Legion Scotland Today, Spring 2016 by Think Publishing

LEGION The magazine of The Royal British Legion Scotland Issue 9 Spring 2016

www.legionscotland.org.uk

SCOTLAND TODAY Show your support

Join our Give A Little For Veterans campaign

SHIP TO SHORE

HOW THE WORLD WARS SHAPED ORKNEY

PLUS

BRANCH NEWS, HOW CAN YOU HELP, VOICES OF VETERANS, LOCAL HERO, STRUCTURE CHANGES & MORE

Royal British Legion Scotland: at the heart of Scotland’s veteran community

John was proud to serve his country ... now Erskine is proud to care for us both

Scottish charity No, SC006609

Erskine specialise in nursing, residential, respite and dementia care for veterans. If you, or your spouse, have served as a Regular, Reservist or were in the National Service you may be eligible for care. For information contact Care Home Admissions Department:

0141 814 4538

www.erskine.org.uk Glasgow . Edinburgh . Bishopton

WELCOME

Legion Scotland New Haig House, Logie Green Road, Edinburgh EH7 4HQ Patron Her Majesty The Queen President Lieutenant General Sir Alistair Irwin KCB CBE MA National Chairman (acting) Charlie Brown National Vice Chairman (acting) Martyn Hawthorn National Treasurer John Whitelaw Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gray MM EDITOR Christie McMonagle MANAGING EDITOR Fiona McKinlay EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jonathan McIntosh DESIGNER Mark Davies SUB-EDITORS Andrew Littlefield, Sam Bartlett, Sian Campbell GROUP ACCOUNT DIRECTOR John Innes john.innes@thinkpublishing.co.uk STORIES TO SHARE? Please contact Christie McMonagle at c.mcmonagle@legionscotland.org.uk or by calling 0131 550 1549. Submissions received by 20 May will be considered for inclusion in the next issue, but we appreciate your stories at any time and may be able to share them through other avenues such as social media. Articles are likely to be edited and inclusion is not guaranteed. Sending high-resolution images as email attachments will increase the chances of us being able to use your story. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Published on behalf of Legion Scotland by Think Publishing Ltd Red Tree Business Suites, 33 Dalmarnock Road, Glasgow G40 4LA 0141 375 0504

Give it all that you’ve got WITH OUR SECOND GIVE A LITTLE FOR VETERANS AWARENESS AND FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN UNDER WAY, MEMBERS ARE HELPING TO MAKE OUR CAUSE KNOWN AND RALLYING SUPPORT FOR THE EX-SERVICE COMMUNITY. I can’t thank those of you who are taking part enough, and I am glad you share in the vision of the National Board of Trustees for a stronger Legion Scotland that can do so much more for Scotland’s veteran community. This issue, we shine a light on our signposting service, looking at how Legion Scotland can help you to find the right support on a range of issues including housing, employment and mental health. Legion Scotland works with a range of other charities that can offer support, grants, advice and more to veterans – I would sincerely urge any of you with a problem to get in touch with us to find out how we could help. The Battle of Jutland took place 100 years ago on 31 May, with many of the British ships involved setting off from the Grand Fleet’s WWI base at Scapa Flow in Orkney. We take a look at how both World War One and World War Two impacted on Orkney and go some way to explain the strength of Legion Scotland’s membership on the islands. Another major WWI anniversary comes on 1 July, which is 100 years since the Battle of the Somme began. I hope some of you will join us for the overnight vigil at the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh on Thursday 30 June. See page 8 for more information. Our patron, Her Majesty the Queen, celebrates her 90th birthday on 21 April and Legion Scotland sincerely extends its warmest wishes to her on this special occasion. Many thanks to all for your continued support.

MIKE WILKINSON

ADVERTISING Alison Fraser alison.fraser@thinkpublishing.co.uk 0141 946 8708 Copyright © Legion Scotland 2016. All rights reserved. Legion Scotland is a trading name of the Royal British Legion Scotland, Scottish Charity No.SC003323

Kevin Gray MM CEO Legion Scotland

SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 3

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must be spent before 17th June

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THREE STEPS TO SELLING YOUR UNWANTED WATCHES AS NAMED ABOVE 1. BRING YOUR WATCH OR GOLD TO OUR SHOP AND WE WILL PAY YOU INSTANTLY (Please bring photo ID) 2. IF YOU CAN’T VISIT US, WRAP UP YOUR ITEMS AND PUT THEM IN A JIFFY BAG WITH YOUR NAME, ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER AND SEND TO THE ADDRESS BELOW BY THE POST OFFICE SPECIAL DELIVERY.

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Please note: We do not guarantee to buy every watch offered. We do not buy fake watches or early quartz watches.

WE BUY MOST QUALITY WATCHES, WORKING OR NOT. RUSTY WATCHES PURCHASED FOR PARTS ONLY

SPRING 2016

Royal British Legion Scotland: at the heart of Scotland’s veteran community

LEGION The magazine of The Royal British Legion Scotland Issue 9 Spring 2016

www.legionscotland.org.uk

SCOTLAND TODAY Show your support

Join our Give A Little For Veterans campaign

CONTENTS 06 LEGION NEWS

The latest from Legion Scotland and beyond, including news from branches and our Ask Legion Scotland column

SHIP TO SHORE

HOW THE WORLD WARS SHAPED ORKNEY

PLUS

CORBIS, © LEBRECHT MUSIC AND ARTS PHOTO LIBRARY / ALAMY

BRANCH NEWS, HOW CAN YOU HELP, VOICES OF VETERANS, LOCAL HERO, STRUCTURE CHANGES & MORE

Royal British Legion Scotland: at the heart of Scotland’s veteran community

ON THE COVER Remains of the chain which supported anti-submarine boom netting across Scapa Flow from Scad Head on Hoy to Houton on Mainland Orkney, Scotland PHOTO: Mark Ferguson / Scottish Viewpoint/REX/ Shutterstock

Facebook “f ” Logo

RGB / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

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facebook.com/LegionScotland twitter.com/LegionScotland

FLEET STREET As the anniversary of the Battle of Jutland approaches, we look at the impact that the World Wars had on the landscape and the people of Orkney

WE’RE ALL IN IT TOGETHER Find out about the services Legion Scotland can provide, and which other veterans’ charities could also help you

24 HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Would you make a brilliant befriender, awesome branch official or fab fundraiser?

26 VOICES OF VETERANS

95-year-old Ena Scott shares the story of her adventures with the SAS

28 FORCES UPDATE

The latest from the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force

30 COME AND SEE US

Directory of our branches and clubs

32 LAST POST

Fond notes of remembrance from branches across the country

34 HAPPY BIRTHDAY

As Her Majesty The Queen turns 90, we look back on our Royal Review in 1981, which she attended

www.legionscotland.org.uk 5

LEGION NEWS

Keeping you up to date with Legion Scotland’s latest

TRAVEL TO THE BATTLEFIELDS OF BELGIUM

Reconstructed trenches at Vimy Ridge and, below, the Memorial Museum in Zonnebeke

Legion Scotland’s first exclusive Glenton Holidays coach trip unveiled THE FULL itinerary for our trip to Passchendaele with Glenton Holidays has now been revealed. The five-day trip is priced at £399 per person (based on two sharing) and visits the Scottish Memorial on Frezenberg Ridge, the Memorial Museum in Zonnebeke, Vimy Ridge

and more. The Passchendaele branch of Legion Scotland will also welcome members for a dinner. This comradeship break is exclusively available to Legion Scotland members.

Funding assistance may be available. Contact Stephen Elliot at head office for more information.

COMPETITION

ANNUAL DRAW

Prizes for this year’s annual draw include a holiday for two, train tickets and £500 cash

TICKETS ARE available now from

branches or by contacting Head Office, and can be purchased by anyone over the age of 16. The draw takes place at the Annual Conference at Perth’s Dewar Centre on 13 May. 1

1st prize – five-day UK holiday for two from Glenton Holidays from their Coach/Select range.

2nd prize – a pair of return CrossCountry train tickets to any UK destination on their network. 3rd prize – £500 cash.

Other prizes include a Fire HD donated by Amazon Development Centre Scotland, a year’s supply of Tunnock’s products and a Walkers Shortbread hamper.

ARTERRA PICTURE LIBRARY / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, MARTIN ANDERSON / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

HOLIDAY

IN BRIEF

KEEPING UP APPEARANCES This year’s Best Kept War Memorial Campaign kicks off in May. To get involved, contact John Lau on 0131 550 1583 or at j.lau@legionscotland.org.uk to get an entry form.

