Arborfield Old Boys' News

Repatriation of L/Cpl Gajbahadur Gurung RGR/!st Yorks

2012-02-05T10:22:00.001+01:00

Repatriation Notification

We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the Repatriation of Lance Corporal Gajbahadur Gurung of the Royal Gurkha Rifles from the 1st Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment will be onTuesday 7th February.

The plane is due to land at 2:00pm and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden at 4:00pm, arriving at the John Radcliffe Hospital at around 5:00pm.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 1.00pm, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

There will be road closures in place at the Marston Ferry Road / Cherwell Drive Junction, Marston Road / Cherwell Drive Junction, and by the mini roundabout by the entrance to the John Radcliffe Hospital on Headley Way. Please expect severe delays in this area whilst these road closures are in operation.

Please be prepared for cold and wintery weather on Tuesday. Please note that times are subject to change at short notice and we advise that you check again by visiting www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/repatriations or call 01865 816345.



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Repatriation of L/Cpl Gajbahadur Gurung 1st Batt. Yorkshire Regt.

2012-02-01T21:38:00.002+01:00

Repatriation Notification

We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the repatriation of Lance Corporal Gajbahadur Gurung from 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment will be onTuesday 7th February.

The plane is due to land at 2:00pm and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden at 4:00pm, arriving at the John Radcliffe Hospital at around 5:00pm.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 1.00pm, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

Please be prepared for cold and wintery weather on Tuesday. Please note that times are subject to change at short notice and we advise that you check again by visiting www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/repatriations or call 01865 816345.

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Sig I. Sartorious-Jones. R Signals

2012-01-31T11:49:00.001+01:00

Repatriation notification

PLEASE NOTE THE NEW TIMINGS FOR THE REPATRIATION

We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the repatriation of Signaller Ian Sartorius-Jones, 200 Signals Squadron, will take place on Thursday 2nd February 2012.

The plane will land at approximately 1:30pm and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden at around 3:30pm arriving at the John Radcliffe Hospital around 4.30pm.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 12:30pm, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

The weather forecast for Thursday is cold with sunny intervals therefore please ensure you are prepared. Please note that times are subject to change at short notice and we advise that you check again by visiting www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/repatriations or call 01865 816345.

Please note that we are aware that Lance Corporal Gajbahadur Gurung from 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment is due Repatriated. His Repatriation will NOT be on Thursday 2nd February. Please continue to monitor our website as it will be updated as soon as any further information is known.



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.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Sig. Ian Sartorious-Jones. Royal Signals

2012-01-27T17:06:00.001+01:00

The Repatriation

Signaller Ian Sartorius-Jones of (200 Signals Squadron) Royal Corps of Signals

will take place on –

Thursday, 2^nd February, 2012

Aircraft lands 12:30 hours

RAF Brize Norton (Family Service Starts) 13:30 hours

Cortege expected to leave RAF Brize Norton 14:20 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 0.8 miles to Brize Norton)

Brize Norton Village 14:25 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 0.9 miles to Memorial)

Memorial Garden (Norton Way, Carterton) 14:30 hours +/- 30 minutes

Minister Lovell (Junction with A40) 14:40 hours +/- 30 minutes

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 15:25 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 15:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of arrival

----------ooOoo----------

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Pay your subs by PAYPAL

2012-01-17T14:20:00.001+01:00

For interest for the overseas members, I have now added a Paypal button to the site under "subscriptions" so that you can pay your subs this way. You do have to have a paypal account, as the payments are taken automatically annually, and I have had to add the 4% surcharge which otherwise we have to pay out of the funds.......

Herbie

.Arborfield Old Boys' Association

2012-01-12T15:13:00.002+01:00

Latest on reunion!

You should all be getting your reunion forms very soon, but , for those who would like to pay by other means rather than a cheque, then goto:
http://www.arborfieldoldboys.co.uk/reunions.html

Where you will now be able to pay by PAYPAL, debit or credit card. If you still want to send your booking preferences by post, and pay by the web, feel free to do so, as long as you make it clear on the booking form!

In any case, please let us have the completed applications in before 23/02/2012.
Any problems, please contact us through the AOBA sites.

Herbie
Arborfield Old Boys' Association

A Happy New Year!

2012-01-06T17:02:00.003+01:00

A very Happy and Healthy New Year to one and all, to you and yours!

