Legion Scotland Today, Winter 2015/16

LEGION The magazine of The Royal British Legion Scotland Issue 8 Winter 2015-2016

www.legionscotland.org.uk

SCOTLAND TODAY High scores

THE YEAR 2015 IN NUMBERS

NEVER MISS A BEAT

COCKENZIE & PORT SETON PIPES & DRUMS IN TRAINING

PLUS

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

BRANCH NEWS, GIVE A LITTLE FOR VETERANS, EISENHOWER’S LEGION CONNECTION, VOICES OF VETERANS & MORE

Love later life

Age Scotland’s aim is to help Scotland’s people enjoy a better later life. We inspire and support everyone in Scotland to make the most of later life and build communities for all ages.

We help develop and mentor local groups and projects, creating places and activities that bring people together as a community. This, in turn, helps combat loneliness and isolation, and brings joy and a renewed sense of purpose into older people’s lives and support to others who need it most.

We create vital, free information on a range of issues such as community care and benefits, to help older people make informed choices in their lives.

However, almost half of our work would not be possible without people remembering Age Scotland in their wills. When you visit your solicitor, and you have taken care of your loved ones, please consider leaving a gift in your will to Age Scotland.

Find out more about us at www.agescotland.org.uk Age Scotland Department LST Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR Charity No: SC010100

We also provide opportunities for older people to challenge disadvantage and unfairness - ensuring that their ideas for a better Scotland reach the ears of those who need to hear them.

Age Scotland, part of the Age Network, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the later lives of everyone on the ageing journey, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland. Registration Number: 153343 Charity Number: SC010100 Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.

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 Vice Chairman Charlie Brown National Treasurer John Whitelaw Chief Executive Officer Kevin Gray MM EDITOR Christie McMonagle MANAGING EDITOR Fiona McKinlay EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jonathan McIntosh DESIGNERS Mark Davies, Ross Russell SUB-EDITOR Andrew Littlefield, Sam Bartlett GROUP ACCOUNT MANAGER 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 19 February 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

A force to be reckoned with ANOTHER YEAR IS UPON US ALREADY, AND IN THIS ISSUE WE LOOK BACK AT LEGION SCOTLAND’S MANY SUCCESSES IN 2015, WHILE ACKNOWLEDGING HOW MUCH MORE THERE IS THAT WE STILL NEED TO DO. We launched our fundraising and awareness campaign, Give A Little For Veterans, raising the charity’s profile and raising thousands of pounds that we are directing straight into services to support veterans across Scotland. This year, we want to make an even bigger deal of what we do and why it’s so important. Read more about our campaign plans on page 28.

Elsewhere in this issue we share your branch news, including the impressive story of the Kirkwall branch’s project to get missing names added to war memorials throughout Orkney, and our Local Hero is the Carnoustie branch, whose efforts and collaboration within their community keep the area’s war memorials looking splendid all year round.

Our cover stars are Rod Paton and his step-daughter Carys, from the Cockenzie & Port Seton Royal British Legion Scotland Pipes and Drums. On page 19, Rod, Carys and their bandmates give us the lowdown on how things started, their trip to New York to play in the Tartan Week Parade, and more.

This issue comes with sad news, too. Our National Chairman, Jan Harvey, passed away in December. Jan’s legacy is an incredible one that will not easily be forgotten – our first female Chairman, she was an incredible asset to Legion Scotland in a time of great change who helped bring members together to drive the organisation in the right direction.

She was a great colleague and a great friend. We pay tribute on page 32.

Thanks, as ever, for supporting Legion Scotland.

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

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 3

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

WINTER 2015-2016

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

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LEGION The magazine of The Royal British Legion Scotland Issue 8 Winter 2015-2016

www.legionscotland.org.uk

SCOTLAND TODAY High scores

06 LEGION NEWS

THE YEAR 2015 IN NUMBERS

NEVER MISS A BEAT

JEREMY SUTTON-HIBBERT, JEFF J MITCHELL/GETTY IMAGES, IRVINE HERALD NEWSPAPER

COCKENZIE & PORT SETON PIPES & DRUMS IN TRAINING

PLUS

BRANCH NEWS, GIVE A LITTLE FOR VETERANS, EISENHOWER’S LEGION CONNECTION, VOICES OF VETERANS & MORE

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

ON THE COVER Cockenzie & Port Seton Royal British Legion Scotland Pipes & Drums Pipe Major Rod Paton and his step-daughter Carys PHOTO: Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert

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CONTENTS

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facebook.com/LegionScotland twitter.com/LegionScotland

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

23 2015: YEAR IN REVIEW

Taking a look back at the past year in numbers, considering how many veterans we’ve helped and how much more we still need to do

MUSIC TO OUR EARS Erin Ritchie (pictured) and her Cockenzie & Port Seton RBLS Pipes & Drums bandmates share their stories

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26

26 VOICES OF VETERANS

Bishop Ronald Harwood, aged 95, shares his globetrotting experiences from the Second World War

28 RALLY THE TROOPS

Find out how you can get involved with this year’s Give A Little For Veterans campaign

30 FORCES UPDATE

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

31

COME AND SEE US Directory of our branches and clubs

32 LAST POST

Fond notes of remembrance from branches across the country, including tributes to late Chairman Jan Harvey

34 BORN IN THE USA

How President Eisenhower came to be a member of our organisation www.legionscotland.org.uk 5

LEGION NEWS

Keeping you up to date with Legion Scotland’s latest

COMMEMORATION

LOOS REMEMBERED Tributes in Auchy-les-Mines and Dundee A GROUP of veterans from the Queen’s Own

Highlanders Regimental Association visited France to pay tribute and remember the members of their antecedent regiments who gave their lives during the Battle of Loos. The trip was supported by a grant from Legion Scotland’s Ex-Service Community Support Fund.

The group, including a number of Legion Scotland members, took part in a commemorative ceremony in Auchy-les-Mines.

Back in Scotland, the national commemoration event for the Battle of Loos was held in Dundee in September.

Around 30,000 Scots served in the conflict, during which around 7,000 Scots lives were lost.

Standard bearers parade through Dundee city centre

Eddie Maley meets the Lady Mayor of Auchy-les-Mines

It is estimated that around half of these were from the Dundee area.

Commemorations started when 300 veterans and 250 serving soldiers paraded through Dundee city centre to the City Square, which was transformed into an open-air ‘cathedral’. Ministers representing the Scottish Episcopal Church, the Roman Catholic Church of Scotland, the Church of Scotland and the Armed Forces conducted a service.

FUNDRAISING

Numbers tallied as matched funding comes to an end AT THE beginning of the 2014-15 year the National Board of Trustees (NBT) launched an appeal for the Ex-Service Community Support Fund. Donations from branches were match funded by the board.

Donations are used to fund our programmes of work that support veterans such as the befriending programme, the disablement pensions scheme, comradeship, remembrance and commemorative events.

Donations being paid into the fund are no longer being matched.

However, please do continue to make donations to the fund. Every penny goes to support Scotland’s veterans.

Area/branch Donation Lochalsh branch £300 Longniddry branch £200 Angus & Perth area festival £1,000 Loreburn retirement group £20 Annan branch £1,000 Lossiemouth branch £50 Badenoch branch £500 Melrose branch £200 Banchory branch £300 Methlick branch £1,000 Bathgate branch £440 Newton Mearns branch £1,000 Callander branch £600 Peebles branch £600 Cumbernauld branch £500 Portobello branch £200 Duns branch £50 Prestonpans branch £500 Edinburgh & Lothian area £20,160 Riders branch £800 Edinburgh headquarters £500 Roslin branch £100 Fort William branch £70 Stranraer branch £250 Grangemouth branch £500 Thurso branch £820 Hawick branch £500 Uist branch £400 Head office staff £200 Helensburgh branch £200 Inverness branch £200 Total donated £35,230 Irvine branch £250 Matched by Legion Scotland NBT £35,230 Isle of Bute branch £700 Transfer from Travel Aid fund £47,600 Kirkwall branch £1,000 Livingston branch £120 Total income £118,060

6 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

ALAN RICHARDSON, MARK OWENS, SHUTTERSTOCK

EX-SERVICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT FUND TOTALS

IN BRIEF

WIN UP TO £25K Legion Scotland’s new lottery, launched at the end of last year, has already yielded 29 winners. Find out how to play on page 17.