WW1 Highland territorials and their mascot dog

COMMEMORATION

REMEMBERING THE SOMME Vigil to take place at Scottish National War Memorial OVERNIGHT VIGILS are taking place across the UK on 30 June to commemorate 100 years since the Battle of the Somme began, in locations including Edinburgh’s Scottish National War Memorial, which sits within Edinburgh Castle.

The vigil will start at 10pm on Thursday 30 June and continue until 7am on Friday 1 July. The conflict, which lasted until 18 November 1916, saw more than 480,000 British lives lost, with more than 1,000,000 casualties in total.

WELLBEING

ACTING UP Theatre project invites ex-military participants STAND EASY Productions is inviting wounded, injured or sick veterans to take part in a two-week project culminating in a theatre performance this May in Dundee. The show will tell the story of men, and families, of the 4th Battalion of The Black Watch (Dundee’s Own), in WW1. Participants can be involved in a variety of aspects including writing, performing and filming. The performance will raise money for Legion Scotland. For more information contact Alan Cameron at alanc658@aol.com or visit www.standeasyproductions.org

SHAWSHOTS / ALAMY

ANNUAL REPORT If you are unable to attend the Annual Conference and would like to see the Annual Report, this can be downloaded from the website, or contact Head Office to request a hard copy. LOTTERY WINNERS There have been 14 winners so far this year on Legion Scotland’s lottery. Enter online for your chance to win up to £25,000 at www.legionscotland.org.uk/ support-us/lottery/ or request an entry form from Christie McMonagle on 0131 550 1549. FALKIRK FOOTBALL CLUB The Bairns have shown their continued support for Legion Scotland by donating £1375, which they raised via an online auction of signed strips from their fixture against Alloa Athletic in November. NEW FACES AT HEAD OFFICE Legion Scotland is pleased to welcome Stephen Elliot as our new Head of Events and Liaison, and Alastair Duff as Database Administrator, providing membership support. STATION COLLECTION On 25 February, the Parachute Regiment Association collected £991 for Legion Scotland in Glasgow Central Station. MARVELLOUS MINIBANDS The 40th Annual Miniband Competition took place on 5 March in Edinburgh, with Fraserburgh scooping the overall prize. The full Roll of Honour is available from head office or on the Legion Scotland website.

SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 7

LEGION NEWS

ASK The National Board of Trustees and our head office team answer your questions

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UPCOMING RESTRUCTURE? The National Board of Trustees (NBT) initiated a working group in 2014 to plan out changes to Legion Scotland’s structure. The group has now set out and agreed upon a number of recommended changes to improve the charity’s efficiency and communication, and to enable it to provide much better support to members, branches and the ex-service community in Scotland. The proposals include reducing the number of Royal British Legion Scotland areas from nine to five; considering the formation of ‘super branches’; introducing a one member, one vote scheme by 2018; and encouraging branches to become part of Royal British Legion Scotland SCIO (Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation). Two of the NBT’s recommendations require changes to the constitution. These are that each ‘new’ area should have three representatives on the NBT, and that one third of capitation currently returned to areas be used to directly support branches and employ an area executive officer directly line managed by the CEO. Representatives from all area councils will be invited to attend a briefing session with the working group and the NBT to hear in detail about the changes and how these will improve the work of our charity. Martyn Hawthorn National Vice Chairman (acting)

8 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

April 18 – July 18

Keep an eye on the website for further announcements and more information

DIARY DATES SATURDAY 7 MAY, WEDNESDAY 25 MAY, WEDNESDAY 22 JUNE, SATURDAY 9 JULY CRAIGIEHALL Clay pigeon shooting Enjoy a cuppa and a bacon roll, followed by two hours of shooting. Starts at 10.30am. Contact Stephen Elliot at s.elliot@legionscotland. org.uk or on 0131 550 1583 for more details. FRIDAY 6 MAY ST ANDREWS Silver Poppy golf competition Legion Scotland members will compete to lift the coveted trophy in the ‘home of golf’, St Andrews. SATURDAY 7 MAY NATIONWIDE National sports finals Prepare for a day of fun and competition at these indoor events across Cockenzie, Dunbar, Penicuik, and Roslin Legion Scotland branches. WEDNESDAY 11 MAY LINLITHGOW Legion Scotland comradeship event Enjoy a choice of events at the Low Port Centre, Linlithgow. THURSDAY 12 MAY – SATURDAY 14 MAY PERTH Annual conference This year’s annual conference will be held at the Dewars Centre in Perth. We hope as many Legion Scotland members as possible will be able to attend. Get in touch with your local area secretary for more information. SUNDAY 22 MAY GLASGOW Legion Scotland Glasgow and West of Scotland Veterans’ group meeting SATURDAY 28 MAY, TUESDAY 31 MAY NATIONWIDE Battle of Jutland commemorations Events throughout the country will mark the 100th anniversary of the biggest naval battle of World War One. WEDNESDAY 1 – FRIDAY 3 JUNE ORKNEY Legion Scotland primary school competition winners’ trip to Orkney The winners of Legion Scotland’s primary school competition, Stories of the Sea, will receive a three-day trip to Orkney. They will visit Scapa Flow, from

where the ships sailed to the Battle of Jutland, alongside other WW1 and WWII commemorative sites nearby. SUNDAY 5 JUNE EDINBURGH Legion Scotland Edinburgh and East of Scotland Veterans’ Group WEDNESDAY 8 JUNE LINLITHGOW Legion Scotland comradeship event Enjoy a choice of events at the Low Port Centre, Linlithgow. SATURDAY 11 JUNE LIVINGSTON Legion Scotland national sport finals: loch fishing, Morton Fisheries In this sure-to-be tense final, participants will fight to go home with the winning title as well as the catch of the day. SATURDAY 18 JUNE STIRLING Armed Forces Day, Stirling It may be a week early, but that won’t stop the Stirling branch from putting on a fantastic event celebrating the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have devoted their lives to the Armed Forces. SUNDAY 19 JUNE DRYBURGH ABBEY Founder’s Day Our annual event to remember the birthday of our founder, Earl Haig. A church service and wreath-laying ceremony will take place at Dryburgh Abbey. Call Stephen Elliot on 0131 550 1583 for more information. SATURDAY 25 JUNE NATIONWIDE Armed Forces Day Events across the country. Check the Legion Scotland website and local press for further information. THURSDAY 30 JUNE EDINBURGH Battle of the Somme commemorations An overnight vigil and service will take place at the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle to honour the bravery of those who sacrificed so much in the most devastating battle of WWI. A limited number of balloted tickets will be made available to the public to attend. Contact head office for more details.

FUNDRAISING

GIVE A LITTLE FOR VETERANS Legion Scotland branches across the country told us about their plans for the campaign in April. Here’s what just a few of them are doing: LIVINGSTON BRANCH What they’re doing: Collection at Debenhams, 2 April “We’ve fundraised before in the shopping centre and it’s always been a great success” (George Orr, branch secretary)

LOADS MORE GOING ON ACROSS THE COUNTRY 9

BEAULY BRANCH What they’re doing: Collection at Co-op store, 9 April “We are looking forward to it and the Co-op have been very supportive” (Bob Coburn, branch chairman)

MELROSE BRANCH What they’re doing: Choir concert, 14 May “We normally organise a coffee morning to raise money for Legion Scotland but wanted to try something different this year” (Colin Hart, branch chairman)

8 7

TURRIFF BRANCH What they’re doing: Coffee morning, date TBC “Our fundraising committee has organised a coffee morning with a craft stall, tombola, raffle and bric-a-brac stall” (David Francis, branch secretary)

BANCHORY BRANCH What they’re doing: Legion Scotland Big Quiz-Off, 9 April “The club has been running quizzes for over a year and they are growing in the number of people attending” (Alistair Black, branch chairman)

INVERNESS BRANCH What they’re doing: Collection at Debenhams, 9 April “Branch members, cadets and pupils from Millburn Academy will all be helping out on the day” (Ian Burnett, branch secretary)

KIRKWALL BRANCH What they’re doing: Street collection, prize bingo and Legion Scotland Big Quiz-Off “We hope as many of our members as possible will get involved” (Eddy Ross, branch chairman)

5 1

GRANGEMOUTH BRANCH What they’re doing: Branch chairman running Around The Houses Grangemouth 10k, 10 April “I’m going to be exhausted by the end of the day, but looking forward to it!” (Alan Lochrie, branch chairman)

AYRSHIRE VOLUNTEER BEFRIENDERS What they’re doing: Collection at Debenhams, 9 April “Debenhams have been very helpful in making sure we can have as much presence in the shop as possible” (William McMaster, wellbeing coordinator)

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO GET INVOLVED!