Please take a look at the new Contacts page on the AOBA website, it has been updated to include
members new and members with new positions, we welcome Bill Cleaseby back as our Vice Chairman, a welcome to Alec Powell as Registrar, Ray Stevens as the new Oban Editor, Phil Graham as Database Manager, and a welcome to Roger Traves, who has for some time been in the post of Remembrance Scroll Officer.

A big thank you to those that have retired from their posts, To Keith Evans, Fred Mills, Peter Gripton and Peter Gibson, all of whom performed selflessly for our common good in the past.

This year brings with it great change, I'm sure most of you know that the facilities and Sergeant's Mess at Arborfield are no longer available to us, and so, we have a new location for our re-union, the Barcelo Hinkley Hotel in Hinkley, West Mids.
Very shortly, you will be recieving a letter from the Hon. Sec. which will be the booking form
and information for this year.

For the very first time, I hope to make available by way of the AOBA website, an alternative means to pay by Paypal or Credit/debit card.

That's all for now, but keep watching this blog.

Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Pte J King

2012-01-05T09:13:00.001+01:00

Repatriation notification

PLEASE NOTE THE NEW TIMINGS FOR THE REPATRIATION

We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the repatriation of Pte John King, from 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, will take place on Thursday 5th Janurary 2012.

The plane will land at approximately 14:00 and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden at around 16:00 arriving at the John Radcliffe Hospital around 17.00.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 11.45am, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

The weather forecast for Thursday is sunny intervals please ensure you are prepared. Please note that times are subject to change at short notice and we advise that you check again by visiting www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/repatriations or call 01865 816345.



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Repatriation of Pte John King 1st Batt Yorkshire Regt

2012-01-03T17:38:00.001+01:00

Repatriation notification

We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the repatriation of Pte John King, from 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, will take place on Thursday 5th Janurary 2012.

The plane will land at approximately 13:00 and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden at around 15:00 arriving at the John Radcliffe Hospital around 16.00.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 10.45am, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

The weather forecast for Thursday is sunny intervals please ensure you are prepared. Please note that times are subject to change at short notice and we advise that you check again by visiting www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/repatriations or call 01865 816345.

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

2012-01-03T17:35:00.001+01:00

Afternoon all, the first for this 2012......................

Repatriation notification

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Hapy Christmas!

2011-12-25T11:57:00.002+01:00

The committee members of the Arborfield Old Boys' Association, wish all of you a very Happy Christmas, and a peaceful, prosperous and healthy New Year!

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

What's New on the AOBA website

2011-12-09T18:37:00.003+01:00

Please see an Obituary for Jim Woolam, who we sadly lost last July, this was kindly sent in by Roger Traves

http://www.arborfieldoldboys.co.uk/Obituaries.html

I have added two new menu items on the side buttons, "Orbituaries" and "Holidays and Ads"
Please send any new material to me, as usual.

I hope that everybody who wanted to has downloaded Oban 51 successfully!

Kind regards,
Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Two more gone...

2011-12-01T16:23:00.003+01:00

I'm sorry to inform you of the deaths of two more ex-boys,
Firstly, M. Evans, 39B, information came to us via BACS, (banking system, used for fees) and we have no further information. If anybody can help, please let us know.

Secondly, Joe (Stanislaw) Sobolewski, 48A, passed away on 28/29th November.
Joe, as he was universally known, was one of several popular Polish lads who joined at the time, and again the committee is appealing for any further information, he has no known next of kin, and a funeral will be held in 9 days time.My grateful thanks to Brian Jarvis for the information so far.

Rest well in peace, lads.

Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

What's new on the AOBA website?

2011-11-10T17:13:00.003+01:00

A report and further great pictures on the dedication of the Army Apprentices' National Memorial by Gordon Bonner.....

Winter Warmers! A winter holiday offer via Fred Mills.....

See the noticeboard, here: http://www.arborfieldoldboys.co.uk/noticeboard.html

Take care all,

Herbie66b

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Rfn Vijay Rai 2nd Batt RGR

2011-10-20T12:01:00.001+02:00

Subject: Repatriation of Rifleman Vijay Rai (2 Battalion) The Royal Gurkha Rifles

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The details of the repatriation of Rifleman Vijay Rai (2 Battalion) The Royal Gurkha Rifles, which is being held on Thursday, 27^th October, can be found on our website at –

www.rmarepatnetwork.org

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Rfn Vijay Rai 2nd Batt RGR

2011-10-19T16:03:00.003+02:00

Sorry gentlemen, information from Oxford CC is sparse---not like the Royal Marines

Repatriation notification

We have been advised by RAF Brize Norton that the repatriation of Rifleman Vijay Rai from 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles will take place on Thursday 27th October 2011.