PARTNERSHIP

MEN’S SHEDS ASSOCIATION LINKS UP WITH LEGION

RUNNING TOTAL CEO Kevin Gray MM completed the Loch Ness Marathon in September in four hours and 50 minutes, raising £2,491 for Legion Scotland.

First facility to open in Banchory

GAVE A LOT A fundraising total was accidentally omitted from last edition’s Give A Little table. Bathgate branch donated £600.

LEGION SCOTLAND and the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association have launched a partnership to help improve comradeship among local communities.

Community men’s sheds respond to men’s need for camaraderie and provide opportunities to work together in a way that contributes meaning to their lives. This links well with the role of Legion Scotland in supporting ex-service men through comradeship.

A joint Men’s Shed is already in development with the Legion Scotland Banchory Club, and the Scottish Men’s REMEMBRANCE Events across Scotland in November last year, on and around Remembrance Sunday, paid tribute to those who have fallen in conflict.

Legion Scotland hosted national commemorations in Edinburgh, including a ceremony at the Stone of Remembrance, pictured.

Banchory plans come together

Sheds Association is now looking to roll this out across Scotland.

Launching the national partnership, Legion Scotland CEO Kevin Gray MM said: “The link with those who have not served brings a new dimension to the veteran’s world. The opportunity to mix and reintegrate into the civilian community by

sharing experiences, both military and civilian, could be the very thing that does away with the need for separate safe havens for ex-service and non-service men, but builds a network of combined Men’s Sheds and Legion Scotland clubs that are underpinned by comradeship and wellbeing, and the fostering of true community spirit regardless of someone’s background.”

For more information on the partnership the Scottish Men’s Sheds Association, contact Stephen Baird on 0131 550 1560 or visit www.scottishmsa.org.uk

ARCTIC TAPESTRY A tapestry made for the Arctic Convoys: Men and Ice exhibition last year has been given, by his family, to 90-year-old Tom Lennie, who served in the convoys and earned an Arctic Star medal.

DONATION Inmates of HM Prison Kilmarnock donated £151 to Legion Scotland when National Wellbeing Convener James Fergie Bell visited in November last year.

STORY TO SHARE? Legion Scotland is always looking for ex-service men and women’s stories to tell, as sharing your experiences could help raise support for veterans.

Please get in touch with Christie McMonagle on 0131 550 1549 or email c.mcmonagle@ legionscotland.org.uk

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 7

LEGION NEWS

ASK Our head office team answers your questions

Claire Armstrong, Head of Administration & Membership There have been further changes to the membership/capitation process this year for two reasons.

First, to enable us to collate our members’ information, which is a legal requirement for our forthcoming incorporated status (SCIO) in 2016. Second, to provide branches with a more detailed means of recording important information on their members.

“Many branches have not been recording information on their members on the old capitation stubs. This year’s membership forms enable branches to have a proper audit trail of their members.

“The new membership form also offers the opportunity for people to sign up for Gift Aid and to give donations so that we can continue to raise funds and support the work of the charity across the country.

“The completion of these forms is a one-off exercise for this year and next year we hope to prepopulate as much paperwork as possible for branches. This is a step towards modernising our membership process and also to eventually providing every member with a proper, plastic, credit card-style membership ID.”

8 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

HOLIDAY DISCOUNT

Pack your bags Enjoy Legion Scotland members’ discount on a group trip with Glenton IT’S THAT TIME of year when many people start thinking about holiday planning. Group travel is popular among Legion Scotland branches, and by travelling with our partner Glenton Holidays members can save money and help the charity.

Glenton Holidays offers a 5% discount for Legion Scotland members and donates 2.5% to Legion Scotland for each trip booked. There are also free places

available on trips with 20 or more people travelling.

Aberdeen branch has already enjoyed many trips with Glenton.

Branch Secretary Jessie Reaper said: “They’re very helpful and their drivers are excellent. We’re using them twice again this year – going to Blackpool and Gretna.”

Glenton Holidays has planned trips with a military theme and a four-day battlefield tour for this year, and also offers group travel to selected air shows around the UK. Call the dedicated booking line on 0844 248 6105 and quote GLLEG15 to take advantage of this offer

FUNERAL PLAN DISCOUNT

COST OF DYING Report reveals price of funerals THE AVERAGE cost of a basic funeral has risen to £3,693, according to a study by financial services company SunLife. The total cost of dying, it calculated, averages £8,126, including the hiring of professionals to administer the deceased’s estate.

An online survey revealed that 50% had to borrow money to cover the costs of their loved one’s funeral. Legion Scotland’s wellbeing department often takes calls from recently bereaved people who need help to cover funeral costs.

Our partnership with Co-operative Funeralcare offers a discount of

£150 on pre-paid plans for Legion Scotland members. Co-operative Funeralcare also gives Legion Scotland £100 for every plan sold to one of our members.

Legion Scotland’s former National Treasurer, Andy Alexander, has taken out a plan with Co-operative Funeralcare. He said: “It is really important to myself and my wife to have our funerals organised and paid for in advance. It will be hard enough when one of us dies without financial worries.”

Call 0800 389 8377 and quote the code LEG15 to purchase

SHUTTERSTOCK

WHY HAS THE WAY I RENEW MY MEMBERSHIP CHANGED?

Tyne Cot Cemetery in Ypres could be on your itinerary

facebook.com /LegionScotland

Give A Little For Veterans Campaign 2016

How will you raise money for veterans?

@LegionScotland

£ To donate text LSCO15 £3 to 70070

Today in Scotland 1 in 12 of the veteran community feels isolated. Legion Scotland needs your help to provide practical support, by veterans for veterans, to help rebuild the lives of those who have seen things no one should have to see.

Please fundraise for veterans during our April campaign, or anytime! Run a bucket collection, a sponsored event or a quiz — support packs are available. For more information contact your local Legion Scotland branch or call 0131 550 1549.

www.legionscotland.org.uk

£

Legion Scotland is a trading name of the Royal British Legion Scotland, Scottish Charity No. SC003323.

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

BRANCH NEWS IN BRIEF

• A World War Two veterans reunion was held at the Fyvie branch. Attendees enjoyed a meal prepared

by Ann Stuart and entertainment from Nick Innes.

REDEDICATION IN CRAIK FOREST

Branch holds ceremony at memorial to Halifax bomber crew Rededication service at memorial

WWII veterans at the Fyvie branch reunion event

• The Hawick branch took on a clay pigeon shooting challenge to raise money for Legion Scotland. A fine day’s sport was had by all and more than £400 raised.

Hawick branch members

HAWICK

A MEMORIAL in Craik forest was rededicated in October in a service carried out by the Hawick branch padre, Rev Michael Scoular.

This recognition came following encouragement from branch members Jim Coltman and Hugh Robson, who had been making an annual pilgrimage to the

monument around Armistice Day for a number of years. The memorial pays tribute to the crew of a Hanley Page Halifax bomber (JP190) that crashed into the hill of Muckle Howe on 1 April 1944 during a night-time navigation exercise. The wreckage is still on the hill to this day.

In 1993, an ATC cadet, Hilda Erasmussen, came across the site during a navigation exercise. It was deemed appropriate to mark the loss by erecting a memorial nearby.

On 1 April 1994, 50 years after the accident, a cairn with a plaque recording the names of the crew was unveiled.

MELROSE

VC HONOURED

Duke unveils inscribed memorial paving stone

CASTLE DOUGLAS Castle Douglas branch recently held its annual sports night in the clubrooms, where winners of the fly fishing competitions were presented with their trophies

10 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

MEMBERS OF the Melrose branch participated in a service of commemoration and thanksgiving for Lieutenant Colonel Angus Douglas-Hamilton VC at the Holy Trinity Scottish Episcopal Church in the Scottish Borders town.

The service was followed by the unveiling of an inscribed memorial paving stone at the millennium cairn by the Duke of Hamilton, who also laid a poppy wreath.