If you want to arrange a fundraising event for Legion Scotland, you can do so at any time of the year. We can help by providing quiz packs, collecting buckets, sponsorship forms and more. Contact your branch or Christie on 0131 550 1549 for information.

SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 9

BRANCH NEWS

ANNAN

Top citizen Branch member receives award for community and charity work ANNAN BRANCH is pleased to announce that member Joyce Wylie has received a British Citizen Award for her community and charity work. Chair of the local community council, Joyce works with a number of organisations. David Paterson, chair of the Annan Branch, said: “Joyce fully deserves the recognition of the award. She is a wellknown face in the community and the branch is proud to be associated with her.

Legion Scotland Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gray MM delivers a stone on the curling rink

FORFAR

IT’S A CLEAN SWEEP

Area-wide comradeship day a success ANGUS AND Perthshire area has held a comradeship day in Forfar, at the town’s indoor sports centre. Military personnel from the former RAF Leuchars, now an Army base, and Condor, Arbroath, home to 45 Commando Group

Royal Marines, joined area-wide Legion Scotland members to try their hand at curling and indoor bowls, in a bid to strengthen ties between the serving and ex-service communities. Area publicity officer Alasdair Maclean said: “It

was an enjoyable day with much good fellowship, but also a rather salutary experience to discover how few serving personnel knew anything about Legion Scotland except Remembrance Day activities.”

JEDBURGH

LARGS

Charity of choice LARGS BRANCH has donated £1,011.03 to Soldiers Off The Street (SOTSS) to help house two homeless veterans. Branch vicechairman Hugh O’Brien (right) is pictured presenting a cheque in January to Hammy of SOTSS, one of the branch’s chosen charities. THE JEDBURGH Royal British Legion Scotland Pipe Band had the honour of playing on the pitch at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico on 27 February, when Scotland faced Italy in the Six Nations Championship. Scotland won the game 36-20.

IRVINE

SHOPPING SHINDIG Supermarket puts on Christmas party for branch members THE SEASON of goodwill came early for the Irvine branch of Legion Scotland after Tesco agreed to help them raise funds and provide a festive meal for 125 local veterans and their partners. Branch members held a bag pack to raise money at Tesco Extra in Riverview Retail Park, to help fund the local befriending and wellbeing scheme. The supermarket then organised a Christmas party for the branch, providing music and waiters, serving up a traditional three-course dinner with turkey and all the trimmings donated by Elior Catering and cooked by chef Billy Dunlop. Having already donated a television to Larry Davidson, a 78-year-old veteran in temporary accommodation, the staff at Tesco have also agreed to provide a range of help when the ex-Royal Scots Fusilier moves into his new Irvine flat. They have also secured the support of Cunninghame Furniture Recycling Company which has agreed to provide furniture to the veteran once he gets the keys to his new home. Elaine Clark, community champion, Tesco Extra, Irvine, said: “Although Tesco has two national charities that

Irvine branch members and friends enjoy a festive treat, including food and music

it supports, myself and Shonagh Reid, who is my manager, felt it was important to also show our support to a charity that operates locally. One of our members of staff, whose husband, David Gibson, currently serves in the Royal Air Force, suggested Legion Scotland because of the fantastic work it does with veterans living in our community.”

Mike Green with his merit award

It’s a cracker, as veterans and their partners got together

ELLON

AT YOUR SERVICE Mike Green awarded certificate of merit ABERDEEN, BANFF & Kincardine Area is pleased to award a certificate of merit to Mike Green for his service to Legion Scotland over the years. Mike said: “I suppose that I have rendered some service as chairman, president, parade commander, National Council delegate and organiser of the

area wheelchair service, but nothing to equal that which I have received from the Legion. Being suddenly posted by Bristow Helicopters to a strange place called Dyce was a bit of a shock, so I joined the Legion and my wife and I were overwhelmed by the welcome from the Ellon community.” SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 11

BANCHORY

Antoon Verschoot retires after 60 years

PASSCHENDAELE

HANGING UP HIS BUGLE Long-player retires from his performance duties

IN DECEMBER, the chief bugler of the Last Post Association played at a ceremony under the Menin Gate for the last time. Antoon Verschoot started playing as a bugler in 1954. After more than 60 years of service and approximately 11,000 performances, he has decided to hang up his bugle.

Earlier in the year the Last Post Association had commemorated its 30,000th bugle performance – with Verschoot impressively having taken part in more than a third of them. Members of the Passchendaele & District Branch were present for the occasion of his final appearance, as was their Standard.

RAEMOIR GARDEN Centre has raised £2500 for Legion Scotland’s Banchory branch through sales of poppy bird feeders. Elliot Mair presented branch chairman Alistair Black with a cheque for the amount raised. The donation has particular significance as the late Ernest Sangster was an employee of the centre and a vice president of Banchory branch. RIDERS

The gift of giving MEMBERS OF the Riders branch District 1 Highlands & Islands delivered Christmas presents – made up of donated toys – to children’s wards at Raigmore Hosptial and Dr Grays Hospital in Elgin shortly before Christmas.

PORTOBELLO

Visitors pop in to promote reunion gathering

ALL WELCOME AT THE ROCKVILLE MEMBERS OF the Queen’s Own Highlanders Regimental Association recently visited Legion Scotland’s newest branch club to drop off news about a grand reunion gathering in Inverness later this year. The Portobello branch is in the Rockville Hotel, Joppa, and George Givens and Danny Carruthers, members of the organising committee for the gathering, took the opportunity to meet Gus Macleod to personally deliver a poster advertising the event. Gus is the secretary of the Portobello branch, a member of Legion Scotland Riders branch, and also a former Queen’s Own Highlander. He was instrumental in negotiating the purchase of the Rockville Hotel in August last year, following the decision to sell off 12 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

the old club premises in 2010. Gus said: “New members are warmly encouraged to enrol in the Portobello branch and visit our new club. Members from further afield can also be guaranteed a warm welcome, as well as favourable rates for accommodation and meals at the club which is based just outside Edinburgh.” George Givens and Danny Carruthers from the Queen’s Own Highlanders’ Gathering organising committee are keen to promote the event, taking place on 11-12 June in Cameron Barracks, Inverness. George said that he “hopes there

George Givens and Gus Macleod in Joppa

will be at least 1,000 members of the regimental family present over this weekend, some coming from as far afield as the USA and Canada”. For more information about the Queen’s Own Highlanders’ Gathering go to cabarfeidh.com/gathering2016 or call RHQ on 01463 224380

Looking at the excellent work carried out by our branches and members

LOCAL HERO

Send your inspirational stories to c.mcmonagle@legionscotland.org.uk

Wellbeing Coordinator and Irvine branch Vice-Chairman William McMaster on how the fundraising, care and commitment of the Ayrshire Befriender Group enriches the lives of the ex-service community and volunteers alike

THE GREAT BEFRIENDERS

ITH community-based volunteers providing help, friendship and support to members of the ex-service community dealing with challenges resulting from military service, Legion Scotland’s Befriending Service is vitally important. Ayrshire Wellbeing Coordinator and Irvine branch Vice Chairman William McMaster has witnessed the positive impact the service has on veterans. “The Ayrshire Befriender Group makes a massive difference to their general wellbeing,” says William. “Some members of the ex-service community we help have been stuck in the house for months on end without any interaction – it’s heartbreaking. Everybody needs to talk.” The Ayrshire Volunteer Befrienders combat the loneliness many veterans feel by getting them out of their homes and taking them to cafés, Legion Scotland comradeship events and more, to help them integrate back into daily life. Befriender David Gibson’s dog, Vegas, is a valued member of the team and a big hit with befriendees. The group is hoping to expand its canine division soon. A veteran of 2nd Scots Guards, William got involved with the Ayrshire Befriending Service because he has been in a similar situation to the veterans he helps. “I’ve been homeless, had a drink problem and battled depression,” he notes. “I had to struggle on my own to get better, so I hate the idea of someone having to go through a similar situation. I’ve received letters, emails and numerous phone calls from veterans thanking us for the work that we’ve done because we’ve changed their lives completely.” William is similarly enthusiastic when discussing the five volunteer befrienders trained in the area. “The standard of workmanship I get from them is phenomenal.”

