VE Day and VJ Day. Fittingly, there have been some magnificent commemorations of these events throughout the year, as well as our very own Red, White & Blue Day, which encouraged over 120,000 school pupils to attend school dressed in red, white and blue (see p4 to find out more). Christmas has always been a time for and togetherness and, as we approach since the close of combat operations Afghanistan, the subsequent rebasing
reflection a year in of troops
back to the UK means that there will be many military families looking forward to spending a long-awaited Christmas together this year. However, it is important that we acknowledge those still called away due to operational commitments this Christmas. Indeed, on p6, we look back at what life was like for soldiers who spent the festive period away on the frontline during WWI. Also in this issue is our interview with recently appointed Army Sergeant Major Glenn Haughton, where we find out a bit more about his unique new role in the Army (p24), and the humbling recollections of Robbie Clark, a 97-year-old P.O.W. who survived Hitler’s 1,000-mile death march (p10-11). I hope you enjoy reading this issue – all that remains is for me to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year on behalf of The Soldiers’ Charity. Thank you for your continued support
Tom Cuff-Burnett
Contents 02 National News
09 The life of a bomb disposal expert
16 Celebrating five years of our BLOs
A round-up of some of the national news highlights
Kim Hughes tells us his story behind being awarded the George Cross
04 Regional News
10 “For you, the war is over.”
On their fifth anniversary, we catch up with our hard-working team of BLOs to find out what makes them tick
A snapshot of activity from our regional offices
Robbie Clark recounts his remarkable story of survival as a P.O.W. during WWII
06 Christmas in the Trenches We look in to what Christmas was like on the frontline during WWI
08 David Thackeray, 1937-2015 A tribute to Charity beneficiary, Captain Dave Thackeray
14 SPEAR 17: Antarctica Calling We give a sneak preview in to the upcoming South Pole expedition raising money for our Charity
20 Revisited: Mark Harding Shot in the neck by a Taliban sniper; climbing mountains two years later. Former Lance Corporal Mark talks to us about defying medical belief
24 Interview: WO1 (ASM) Glenn Haughton We get the ‘inside track’ from the new Army Sergeant Major
Front cover image: ‘Household Cavalry & Band’, reproduced by kind permission of Daniel Rodgers/Image Source/GBCC
Chief Executive’s Welcome Whenever I review our periodic magazine FrontLine I am always struck by the sheer breadth and variety of circumstances of those who need our support - and indeed of those who choose to support this Charity. This edition includes articles on three serving soldiers, each of whom demonstrate the qualities that make the British Army a national institution; it covers a variety of support we provide to younger veterans and it reminds us of the difficulties much older veterans can face. All are connected by that thread of ‘Service’ to the Nation. Over the last year this Charity has had a very good year, spending well over £7 million on directly supporting more than 5,000 individuals and families plus funding some 72 delivery charities, which provide support on our collective behalf. But these bald facts tell only part of the story. We collectively spend a huge amount of effort co-ordinating and prioritising this necessary support using a range of tools at our disposal. So for example, funding emergency accommodation for those who find themselves homeless; funding charities which then provide more stable accommodation for the next phase and then making grants to the individuals affected, or to
those charities which support them. This approach provides a long term solution, which invariably revolves around a stable home, an appropriate job and a supportive family; and we do all of this in close co-operation with the Army and its Regimental charities. We are the Army’s National Charity and as such it is vital we are in this for the long haul. In the current context of entirely appropriate greater scrutiny of all charities it is important we operate in a transparent and appropriate fashion: ‘Getting quietly, efficiently and modestly on with it’ feels like a pretty good slogan for us. Our long-term stability and ability to bring substantial resources to bear in short order remains ever important - not least as we appear to be lurching into a further period of international instability, which can so easily impact on the Army and its people. A heartfelt thank you for all your support – and our very best wishes for a happy and peaceful Christmas. Martin Rutledge Chief Executive of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity
How we’re helping those in need Last financial year we spent £7.75 million on delivering grants to more than 5,000 soldiers, veterans and their immediate families, and provided funding to 72 charities that delivered specialist support on our collective behalf. Below is a breakdown of our grants by principal purpose.
£2.4m Housing Tackling housing and homelessness issues and supporting those specialist organisations that provide support to Army veterans.
£2.33m Wellbeing Ensuring our resources enhance the lives of those in need to avoid hardship and enjoy independence and dignity.
£1.01m Employment & Training Support to individuals, especially the Wounded, Injured & Sick (WIS) and organisations providing education and specialist employment advice.
£0.85m Mobility Assistance to veterans disabled as a result of their service.
£0.62m Elderly Care Support to individuals and organisations providing specialist care to elderly veterans.
£0.54m Family Support on bereavement, mentoring, respite breaks and much more. 01
National News: some examples of what we have been up to HAC1537 Partnership In May 2015, The Soldiers’ Charity agreed a new charitable partnership with the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) called the HAC1537 Fund. The Fund, which draws inspiration from the HAC’s founding year, aims to raise money and awareness of our work with HAC members, the Regiment and the wider community. We are working closely with the HAC to create events for members, as well as adding fundraising opportunities to their existing activities. Sean Crane OBE, Chief Executive of the HAC, commented on the
KartForce – Team BRIT KartForce is a pioneering charity set up to introduce injured ex-Service personnel in to the exciting world of Motorsport through Karting. Their most recent project is Team BRIT (British Racing Injured Troops): an attempt to become the first team of injured troops – or drivers with disabilities – to compete in the world famous Le Mans 24-hr race. Our Charity provided KartForce with an initial grant to help them provide more Karting courses for injured veterans, as well as raise awareness
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partnership: “We are delighted to be working with The Soldiers’ Charity – it will be a genuine partnership with mutual benefits. Raising money for soldiers and veterans is absolutely what we should be encouraging our members to do.”
If you’d like to find out more about the calendar of events or the partnership itself, please contact Bernie Critchley on 0207 811 3201 or email
bcritchley@soldierscharity.org
of their work. We have also agreed a seperate sponsorship deal, and our logo is being displayed on the side of the car in which they will race during the Le Mans 24-hr, which will boost our profile within the Army community and wider public. Dave Player, founder and CEO of KartForce, said “Motorsport has given these lads – and many others in KartForce – a massive boost in life. It’s been the catalyst that has given them new motivation and determination, which has helped encourage them to re-build their lives. This is what we want to show others,
especially disabled people and people suffering from depression, PTSD and other psychological issues. The support from organisations like The Soldiers’ Charity helps us to show that these lads are living proof of individuals that have turned a life-changing incident around, re-built their life and achieved beyond everyone’s wildest expectations.”