Lt Col Douglas Hamilton retired from the regular Army in 1912 but rejoined at the age of 52 at the outbreak of World War One. He commanded the 6th Battalion of the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders at the Battle of Loos, where he was killed on 26 September 1915. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry.

IN BRIEF

• Badenoch branch held five Remembrance services across the district on Remembrance Sunday, covering Kincraig, Kingussie, Newtonmore, Laggan and Dalwhinnie.

KIRKWALL

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Monica Cessford collects her print prize

• Dunblane branch raised £400 for charities including Erskine Hospital in a raffle on Remembrance Sunday.

Branch member Monica Cessford won an original print donated by local artist John McHarg.

GRAHAM KNOWLES / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Research by Kirkwall branch members adds six new names to Stromness war memorial

A PROJECT that started 20 years ago to find missing names from Orkney war memorials is celebrating its latest success – getting six ‘new’ war dead added to the war memorial in Stromness. This brings the project’s total to 13 so far, with ‘lost’ Orcadians’ names already added to memorials in Burray, South Ronaldsay, Sanday, Flotta and Kirkwall.

Brian Budge has been the project’s principal researcher since its inception, although many others, from Kirkwall branch and the wider community, have been involved in getting names added.

Some research can be done online, but Brian travels to Kew “three or four times a year” to consult the National Archives.

He collates evidence including birth and death records and military papers.

Stromness war memorial’s new additions were completed along with renovation work just in time for Remembrance Day. “All six men were born in Stromness,” Brian said, “but had left the town – three for Australia, one to New Zealand and two to elsewhere in the UK – some time before their wartime deaths.”

These had probably been missed, Brian explained, because the families had moved

Brian Budge at the Kirkwall war memorial, top left, and above, the Stromness war memorial, to which six names have recently been added

away and their deaths went unreported in Orkney at the time as a result.

He said, however, that there are many reasons why a name may have been missed off a memorial.

“The one in Sanday was a bomber command crewman who crashed in France after coming back from bombing Germany in late 1944. His parents just didn’t want to believe he was dead.

They clung to the hope that he might turn up, way past the war.”

More information on the research and names added to memorials in Orkney can be found at www.rbls-kirkwall.org.uk

• Oldmeldrum women’s section was delighted to be awarded the Rose Bowl Trophy, presented annually by the women’s section for entries such as a sewing item, a knitted item and a craft item.

Oldmeldrum women’s section

• Bearsden and Milngavie members took a trip to the Millport branch club for lunch, stopping on the way at the Memorial for the Missing.

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 11

IN BRIEF

• Irvine branch held a bagpacking fundraising day at Tesco and raised more than £1,150 for Legion Scotland.

• Passchendaele and District branch’s standard became the first ever British standard to attend commemorations at Halluin in France.

Pipe lament at Cupar War Memorial

CUPAR

Huge turnout for Remembrance Renovated memorial welcomes record crowd FOLLOWING COMPLETION of a major staged refurbishment of Cupar War Memorial, the Remembrance Parade and service held there were witnessed by their biggest congregation in living memory.

The parade was led by the Royal Burgh of Cupar Pipe Band. Accompanying hymns and salutations came courtesy of Bell Baxter School Band. At the end of the

service, a new pipe lament commissioned

by Dave Carstairs, Legion Scotland Cupar branch, and written by Ron Barron of St Andrews entitled ‘Tribute to Cupar War Memorial’ was played by Ron and his pupil Douglas Provan. This work has also been arranged to be played on other musical instruments.

Following the service a memorial tree was planted by Bill Pagan, Deputy Lord Lieutenant, in the adjacent park in memory of WWI casualties.

ANGUS AND PERTHSHIRE

Commemorations at Halluin

• A wreath laying ceremony held in Inver

by Tain branch was attended by councillor Fiona Robertson and pupils from Inver Primary School.

• Irvine branch hosted a Malayan veterans’ dinner on 10 September, with a great turnout and attendance from Legion Scotland CEO Kevin Gray MM.

UIST

FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE Special tribute paid to the 4th Black Watch DUNDEE’S CAIRD Hall played host once again to the Festival of Remembrance, organised by Legion Scotland’s Angus and Perthshire area.

Falling in the 100th anniversary year of the Battle of Loos, this was a particularly poignant one for Dundee as the city’s Territorial battalion, the 4th Black Watch, “Dundee’s Own”, lost 57% of its

strength between 0600 and 1700 on one tragic day, Saturday 25 September 1915, in the opening attack of the three-week-long battle.

Special guests acknowledged by the crowd were 103-year-old Desert Rat Jimmy Sinclair, late Black Watch and Chestnut Troop RHA, and Far East POW Alastair Urquhart, late Gordons, and author of The Forgotten Highlander.

12 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Uist branch has unveiled a plaque to honour men from the Islands who died at St Valery-en-Caux in June 1940.

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

LOCAL HERO

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

A prize-winning memorial and garden

A BLOOMING SUCCESS Green-fingered members of the Carnoustie branch discuss maintaining the area’s war memorials and reveal how recent successes have inspired them to keep blossoming

Kirsty says: “Often these younger groups have their own standard bearers.

Our standard bearers have several sessions with the kids and Marching at the ETICULOUS PLANNING of the community spirit: “We’re offer them their best memorial and dedication go into a close-knit community and the hints and tips. They ensuring the memorial local people are fierce advocates of were absolutely brilliant gardens of Carnoustie our work. It’s very much a joint venture on the day.” remain looking their best. Over the between the three groups and everyone The branch also has other memorials years, the branch has established does a great job.” in its care, including one in Carmyllie strong connections with She quips: “People are and a WWI memorial in Panbride Angus Council and local very vocal about how cemetery, and took on responsibility for group Colourful Carnoustie beautiful the memorial the Monifieth memorial after the local – many of whom are looks. Often, when I’m branch closed in 2013. It also helps care Legion Scotland members. along doing work on it, for Carnoustie Golf Club’s new memorial In April 2015, Carnoustie I struggle to get things stone, which bears the town’s VC won a gold award in the done due to people recipients, Petty Officer George Samson 2015 Scotland in Bloom stopping me to tell and Lance Corporal Charles Jarvis of the competition set up by Keep me how lovely it is.”

Royal Engineers.

Scotland Beautiful, and An estimated 250 After a fruitful year, the branch is later in the year was named people were involved in already planning its summer garden Champion of Champions in the local Armistice Day displays and shows no sign of slowing Legion Scotland’s Best Kept Remembrance parade, down. “It’s terribly important to War Memorial campaign, which marched from the remember those who sacrificed so much reflecting brilliantly on Legion Scotland club to for our freedom. There is a deep sense their efforts. the memorial for a Service of pride in all the work the branch carries Memorial stone Branch member Kirsty of Remembrance. Many out,” says Kirsty. “Even though we at Carnoustie MacDonald accredits these of those involved were might grumble when our backs get Golf Club successes to the strength from local youth groups. sore, it’s all worth it in the end.”

M

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 13

POPPYSCOTLAND NEWS AWARDS

FUNDRAISING

POPPYSCOTLAND DEPENDS massively on the goodwill and support of thousands of volunteers who organise Scottish Poppy Appeal collections. The charity therefore owes a huge thank you to the Legion Scotland branches and members who organised and helped with collections in 2015.

Although monies are still coming in for the 2015 campaign, preparations are under way for this year. The appalling weather which hit so many collections highlighted some of the challenges facing Area Organisers and emphasised the importance of working with Poppyscotland to ensure every area can take advantage of collection opportunities. If you have suggestions about ways to boost your area’s total or any other tips you can pass on generally, please get in touch.

It is too early to list individual Legion Scotland branch totals but, rest assured, these will appear in a future edition of Legion Scotland Today.

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT

Thanks for your support!

Janet Gillespie and Ann Robertson MBE, above, and George Davidson, below (left)

Incredible volunteers IN 2015 Poppyscotland was delighted to present President’s Awards to three outstanding volunteers. The award is Poppyscotland’s highest honour, recognising exceptional volunteering services to the charity. The three winners were presented with their awards in recognition of dedicated service to helping veterans in Scotland.

George Davidson, former President of Legion Scotland Inverness branch, received his award from Poppyscotland President Sir Alistair Irwin at the Inverness Town House, where the appeal was launched in the north of Scotland.