The plane will land at approx 2:00pm and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden at approx 4:30pm, reaching the John Radcliffe at approx 5.15pm.

Please note that times are subject to change at short notice and we advise that you check again by visiting www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/repatriations or call 01865 816345.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 11.30am, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Memorial Dedication dvd.

2011-10-17T12:08:00.002+02:00

A Copy dvd of the dedication of The Army Apprentices' National Memorial is available to buy here:
http://www.armyapprenticememorial.org.uk/#/dedication-video/4554676274

Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

A Tribute to Brian Conway 42A

2011-10-11T21:00:00.002+02:00

Please see a tribute to Brian Conway here: http://www.arborfieldoldboys.co.uk/conway.html

Please feel free to email me with any further anecdotes or fond memories.
Thanks to all those who have contributed here or on the forum.

Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

AOBA members' pictures

2011-09-18T14:50:00.004+02:00

Guys,
Due to the move of the AOBA web site software and archives from David's pc to mine, I have had to re-do many of the photo albums that members have sent in.

If you are a contributor, please check that yours are as you would like them, and feel free to add or request any alterations that you feel are necessary.
Contact me here: http://www.arborfieldoldboys.co.uk/contacts.html

New contributions are always welcome, as are your thoughts and opinions.

All the best, Herbie.

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

RIP Brian Conway 42A, and permanent staff.

2011-09-18T14:27:00.004+02:00

I'm very sad to bring you the news of the loss of Brian Conway, who died on Friday after an illness, he was 84.

Brian was both an ex-boy and ex permanent staff, and well known to many who were in the Corps of Drums, which he had reformed, and was very popular in both roles.

If anybody has any anecdotes or fond memories of Brian they would like to share, please contact myself via the AOBA website: http://www.arborfieldoldboys.co.uk/contacts.html

and I will set up a page dedicated to Brian and his hard work.

Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation Report for Sgt BJ Weston RM

2011-09-12T12:39:00.001+02:00

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Sergeant Barry John Weston, K Company, 42 Commando Royal Marines

Sergeant Weston, of 30 Commando IX Group RM, assigned as a battle casualty replacement to 42 Commando RM, was fatally injured by an IED while leading a patrol near the village of Sukmanda, South Naher-e-Saraj District, Helmand Province, on 30^th August, 2011.

Service veterans and members of the public turned out in the following “stations of vigil” to pay their respects to the fallen as the cortege made its way from RAF Brize Norton to the John Radcliffe Hospital at Oxford. .

Chequers Inn, Brize Norton, Station Road, Brize Norton Village

This report from Patrick Hopper, RMA

With the closure of RAF Lyneham, the route of the cortege to the John Radcliffe Hospital is of course much shorter and now only sees three “vigil points” on the way. The first, outside The Chequers pub, is on the road very close to Gate 6 of RAF Brize Norton, where the cortege leaves the base. The second point is the newly built Memorial Garden at Carterton and lastly, the only survivor from the previous route, The Final Turn near the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

At The Chequers, (not chosen just because it’s a pub, but also as it provides a safe open frontage on a quite narrow, but busy road), Royal Marines Association veterans assembled to pay their respects to Sgt Barry Weston and his family. There was a very good turnout. The RMA was represented by about 30 branch members from: RMA Central, Poole, Exeter, Swindon, Reading, Deal and Guildford. We also found a couple of ex-Royal Marines, quite a bit younger than most of us, having left the Corps only 11 years ago. They had come over from Gloucestershire and Cheshire. They were promptly relieved of £10 each and press-ganged into the RMA! Smart suits and berets. Well done, gentlemen. We were also pleased to see Major General Rose RM, who met and spoke with the members.

Uniformed serving members of the Corps were represented by 9 members of 30 Commando IX Group RM and about the same number from 42 Commando RM. This team split up, with the 42 Cdo RM contingent going over to join those at the Memorial Garden at Carterton, just up the road. There were quite a few other ex-servicemen present with us. A very substantial number of members of the public lined the route with us, at least 100.

There were eight RMA branch standards on parade: the RMA National standard, Deal, Exeter, Guildford, Poole, Reading, Swindon and The Green Beret Association.