For more information, visit kartforce.org or
teambrit.co.uk
Waterloo Uncovered We are delighted to be supporting Waterloo Uncovered; a genuinely groundbreaking project that is giving veterans – especially those who have been discharged from the Army with physical or mental health difficulties – the chance to join a team of archaeologists who are excavating the area of the Battle of Waterloo, in Belgium. Our funding has enabled the project to open up more opportunities for veterans who
Army Cycling As part of our Charity’s support for the serving Army, we have initiated a sponsorship agreement with the Army Cycling Union (ACU) for their 2015/16 race season. The new team kit, which was launched last month, now carries our Charity logo and we will have a significant presence at a number of the race meets throughout the season. ACU Chairman, Colonel Stuart Williams,
Turn to Starboard Turn to Starboard (T2S) uses sail training to support Armed Forces personnel affected by military operations. They help serving and retired personnel and their families readjust to normal life by offering training courses, sailing trips on skippered yachts and volunteer opportunities across a wide variety of roles. Beneficiaries gain tangible
have been affected by their service in more recent conflicts. Founders Mark Evans and Charles Foinette both have archaeological experience and Mark was medically discharged from the Army with mental health issues, so they have a unique perspective. The value the project adds to the history of Waterloo is huge and, more importantly, will allow those veterans involved to reap the very real therapeutic benefits of being outside, learning a new skill and being part of a successful team.
commented on the partnership: “We are proud to be partnering with the National Charity of the Army for the upcoming season. Their funding will enable us to enter more races than ever before, as well as help to nurture and develop the many talented Army cyclists in our ranks. Additionally, it is important that our soldiers are immersed in the Charity and this sponsorship agreement will enable this to occur on a sporting front.”
experiences and expert training in a supportive and unique environment. Training courses focus specifically on resettlement and reintegration after leaving the Army, and The Soldiers’ Charity has funded the T2S programme to make more places available to soldiers who have had particular difficulties as a result of their service. This gives more service leavers the chance to gain internationally recognised qualifications
and the opportunity to begin a new civilian career as a Yachtmaster. Shaun Pascoe, founder and CEO of T2S said: “The support of The Soldiers’ Charity has been invaluable to Turn to Starboard, enabling us to provide sailing opportunities and qualifications up to Yachtmaster Offshore to soldiers affected by military operations and the unique nature of Service life.” 03
Regional News: some examples of what we have been up to Schoolchildren remember ‘The Few’ in this year’s Red, White & Blue Day Red, White & Blue Day is our national fundraising initiative for schools, run annually in partnership with our two national Service charity counterparts; the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. This year, the campaign used the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain as its focus, with specially crafted lesson plans
Bedfordshire Sportive The Bedfordshire Sportive continues to go from strength to strength. This year’s event attracted 500 riders, making it the largest event of its type in the county. Having started just three years ago, Race Organiser Jacqui Sage-Passant, a stalwart volunteer fundraiser for our Charity, has done an exceptional job to get the event to where it is today: “The popularity of this event has been overwhelming, and I can’t thank all
65 years of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo The first Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (REMT) took place in 1950, with just eight events in the show programme. Since then, more than 14 million people have attended the show, with this year’s audience exceeding 220,000 visitors. The Tattoo has been a hugely generous supporter of The Soldiers’ Charity for many years. In the
Revision Challenge This year’s Revision Challenge – a fundraising challenge for cadet detachments across the UK – was won by 16 (Beaconsfield) Platoon, Buckinghamshire ACF Detachment. Through their sterling effort and the combined fundraising activity of all the other cadet teams across the country, the Challenge raised a total of over £52,000 for our Charity this year. 04
and an educational video sent out to schools who registered. The day itself took place on 9th October and, at the time of writing, the funds raised have exceeded £46,000, with over 425 schools and 140,000 pupils taking part.
Next Year’s Red, White & Blue Day will take place on 14 October 2016. Visit redwhiteblueday.co.uk for more information
those who have taken part enough. Their support, and the generous support of our sponsors and partners, is vital in enabling the Charity to continue its fantastic work, and I’m proud to be a part of this great event.”
Registration is open for the 2016 event, visit soldierscharityride.co.uk for more information.
last 10, it has donated more than £1.4 million, £220,000 of which came from this year alone. The grant has helped us by part-funding support to 11 delivery charities and many individual cases of need in Scotland. We are also allocated one of the Army’s VIP boxes every year to entertain major donors, volunteers and other guests – again, a substantial sum when added up over the decades. We are extremely grateful to the REMT for their continued support, and look forward to working together for many years to come.
Reception, Beating Retreat and supper at Chatsworth House, Derbyshire On the 3rd September 2015, an exceptional black tie event was hosted at Chatsworth House by our East Midlands team. The night comprised a drinks
Bentley shows their support for the annual Abbeystead shoot The annual clay pigeon shoot, which takes place on the Abbeystead Estate in Lancashire owned by the Duke of Westminster, was this year held on 6th June 2015. The shoot is organised by Samuelson Wylie, a PR, Marketing & Events company and, after previously being sponsored by Breitling, was taken over by Bentley Motors Ltd for this year’s event.
reception, a Beating Retreat by The Band of The Royal Engineers and dinner in the Chatsworth Carriage Restaurant. In attendance were The Lord Lieutenant, the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, the High Sheriff, county civics and avid Derbyshire supporters, alongside Edwina Currie as special guest speaker. 197 guests attended and, including the raffle and auction, the event raised over £7,600.
For the past five years, the Duke of Westminster has requested that all profits from the charity auction are to be donated to our Charity, which this year raised a staggering £53,000. A huge thanks to Phil Naylor, Jim Duffy and the rest of the North West team for creating this excellent relationship.
The 2016 event will take place on 7 May. For more information, email ellie@contactswa.com
Carrington Drum The 2015 Carrington Drum, our annual fundraising challenge for all Regular and Reserve Army units, has been won by the Army Training Regiment (Winchester). The team raised money through a number of activities, including an abseil off the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, a 24-hour box-a-thon and a 600km bike spin-a-thon. 3 PWRR finished as runners up, and joint third place went to both 11 Training Battalion REME and F Company Scots Guards. This year the Carrington Drum raised more than £370,000 for our Charity, so we’d like to say a huge thanks to all those involved.