Ann Robertson MBE, member of Legion Scotland Women’s Section, and Janet Gillespie received their awards from Presiding Officer Tricia Marwick at a reception at the Scottish Parliament to mark the start of the 2015 Scottish Poppy Appeal.

APPEAL

Scotland turns poppy red HISTORIC LANDMARKS and iconic buildings across Scotland showed their support for the 2015 Scottish Poppy Appeal. While some shone poppy red, others wore their poppies with pride, helping to raise awareness and support during the appeal.

14 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Glencoe

SUPPORT

Report shows positive impact of Armed Services Advice Project (ASAP) initiative

ASAP CELEBRATES FIFTH BIRTHDAY IN NOVEMBER 2015, Poppyscotland and Citizens Advice Scotland released a report to mark the fifth anniversary of their highly successful partnership initiative, the Armed Services Advice Project (ASAP). Entitled What a Difference: the Ground Breaking Work of ASAP 2010-2015, the report highlights the positive impact that the project is having on members of the Armed Forces community in Scotland while also identifying areas of difficulty, including income, employment and housing.

ASAP was established in 2010 to be a focal point for the Armed Forces community in Scotland for access to advice, information and support, while working closely with key partner organisations to ensure that clients receive the most appropriate support.

Over the last five years ASAP has: • Supported 7,342 individuals with more than 32,000 issues, including 1,691 clients via the telephone helpline.

Many clients have multiple issues that may only become apparent as an adviser gets to know the client over the course of several meetings.

• Helped clients make financial gains together totalling more than £5 million, for example through accessing benefits they were missing out on, receiving a charitable

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon meets ASAP supporters and advisers

grant or having debts written off or restructured.

• Expanded geographically from five regions in 2010 to 10 regions in 2015.

An event in Edinburgh to mark the fifth anniversary of ASAP brought together the workers and organisations who have played a key role in making the project a success.

The support that I have received from ASAP has been first class and I cannot thank them enough for what they have done for me” – Kevin, ASAP client

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon attended the event, hosted by Standard Life, where she met Armed Forces veterans and ex-Service charity representatives.

She said: “It is vitally important that members of our Armed Forces communities, whether or not they are serving, receive the help they need at a time when they feel at their most vulnerable.

I admire the enthusiasm, drive and determination of the ASAP staff; the expert advice they are able to draw upon from a wide range of partner organisations is truly impressive.”

Poppyscotland is the lead funder of the collaborative project, which is delivered by the Scottish CAB Service through a helpline and at a

number of Citizens Advice Bureaus (CAB).

Ian McGregor, Chief Executive of Poppyscotland, said: “ASAP is a success story; it is going a long way to tackling the problems faced by the most vulnerable members of the Armed Forces community and excellent results are being achieved. There is, however, still more to be done.

Without the generosity of the public who donate to Poppyscotland and the Scottish Poppy Appeal it would be impossible for us to provide this lifechanging service.”

Members of the Armed Forces community in need of advice can call the ASAP helpline on 0808 800 1007 or visit www.adviceasap.org.uk

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 15

£150 off a Pre-paid Funeral Plan So you leave them with happy memories, not money worries

We understand that you would never want to leave your family with a financial burden. So unlike most other providers, we guarantee funeral plans at today’s prices, meaning we’ll never ask for more money for the services you’ve chosen.

Protect your loved ones.

For a personalised Plan that’s kept safe until you need it and to receive your £150 discount, visit your local Co-op Funeralcare or call 0800 389 8377 or visit us online at www.co-operativefuneralcare.co.uk quoting code LEG15.

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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.

407646_CFC_LEGION_SCOTLAND_2016_WINTER.indd 1

BE A FORCE FOR OUR FORCES.

02/12/2015 09:35

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 COMRADESHIP

Tough team working at the Galloway Activity Centre

RESTORATION

CASH BOOST FOR WWI MEMORIALS GRANTS OF £528,000 have been offered over the past three years to 67 projects across Scotland.

The Centenary Memorials Restoration Fund, launched in April 2013, has £1 million available to support the repair and conservation of any war memorial of any type anywhere in Scotland. It runs through the centenary years of World War I and communities can still apply for a share of the funds.

Frances Moreton, Director of War Memorials Trust, said: “There are still plenty of funds available for the right projects, so get in touch to see if we can help your local war memorial.”

MOTIVATED TO CHANGE Galloway getaway for veterans offers life skills and support STAFF FROM Veterans Mentoring Service (VMS) recently took eight veterans to the Galloway Activity Centre in Dumfries & Galloway for a three-day motivational and team-building event, part-funded by Legion Scotland. The event encouraged team working and peer support through competitive sports, collaborative exercises and discussions.

VMS aims to support men and women who have completed service with the Armed Forces and are at risk of becoming involved, or are already involved, in the criminal justice

For further information visit www.warmemorials.org/grants/

system. It offers an intensive mentoring and one-to-one support service that is focused on supporting veterans with matters including education and employment training, and building up their confidence to make critical changes in their lives.

The Kitchener Memorial on Orkney is among those to have received funding

For more information visit www.sacro.org.uk or call 0141 248 1763

Win up to £25,000 and support Scotland’s veterans!

By playing Legion Scotland’s lottery for as little as £1 per week you will be entered into a draw to win a massive £25,000!

For every £1 entry, 50p comes directly to the charity so we can continue to provide assistance, support and comradeship to veterans and their families. Enter online at: www.legionscotland.org.uk/support-us/lottery/ If you would like to receive an entry form by post, please visit your local Legion Scotland branch or call Christie McMonagle on 0131 550 1549 For any questions, call the Unity helpline on 0370 050 9240 Unity operates this lottery on behalf of Legion Scotland, Scottish Charity No. SC003323

LAWRENCE JONES

Further restoration grants still available from centenary fund

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

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 17

We can help you get advice and information on: > Housing and Homelessness > Employability and Training > Benefits > Debt > Health Issues > Financial Grants All advice is free and confidential www.glasgowshelpingheroes.org helpline

0141 276 7199

for Supported Independent Living

At Abbeyfield Scotland we provide safe, secure quality accommodation where older people can maintain their independence but benefit from a little help and enjoy companionship and company - when they want it.

Our residents and their families place a high value on what an Abbeyfield house offers – prestigious locations, shared spaces for dining and entertaining, good food and an active social life.

You’ll also have the daily support of our in-house staff and 24 hour telecare on hand for peace of mind.

Tel: 0131 225 7801 Fax: 0131 225 7606 Website: www.abbeyfield-scotland.com

Abbeyfield Scotland is a “not-for-profit” organisation, a registered social landlord and a Scottish Charity.

We welcome enquiries about accommodation and employment from all sections of the community.

Scottish Charity No: SC012549.

PIPE DREAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEREMY SUTTON-HIBBERT

How Cockenzie & Port Seton Royal British Legion Scotland Pipes & Drums’ noteworthy efforts have put the branch on the map

F

ROM ITS humble beginnings in 2009, the Cockenzie & Port Seton Royal British Legion Scotland Pipes & Drums has grown into a formidable force. Known for its passion and deep sense of community spirit, the band has achieved remarkable things already.

The band is one of 30 affiliated to Legion Scotland, including 29 pipe bands and one military band. Legion Scotland has in its aims the advancement of the arts, heritage, culture or science by the promotion of music – including the music of pipe bands and military

bands, and the encouragement of participation by young people – and takes great pride in those who represent and support us.

Our pipe bands shine at military-related and civilian events across the country and throughout the year. Legion Scotland also recognises excellence through an annual miniband competition.

Although the Cockenzie & Port Seton RBLS Pipes & Drums is in its infancy compared to most Legion Scotland-affiliated ensembles, its successes speak volumes.

Founding member and Treasurer Lynne Paton reflects on the band’s beginnings.

“My husband, Rod, was the solo piper at the Cockenzie & Port Seton branch’s Remembrance events since 2004 and, after much deliberation, we decided to establish the band on Remembrance Sunday 2009.”

Lynne, Rod and his sister all played the pipes, so they taught in the beginning.

Each week brought new members, who were keen to learn. As well as drum tuition funding from Legion Scotland, the band was successful in getting a lottery grant of £10,000, which went towards the costs of drums and the band’s tartan.