William McMaster and, inset, Vegas the befriender dog with owner David Gibson and veteran George Sneddon

We pride ourselves on providing a first class service. As long as there is an ex-service community that needs our help, we’ll always strive to do our very best to do so The Ayrshire Befriending Group has garnered a strong reputation in the area and established links with Tesco, Debenhams and NHS Ayrshire and Arran. These connections have resulted in numerous events providing invaluable support for the ex-service community, from bag-packing to a Christmas dinner for 125 veterans and their partners. This year the group have a number of bag-packing and fundraising activities planned and, following the success of last year’s event, will be hosting a reception honouring the veterans of the Malayan Emergency at the Irvine branch this September. Befriending is a rewarding experience, but William advises that you’ve got to be willing to commit. “Think about whether you can offer a stable, dependable presence for the veterans.”

Volunteers are required to undergo an advanced disclosure check and a day’s training prior to beginning, and will be offered support throughout. “Recently I was with a 94-year-old Royal Marine who was in the Army throughout the Second World War and listening to his stories was just a fantastic experience,” says William. “It’s such a gratifying job. We pride ourselves on providing a first class service. As long as there is an ex-service community that needs our help, we’ll always strive to do our very best to do so.” If you would like to become a befriender call the Head of Wellbeing, Stephen Baird, on 0131 550 1560, s.baird@legionscotland.org.uk or speak to your local Legion Scotland Branch Wellbeing Coordinator SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 13

POPPYSCOTLAND NEWS WELFARE

New service launching at Poppyscotland’s Inverness Welfare Centre A JOINT initiative between Poppyscotland, NHS Highland and Veterans First Point Scotland will see a new support network introduced in the north of Scotland to help veterans who are suffering from psychological problems as a result of their operational service. The NHS Highland Veterans First Point (V1P) will involve a team of ex-Servicemen and women who will act as peer support workers. The V1P team will be based within the Poppyscotland Welfare Centre in Inverness. TRAINING

FUNDRAISING

Why not bake some poppy cakes for your event?

Host a toast for the Armed Forces community TEA AND TOAST is the perfect way to catch up with friends, involve your family or workmates and make a huge difference to the lives of our Armed Forces community. Poppyscotland is inviting you to ‘host a toast’ and in the process help them to deliver vital, life-changing support. You don’t need to limit yourself to a cuppa and a slice of toast for your event. Why not invite friends round for afternoon tea and raise a toast to the Armed Forces with a glass of fizz? Whether your event is big or small, beautifully basic or wonderfully lavish, it’s all about showing those who serve, those still serving and their families that you care. For more information or to request a fundraising pack please contact Marianne Craig on 0131 550 1578 or m.craig@poppyscotland.org.uk

EDUCATION Poppyscotland can help fund your vocational training

Retraining for life in civvy street FINDING WORK after leaving the Armed Forces can be difficult. An Employment Support Grant of up to £2,000 is available to undertake a course of vocational training that has a strong likelihood of leading to sustainable employment. Simon Jamieson was given assistance from Poppyscotland when he was unemployed: “It was a real strain, financially and emotionally. Thankfully Poppyscotland helped me and I was quickly offered an interview and started offshore on the oil rigs. I felt as though I was too proud to ask for help but wish I had asked sooner.” To find out more call 0131 550 1568 or email d.pringle@poppyscotland.org.uk 14 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

A poppy’s point of view POPPYSCOTLAND RECENTLY launched its new education film, A Poppy’s Point of View, aimed predominantly at primary school pupils. Starting with archive footage from the fields of Flanders, the film follows a single poppy from its creation in Lady Haig’s

Poppy Factory, through the fundraising process, finally meeting people who have benefitted from money raised by the Scottish Poppy Appeal. You can watch the film by visiting www.poppyscotland.org.uk/ learning/public/our-films

To Poppyscotland, we hadn’t had a break for years Thank you so much!

To Poppyscotland, I have really enjoyed spending quality time as a family

To Poppyscotla nd we are having , a great time at Haven Holida ys

To Poppyscotland, we both really needed a break and it’s been fantastic!

RESPITE

DO YOU NEED A BREAK? A short trip away with Poppyscotland could improve your wellbeing POPPYSCOTLAND RECOGNISES that a short break can play a significant role in reducing stress and boosting health. Poppy Breaks are available to all members of our Armed Forces community. Breaks offer recuperation for those recovering from illness, injury or significant stress, as well as giving disadvantaged families the opportunity to have a break they otherwise would not have. Holiday park breaks are available at Parkdean and Haven holiday parks

throughout the UK. Poppyscotland also makes use of the Royal British Legion’s Break Centres (equivalent to high standard, hotel-style accommodation) in England and Northern Ireland. Breaks are available throughout the year, although those involving children of school age are only available during the term time holidays between March and October. To find out if you are eligible for a Poppy Break call 0131 550 1557 or email l.darling@poppyscotland.org.uk

Breaks offer recuperation for those recovering from illness, injury or significant stress, as well as giving disadvantaged families the opportunity to have a break they otherwise would not have SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 15

£150 off for Legion Scotland members*

Leave your loved ones something they will appreciate in the future: A fully guaranteed Funeral Plan Unlike some funeral plan providers, we promise to cover all the costs of your chosen burial or cremation. For a Pre-paid Funeral Plan that saves you money and your loved ones worry, contact us today. As a Legion Scotland member you are entitled to £150 off a Pre-paid Funeral Plan.

Call now on

0800 389 8377 visit your local Co-op Funeral Home or find us online

co-operativefuneralcare.co.uk

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*Terms & Conditions: 1. If you purchase one of our Set Plans online, you will receive our standard £100 online discount plus an additional £50 discount for being a Legion Scotland member by quoting promotional code LEG15. If you purchase one of our Set Plans over the phone, a Set Plan or a Tailor-made Plan in one of our funeral homes, you will receive £150 discount for being a Legion Scotland member quoting promotional code LEG15. 2. The promotional code is for Legion Scotland members only and will expire on 31/12/16. 3. This discount is solely redeemable by the Plan Purchaser of a Funeral Plan. 4. Only one discount is available per Funeral Plan purchased. 5. The Co-operative Funeralcare reserves the right to withdraw this discount promotion at any time. 6. The £150 discount is not available if the Plan is paid for by Fixed Monthly Payments. 7. The purchase of any Pre-paid Funeral Plan is subject to the full terms and conditions which are available online at http://www.co-operativefuneralcare.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. The Co-operative Funeralcare is a trading name of Funeral Services Limited, registered in England and Wales with number 30808R at registered office 1 Angel Square, Manchester, M60 0AG. VAT registered 403 3146 04. Part of the Co-operative Group. Calls to 0800 freephone numbers are free from landlines but call charges from mobiles may vary and you may want to check this with your service provider.

424300_CFC_LEGION_SCOTLAND_SPRING_2016_ADVERT.indd 1

BE A FORCE FOR OUR FORCES.

23/03/2016 15:55

Every day, our team of 7,000 men and women volunteers across the UK are making a lasting difference in the lives of our veterans and their families. Do something extraordinary and join them. Get in touch today to discuss a role that will make the most of your talents. CALL 0141 404 2791 VISIT ssafa.org.uk/Scotland

Registered charity No.210760 and SCO38056. Established 1885. S094.0116

VETERANS NEWS NEIL HANNA

DISTINCTIONS

SOCIAL

BREAKFAST CLUB VETERANS AROUND the UK can meet up with fellow ex-servicemen and women at a Veterans Breakfast Club – organised breakfast gatherings that are spreading across the country, with 11 locations so far in Scotland. Visit www.veteransbreakfastclubs.co.uk or contact John Richard Fielding Terry on 01724 761981 for more information.

Alex Addison (far left) and fellow Légion d’Honneur recipients. Inset: Stephen Murray receives his award

HONORABLE MEN France recognises Scottish WWII veterans IN FEBRUARY, a group of veterans were awarded the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest honour, for their role during the Second World War. The men received their medals at the Edinburgh City Chambers. Among them was 93-year-old Legion Scotland member Alex Addison. Alex also invited Freddie Wood, Edinburgh and Lothians Legion Scotland Area Secretary, and Stephen Baird, our Head of Wellbeing, to the ceremony to thank them for their work as part of the Legion Scotland befriending programme.