Montgomery Bowl In June, the inaugural Montgomery Bowl was presented to Kiren Sharma in recognition of his exceptional support for our Charity. The Bowl, kindly donated by Mappin and Webb, will be awarded annually to an individual, or individuals, who have been recognised as having made an outstanding contribution to our regional fundraising. Kiren is a longtime supporter and sponsor of our
Charity and has played a leading role in the Berkshire Annual Big Curry, held in Reading, which generates significant funds every year. He received the Montgomery Bowl from our Chief of Staff, Brigadier (Retd) Robin Bacon (far right), in front of a large crowd at another Charity event, which Kiren had organised to raise funds for Gurkhas and their families affected by Nepal’s earthquake. This has been quite a year for Kiren Sharma, as he has also been awarded the MBE. 05
FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
Christmas in the Trenches The popular image of Christmas during World War One is that of the Christmas Truce of 1914. Along small parts of the British Sector of the Western Front in France and Flanders, groups of British and German soldiers fraternised in No Mans Land on 25th December 1914. The troops exchanged food and tobacco, and shared family photographs, in a brief respite from the fighting. The 1914 temporary truce was neither universal nor authorised by the High Command. Nor did the soldiers involved have any problem in resuming the fight after Christmas. In truth, Christmas in the trenches was almost always just another day for
This page: (above) Christmas Day in the trenches, Dardanelles, 1915. (right) Princess Mary ‘gift tin’ for tobacco, sent to A/Corporal Ernest Fankini, 13th Battalion, The London Regiment, 1914. (Opposite page) Reading a newspaper in the trenches, 1916. All images © National Army Museum.
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most soldiers. Throughout the war, individual infantry battalions rotated through the frontline with time out of the trenches spent in reserve, or resting. However, resting was taken up with training and rehearsals for future operations. Christmas Day in the trenches might be spent on watch – surveying No Mans Land for enemy activity, repairing trenches, carrying rations and equipment to the front, delousing clothing and trying to sleep. Christmas dinner would comprise tepid tea, cold ‘Bully’ beef (corned beef) and hardtack biscuit. The only positive for those on the frontline was that the winter weather
generally precluded major operations; therefore the main risk was from intermittent artillery shelling and the ubiquitous sniping by the Germans. Trench warfare extended beyond Northern Europe. A rear guard of British and Indian Army troops endured a bitter winter in the trenches around Helles, Gallipoli in December 1915. Blizzards and floods were an unwelcome ‘respite’ from the oppressive heat experienced during the summer months (during which time the opposing Allied and Turkish troops had their own local truce to enable the burial of the dead). By contrast, in 1917 some Allied troops were able to enjoy Christmas in Jerusalem
and Bethlehem, after the city and village were liberated from Ottoman control by General Allenby at the beginning of December 1917. For those soldiers in reserve, or on rest, the day would be more interesting. Many units preserved the tradition of the officers serving Gunfire to the soldiers for breakfast. Gunfire was a mix of tea and rum and probably best drunk quickly! Each battalion had its own Padre who would have held a Christmas Day service – normally a formal Church Parade that the soldiers and officers would have been obliged to attend (unless they were not Christians), but with familiar carols that would be a reminder of Christmas at home. Christmas dinner may also have seen the officers serving the meal to the troops – another enduring tradition – before
some sort of concert party. This was the era of the music hall and homemade entertainment, so many of the soldiers and officers would have presented their party pieces for the delight of their comrades. Home leave was infrequent and the soldiers relied heavily on letters, postcards and parcels from home. In an era of low levels of literacy, photographs of loved ones and packets of trench cake (designed to survive the journey overseas) were particularly welcome. Many on the Home Front also sent parcels of food and gifts to be distributed randomly amongst the troops – a tradition initiated by the distribution of gift tins sponsored by Princess Mary, the daughter of King George V, in 1914. In return there was a massive flow of Christmas postcards sent home by soldiers.
In today’s era of mobile phones, the Internet and rapid travel, it is easy to assume that the modern soldier has not experienced the loneliness of separation from family at Christmas time. In truth, the experience is very much the same if you are on duty, guard or patrolling on Christmas Day in any country far from home. Only the company of close comrades-in-arms mitigates the loneliness, as well as participating in the traditions of early morning Gunfire and Christmas dinner served by the officers. This year, fewer soldiers will experience this separation following the end of major combat operations in Afghanistan. For many soldiers it will be their first Christmas at home for some time. For others serving on small deployments across the world, it will be another Christmas away from home. 07
FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
David Thackeray 1937–2015 Captain Dave Thackeray passed away on 24th September 2015, at his home in Harrogate. A service was held for him at St Peter’s Church in Harrogate on Friday 2nd October, where his coffin – dressed with his campaign medals, red beret and a Union Jack – was marched out to the sounds of the Parachute Regiment’s March, played by The Band of the Parachute Regiment. David’s story will be familiar to many of you after it featured in one of our flagship appeals in June 2014. David served in the British Army for 13 years, initially with the Parachute Regiment, and then in the Army Air Corps. He was Mentioned in Despatches for his courageous actions in Borneo, where his plane was shot down while he was transporting an RAF padre to a Forward Operating Base (FOB). Despite being shot twice and breaking his left arm, he landed the plane safely at an alternative FOB. In our original interview, he told us in his own words what happened: “The plane took eight hits altogether. Two caught me in my left shoulder and the Padre was hit in the abdomen. There was blood all over the front panel; my flying suit was all red. I was quickly losing a lot of blood. I had to have three tries at the landing. On the go-around my left arm snapped so I had to take control with my right hand, and have two more goes to get it right. Amazingly, neither of us sustained any further injuries in the actual crash.’’ Unfortunately, the Padre’s gunshot wound proved to be fatal, and David suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as a result of the plane crash. Despite this, he went on to have a long career as a civilian pilot until his health forced him to retire. It was at this point that The Soldiers’ Charity stepped in and your donations allowed us to pay for the installation of a stair-lift in his home. A second grant also paid for a respite break for him and his wife Margaret. Of the support he received, he said: “It’s been a godsend. It has absolutely transformed my life. Instead of getting to the top of the stairs gasping for air for about 10 minutes, I now get to the top of the stairs feeling okay, feeling normal.” The couple shared their story in our appeal last year, which helped to raise significant funds and will help other soldiers and veterans in times of need. We felt honoured and privileged when David’s family agreed to let us write this piece for FrontLine, and we hope you will join us in remembering a very special man. David is survived by his wife Margaret and his children, Ian and Sally (Alison). Sean Bonnington from our central office attended the funeral to pay his respects on behalf of our Charity. 08