“We were unsure what tartan to use,” says Lynne. “When we presented our ideas to the committee, the Baird Ancient tartan fell out the bag. We wear the Baird Ancient tartan in

Carys Paton and her fellow Cockenzie & Port Seton Royal British Legion Scotland Pipes & Drums band members in rehearsal

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 19

PIPES AND DRUMS It’s a really inclusive group and the discipline the kids get from playing in it is incredible memory of Robert Baird who served Legion Scotland as Parade Master for over 30 years.

Fate definitely played a hand.”

Comprised of people from all walks of life, the band aims to teach its younger members life skills as well as honing their musical craft.

“By representing Legion Scotland at events and on trips, our younger members learn to conduct themselves with pride,” says Lynne.

Over the course of two years, the band fundraised £30,000 for its New York trip.

“I’m a district nurse and I coerced a lot of my colleagues into joining the pipe band.

We did everything to raise money and even had a ladies’ night which involved the men of the pipe band doing the Full Monty,” laughs Lynne.

As well as the Tartan Week parade, the band also had the honour of performing in the first New York tattoo in 50 years.

“It was an amazing achievement to pull off,” says Rod Paton, Lynne’s husband, fellow founding member and current Pipe Major.

Rod has played the bagpipes for 46 years and counts the experience as a trip of a lifetime.

“On the day of the parade, we walked from the hotel up to Sixth Avenue in full kit,” Rod beams. “As we joined the parade, I could just hear the band gasping in amazement.

The crowd were going absolutely mad.”

Rod’s father served in the Royal Scots during the Second World War and he wears his Glengarry badge with pride at

band events. “It’s nice to have this family connection to the military,” says Rod. “Our affiliation to Legion Scotland is brilliant because it allows us to honour the military personnel who served the country.”

This summer the band is planning to go to France for the centenary of the Battle of Somme. “We’re hoping to get involved in the United Pipers for Peace event in July, which will see pipers from all over the world congregate in Amiens, France,” says band Secretary Marina Ritchie.

Band President John Brennan thinks the band has been so successful because it is made up of such a variety of people. “It’s a really inclusive group,” says John. “The fact that so many families play in the band is brilliant.

Even my grandson is learning the chanter.”

John’s father was in the Royal Scots and served most of his time at Edinburgh Castle. “It’s really nice to play at military and memorial events. My pipe captain badge is my dad’s Royal Scots badge, which I wear all the time.”

Experienced bagpiper Jimmy King was a Technical Assistant in the Royal Horse Artillery and the Territorial Army.

“It’s a world away from pipe bands,” he laughs. “It’s been an interesting life so far.”

Jimmy has been playing the instrument for 72 years, and has taught many members of the Cockenzie & Port Seton RBLS Pipes & Drums, including Lynne. “I’ve been in teaching all my life, I love it. You’ve got to be patient, greatness doesn’t happen overnight.”

Sadly, Jimmy’s wife passed away a year ago and so the band has become an especially important part of his life. He

Cockenzie & Port Seton Royal British Legion Scotland Pipes & Drums practise weekly in the club halls

Pipes, drums and bugles have certainly been used in the military for far longer than records can confirm – to signal the commencement of battle, to tell troops when to wake up, when to retire to bed, and much more. Nowadays, the purpose of a military musician is mostly focused on tradition, ceremony and entertainment, whether in a pipes and drums outfit or a military band – and many civilian bands pay tribute.

14TH CENTURY It is documented that during the Wars of Independence, horns were used by Scottish troops as battle signals

20 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

MID-18TH CENTURY Bagpipes first appear in Scottish military music

17TH-18TH CENTURY The evolution of the modern military band, distinct from the pipes and drums, commences, as more instruments are added to the line-up. Musicians tend to act as stretcher bearers when on active service

1854 Pipers officially authorised as part of Highland Regiments.

The Scots Guards follow suit two years later

1910 Army School of Bagpipe Music and Highland Drumming founded at Inchdrewer House in Edinburgh

SHUTTERSTOCK, MARY EVANS, 1968 POPPERFOTO/GETTY IMAGES

KEEP IN TIME! Military music through the years

sees a lot of potential in the band and feels that if it continues with the same levels of commitment, it will go far.

“They just need to keep practising and believe in their abilities,” says Jimmy.

“Thanks to piping, I’ve got a lifetime full of nice memories. I hope that I can pass on some of my knowledge so that other players can have half the fun I did.”

This sense of pride and commitment has been instilled in younger members of the band too. Lochlan Mack, aged 16, has played the pipes since 2011 and really enjoys the social side of the band. His father, was a Regiment Quartermaster in the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, and inspired Lochlan as the band’s Drum Major.

“My dad took part in the Memorial Parade with the band and after seeing how

1915 Pipers are banned from playing over the top of trenches after heavy casualties at the beginning of WWI

1949 The first tattoo in Edinburgh takes place at the Ross Bandstand. The official Edinburgh Military Tattoo launches the following year

1922 The RAF Central Band become the first military band to be broadcast on BBC radio

professional they all looked. I spoke to Lynne about joining and I’ve been hooked ever since.”

Lochlan is planning on joining the Army next year and hopes to specialise in combat medicine with the Royal Army Medical Corps at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate.

Erin Ritchie, aged 15, has been playing the pipes for six years and likes the fact that the band is comprised of such a variety of people.

“Playing in the band opens up a lot of great opportunities. New York was such a brilliant experience and because we were all in a group, nobody was too nervous.”

Erin also plays in her school band, meaning it can be a bit hectic fitting everything in. “I’m always busy,” she says. “It is really good fun though. My great uncle got a military medal for his service in the Second World War so it’s nice to play at military events to honour this family connection.”

This year holds a lot of exciting prospects for the group. As well as planning the trip to France, the band will take part in its first ever competing season. It may be a daunting task, but there’s little reason to doubt a band with so much determination, enthusiasm and blossoming talent.

To find out more about Legion Scotland-affiliated pipe bands please contact Legion Scotland Pipe Major John Simpson on 0131 661 9750 or casedinhouse@blueyonder.co.uk. Legion Scotland produces a pipe band e-newsletter.

Please contact Christie McMonagle on c.mcmonagle@legionscotland.org.uk to receive this

1972 The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards pipes and drums tops the charts in five countries with its version of Amazing Grace

1965 The Royal Marines Band Service records the theme tune for Thunderbirds

1984 Many military bands are reduced in size or disbanded

EARLY 1990S Corps of Army Music is formed, to provide and promote military music

2014 New bands formed ‘to better meet the needs of the modern Army’ include a string orchestra and rock and pop groups

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 21

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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:

Sailors’ Society has supported seafarers through 200 years of war and peace.

We continue to care for them today.

To help support our ongoing mission visit: www.sailors-society.org

s (1939-1945 Star)

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

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

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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

line.org Registered Charity in England & Wales No: 237778

Sailor Society_SL_Aut_14.indd 1 05/2014 11:19

17/09/2014 Veterans 10:25 Assist_SLN_Summer14.indd 1

Opening 2014: Bellrock 30/09/2014 Close, Glasgow 51 new flats for let to Armed Forces veterans

 21 one and two bedroom independent

properties  30 one bedroom flats with transitional support provided  Wheelchair adapted flats available  Gym, café, Wi-Fi and landscaped gardens

09:49

For Some Veterans, Every Day is a Battle Every Day For Some Veterans,

is let a Battle We won’t them fight it alone.

We won’t let them fight it For more information visit alone. www.svronline.org

For more details see www.svronline.org

For more information visit

www.svronline.org

SVR is a registered Charity No. SC015260 Email: info@svronline.org Phone:0131 556 0091

Scot Legion_QUART VERT.indd 1

04/07/2014 11:46

Registered Charity SC015260

Registered Charity SC015260

02/05/2014 11:19

YEAR IN REVIEW

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES Twelve months, 89 grants, 230 tribunals and some clay pigeon shooting IT HAS been a busy year for Legion Scotland. There were many big anniversaries to mark, many veterans to help, and a lot of money to raise to make it all possible.