A 99-year-old member from Legion Scotland’s Portobello branch also received the accolade in March. Stephen Murray landed in Normandy as part of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. Stephen Baird said: “Like many other veterans, Mr Murray has benefitted from our befriending scheme. He’s a worthy recipient of this award and we wish him a very happy 100th birthday in May.” The Légion d’Honneur was established in 1802 by Napoléon Bonaparte and is awarded in recognition of both military and civilian merit.

BIRTHDAY

THE QUEEN TURNS 90 YOU CAN leave a message in an online book to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. Set up by the Online Book Company, a huge digital collection of messages, photos and film is being created to mark Her Majesty’s special day. Celebrities including Queen’s Brian May, Simon Pegg and Dame Kelly Holmes have already contributed. The Queen’s Birthday Book project is also raising money for charities, including Legion Scotland, through sales of a commemorative medal. Find out more, leave your message or purchase a medal at www.thequeensbirthdaybook.com

BOOK RELEASE

Recommended reading Memoir tells of ATS role in Code and Cipher during WWII YESTERDAY’S CHILD is the memoir of Christina J Morrison, and tells of her upbringing in Inverness and her experience serving in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) during WWII. Sadly Christina, a good friend of Legion Scotland, passed away suddenly in January at the age of 96, just a few weeks before publication of her memoir. The book is available now from all good retailers for £9.99 RRP. SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 17

HISTORY

As the anniversary of the Battle of Jutland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the largest naval battle of World War One â&#x20AC;&#x201C; approaches, we look at the impact of the World Wars on Orkney and its people

FLEET STREET S

LIBRARY / ALAMY, UNIVER SAL HISTOR

Y ARCHIV E/GETT Y IMAGES

CAPA FLOW in Orkney was the main British naval base in both World Wars: a role that left a lasting impact on the isles and their people. With so many people having a military connection, it is little surprise that Legion Scotland has a strong presence, with three branches in Kirkwall, Stromness and Sanday.

LEBRECHT MUSIC AND ARTS PHOTO

LEAVING A MARK The landscape of the islands was changed dramatically during both wars, and not just by the erection of military buildings like batteries, pill boxes and air raid shelters. The population of Orkney was so greatly increased during World War Two that factories were erected to produce enough food to feed the troops. A beautiful Italian chapel, now grade-A listed for its architectural merit, was built by WWII prisoners of war, many of whom also worked on the Churchill Barriers - a series of four causeways built primarily as naval defences, but now carrying road links. The Peerie Museum in Flotta 18 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

FATEFUL DAYS Although it only took place from 31 May until 1 June 1916, the Battle of Jutland was the biggest naval battle of WWI. Warships set off from the Grand Fleet base at Scapa Flow under the command of Admiral Sir John Jellicoe, joining others from Invergordon and Rosyth. The Allies suffered some tremendous blows in the conflict and lost over 6,000 men. The Germans lost only 2,500, but were thought to be left in a far weaker position strategically. Both nations, though, claimed victory. Remarkably, no Orcadians are known to have lost their lives in the battle, though many served. A few days after the battle, the cruiser HMS Hampshire was sunk by German mines with Lord Kitchener on board. Until 2012, the recognised death toll was 643, but research carried out by Brian Budge of Legion Scotland’s Kirkwall branch and Andy Hollinrake has raised this figure to 737. The Kitchener Memorial at Marwick Head pays tribute to those lives lost on the HMS Hampshire, and

SCOT T MCIVOR

is located in a WWI hydrophone hut, where sailors listened for submarine activity. The military’s presence in Orkney left a lasting mark in so many ways. Locals were even said to adapt their way of speaking to better communicate with officers from down south, softening their dialect. A number of German ships scuttled – that is, deliberately sunk – in June 1919 to avoid being seized by the Allied Powers still lie underwater in Scapa Flow and are popular with divers.

Construction and repair work at The Kitchener Memo rial

The landscape of the islands was changed dramatically during both wars a project by the Orkney Heritage Society – which has many Legion Scotland members among its numbers – is erecting an additional memorial to stand alongside it, listing names of every life lost. The memorial will also list the crew of the HM Drifter Laurel Crown, which was sunk by mines a couple of weeks later. A commemorative programme for the Battle of Jutland and the sinking of the HMS Hampshire takes place between 28 May and 5 June, with national events taking place in Orkney. Dignitaries and other VIPs will be present at these, alongside representatives of Legion Scotland. Weeping Window – part of the ceramic poppy installation first seen at the Tower of London in 2014 – will be displayed at St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall from 22 April until 12 June. Other commemorative events will take place throughout the country. SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 19

ORCADIANS OF WWI Many relatives of Legion Scotland members have arisen in Brian Budge’s research. These two served at Scapa Flow during the summer of 1916: Deck Hand George Petrie (uncle of Kirkwall branch’s Bryan Taylor) George Petrie, from Little Wart, Burray, enrolled into the Royal Naval Reserve at Kirkwall on 15 May 1916, aged 32. He reported to HMS Zaria, an Auxiliary Patrol depot ship based at Longhope in Scapa Flow, and soon joined the crew of HM Drifter Laurel Crown as a deck hand. Shortly before the Battle of Jutland, the commander of the German High Seas Fleet ordered several U-boats to sow mines at the exits of British Grand Fleet bases. 34 mines were laid just west of Orkney on the night of 28/29 May. The mines claimed their first victim on 5 June, when the cruiser HMS Hampshire, carrying Lord Kitchener and his party to Russia, was sunk. Only 12 sailors survived. Kitchener, the Secretary of State for War, was among the 737 men who died. On Thursday 22 June, HM Drifter Laurel Crown (Skipper John Coull) was one of eight boats in a flotilla crossing the site of the Hampshire sinking, when she also became a victim of the mines. There were no survivors. Able Seaman Alfred Taylor (uncle of Stromness branch’s Ian Taylor) Alfred Taylor was born at Millgoe, Firth and enrolled in the Royal Navy as an Ordinary Seaman on 10 February 1914, aged 19. He had almost completed basic training when war broke out. He joined a new battleship, HMS Benbow, and sailed with it to join the Grand Fleet at its main base at Scapa Flow in Orkney. Alfred was promoted to Able Seaman on 10 February 1916. HMS Benbow remained with the Grand Fleet throughout the war and took part in the Battle of Jutland. Although the German High Seas Fleet made a couple more sorties to try and attack parts of the Grand Fleet after Jutland, most Grand Fleet sailors then spent many boring months lying at anchor in Scapa Flow. In early February 1918, Alfred responded to a call for officers and other ranks to take part in “a secret and dangerous mission” – which turned out to be the Zeebrugge Raid. Alfred was wounded and died soon after the raid, on 24 April. Many thanks to Brian Budge for his help on this piece. See more of the Orkney branches’ research at www.rbls-kirkwall.org.uk/memorials.html

20 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Although it only took place from 31 May until 1 June 1916, the Battle of Jutland was the biggest naval battle of WWI

LEGION SCOTLAND ON ORKNEY David Hughes, Entertainments Convener and Treasurer of the Kirkwall branch and Chairman of the Royal Naval Association, on Orkney’s military connection What impact do you think World War One had on Orkney? Probably the biggest effect was on agriculture, because of the number of people stationed up here. There were also a lot of servicemen who married locals! What is your personal military connection? I served in the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy as an aircraft electrician. I served on board HMS Centaur and also in the Falklands, and was in the Royal Navy for 12 years. Why do you think Legion Scotland membership is so strong in Orkney? Our club is very much a centre of the community – that’s why our membership is so high. Though we are quieter on a Saturday night than we once were! We have a broad membership base from ninety-somethings right down to teenagers. How do the Legion Scotland branches on Orkney work together? The Stromness and Kirkwall branches get together quite a lot, mostly for annual commemorations throughout the year. Our social events are usually separate. What’s coming up on the events calendar? We have a Battle of Jutland commemorative dinner in the Kirkwall club on Friday 3 June, and a WWI commemorative concert and dance on the Saturday. Stromness members are invited!