Kim Hughes GC “The single most outstanding act of explosive ordnance disposal ever recorded in Afghanistan.” [Taken from official MOD citation] Warrant Officer Class 1 Kim Hughes GC joined the Army in 1997. He served on three operational tours of Afghanistan as a High Threat Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) operator and was awarded the George Cross (GC) in 2009 for his extraordinary acts carried out in that conflict. Kim continues to serve with 33 Engineer Regiment (EOD) and is now an ambassador for our Charity, regularly speaking at corporate and charity events on our behalf. Hailing from a long-standing family tradition of relatives in the Army, and having seen his older brother join up just a few years previously, Kim was determined to follow suit when he left school. He explained that ‘studies were never for me, I had my heart set on going into the Army.’ His career has seen him deployed to many places around the world – Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan: “I have enjoyed so many aspects of the job that it would be impossible to list them all here. If I had to pick one stand out time in my career it would probably be my tour in Bosnia, where I was teaching bomb disposal and sharing my skills.” However, undoubtedly the most significant moment of his career came as a result of his actions during one of his three tours of Afghanistan. It was in 2009 that Kim and his Royal Engineers Search Team (REST) were tasked with providing close support to 2 Rifles, on an operation to clear a route south-west of Sangin in Helmand Province. As they moved along the route, a soldier at the front of the group stood on an IED and was seriously injured. Two stretcherbearers went in to recover the casualty, but on their way back they triggered another IED, killing them instantly and further injuring the initial casualty. In order to avoid further casualties, Kim and his team were called in to identify and diffuse any additional explosive devices. Kim ended up neutralising seven more IEDs – five of them manually – and his team was able to extract the casualties and continue the Image © Getty Images
patrol. He says of the incident; “It was a pretty hairy situation, and my thoughts always go to the families of those soldiers that didn’t make it back, but the reality was that we were back out on patrol that afternoon – we had to do our job.” On his return to the UK, Kim was initially unaware that he was being awarded the George Cross – he was told by his Commanding Officer to be in London on a specific date for ‘an event’. He recalls walking in to his Adjutant’s office and finding out he was being awarded a ‘Tier 1’ honour: “I’ll be honest, I had to go back and Google what a ‘Tier 1’ honour was, then I found it was the VC [Victoria Cross] or the GC. I was blown away. It took a while for it to sink in.” Kim has gone on to become an accomplished public speaker and has spoken at a number of different events: from charity presentations to corporate dinners. Indeed, he was first introduced to our Chief of Staff, Brigadier (Retd) Robin Bacon, to do a talk at Barclays, one of our corporate partners. He says “the importance of The Soldiers’ Charity’s work is second to none. I’m yet to find another charity that does what you do, on the same scale that you do it.” As this is our first ever Christmas issue, when we interviewed Kim we asked whether he had experienced any Christmases away from home while on operations: “I’ve been very lucky; the only one I was away over Christmas for was in Northern Ireland in 19992000. We were actually out on patrol on Christmas Day. Even though it’s in the back of your mind wishing that you were with family, we were out there doing what we love doing, so it wasn’t all bad.”
FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
Robbie Clark, Royal Artillery, Prisoner of War 1942– 1945 Now aged 97, Robbie Clark’s story is a truly amazing one. After being captured in North Africa in 1942, he endured three years in a Prisoner of War camp before being sent on the 1,000-mile march to central Germany.
Robbie Clark was 20 when he was
Robbie and his fellow captives were sent
can’t speak the language; you don’t have a
conscripted into the Army in 1939, just
to P.O.W. camps across Germany where
passport, so we just had to put up with it.”
three months away from his 21st
they were made to work and forced to
birthday. Although he was assigned to
survive on meagre rations. Robbie says:
to an end Germany started closing the
the Durham Survey Regiment, a non-
“We were never given proper food,
P.O.W. camps, forcing all of the prisoners,
combat unit of the Royal Artillery, he
we had to work of course but we were
including Robbie, to walk to central
was posted to North Africa where he saw
starving. You might get a loaf of bread,
Germany. He kept a diary, which covered
action in Tobruk.
it was German bread and god knows
every single day of the march. Robbie
what it was made of. But you were
says: “I kept it at the end of the War when
and 35,000 fellow Allied soldiers were
still starving. You hear people say ‘oh
Hitler ordered all of the P.O.W.s from
taken prisoner. The surrender was taken
I’m starving’ but you don’t know the
England into the centre of Germany.
by a very high ranking German, as Robbie
difference between hungry and starving
Hitler didn’t want any prisoners out of
recalls: “A German Officer by the name
until you’re in that position.”
Germany and whoever was left, they
of Rommel came in an Army car and
were going to shoot.”
drove in front of us and stopped. And in
Robbie felt it offered little chance of
perfect English he said ‘for you, the war
freedom so stayed in the camps:
‘Long March’ saw Robbie and the fellow
is over’. And I thought ‘well that’s just
“To escape would have been easy but you
English prisoners walk nearly 1,000 miles
champion’.”
escape for what, where are you going? You
in the coldest winter ever recorded. The
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At the fall of Tobruk in 1942, Robbie
While escape was always an option,
In January 1945, with the war coming
The march, which is known as the
march was both mentally and physically
Some of the prisoners didn’t make it, as
and well, his first contact with them
tough on Robbie, but his willpower to
Robbie recalls: “All the fellas who were so
since he was taken prisoner. A simple
survive got him through it. Robbie says:
hungry and so weak, some just fell. We
telegram let them know he was coming
“I said to myself ‘come on Robbie, carry
daren’t touch them; we had to leave them
back to Newcastle: “We had telegrams in
on, you’re not going to die in here. Carry
in the cold. They just died. They just lay
those days, I put on ‘safely home, see you
on, take your time, you’re nearly there’.
there. It was bitter cold, bitter cold.”
Newcastle station 3 o’clock tomorrow’.
I was determined. I had been a prisoner
I was given a ticket on the Monday and
of war; I was not going to give in.”
other surviving prisoners were liberated
got on a train to Newcastle. There was
by the Americans. They were flown to
my mum and dad, my sister, my family
physically endure, the conditions made
Brussels where they were given hot food
all waiting for me. It was tearful, very
life almost unbearable for the prisoners:
and warm shelter. However, before they
tearful, especially my mum.”
“The ground was so cold, your shoes
were served their food, Robbie was offered
were worn out, your feet were freezing,”
a flight back to England. Robbie says: “a
worked as a joiner before retiring in 1982.