The numbers, though, tell two stories: one of Legion Scotland both nationally and locally making a massive difference in the lives of veterans in need; and the other of a great many who still need our help.

WELLBEING ENQUIRIES n Calls and letters to head office

342

INCREASE ON PREVIOUS YEAR

MANY THOUSANDS MORE ENQUIRIES TO BRANCHES

BEFRIENDING

36 BEFRIENDED 86 PEOPLE 2,200+ ENQUIRIES FOR BEFRIENDERS BEFRIENDERS TRAINED

CHRONICLE / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

94%

CASES IN 2014/15

RESPITE SUPPORT

4

VETERANS

have benefited from stays at respite care centres funded by Legion Scotland

6

OTHER APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY IN PROGRESS

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 23

YEAR IN REVIEW

The Men and Ice Arctic Convoys exhibition

COMRADESHIP

12

CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING EVENTS

12

INDOOR ARCHERY EVENTS

Around 300 veterans and their families took part

Around 180 veterans took part

DISABLEMENT PENSIONS

230 4

VETERANS REPRESENTED AT TRIBUNALS

WAR WIDOWS PENSIONS PURSUED

n 40% of tribunals won for the veteran by Legion Scotland

£350,000 NATIONAL SPORTS, MUSIC AND BEST KEPT WAR MEMORIAL n Almost 300 competitors in sports finals n Best Kept War Memorial campaign recognised 89 memorials, maintained by 42 branches n 117 entries into the various Legion Scotland piping competitions

ESTIMATED MONEY GAINED FOR VETERANS

REMEMBRANCE AND COMMEMORATIVE EVENTS HELD APR Gallipoli 100th is attended by 200 official guests including the First Minister

MAY VE Day 70th – Beating Retreat and activity day – around 250 take part

GRANTS

89

AWARDED TO INDIVIDUALS

n Top reasons: household goods, debt, funeral costs

15

AWARDED TO BRANCHES

6

AWARDED TO ASSOCIATIONS

24 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Queen’s Own Highlanders Regimental Association at the National Memorial Arboretum

TRIPS FUNDED IN CLUDE:

n Royal Scots trip to Gallipoli n Royal Scots trip to Lo os n QO HLDRS trip to National Arboretum n QO HLDRS trip to Lo os n Three war grave visits

LEGION SCOTLAND IN NUMBERS

30,000+ MEMBERS

168

BRANCHES

64 CLUBS

Royal British Legion Scotlan of Scotland’s veteran commu OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

AUG VJ Day 70th is attended by 250 veterans, relatives and serving military

AUG Men and Ice Arctic Convoys exhibition welcomes over 2,000 attendees

SEP Battle of Loos 100th-anniversary event in Dundee involves around 300 veterans

NOV Remembrance Sunday national event in Edinburgh with around 1,000 visitors

SCHOOLS COMPETITION

39 PUPILS 600+ TOOK PART ENTRIES FROM SCHOOLS

LOOKING AHEAD

MARK OWENS

n Exhibition of top 10 entries toured nine locations hosted by branches in: Bathgate, Prestonpans, St Andrews, Grangemouth, Carnoustie, Forfar, Stonehaven, Banchory and Turriff.

GIVE A LITTLE FOR VETERANS

EX-SERVICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT FUND

RAISED

DONATED TO THE EX-SERVICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT FUND BY

£14,000 21 BRANCHES INVOLVED

n Ten individuals raised money through sponsored activities

£35,230 31

n Wheelchair scheme in Banchory n Dementia grant launched in Inverness n Eight Russian Arctic Convoy veterans hosted by Grangemouth n Edinburgh veterans group, average attendance 20-25 from tri-service organisations; started Glasgow veterans’ group n Scottish Men’s Sheds Association partnership launched at Banchory club n Supported Veterans Remembrance Day lunch in Edinburgh with 300 attendees n Partnerships with Co-operative Funeralcare and Glenton Holidays offering exclusive discounts for members n Legion Scotland branch fundraising for the Scottish Poppy Appeal £925k+

BRANCHES

n This amount was matched by Legion Scotland’s National Board of Trustees

Legion Scotland needs your help in 2016.

We can’t keep doing what we do without your support. Whether as a fundraiser, a volunteer befriender or even as a branch official, we need you to make all of this possible.

KEY CONTACTS

Befriending/grants Stephen Baird 0131 550 1560 Disablement pensions advice James Johnston 0131 550 1566 Fundraising Sheena Stone 0131 550 1554 Contact your branch secretary or head office on 0131 550 1583 for more information on ways to help WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 25

Around the

WORLD

WWII veteran Bishop Ronald Harwood covered a lot of territory in a military career that yielded 29 medals

B

ORN JUST after the First World War, Ronald Harwood’s parents met as an Army officer and a battlefield nurse. When his father was subsequently posted to Aden on the Arabian Peninsula, Ronald explains: “Army officers could take their wives to overseas appointments and, in due time, my wail was heard when somebody slapped my bottom in the military hospital.”

Having wanted to pursue a career in the military from a young age, he studied at the Military College of Science for five years.

He enlisted in Quetta, India, in 1935. A few years later, and still in his teens, he recalls Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain announcing the beginning of the war with Nazi Germany.

“Of course, we knew in 1938 in military circles that there was going to be a war. I remember the news at 11 o’clock that Sunday morning. By 11.30 that evening I was on the shoreline of the Kentish beaches with a rifle, a bayonet and five rounds to resist the Wehrmacht.

“We did not have to start firing: all the noise of warfare occurred in respect of our particular areas later on, of course.”

The Battle of Britain, Ronald says, was the first action in which he was involved, working with

We didn’t have winter clothes, and so often anywhere we were it was without the appropriate equipment 26 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

anti-aircraft weaponry at Larkhall. He went from there to Grimsby and coastal defences, down the shoreline to Gibraltar Point in East Anglia, defending against seaborne activities.

The 95-year-old also played his part in defending the country during the Blitz. “I was involved in the London area, the Midlands, Liverpool …

“In fact, 74 years ago I was up here when Glasgow and Clydebank were being bombed.”

It was in early summer of 1941, Ronald recalls, that he was sent to the Middle East – a two-month journey by sea.

“It became a matter of the Persian campaign at the time, and the Iraqi campaign, and the Syrian campaign, and the Lebanese campaign down to north Egypt, and of course the Western Desert in north Africa.”

A particular moment that has stayed with Ronald over the years took place in 1941 during the siege of Tobruk in Libya.

“I had a machine gun team there on what was called the H-wire, and one of my machine gunners was a man who’d survived the bombing and had literally been blown 30 feet through the air.

“He reappeared and I said: ‘My God, you should have been dead!’ ‘Oh no,’ he said, ‘I need to get back into action.’ He was killed later that night.”

After Tobruk, Ronald went to El Alamein, then Sicily, then Salerno. He was also involved with Russian forces via the Persian corridor supply route, which would help them to defeat the Germans at Stalingrad.

“You hear about the Arctic convoys, and full marks to everyone involved there. But there was also five million tons of equipment supplied through Persia.”

He continues: “Subsequent to the Salerno landings, we got up to and liberated Naples. We had the Army doing its thing all the way up the coast to the Italian

Ronald Harwood, centre, in 2010, observing the two-minute silence on Armistice Day in Glasgow’s George Square

JEFF J MITCHELL/GETTY IMAGES, ICONIC ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES

border with Austria. I was on both coasts in the course of that two-year period.”

“I had four years in action,” he sums up, “but mercifully, though wounded twice, I survived. Many of my men died here, there and everywhere.”

He speaks of alleged comments made by a politician, “who spoke in disparaging terms, about what it was for troops to be in Italy – a most dreadful remark. We were in Italy in the depths of winter in what we call our tropical kit.

“We didn’t have winter clothes, and so often anywhere we were it was without the appropriate equipment, because of the circumstances of the time.

I weep, and I’m not ashamed of it, when I think of the men that I was privileged to be with who died.

“But we hear, and rightly so, about the valour and successes and all that it meant for people elsewhere in the forces, in the air, on land and at sea.”

His impressive collection of medals includes ones awarded to him by the Russians and Americans, who he fought alongside. He wears 29 “bloodstained” medals, gained for actions on the battlefield.