At 1740hrs the cars bearing the family of Sergeant Weston passed by. The standards were dipped and all serving military personnel and veterans came to attention and saluted. A few minutes later the cortege passed by and the salute was repeated. We thank Jim Hawkins RMA for taking charge and ordering the salutes. We were very lucky with the weather, it being sunny and warm - quite a change from the rain and gales of the previous few days!

When we all repaired to the Chequers Inn, we were honoured to be visited shortly after by the parents of Sgt Barry Weston, his widow Joanne with baby Rose and other family members. They thanked everyone for their support and condolences.

On the way home after the parade, I was specially pleased to see members of the public standing on the two bridges over the A40 to Oxford, waiting to pay their respects to the cortege.

We say a sad “adieu” to all the previous vigil points at Wootton Bassett, Gable Cross, the B4000 Bridge, the UK Defence Academy and the Folly Hill lay-by, where folks have attended every repatriation for the past four years, lining the route to pay their respects. We specially thank those good souls who after each repatriation have sent us reports, for inclusion in the main report, which has worldwide distribution.

Memorial Garden, Carterton Village

We regret that at the time of writing, RMA Poole, who have compiled and distributed these reports for the past four years, has so far been unable to find a representative at the Memorial Garden to record those members of the family, the Royal British Legion, regimental associations, VIPs, service veterans and members of the public attending. We hope that this matter can be resolved by the time of the next repatriation.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way. (1855)

This report from John Walker, former RDG

We here at The Final Turn stood true and firm to honour this Royal Marine.

There were 13 Royal British Legion Standards: Bic ester, Bicester & Launton, Bodicote, Chalgrove, Headington, Hazelmere, Islip, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens Section, Peppard & District, Marston and Wheatley.

Association Standards included: The Coldstream Guards, Canal Zone (Oxon), Guards Division (Newbury), RAF Police, Royal Marines (Oxford), (Handworth) and (Windsor), The Royal Tank Regiment (Oxon) and The Banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

VIPs present were the Lord Mayor of Oxford, Cllr Elise Benjamin, the Very Rev Robert Wilkes, Father Aldo from St Anthony Padua Church and Colonel B. Duncan MBE, Royal Tank Regiment (Retd).

There were 55 veterans in berets and medals and 40 others from all three services and these were joined by eight Royal Marines in uniform. Thames Valley Police were out in force, doing their normal duties, as well as parading with us, under the command of Detective Chief Inspector Paul Gratian. We were also joined by Mary and John from the church (John having half-masted the Union flag that morning), four RBL Bikers - Martin, Rick and a couple of first timers, Yanto Evans and Taff Carr.

There were in excess of 400 members of the public at The Final Turn, with many more leading up the hill to us. Many hundreds were all around the ring road leading into the Marston area. Once again we thanks the veterans’ wives and partners who helped with the tea, coffee, home made cakes and biscuits.

The weather was kind, late sun at 18⁰C. The cortege passed us by at 1835hrs.

The parade marshal was J. Lewendon (former RA). Graham Whelan (former Para) was lent as parade marshal to the new Memorial Garden at Carterton for a few repatriations, to guide them along.

Their Courage and Sacrifice Will Not Be Forgotten

Compiled by PH (The Duty Scribe)

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

Return to Home Page

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Army Apprentices Memorial Dedication

2011-09-08T19:32:00.000+02:00

plucked this message off the forum from TeeCee ........................

Having just returned from the dedication ceremony of the Memorial, I have to say that, in common with the whole of this project from it's inception, the whole operation went like clockwork, all performed flawlessly, and if there were any problems, they were not apparent.
The weather held off, apart from a few drops near the end, causing umbrellas to go up for just a couple of minutes.
All in all, a splendid and moving day in which our Rev Bev and the two other ex boy Revs did the whole ceremony great justice.
The Memorial, after being unveiled by Maj. Gen. Gerry Berragan was even more impressive than we envisaged, and, dare I say, outshone the adjacent REME memorial, a real credit to all those who had a hand in its inception.
Our Max was there with his trusty camera as always, and we can be assured of some more of his excellent pics.
As was mentioned in the earlier resumes, three or four video cameras operated by another of our ex boys was there to record the event, who tells me that after editing, the DVD will be available some time in October - watch the AANM website for details.
A rather brief description at this stage, but no doubt others will elaborate.

By the way, Mo, now that you have forgiven me for missing out the other David (Ted) from my last ode, if you look at it now, it reads, " Along with Colin, TWO DAVID's, Keith Rackham, stonemason," (Thought I got out of that rather well!)