Robbie says. “You had nowhere to sleep,
British Sergeant came in and said ‘excuse
He married his fiancée Rita, whom he
if you managed to get into an old barn
me just a minute, there’s a plane going to
had met in 1939, just after the war. They
and if you were lucky there might be two
England, I require seven more passengers
were happily married for 64 years.
or three cows in there so it was warm. If
so can I have seven volunteers’, so of
not, you had to sleep cuddled up. It was
course I was one of the first.”
to pay for the costs of a live-in carer for
terrible. The Germans didn’t give two
Robbie, which enabled him to stay in his
hoots about whether you lived or died.”
able to let his family know he was alive
Not only was the march hard to
On April 22nd 1945, Robbie and the
On his return to England, Robbie was
Robbie left the Army in 1945 and
The Soldiers’ Charity provided a grant
home of over 30 years.
Opposite page: Robbie at his home in Burnt Oak, North London. This page: (top) Robbie’s photo album from life after the War (above) Pages from Robbie’s diary during his time as a Prisoner of War (right) Robbie’s dog tags from Stalag IV B P.O.W. Camp 11
FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
The Big Picture
Football team at Stalag XXB Main Camp, 1942 Photograph by Private Herbert Stupples, 4/5th Battalion, The Buffs Regiment, 1942. Stupples was a Prisoner of War in Stalag XXB from 1940 after being captured during the fall of France. The camp was situated in eastern Germany at Marienburg (now Malbork in Poland). © National Army Museum
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FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
SPEAR 17: Antarctica Calling A team of Reservists prepares to take on the planet’s most inhospitable continent In November 2016, a six-man team from the Army Reserves will set off on a 730-mile, 60-day challenge to cross Antarctica and reach the South Pole. This unsupported journey – called SPEAR 17 (South Pole Expedition Army Reserves) – will push the team to their physical and mental limits. Each team member will be pulling an individual pulk (arctic sled) weighing nearly 160kg – just over 25 stone – in order to carry everything they need with them for the two-month trek. They are aiming to raise a significant amount of money for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and have already received strong support from several explorers, including Sir Ranulph Fiennes, who was
the first person to cross the Antarctic on foot. “The team of Army Reservists is going to undertake a journey very few have successfully managed,” Ranulph said. “It will require every ounce of determination that they possess, and I will be monitoring their progress as they inch their way across the polar wilderness.” SPEAR 17 will be the first time a team purely from the Army Reserves has attempted the crossing unsupported. Facing temperatures as low as -50 Celsius, a climb to 10,000 feet above sea level and up to 10 hours of walking each day, the strenuous physical demands will be matched by the immense mental challenge
Members of the expedition team training on the moors of Lancashire
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ahead. Expedition Leader WO1 Louis Rudd says it’s the soldiers and veterans which the Charity helps that will be the driving force during the expedition: “We will all feel inspired by the chance to help those Service personnel that need the support of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. That’s the thought that will keep us going.” SPEAR 17 sets off for Chile in late 2016 before flying to the coastline of Antarctica by ski-plane. The six-man team then starts its journey in early November, with the aim of reaching the South Pole in the middle of January 2017. To find out more about SPEAR 17 and show your support for the expedition, visit spear17.org
Expedition Leader WO1 Louis Rudd
“The team of Army Reservists is going to undertake a journey very few have successfully managed. It will require every ounce of determination that they possess, and I will be monitoring their progress as they inch their way across the polar wilderness.” Sir Ranulph Fiennes
Image © Gary Salter
Images from Louis Rudd’s previous expedition to the South Pole
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FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
My perfect Christmas present? ... Car spanners! A gaggle? A flock? What do you call a group of full-career, former soldiers working for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity? On the fifth anniversary of their introduction to our Charity, we had the chance to put this, and a few other questions, to our current team of Briefing and Liaison Officers (BLOs); Jim (JD), Colin (CT), Sheena (SR), Alex (AB) and Simon (SF).
So, let’s start with something easy… What is your role with the Charity? ab: My role within our Charity is to engage at all levels with serving soldiers at Regular and Reserve units, the veterans community and to embrace any other opportunity to promote The Soldiers’ Charity to the general public, in order to raise our profile and inform people of the excellent work that our Charity has done since 1944.
Do you have a typical day?
jd: There is no typical day, each one is very different and can change at any time during the day. ct: Never. Each day is different, that’s what I like.
What is the favourite part of your job? ab: Seeing the response of the soldiers, veterans
Alex Braceland (AB) Scotland & Northern Ireland
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and general public when I inform them of the immense work and support that The Soldiers’ Charity gives to individuals and families, as well as other charities sf: Talking to people, finding out who they are then telling them about The Soldiers’ Charity; I probably talk too much, which does come in handy sometimes.
What is the funniest thing that has happened?
What made you decide to work for The Soldiers’ Charity?
jd: A lady went into labour whilst visiting our stand at a show I was attending! sf: Whilst attending an event with soldiers in a supermarket, a shoplifter was caught and brought to the front of the store. He started to shout bad comments about the soldiers and myself, but when he was ejected from the store everyone stopped shopping and came to
jd: Knowing this Charity provides direct, meaningful support where it matters and can make a difference. sf: I think The Soldiers’ Charity is an unbiased charity, they are fair with the assistance they administer, I think of The Soldiers’ Charity as ‘big brother’ to the other Regimental Charities.
Colin Till (CT) Midlands & Wales
ct: Seeing one of our BLOs – no names – putting his work vehicle into a ditch on a Sunday morning at 0600hrs! sf: Can’t think of anything right now, but whether we’re with soldiers or volunteers we normally end up laughing at something.
What is the strangest thing that has happened?
Simon Ferrier (SF) East Anglia & London
Sheena Ross (SR) South East & Home Counties
give money as fast as they could into the buckets to show their support. That was a very humbling experience.
What would be your perfect Christmas present? ct: A practical present to be used and not to sit on a shelf. Car spanners. sr: Vin Diesel [Actor of Fast & Furious fame] ab: A licence to collect for The Soldiers’ Charity in every city and town in Scotland! sf: A big chocolate cake, I love chocolate, I am very easily pleased.
What is a group of BLOs called? ct: Big Trouble in Little Britain. sr: Winning the Lottery! sf: Spartans. NB: No BLOs were harmed in the making of this article.