“There are quite a few medals from the Russians,

and Russian people in various places that I’ve visited all over the Soviet Union, in their appreciation of what, in those years, meant the salvation of Russia from the German armies.”

It was during his military career that Ronald had a “unique experience of the living Christ of our Christian faith” which led to him “laying down the sword and taking up the scriptures of the military chaplain, the padre”.

He would later become a bishop.

Battle of El Alamein in 1943

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

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 27

Rally the troops!

L

AST YEAR Legion Scotland launched its fundraising and awareness campaign, Give A Little For Veterans, and our members and friends raised nearly £14,000 for veterans causes.

We need to raise so much more to keep vital services running – such as wellbeing and befriending, remembrance and commemoration, emergency funds and disablement pensions advice.

We invite you to help us smash last year’s total so that we can keep putting veterans’ needs first. Here’s how:

Scotland’s veterans’ stickers. Legion Scotland has arranged permission for branches to collect in Debenhams stores across Scotland on Saturday 2 April and are looking for volunteers to help out. If there’s no Debenhams in your area, you may prefer to contact the community champion in your local supermarket and arrange a bucket collection or bag pack there. Please contact your local branch for up-todate information on volunteering.

Get in the bin!

Legion Scotland Big Quiz-Off

The simplest way to fundraise is with a collecting tin or bucket, on the street or in the supermarket giving out ‘I support

In 2015 a quiz was suggested as a good fundraiser. So this year we’re providing a quiz pack and aiming for a national

WHAT YOU NEED

Hayley McInally raised £1,341 last year

28 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

Your local Legion Scotland branch has loads of materials to help you with your fundraising activities. Contact your branch direct.

Alternatively, fill in the form on the right, give head office a call or send us an email. We’ll pass on your request to the branch.

IRVINE HERALD NEWSPAPER, MARK OWENS, KUMAR SRISKANDAN / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Our Give A Little For Veterans campaign takes place in April

GIVE A LITTLE FOR VETERANS

TELL US YOUR PLANS Name: Branch (if applicable]:

Host The Legion Scotland Big Quiz-Off

Address:

Contact telephone number: Email:

WHAT FUNDRAISING ACTIVITY(S) WILL YOU BE DOING? Bucket collection/bag pack We can provide sticker sheets and buckets

Debenhams on 2 April - I’m interested in helping collect in store Quiz night ​​

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Other fundraising activity event on Saturday 9 April - The Legion Scotland Big Quiz-Off. Of course, we need your help with this, as the quiz won’t happen without local organisers across Scotland.

If you can find a venue, a host and some teams to enter, we can provide questions and answers. If you can’t host on Saturday 9 April, we’d still love you to hold the quiz another time.

Go your own way There are so many other ways to raise money for Legion Scotland. Bake sales, jumble sales, raffles, disco nights and more. You could even follow in the footsteps of George Cruickshank MBE, Turriff branch chair, who dyed his hair electric blue, by inventing your own fundraising activity.

Some of our biggest fundraisers last year took part in sponsored runs or bike rides. Our website has details of events you might consider entering.

For more information, visit www.legionscotland.org.uk/ support-us/give-a-little/

Please give details:

I’D LIKE SOMEONE TO CONTACT ME ABOUT: Collecting buckets ​ Collecting cans (smaller)​ ‘I support Scotland’s veterans’ stickers ​ Quiz pack

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Sponsorship account (online) Sponsorship forms

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PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM TO: Legion Scotland Fundraising Department New Haig House Logie Green Road Edinburgh EH7 4HQ TO DISCUSS YOUR FUNDRAISING IDEAS PLEASE CONTACT EITHER Sheena on 0131 550 1554 / s.stone@legionscotland.org.uk or Christie on 0131 550 1549 / c.mcmonagle@legionscotland.org.uk

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 29

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

ROYAL NAVY

career, including Aberdeen, St Mirren, Livingston, Coventry City and Plymouth Argyle. Now he is following one of his other childhood goals.

“If I hadn’t been a football player I would have been involved with the military in some way, whether it be the Royal Navy, Army or RAF. It was

ARMY

Royal Navy recruit David McNamee

something I’d always wanted to do as a kid. I decided that if the Navy was what I was going to do I was going to have to do it now, before I was too old.”

ROYAL AIR FORCE

High flyers

Forfar freedom

MARK OWENS/CROWN COPYRIGHT 2015

3 SCOTS exercise ‘Freedom of Angus’ during parade in Forfar AROUND 130 soldiers from The Black Watch, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (3 SCOTS) exercised the ‘Freedom of Angus’ during a parade in the town of Forfar.

3 SCOTS received the ‘Freedom of Angus’ in 2006, an honour bestowed on valued members of the community and Army units with historic ties to the area as a token of appreciation for long and dedicated service. The honour allows them the privilege to march into the town with drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed.

The battalion returned from a six-month United Nations peacekeeping mission in Cyprus earlier last year. Based in Nicosia, the soldiers were responsible for patrolling the UN buffer zone, a demilitarised area which runs for more than 100 miles along what is called the ‘Green Line’.

30 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

STATION COMMANDER at RAF Lossiemouth, Group Captain Mark Chappell, has awarded operational keepsake medals to personnel for their exceptional service after their deployment to Estonia last year.

The Moray personnel served as part of the UK’s commitment to the Baltic air policing mission between May and August 2015 and focused their efforts on intercepting Russian aircraft.

Alongside the ground crew, air crew and support personnel from 6 Squadron, servicemen from C4i Squadron, Mechanical Engineering Squadron and 1 (Fighter) Squadron assisted on the NATO mission.

At the end of their deployment in Estonia, a select group of mission personnel were awarded their Baltic Air Policing Mission Medals.

CPL JIMMY WISE [RAF]/CROWN COPYRIGHT 2015

Recognition for RAF Lossiemouth’s Baltic mission personnel

PAUL MORGAN/CROW N

FOOTBALLER DAVID McNamee has swapped defending his country on the pitch for defending his nation at sea after signing up for the Royal Navy.

David, who was capped four times

by Scotland, is training to become a mine specialist. He played for a number of clubs during his distinguished

COPY RIGH T 2015

SCOTTISH INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALLER JOINS THE ROYAL NAVY

COME AND SEE US FIND YOUR NEAREST LEGION SCOTLAND BRANCH

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 of Legion Scotland

ABERDEEN, BANFF & KINCARDINE 01224 707768

Aberdeen Aboyne Alford Ballater & District Banchory Buckie & District Bucksburn Dufftown Ellon Fraserburgh Fyvie Inverurie Keith & District Kincardine O’Neil Longside Lumphanan Methlick New Deer New Pitsligo Oldmachar Oldmeldrum Peterhead Stonehaven Strichen Tarves & District Turriff & District Upper Donside ANGUS & PERTHSHIRE 07530 380545

Alyth Arbroath Blairgowrie, Rattray & District Braco & Greenloaning Brechin Callander & District Carnoustie

City Of Dundee Crieff Dunblane Dunkeld & Birnam Forfar Montrose Perth Pitlochry & Blair Atholl AYRSHIRE 01294 552013

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

Coldstream Duns Eyemouth Galashiels Hawick Jedburgh Kelso Liddesdale Melrose Peebles Selkirk & Ettrick Forest St Boswells

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 have a Legion Scotland club affiliated to them.