CHRO NICL E / ALAMY, SKYS

CAN PHOTOLIB RARY /

ALAMY

Scapa Flow was home to the Grand Fleet during WW I

Admiral Sir John Jellicoe on board HMS Iron Duke in 1914 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 21

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE W E L L BEI ALL IN IT TOGETHER Let Legion Scotland point you in the right direction LEGION SCOTLAND CAN HELP

We make a difference to the everyday lives of the ex-service community and their families by providing a supportive community and sense of comradeship. We offer crucial support and information to help veterans overcome the difficulties they may face following military service.

MENTAL HEALTH TALK TO LEGION SCOTLAND: Our comradeship activities are a good way for the ex-service community and their families to talk about and share their experiences with like-minded individuals. Additionally, our community-based befrienders offer help, friendship and signposting to relevant services designed to support the ex-service community. TALK TO COMBAT STRESS: Currently supporting almost 6,000 veterans aged between 19 and 97, the charity provides a lifeline to the exservice community affected by mental ill health. Combat Stress offers veterans a series of treatment programmes including trauma-focused therapy, coping skills training and activities-based rehabilitation to enable them to cope with mental health difficulties.

22 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

HOUS

Helping veterans in the community Ranging from sports to music, comradeship activities give veterans the chance to get to know like-minded people. Individuals can access a variety of services through their local branches, which are always filled with people willing to offer support. Comradeship These activities enable ex-service men and women to talk about their experiences and make new friends. As well as an established national sports competition, events including archery, clay pigeon shooting and Xtreme karting are regular features on the calendar.

EM P L

Disablement war pensions Our disablement war pensions advice and advocacy service provides ex-service personnel with free information, help with completing claim forms, and the expert services of our team who can attend tribunals to help veterans with their pensions cases. Grants Legion Scotland provides a range of grants to help the ex-service community including the Ex-Service Community Support Fund, which assists veterans and their families who are experiencing financial hardship. Wellbeing and Befriending This service promotes friendship and comradeship, and offers advice and signposting to veterans who may be experiencing difficulties stemming from military service.

HOUSING TALK TO LEGION SCOTLAND: We provide impartial support and advice on family housing, supported living and an assisted living scheme for ex-service personnel and their dependants. We also provide various grants to help them buy furniture and white goods for their home.

ING

TALK TO SVGCA: The Scottish Veterans’ Garden City Association (Houses for Heroes) has 638 houses in 76 locations through its Houses for Heroes Scotland appeal, and is working closely with local authorities, Veterans Scotland and Legion Scotland to build more. It provides accommodation for disabled Armed Forces veterans or those affected by mental ill health.

TRANSITION SUPPORT TALK TO LEGION SCOTLAND: Legion Scotland aims to provide a gentle landing pad in the local community for ex-service personnel via links with local authorities, including the NHS, the Department for Work and Pensions, veterans’ charities and more. TALK TO SSAFA: The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association supports people and their families making the transition from the Forces to civilian life, offering advice, practical and financial assistance on new careers, housing and more.

OYMENT EMPLOYMENT TALK TO LEGION SCOTLAND: Potential employers are often invited to Legion Scotland’s comradeship events. These are excellent opportunities for individuals to develop new skills, increase their confidence and hone their job search. TALK TO POPPYSCOTLAND: Among other things, the charity helps the Armed Forces community transfer their military skills to civilian working life. Its five-day course, Lifeworks, teaches valuable work skills and its Employ-Able scheme supports those living with mental health conditions to find or sustain employment.

DEBT ADVICE TALK TO LEGION SCOTLAND: We can help with urgent financial difficulties via the Ex-Service Community Support Fund. TALK TO ASAP: In partnership with Citizens Advice Scotland, Armed Services Advice Project offers free, confidential and impartial guidance to the Armed Forces community on benefits, debt, consumer issues and more.

Armed Services Advice Project

Get in touch with Legion Scotland for more information on any of the services mentioned, tailored advice and much more. SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 23

How can you help? There are many ways to give your support to Scotland’s veterans. Which one would suit you best? Do you enjoy empowering others?

Y N

START HERE

Are you great at coming up with creative ideas?

Do you enjoy chatting to others?

Would you be comfortable helping somone who feels isolated?

Do you enjoy working towards a common goal as part of a team?

Are you a good listener, compassionate and have 2-3 hours or more spare each week?

N Royal British Legion Scotland: at the heart of Scotland’s veteran community

Are you good at motivating others?

After training would you feel comfortable providing emotional and social support for someone who feels isolated?

N N

Do you have a strong network of family, friends and colleagues?

Do you consider yourself a natural leader?

Would you like to make new friends by taking part in fundraising events?

Become a befriender By taking a couple of hours out of your week to chat with a veteran in need, you can make a massive difference in his or her life, just by listening and empathising. You would be asked to provide one to one companionship and support by sharing interests, skills and hobbies with veterans in their own homes. We need befrienders all over the country, of all ages and backgrounds. Get in touch with Stephen Baird on s.baird@ legionscotland.org.uk for more information.

Do you enjoy making sure things are done by the rules?

Become a branch official The local presence of our 168 Legion Scotland branches across the country is essential to support veterans and to make sure those who served are recognised and remembered for their bravery. Branch officials – chairs, secretaries and more – are crucial to this cause. Contact your branch or area secretary for more information on getting involved.

Become a fundraiser Legion Scotland can’t fulfill all of the charity’s aims in supporting Scotland’s veterans if we don’t have the financial means to provide wellbeing services, grants, host remembrance events and much more. Whether you keep it simple with a collecting tin or take on a marathon, your fundraising efforts make a huge difference. For a fundraising pack, contact Christie McMonagle on c.mcmonagle@legionscotland.org.uk or 0131 550 1549.

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• Exclusive discount for Legion Scotland members – quote GLLEG15 when booking • Donation to Legion Scotland for every booking made • Free holiday insurance option

This charismatic Channel Island lies just off the French coast and is steeped in history with a continental charm, quaint winding streets and breathtaking coastlines. Our base is the Fort D’Auvergne Hotel, St Helier.

FROM

£549

Sun 10 Jul, 28 Aug

Caledonian Canal Cruise & nostalgiC train Journeys A firm favourite featuring a sail on the legendary canal, a trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway to Aviemore and we ride the West Highland Line to Mallaig. Staying at the Duke of Gordon Hotel in Kingussie. Thu 5 May, Wed 13 Jul, Sun 28 Aug, Fri 9 Sep, Sat 15 Oct 5 Days from £359

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Beautiful Bournemouth at a leisurely pace Includes a restful overnight hotel stop en route to the Hotel Piccadilly in Bournemouth and includes excursions to Poole & Swanage, Christchurch, Lyndhurst & New Forest as well as Weymouth & Dorchester.

FROM

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Sat 28 May, 4 Jun, Sun 10 Sep Calls will cost only your phone company’s local access charge.

LEGION SCOTLAND discount code GLLEG15 – please quote at the time of booking

7 Days from £369 *Conditions apply.

DRIVEN TO WIN

Sorn Castle in Ayrshire was SAS Brigade HQ during World War Two

95-year-old Ena Scott shares the story of her adventures with the SAS

WAS BORN in 1921 and brought up in Portpatrick, where my father had a garage with hire cars, or taxis as they are now called. As I grew older, I helped him in the garage and at the age of 17 I sat and passed my driving test. When war broke out my father laid on cars to meet the train bringing evacuees, mostly from Glasgow, to the village. Then he joined the coastguards and I was left to look after the garage. That was, until 1941 when I decided I was going to join the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS). I was posted to Inverness for initial training, after which I was sent to Bradbury Lines for assessment on my driving. I then went to Camberley on a driving instructor course. We had our passing-out parade at Sandhurst. I was sent on various postings, driving ambulances or staff cars. I put in for a posting to Scotland and landed at Sorn Castle. I remember wondering, sitting in my ambulance, what I had got myself into, and who were all these soldiers with red berets? I soon found out this was my introduction to the SAS. One morning we were all told to assemble, trucks at the 26 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Ena Scott in her red beret

ANDREW SCOTT-MARTIN / ALAMY

SHARE YOUR STORY Voices of Veterans is a Legion Scotland campaign paying tribute to brave veterans of all ages by sharing their stories. If you have a story to share, whether you left service yesterday or 50 years ago, or know someone with a story and would like to nominate them, let us know. Please contact Christie McMonagle on 0131 550 1549 or at c.mcmonagle@legionscotland.org.uk