Jim Duffy (JD) North
Some of our Corporate Partnerships and Trusts SLI365
BAE Systems
Trusts & Foundations
SLI365 has supported our Charity for
BAE Systems is a long-term partner of
Nine percent of our income typically
several years, sharing the vision that all
our Charity: in 2010, they appointed
comes from donations from Trusts and
families of serving and former soldiers
us as their official Charity Challenge
Foundations. This year, special thanks
should have the opportunity to avoid
Partner, resulting in a staggering
should go to the Trustees of The David
hardship. Since 2007, they have paid out
fundraising total of £434,000, which
and Claudia Harding Foundation,
more than £17.5 million in insurance
went towards supporting 481 soldiers,
whose support over the past four years
claims to bereaved Service families.
veterans and their dependants in need.
has helped a total of 180 especially
Since then, BAE Systems have
disadvantaged soldiers find alternative
ever-popular Cateran Yomp and have
committed to an annual donation of
employment or gain entry to vocational
sponsored the fastest military team for
£50,000 until the end of 2016, specifically
courses. A further 1,000 Wounded,
the last two years.
to support the Wounded, Injured & Sick
Injured and Sick soldiers have received
(WIS) cohort and also veterans with
vital support in their transition to
educational and vocational training.
civilian life through our ‘Wounded to
They are proud supporters of our
BAE Systems is always keen to
Work Project’.
engage with our Charity and our North
West office staff recently attended the
Flow Foundation for their ongoing
We are also very grateful to The
2015 Graduate Conference Charity
commitment to our work. Their support
Showcase in Preston. We are looking
has enabled us to adapt to the changing
forward to recruiting as many of their
needs of the Army, and help our partner
new graduates as possible into our
charities to deliver specialist services on
‘Fundraising Army’ as they take part in
our collective behalf.
our future fundraising events.
Phillip ‘Barney’ Gillespie, one of the WIS cohort helped by funding provided by organisations such as BAE Systems and the David & Claudia Harding Foundation.
H. McGovern & Son We are excited to announce a brand new charity partnership with plant hire company, H. McGovern & Son, (Top) Colonel Nigel Plowright dispatching
based in Hounslow, West London.
(Top) Robert Owen and his son, also
a much-needed chocolate energy boost at a
John McGovern, Managing Director,
Robert, to whom we awarded a grant
checkpoint and (above) the team sponsored
wanted to partner with a charity which
so that Robert Snr could visit Burma
by SLI365 at this year’s Cateran Yomp.
recognised the dedication of those who
where his brother, Thomas, was killed
have served in the Army, and will look
during WWII. Robert Snr sadly passed
to open up employment opportunities
away earlier this year, but Robert
For more information please visit
for former soldiers in the future. We
Jnr continues to support our Charity.
are currently in the early planning
(Above) Brenda Hale, whose husband,
SLI365.com
stages and are very much looking
Captain Mark Hale, was killed in
forward to developing this partnership.
Afghanistan in 2009.
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Find something for all the family this Christmas with ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. Christmas cards, gifts, toys, books, clothing and accessories are all available at
www.soldierscharityshop.org Christmas Range
Angels Card ‘With Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year’, 10 cards and envelopes. £4.50
Family Range
Morning Inspection Card ‘Season’s Greetings’ 10 cards and envelopes. £4.50
Trooper Christmas Card ‘Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year’, 10 cards and envelopes. £4.50
Cap Badge Tea Towel 100% cotton, made in UK. £6.00
Child’s Guardsman T-shirt 100% cotton. £10.00
Tank Egg Cup & Toast Cutter £6.99
Heritage Range
Silk Tie 100% silk. £20.00
Tartan Scarf 100% lambswool, made in UK. £15.00
Ladies’ silk scarf 100% silk, made in UK. £20.00
Active Range
Men’s socks 100% cotton, fits size 7-13 UK. £15.00
Dog collar and lead Sizes S,M & L. £15.00
Accessories Range
Golf Towel
Portable charger (also
Hooded Sweatshirt
£12.50
in white) For most
Available in grey or
mobiles/tablets. £15.00 navy blue. £20.00
Stationery Range
Jute Bag Lined, strong and light. £5.00
Trolleycoin keyring Fits all supermarket trolleys. £2.00
Red Ribbon Pin Badge Enamelled. £2.00
... and many more items online! All profits from our online shop go towards supporting soldiers, veterans and their immediate families. Last year alone we helped over 5,000 individuals and gave grants to 72 other organisations, who delivered specialist support to the wider ‘Army Family’ on our collective behalf.
2016 diary Slimline, Letts. £5.00
2016 Calendar Featuring images from our Photograph Competition. £5.00
Shop online – www.soldierscharityshop.org, or by phone – 0845 544 2901. We offer free delivery for orders over £50 and a free gift on all orders over £15.
Chelsea Garden Notelets* 10 notelets and envelopes with two images; our award-winning garden and Joey the War Horse. Our online shop uses the trading subsidiary £6.00 *Free Chelsea Garden Planting Guide of the Charity: Soldiers Trading Ltd - Company no. 07243995, VAT registration no. 125500944 with each Chelsea Garden Notelets order!
Enrol today into our elite Army – The Soldiers’ Charity Fundraising Army. Your mission is to raise vital funds to support our soldiers, veterans and their families. We are looking for recruits to join our Fundraising Army; experience the camaraderie, adrenaline and sense of adventure by taking on one of our ultimate challenges. Do you have the drive to rise through the ranks whilst raising money to help those who gave so much for us? All recruits in our flagship events start off as a Private and are promoted when fundraising milestones have been achieved. How far will you rise?
Out-rank your mates – lace up and enlist today! Pick up your orders now at www.soldierscharity.org/fundraisingarmy
IN SUPPORT OF
Thursday 7 April 2016 12noon – 3pm. Guildhall, London EC2V 7HH Hosted by the Lord Mayor of the City of London Alderman the Lord Mountevans Eat delicious curries, drink fantastic beer and wine, take part in the silent auction and prize draw and simply have a fun day out with your friends. Tickets £95 (includes unlimited curry, wine and beer) To buy tickets please visit: www.soldierscharity.org/lordmayors or call 020 7811 3960
05 – 09 O C T 2 01 6
Walk 100km of the Western Front, following in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought on the battlefields of WWI. Find out more at www.soldierscharity.org/frontlinewalk
FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
Revisited: Mark Harding Following the hugely positive response to our first-ever ‘Revisited’ feature in FrontLine earlier this year, I’m delighted to introduce this issue’s instalment. Lance Corporal Mark Harding, 1st Battalion Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, was shot in the neck by a Taliban sniper while on tour in Afghanistan in 2010. After being transferred back to the UK, he was told he was unlikely ever to walk again. However, just two years later, he climbed Skiddaw in the Lake District to inspire others facing life-changing injuries, and to raise money for our Charity. We caught up with him to find out about his incredible journey, and what he’s been up to since defying the doctors three years ago.
What can you remember about the incident in Afghanistan in 2010? I remember everything… every detail.