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY 07849 828413

Annan Castle Douglas Dalbeattie Dumfries & Maxwelltown Gatehouse & District Langholm Moffat Newton Stewart Sanquhar Stranraer Thornhill EDINBURGH & THE LOTHIANS 0131 550 1590

Bathgate Bonnyrigg Cockenzie & Port Seton Dalkeith Dunbar Edinburgh Central Edinburgh HQ Linburn Livingston Longniddry Newbattle & Gorebridge Penicuik Portobello Prestonpans Roslin FIFE 07904 817917

Anstruther Ceres & District Crail

Crossgates Cupar Dunfermline Glenrothes Kennoway Kirkcaldy Leven Markinch Newburgh St Andrews Tayport GLASGOW & WESTERN COUNTIES 01324 872146/ 07979 006536

Biggar & District Bridge of Weir Campbeltown Clackmannanshire & District Cumbernauld Dunoon Easdale East Kilbride Forth Glasgow HQ Grangemouth Hamilton Helensburgh Inverary Knightswood Millport Milngavie & Bearsden Newton Mearns Oban Paisley Comrades Stirling HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS 01463 233743

HIGHLANDS & ISLANDS

ABERDEEN, BANFF & KINCARDINE

ANGUS & PERTHSHIRE GLASGOW & WESTERN COUNTIES

Assynt Aviemore & Rothiemurchus Badenoch Beauly Black Isle Canisbay & District Creich & Kincardine Dingwall Dornoch Forres Fort Augustus Fort William Glenurquhart Golspie Helmsdale Invergordon Inverness Kirkwall Latheron Lerwick Lewis Lochalsh Lochbroom Lossiemouth Nairn North Skye Rogart & Lairg Sanday Scalloway Strathpeffer Strathspey Stromness Tain Thurso Uist Wick RIDERS BRANCH 07884 004890

FIFE EDINBURGH & THE LOTHIANS

AYRSHIRE

BORDERS

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

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

Across the country

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 31

IN MEMORIAM

Janet Harvey 10 November 1941 – 16 December 2015

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Legion Scotland’s National Chairman

EMANUELA FRANCHINI

J

ANET HARVEY was born to parents Jerry Differ and Barbara Robertson in 1941.

Her father was serving in WWII, in the Argyll and Southern Highlanders.

Jan joined the Women’s Royal Army Corps in her late teens. She went to Army barracks in Yeovil before being sent to Cyprus. There she met Peter Harvey who was serving in the RAF. They were married on 17 February 1962 and went on to have four children: Tommy, Peter, Carol and Jennifer, eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Initially she became involved with the Grangemouth branch of Legion Scotland because of her father, who was Chairman. The club was in dire straits when she took over as Chairman, but with a lot of hard work from the committee it was brought back to financial stability. Jan let go fully of her involvement in Grangemouth when she became involved with Legion Scotland nationally.

Jan achieved success in everything she did. In the last week of her life we reflected often on what she had achieved and how inspirational she was. Her untimely death has left us shocked and bereft as she still had so much more to give.

Jan’s daughter, Carol Hutchison

TRIBUTES

Jan Harvey joined the National Board of Trustees for the second time in 2012, as the first female National Vice Chairman and at a time of great change for the organisation.

She was full of life and a formidable character who brought passion, determination and energy to the organisation when it was in great need. Jan’s altruistic approach to such a monumental undertaking was breathtaking.

I was delighted when, in 2015, Jan was elected to be our National Chairman. It was a clear signal that the membership also appreciated greatly, as I did, what she had achieved during her time as Vice Chairman.

As far as Jan was concerned this was always a team effort: trustees, volunteers or staff, it

32 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

mattered not. She cared deeply about everyone involved, and she guided us with passion, intelligence and charm.

Jan had a great deal to give and wanted to do so much more for the organisation.

It is very sad indeed that she will not witness the true impact of the work she started three years ago.

She will be remembered with great admiration and affection.

CEO of Legion Scotland, Kevin Gray MM It was with great sadness that I learned of Jan’s death. I first became aware of Jan’s commitment and dedication to Legion Scotland a few years ago. I remember her speaking from the floor of annual conference, pleading that factions must get

together and work out their differences. We are now so aware of the progress made since then, and owe a huge debt of gratitude to Jan for her influence in this.

Throughout her vice chairmanship she led from the front and so many members were guided by her outstanding knowledge.

Following her election as Chairman in 2015, I was most honoured to accept the position of Vice Chairman, knowing that I would have three years working with Jan ahead, and with a National Board of Trustees that has the wellbeing of Legion Scotland at its heart.

It is so sad this is not to be.

Dear Jan has left a void in many hearts within Legion Scotland. I send my heartfelt condolences to her husband Peter and her extended

SUPPORTED BY

family and friends. She was the most steadfast follower of the Legion Scotland motto, Service Not Self. Rest in peace Jan Harvey, a true and faithful friend and servant.

Acting Chairman of Legion Scotland, Charlie Brown Over the 10 years that I have been National President it has been my privilege and pleasure to work with some wonderfully committed and loyal members of Legion Scotland, but none more so than Jan Harvey.

I have admired her greatly for she combined a delightful character with leadership qualities of the highest order. Legion Scotland had just started on the road to recovery when she was appointed National Vice Chairman. During her three years in that post, and then as Chairman, her devotion proved an inspiration to all who worked with her.

Legion Scotland will miss her very greatly, and the very best tribute that we can all pay to her is to continue on this path with a spirit of genuine comradeship and harmony.

Even though she has been so cruelly deprived of the chance to complete her tenure as National Chairman, we can salute her for the wonderful Legionnaire that she was; and we can each of us do our best to perpetuate her memory by trying to follow her example.

President of Legion Scotland, Lieutenant General Sir Alistair Irwin KCB CBE MA

LAST POST

Paying tribute to recently departed Legion Scotland members

PASSCHENDAELE

HAWICK

William Thomson

William Thomson served as a National Serviceman from 1954 to 1956. After basic training at the Depot he was posted to the 1st Battalion at Ballykinler and went to Malaya with the battalion serving in a rifle company.

He was a lifelong member of the Hawick branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland and served on the Committee of Management in various capacities for many years. He was also Treasurer of the House Committee of Douglas Haig Court Hawick, the first Sheltered Housing Court built in Scotland by the Royal British Legion Housing Association.

SUBMITTING A LAST POST Please submit obituaries of recently departed Legion Scotland members to c.mcmonagle@ legionscotland.org.uk.

We will endeavour to include these in the following issue based on these 2016 deadlines: 19 February (spring), 20 May (summer), 21 August (autumn) and 18 November (winter). Submissions will be reviewed and edited so as to give as fitting a tribute to each and every person as we can. We recommend a length of around 100 words, but appreciate that it may be easier for you to send a longer or shorter piece. If you are able to include a photo, we will make every effort to include this as well.

Colin Simpson

Colin Simpson, an ex-RAF Boy Entrant, died suddenly on 6 October. He was one of the first to join the new Passchendaele and District branch and was a regular visitor to the salient from his home in London.

Earlier this year, Colin and his partner Caroline travelled from London to Ieper to attend the burials of British soldiers in Prowse Point Cemetery, where he laid the wreath on behalf of Legion Scotland and the branch. He said it was the proudest moment of his life to do that.

Colin planned to move permanently to Ieper next year, where undoubtedly he would have thrown himself into branch activities; sadly this will now never happen.

Co-operative Funeralcare supports Legion Scotland Scotland’s leading funeral provider, Co-operative Funeralcare is offering an exclusive deal to Legion Scotland members. A discount of £150 is available on Pre-paid Plans purchased by members, for themselves and their immediate family. Co-operative Funeralcare will also give £100 to Legion Scotland for every Pre-paid Plan purchased.

Call 0800 3898377 and quote the code LEG15 to purchase, or visit www.cooperativefuneralcare.co.uk for more information

WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk 33

HISTORY

TRINITY MIRROR / MIRRORPIX / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

BORN IN THE USA

Royal Highland Fusiliers are inspected by the Queen and President Eisenhower at Balmoral, 1959

How General Dwight D Eisenhower came to be an honorary life member of our organisation in 1943

Y

EARS BEFORE he became president of the United States of America, Dwight D Eisenhower was “unanimously elected to honorary life membership of The British Legion (Scotland)”.

Under the presidency of General Sir Ian Hamilton, the organisation wished 34 WINTER 2015-2016 www.legionscotland.org.uk

to honour and recognise Eisenhower for his “indomitable and inspiring leadership as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the United Nations in North Africa” on 1 October 1943 – some months before the D-Day landings in which he was also instrumental.

In the picture above, Queen Elizabeth II and President Eisenhower inspect a Royal Highland Fusiliers guard of honour at the entrance to Balmoral Castle in August 1959.

A letter sent from the Queen to Eisenhower the following January shares with him the recipe for her drop scones, which he had enjoyed during the trip.

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

Scottish charity No, SC006609

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For information contact Care Home Admissions Department:

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

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