WORLD HISTORY ARCHIV E / ALAMY

ready, and were taken to a field north of Galston. General Montgomery arrived and gave a very inspiring address. He went around and spoke to everyone and stopped at us three girls – the other two, Maureen and Liliane, were French interpreters. The brigadier asked if he would give permission for us to wear the red beret. His exact words were “most certainly”. We were so proud. What a day we had, finishing up with lunch in the French officers’ mess. There was no holding us back then, I can tell you! I found myself driving a variety of vehicles all over France, Belgium and Germany. The battle was almost over by the time I was driving through and, although there were occasionally times when I was frightened, I was at an age where I thought everything was an adventure. This may explain why, after a trip to Brussels, I decided to head out into the Belgian countryside to find my friend Liliane’s grandmother. I knew roughly where she lived so I jumped on a train to Mons with one of my other friends. We didn’t really think about the risks involved in travelling to an area which had so recently been the scene of fighting, or how we were going to get to an isolated village without any transport. When we reached Mons we fell in with a group of Canadian soldiers who drove us to the tiny village. We found Liliane’s grandmother surprisingly easily and word soon spread that we were there. Before long the village was alive with people, all wanting to meet the ATS girls. One memorable assignment took me to Wilhelmshaven, one of the ports in north Germany where the German fleet had sailed from. While I was waiting for the officer I was driving to finish his meeting, I was shown the secret barracks the Germans had built. To my amazement, there were corridors and corridors, offices, dormitories and hospital wards, all underground. Another journey that will always stay in my mind is the drive from Belsen to Paris. I collected the head of the Royal Army Medical Corps from the concentration camp at Belsen and, as we drove through Germany and France, I overheard terrible accounts of what had been going on before the camp had been liberated by the British. By this time I was based at Montgomery’s headquarters in Germany, and from there I drove all over Europe, often as far as Copenhagen. As I travelled, I would sometimes meet columns of exhausted German soldiers under guard. They looked utterly dejected, dragging their feet, their uniforms in

WWII ATS recruitment poster

I remember wondering, sitting in my ambulance, what I had got myself into, and who were all these soldiers with red berets? tatters. It was obvious that for these soldiers the war was over. How I hoped this meant the war was finally coming to an end for everyone. I was in Brussels when VE Day was finally declared and the streets were so full of people celebrating that driving was almost impossible. Everyone had come out of their homes to join in the festivities. The air was full of shouts of ‘the war is over’ and there were flowers everywhere, even on the trams. Once I managed to get back to my barracks I joined in the celebrations, and to make a wonderful day even more wonderful I bumped into one of my cousins and we celebrated VE Day together. I had lots of happy times in the ATS but there were also bad times. Just after VE Day one of my friends, Monica, was killed while driving an officer in a staff car. That was so tragic, especially as the war was over. After being demobbed I returned home, where life soon went back to normal. I married, had three children and now have five grandchildren. SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 27

FORCES UPDATE Latest news from the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force

ROYAL NAVY

Members of the crew joining HMS Prince of Wales

AIRCRAFT CARRIER WELCOMES FIRST CREW Navy personnel have joined the UK’s second aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales

TWELVE ROYAL Navy personnel have become the first crew to join the UK’s second aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, currently being built by the Rosyth-based Aircraft Carrier Alliance – a partnering relationship between BAE Systems, Thales UK, Babcock and the Ministry of Defence.

ARMY

ALMOST 200 soldiers from the 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 RIFLES), based at Dreghorn Barracks in Edinburgh, have been deployed on an extensive training exercise in Louisiana. The soldiers will join American comrades from 1/501 Battalion, part of the 4.25 (Airborne) Infantry Brigade Combat Team, at the Joint Readiness Training Centre in Fort Polk, Louisiana, on ‘Exercise Rattlesnake’, a large scale collective infantry training exercise.

“It’s an honour to be given this unique opportunity to train alongside American forces. The soldiers from Bravo Company have spent the last four months preparing for the exercise,” says Major Chris Dadd, B Company Commander. “They will be given the chance to test their full range of military skills.” The collaborative exercise will ensure UK troops can easily work alongside various nations and progress to a joint role as and when required. It will be a crucial opportunity for both forces to exchange experience and knowledge, hone their skills and apply different capabilities.

28 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

RAF LOSSIEMOUTH/CROW

N COPY RIGH T 2016

The battalion was deployed to Louisiana

3 RIFLES embark on US exercise Edinburgh-based battalion head to America to take part in collaborative training

Over the next few years, the team will work alongside their industry partners to learn about the ship, its equipment and extensive technological advances as it progresses through its build programme, ahead of sea trials in 2019. “It is an honour to be in charge of a small but rapidly growing team,” says Captain Simon Petitt, the Senior Naval Officer of both Queen Elizabeth carriers.

ROYAL AIR FORCE

No 5 in Nigeria PERSONNEL FROM the Royal Air Force Regiment’s No 5 Force Protection Wing (5 FP Wg) recently returned from Nigeria, where they helped train the Nigerian Air Force to protect its personnel and aircraft involved in counter-insurgency fighting. A team from 5 FP Wg and 51 Squadron RAF Regiment, usually based at RAF Lossiemouth, delivered the bespoke military training at the request of the British Military Advisory and Training Team in Nigeria. Working with the RAF Force Protection Centre at RAF Honington, 5 FP Wg designed a programme to train 100 newly qualified airmen and eight officers of the Nigerian Air Force Regiment to defend bases involved in the fight against insurgent activity. RAF Regiment trainers also mentored their Nigerian counterparts so that they can replicate the RAF Regiment’s training, and to improve their own training capability.

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9/2014 Veterans 10:25 Assist_SLN_Summer14.indd 1

04/07/2014 11:46

For Some Veterans, Every Day is a Battle You don’t need to fight it alone.

We have supported accommodation available now in Edinburgh, Dundee and Glasgow. For more information visit

or call

0131 556 0091

Registered Charity SC015260

A Charity Concert in aid of Seafarers UK

05/2014 11:19

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www.svronline.org

www.veterans-assist.org

Charity Concerts

in aid of Seafarers UK

30/09/2014 09:49

Wherever and whenever you served, you can get information, advice and guidance from our website. Whether you’re a veteran or are helping a veteran, Veterans Assist can provide you with information on Housing, Employment, Health, Support and Comradeship activities happening in your area:

THE BAND OF HER MAJESTY’S ROYAL MARINES, SCOTLAND

IN CONCERT 2016

T he Ba n d of h e rDunfermline M aj e sT y’s roya l M a r i n e s, scoT l a n d Carnegie Hall, Thursday 28 April and Thursday 9 June at 7.30pm

in ConCert To book tickets Box office 01383 602302 Website www.onfife.com

Edinburgh Usher Hall

2016

Edinburgh UsherGilbert Hall, &14Sullivan September With Edinburgh Societywith Wednesday 14 September Edinburgh Gilbert & Sullivan Society

To book ticketsHall, Box office 0131 228 1155 Website: www.usherhall.co.uk Perth Concert 7 October with

ThePerth Perth Choral Society Concert Hall With The PerthCentre, Choral Society Carlisle Sands 27 November (1939-1945 Star)

(Korea 1950-1953) (GSM 1962-Present) (South Atlantic1982) (Iraq 2003)

Providing a single point of contact for veterans whenever and whatever they need.

Tuesday 15 November

To book tickets Box office 01738 6121031 Website: www.horsecross.co.uk

www.veterans-assist.org

www.seafarers.uk

Veterans Scotland New Haig House, Logie Green Road, Edinburgh, EH7 4HR, Tel: 0131 550 1569. Veterans Scotland is a Company Limited by Guarantee, registered in Scotland, SC239808. Registered as a Charity in Scotland, Scottish Charity Number SC033880

9/2014 Veterans 10:25 Assist_SLN_Summer14.indd 1

@Seafarers_UK

SeafarersUK

Seafarers UK (King George’s Fund for Sailors) is a Registered Charity, No. 226446 in England and Wales, incorporated under Royal Charter. Registered in Scotland, No. SC038191. Registered Office: 8 Hatherley Street, London SW1P 2QT.