What were your initial emotions upon hearing the diagnosis of ‘incomplete tetraplegia’? Waking from an
Whether that’s a good or a bad thing in helping to push me to where I am today, I’m not sure. We were in the village, about 400m away from the platoon base on patrol, checking the walls and floor for IEDs. The locals started to move back in to their homes and close the doors, a sure sign to us something was going to happen. I remember looking back at my friend. He was hopping around shouting and screaming “My leg! My leg!” I rushed to him, and as I knelt down, I remember a massive bang. When I came to, I saw my friend Chris had been shot through his thigh. His femoral artery had been ruptured. I knew I had to help him, but I wasn’t able to move. I didn’t understand why, until my teammate said “Mark I think you’ve been shot.”
induced coma to find I was paralysed, trapped in my own body was devastating. In that split second I transitioned from an extremely fit and active young man to feeling like I was imprisoned in an alien body. I remember the consultants saying to me ‘Your C5/6 have been shattered and some spinal cord taken, and we’ve both come to the decision that you’ll never walk again’. I just broke down, absolutely devastated. I couldn’t believe this had happened to me.
How did The Soldiers’ Charity provide assistance in the period immediately following your injury? The Soldiers’ Charity was amazing. They created a downstairs bedroom with ensuite shower room for me. They widened the front door and gave me much needed wheelchair access from the
All images by Malcolm Cochrane
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bedroom and conservatory into the garden, and built a double garage at the end of the drive. They transformed the layout of my home, enabling my wife and I to concentrate on my recovery and rehabilitation. I’m also incredibly lucky and privileged to have met two great people through the Charity, whom I now call friends. Philip Naylor and Jim Duffy were always on the end of the phone if I needed to talk about anything, no matter the time. They gave me their friendship and emotional support, and for that I will be eternally gratefully to them, and of course the Charity.
“I remember the consultants saying to me ‘we’ve both come to the decision that you’ll never walk again’.”
Since climbing Skiddaw in 2012, Mark has represented Great Britain at a Dragon Boat World Championship, set up his own motivational company, Bionic Motivation, and become an established public speaker.
Can you pinpoint a specific source of inspiration that has driven you to make such a remarkable recovery? It’s always a surprise to people when I tell them the person who instilled that drive in me was my Granny. She raised me from an early age and told me ‘Mark, if you’ve a positive mind you can achieve anything in life, you just got to put your mind to it’. I’ve carried her words with me, and I’ve proven many people wrong – especially the consultants at the hospital!
How important has the support of The Soldiers’ Charity been throughout your rehabilitation? It seems somewhat of an understatement to say they have been massively important. They’ve helped me with all the sports equipment, my outrigger kayak paddles and gym equipment. Being involved in sport and part of a team has given me back the team spirit and focus in life that I lost when I left the Army – without their support I very much doubt I’d be where I am today.
We hear your next challenge involves Dragon boat racing… tell us a little more about that! That’s right. I was given the opportunity in 2013 to join the GB Dragon boat team and compete in the World Championships held in China, where we came 10th out of 16 teams in the world. Looking ahead to 2016, I’m back in training and am doing as much as I can after narrowly missing out on going to the recent World Championships in Canada… I am determined not to miss out in 2016!
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54 MILES : 24 HOURS : PERTHSHIRE : SCOTLAND
Push f to sel your limit the
Great for team building
Experie n a milita ce exercis ry e wit a twist h
soldierscharity.org/yomp 0845 504 6616 Facebook.com/CateranYomp
The Alliance Trust Cateran Yomp is sponsored by Alliance Trust PLC and is developed and run by WildFox Events which specialises in organising fundraising events across the UK. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420)and Scottish registered charity no. SC039189. Alliance Trust Foundation is a charity registered in Scotland no. SC044113.
Yomp16_poster_A5land.indd 1
16/09/2015 16:40
Wheels on the Western Front Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity
Riders will depart Folkestone on Sunday 31st July 2016, cross the Channel, and complete a 352-mile route of the WWI battlefields; returning to Folkestone on Saturday 6th August 2016. The ride follows the route of Kitchener’s Army to the Somme, taking in the major battle sites and breathtaking historical
monuments at Thiepval, Vimy and The Menin Gate. This is a tough physical challenge – covering over 50 miles a day. The acclaimed BBC Historian Andy Robertshaw will accompany us, bringing the history of the Somme and the battlefields to life for those taking part in this important anniversary.
The ride will be conducted in partnership with Green Jersey Cycling Tours Ltd, and is kindly supported by Akuma Sports. Riders must commit to raising £1,250 minimum sponsorship .
Conducted in partnership with Green Jersey Cycling Tours Ltd. Supported by Akuma Sports For more information visit soldierscharity.org/wotwf
Register now at
greenjerseycycling.co.uk/ somme-cycle
Remember our soldiers in your Will
By remembering ABF The Soldiers’ Charity in your Will, you can help ensure that those soldiers risking their lives for us today have the support they need to deal with the lasting physical and mental scars of war in the years to come. Every gift in a Will not only gives a soldier a life to come home to, but a life worth living.
Š MOD Crown Copyright
For more information, please contact Andre Shine on 020 7901 8916 or fundraising@soldierscharity.org
FrontLine | ‘Peacetime Christmas’ Issue
Interview: Glenn Haughton WO1 (Army Sgt. Maj.) Glenn Haughton joined the Army in 1988. He served with the Grenadier Guards in the first Gulf War, many tours of NI, Iraq and twice in Afghanistan and has risen through the ranks to become the Army’s most senior soldier. Here, he reflects on his experiences, and examines why soldiers, veterans and those who champion our Armed Forces should continue to support our Charity’s important work.
Our Charity is lucky to have you as a trustee. Why is it important to have representatives from the serving Army involved in the Army’s National Charity? I think the fact that I am a serving soldier is vital to keeping the Charity relevant and updated on goings on in the modern Army.
Why is it important for serving soldiers to support our work? Because the clue is in the title. This is their charity and it’s important that they understand exactly what support it can offer them and their families if they ever need it.
What can they do to help? They can continue to advertise the Charity to those that can benefit from it. They can also assist in many different forms of fundraising to help the Charity, be it on the London Marathon, Cateran Yomp or simply helping to collect kind donations. You’re the first-ever Army Sergeant Major. What does this job entail and why was it introduced? The job was
The Army has gone through a number of changes in the last few years; which do you think was most significant? I think
introduced by the Chief of the General Staff (CGS), General Sir Nicholas Carter, to complement the chain of command. I am now completely dedicated to Army business and carry out a number of different roles. I am the first soldier to sit on the Executive Committee of the Army Board, which vitally provides a soldier’s perspective on particular issues. I am also a trustee or member of many different organisations, including this great charity.
the draw down of Iraq and Afghanistan after 15 years of constant and brutal operations is significant. We have seen some true bravery and outstanding leadership in some of the most testing of situations, and the resilient spirit of the British Army has shone through. The months ahead are also going to be really interesting as we continue to try and recruit more women and people from Black, Asian and Muslim communities to the Army. The world is ever changing and we need to ensure that we move with the times and become a modern employer.
You are setting the standard; what legacy are you hoping to leave to the next Army Sergeant Major? I just want to do everything I can to better the experience of our soldiers. I am passionate about soldier education and am really keen to help develop this area as much as I can. Ultimately my final wish is to, as the All Blacks rugby team say, ‘leave the jersey in a better place’ when I hand the role over in 2018.
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What are your best memories of your time serving in the Army? There are too many to put down on paper, but the best memories outweigh the sad and less memorable moments.
Why did you sign up? I always had a desire to serve in the Army and the fact that I didn’t necessarily excel in my childhood education helped in my decision making process. That is why I am so passionate about soldier education today.
What about those who support our Armed Forces by supporting The Soldiers’ Charity but have never served – what would you say to them? Quite simply – thank you so very much for everything you have done and continue to do for all that benefit from such a fantastic organisation.
You’re taking on the London Marathon in April in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. Why did you choose to do this? I last did the London Marathon in 1992 and vowed that I would never do it again! The Charity has got to be pretty special to get me to sign up again. To be honest I just thought ‘what better than the Army Sergeant Major running on behalf of the Army’s charity?’
How’s the training going?!
It’s going well; I am just adjusting to taking my time as opposed to the normal mentality of running as fast as I can for as long as I can. I will keep you updated as I progress!
Soldiers’ Charity tie or Guards tie? As the Army Sergeant Major I am non-tribal, so it is always The Soldiers’ Charity tie!
Soldiers’ Charity Photography Competition a success! Staff Sergeant Ben Houston (Army Air Corps) took the top prize in our 2015/16 Photo Competition, for his winning image ‘Dawn Patrol’ (main image). We received hundreds of excellent entries, and the winning 12 were put together to make our 2016 calendar. The competition was generously supported with prizes from Canon UK and Wex Photographic, and the judging panel consisted of Jenny Agutter, award-winning actress and supporter of our Charity; Arthur Edwards, Royal Photographer; and Martin Rutledge, our Chief Executive.
You can buy your 2016 calendar on our online shop, visit soldierscharityshop.org to find out more. Entries are now open for this year’s competition – enter at soldierscharity.org/photocompetition
Our huge thanks to Brigadier
A big thank you to Major Shaun
August, recalling himself to ‘the
We would like to say a big thank
Christopher Lunn who stepped
Laidler, who is standing down
Colours’. He will be missed by all
you to Tricia Tetlow, Executive
down in May as Chairman of the
after two years as Chairman of
in West and South West regions,
Assistant HQ Regions, whose
Devon Committee. Having joined
our Cumbria Committee. He held
particularly in Bristol (where
dedication, fundraising and
the Committee in 2006, he took
the post whilst also filling the
he was a critical enabler for the
hard work over more than five
over as Chairman in 2008. Under
full time role of County Secretary
Committee and was developing
years has proved invaluable,
his leadership and direction,
for the Duke of Lancaster’s
strong links with the new Army
and earned her the affectionate
the total raised in Devon during
Regimental Association.
Reserve units). Thanks for all your
title of ‘Mum’ with many in our
support and hard work Andy, keep
Central Office. We wish her all
smiling and stay in touch.
the very best for the future.
his seven-year tenure was a magnificent £490,000. He and his
A fond farewell to Andy Batcock,
wife Valerie will be greatly missed,
our former BLO West & South
especially by our Exeter office.
West. Andy left our Charity in
Editor
Contributors
Design and Art Direction
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity
FrontLine Issue No. 12
Tom Cuff-Burnett
Helen Carter
Pete Black Ltd
Special Thanks
Guest Photography
The 'Peacetime Christmas' Issue, First published 2015 © ABF The Soldiers’ Charity
The Thackeray family Mark Harding
Malcolm Cochrane Gary Salter
Registered Office: Mountbarrow House 6-20 Elizabeth Street London SW1W 9RB T 020 7901 8900 F 020 7901 8901 E info@soldierscharity.org
Whilst every effort is made to check the information contained in FrontLine, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions.
© National Army Museum
Our Offices Head Office
Northern Ireland
South West
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Mountbarrow House, 6-20 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9RB T. 020 7901 8900 E. fundraising@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Bldg 45, Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn BT28 3NP T. 02892 678 112 E. ni@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Wyvern Barracks, Exeter, Devon EX2 6AR T. 01392 496 412 E. southwest@soldierscharity.org
East Anglia
North East & Yorkshire
Wales
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building PO4, Room 6, Merville Barracks, Circular Road South, Colchester, Essex CO2 7UT T. 01206 817 105 E. eastanglia@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Hipswell Lodge, Smuts Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire DL9 3AX T. 01748 874 127 E. northeast@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity , HQ 160 (Wales) Brigade, The Barracks, Brecon LD3 7EA T. 01874 613 351 E. wales@soldierscharity.org
East Midlands
North West
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Chetwynd Barracks, Chilwell, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 5HA T. 0115 957 2103 E. eastmidlands@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Fulwood Barracks, Preston PR2 8AA T. 01772 260356 E. northwest@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Bldg 750, Picton Barracks, Bulford Camp, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 9NY T. 01980 672337 E. west@soldierscharity.org
Home Counties
Scotland
West Midlands
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Wellington House, St Omer Barracks, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 2BG T. 01252 348 270 E. homecounties@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, The Castle, Edinburgh EH1 2YT T. 0131 310 5132/5116 E. scotland@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building V5, Venning Barracks, Donnington, Telford, Shropshire TF2 8JT T. 01952 674 323/322 E. westmidlands@soldierscharity.org
London
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Brompton Barracks, Chatham Kent ME4 4UG T: 01634 822 408 E: southeast@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Block 7 (Room G39), Wellington Barracks, London SW1E 6HQ T. 020 7414 3321 E. london@soldierscharity.org
South East
West
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity (“the/our Charity”) is an incorporated charity registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales with Charity No.1146420, and in Scotland with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator with Scottish Charity Register No.SC039189. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (07974609) and was incorporated on 2nd March 2012. Registered Office: Mountbarrow House, 6-20 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9RB T: 020 7901 8900 E: fundraising@soldierscharity.org W: soldierscharity.org