Scotland series A5.indd 04/07/2014 11:46

04/03/2016 16:26:01

COME AND SEE US FIND YOUR NEAREST LEGION SCOTLAND BRANCH

ABERDEEN, BANFF & KINCARDINE 01224 707768

Aberdeen Aboyne Alford Ballater & District Banchory 01330 822347 Buckie & District 01542 832636 Bucksburn Dufftown 01340 820425 Ellon 01358 720512 Fraserburgh 01346 518964 Fyvie 01651 891292 Inverurie 01467 620567 Keith & District 01542 882320 Kincardine Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neil Longside Lumphanan Methlick New Deer 01771 644701 New Pitsligo 01771 653470 Oldmachar 01224 704717 Oldmeldrum 01651 872527 Peterhead Stonehaven 01569 763655 Strichen 01771 637792 Tarves & District Turriff & District 01888 563231 Upper Donside ANGUS & PERTHSHIRE 07530 380545

Alyth Arbroath 01241 873964 Blairgowrie, Rattray & District 01250 873882

Braco & Greenloaning Brechin 01356 622562 Callander & District Carnoustie 01241 854940 City of Dundee Crieff 01764 652937 Dunblane Dunkeld & Birnam 01350 727773 Forfar 01307 463204 Montrose 01674 672406 Perth Pitlochry & Blair Atholl

ANGUS & PERTHSHIRE

AYRSHIRE 01294 552013

Ayr Cumnock & District Garnock Valley Irvine 01294 313164 Isle of Bute Kilmarnock Kilwinning Largs Maybole Monkton & Prestwick Muirkirk Saltcoats, Ardrossan & Stevenston Troon BORDERS 01361 883696

Coldstream 01890 882109 Duns Eyemouth Galashiels 01896 752457 Hawick Jedburgh 01835 863201 Kelso 01573 224506 Liddesdale Melrose

30 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

ABERDEEN BANFF & KINCARDINE

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS

FIFE

GLASGOW & WESTERN COUNTIES

EDINBURGH & THE LOTHIANS BORDERS

AYRSHIRE Peebles Selkirk & Ettrick Forest StBoswells DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY 07849 828413

Annan Castle Douglas 01556 504499 Dalbeattie Dumfries & Maxwelltown Gatehouse & District Langholm 013873 80489 Moffat Newton Stewart Sanquhar Stranraer Thornhill

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

EDINBURGH & THE LOTHIANS 0131 550 1590

Bathgate 01506 652723 Bonnyrigg Cockenzie & Port Seton 01875 810103 Dalkeith 0131 663 3235 Dunbar 01368 863275 Edinburgh Central 0131 557 8164 Edinburgh HQ Linburn

Livingston Longniddry 01875 853241 Newbattle & Gorebridge Penicuik 01968 672095 Portobello 0131 669 5418 Prestonpans 01875 811446 Roslin 0131 440 2174 FIFE 07904 817917

Anstruther

Ceres & District Crail Crossgates 01383 511478 Cupar Dunfermline 01383 723921 Glenrothes Kennoway 01333 350332 Kirkcaldy Leven 01333 426058 Newburgh St Andrews Tayport

LEGION SCOTLAND has nearly 170 branches across Scotland, from Kirkwall to Dumfries, and the Isle of Bute to Edinburgh. Every branch is run by volunteers and every one is different. What they all have in common is their desire to work towards improving the circumstances of ex-service people across Scotland. When you join your local branch GLASGOW & WESTERN COUNTIES 01324 872146/ 07979 006536

Biggar & District Bridge of Weir 01505 613530 Cambuslang Campbeltown Clackmannanshire & District Cumbernauld 01236 735263 Dunoon Easdale East Kilbride 01355 233545 Forth 01555 811317 Glasgow HQ Grangemouth 01324 483040 Hamilton Helensburgh Inveraray Knightswood 0141 959 2721 Millport 01475 530052 Milngavie & Bearsden Newton Mearns Oban Paisley Comrades 0141 889 9281 Stirling HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS 01463 233743

Assynt Aviemore & Rothiemurchus 01479 810892 Badenoch

of Legion Scotland your membership also entitles you to use any other branch across Scotland. A separate fee may apply for using a branch with a club. To make it easier to find the branch closest to you, we’ve split Scotland into nine areas and have listed the branches in each area in alphabetical order. Those branches listed in BLUE also have a Legion Scotland social club affiliated to them.

Beauly Black Isle Canisbay & District Creich & Kincardine Dingwall 01349 863278 Dornoch Forres 01309 672131 Fort Augustus 01320 366247 Fort William Glenurquhart Golspie Helmsdale Invergordon Inverness 01463 234378 Kirkwall 01856 873297 Latheron Lerwick 01595 692314 Lewis Lochalsh Lochbroom Lossiemouth Nairn 01667 453201 North Skye Rogart & Lairg Sanday Scalloway 01595 880355 Strathpeffer Strathspey 01479 872212 Stromness 01856 850731 Tain Thurso 01847 893417 Uist Wick

RIDERS BRANCH 07884 004890

Befrienders wanted Do you enjoy meeting new people? Could you spare an hour or two a week? Would you like to work with people who may be lonely and isolated?

This could be the role for you!

Across the country FURTHER AFIELD 0032 (0) 57 365 152

Passchendaele, Belgium HEADQUARTERS BRANCH 0131 550 1583

Ideal for those abroad, or with no branch nearby WOMEN’S SECTION 07826 104879

Arbroath  Ayr & Prestwick  Bridge of Weir  Coldstream  Crail  Dingwall  Dunbar  Earlston  Ellon  Forfar   Galashiels  Glenrothes  Inverness  Inverurie  Jedburgh Larkhall  Loanhead Lossiemouth Methilhill Montrose  Oldmachar  Oldmeldrum  Paisley    Stonehaven  Turriff

Legion Scotland is looking for volunteers to act as befrienders to veterans and their families. You would provide one-to-one companionship and support by sharing interests, skills and hobbies with them in their own homes. This could involve crafts, doing jigsaws or chatting over coffee, or you may agree to take someone to one of our comradeship events. For more information, contact Stephen Baird s.baird@legionscotland.org.uk

Royal British Legion Scotland: at the heart of Scotland’s veteran community

SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 31

IN MEMORIAM

LAST POST

Paying tribute to recently departed Legion Scotland members from across the country DUMFRIES & MAXWELLTOWN

John Peden Doherty

The branch’s oldest member, John was 95-years-old and for many years an active committee member, helping with charity collections. John was called up in 1942 and joined the Royal Scots but due to circumstances at that time was sent to join other regiments, finally joining 1st Bn. KOSB where he served until 1975, retiring from the Army as a WO2. Our thoughts are with his daughter Cheryl, son-in-law Martin and the grandchildren.

ELLON

Alexander Burnett

Known to most as Sandy, he died very suddenly on 3 October 2015. A loving husband to wife Rosie, his children and grandchildren. On retiring from work, Sandy applied for the vacancy of door person at Ellon Legion and was accepted. Sandy was a friend to many of his own club members and also visiting clubs. He always greeted you with a smile and a story, or had something cheeky to say to have folk laughing. Sandy will be sorely missed by all.

FORFAR

Mick McKeown

Mick McKeown, Chairman of Angus and Perthshire Area, died in January aged 78 after being fatally hit by a bus in Forfar. A long-time Gunner since Boys’ Service, he spent many years in the Careers Office in Bank Street, Dundee, being promoted to WO1 while there. He joined the Royal British Legion Scotland as soon as serving soldiers were allowed entry, becoming Chairman of Forfar branch – the first ever still serving. After leaving the Army, Mick managed porterage services at hospitals in Dundee, but the Legion remained his real passion, and he held a succession of offices in and beyond

32 SPRING 2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Forfar branch, representing Angus and Perthshire on the charity’s National Board of Trustees. He was also a dedicated Legion fundraiser, taking part in and often

Joseph Peny

Joe – as he was known to most folks – died peacefully at Ugie Hospital Peterhead on 10 November 2015. A much loved dad, granda, great granda and father-in-law, Joe was a member of Ellon branch and club. He was a club steward for many years, and was amongst those nominated for the roles of branch and club chair. He was also involved in area committee meetings representing his own club. RIP Joe.

conceiving events that bordered on the epic, like his 400-mile cycle run from Edinburgh to Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, through which Iraq and Afghanistan casualties’ corteges passed en route from RAF Lyneham to Oxford. He also undertook a threeweek fundraising cycle trip around the Scottish coast, and even completed the London Marathon in three hours and 15 minutes. To many in Angus and Perthshire, Mick was familiar as Standards Marshal at the area’s annual Festival of Remembrance. Most people didn’t know how much he had been involved in founding the festival around 30 years ago. Legion Scotland offers its sympathy to his son Dougie and his family.