I would also lie to take this opportunity to relate the thoughts and, if you like, the inspiration that motivated me to write this lines and was fortunate to have been accepted to grace the centre of the Memorial:
[
With the wisdom and experience of advancing years, we now appreciate how privileged we were to spend three of our most formative years in the almost exclusive company of our peers for 24 hours of every day.
This gave us a unique bonding experience which was almost certainly unparalleled even in other branches of the armed forces, or ‘man’s service’, and now, regrettably, no longer exists.
Constrained by the rigours of military discipline to which we were daily subjected, our lives were far more ordered, and we were, dare I say, better behaved (in general!) as a result.
Because we were at the most impressionable age, the highs and lows of those days are imprinted indelibly in our minds, and in our spirit of youthful optimism, it is the highs that we now recall most fondly.

So this verse is an attempt to sum up our youthful outlook on life, reflecting the comradeship and zest for living which we shared on the threshold of our military careers.
In these later years, as we now look back and reflect on those times, it is with even more clarity that we realize how very lucky we were.
As the wheel of time revolves, taking with it those friends that we considered indestructible, the verse pays tribute to those with whom we shared those memorable experiences, and also to the many others who were not of our particular time, but still very much our brothers in spirit.

Memorial Verse

They will always be there, laughing, young and full of fun,
With all their many pals around them, true friends every one.
The things that they have done together bind them closer still,
Those friendships born at youthful age endure and always will.

Through the years, some were called to pay the supreme price,
And this memorial stands to honour their self-sacrifice
To be remembered in this haven far from sounds of war,
Forever foremost in our hearts, always to endure.

TeeCee

...............................................................................................................................

Many thanks Tee Cee for this update ....

There is also a BFBS video about the dedication you can see if you visit

http://www.bfbs.com/news/media/video/51349/13881

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Sgt BJ Weston RM

2011-09-06T08:59:00.000+02:00

Subject: The Repatriation of Sergeant Barry John Weston (42 Commando) Royal Marines

The Repatriation of

Sergeant Barry John Weston (42 Commando) Royal Marines

will take place on –

Thursday, 8^th September, 2011.

Flypast over Carterton 15:00 hours

RAF Brize Norton (Family Service Starts) 16:00 hours

Cortege expected to leave RAF Brize Norton 17:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 0.8 miles to Brize Norton

Brize Norton Village 17.05 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 0.9 miles to Memorial

Memorial Garden (Norton Way, Carterton) 17.10 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 40 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 17.45 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 17.50 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of arrival

----------ooOoo----------

Please note that this is the first repatriation from RAF Brize Norton, so we have no past experience to call upon with regard to timings. There has been an official shift from various agencies involved issuing their own estimate of the timings, to this being done centrally through the Oxford County Council Repatriation Team.

Also, Oxford CC and the Thames Valley Police have conducted several trial runs along this new route but have not released any details to the general public on how things went, except to say that they were happy with the results.

Having calculated the timings above by extrapolating our experiences from the old route I now sincerely hope I am right.

Information I am receiving indicates a large turn out, so if attending make sure you arrive in plenty of time.

------------ooOoo----------

Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Arborfield Old Boys Association Relocate or Die

2011-09-03T11:28:00.001+02:00

The chance of us remaining at Arborfield for our reunion has been documented and discussed in many places as we come to realise Arborfield is as good as lost to us. So plans to ensure the future of our association plans were drawn up and debated at great length at the last AGM.

Many people shared their thoughts and passions – I think they can all be summed up by these words from Gordon Bonner 49B when he says /

“Gentlemen, There is no doubt that environs of Arborfield were the foundation of the intellectual construct that turned us from the boys we were to the men we are today. Therefore it can be said that the emotional attachment to Arborfield is a significant component of the influences from our formative years, and adds to our dilemma when considering the future of our association.

However, like it or not, the Arborfield we knew is dead, carried away by time that flows like an everlasting stream. I believe we must relocate or our association will wither away.

TeeCee with his poems has an uncanny knack of articulating ideas that often illuminate and simplify how we feel about our association and ourselves. A short while ago I asked TeeCee to compose a poem about the Army Apprentice Memorial currently under construction at the NMA.

In the second verse he had this to say: Boy’s Schools, now flown into history’s yellowing pages… yet a building alone, whether timber or stone, was an inanimate part of a fine learning place: the real soul was embraced by the youngsters who gave it heart.

I say that again: the real soul was embraced by the youngsters who gave it heart. This I believe is what our association is about, not bricks and mortar or locations, but us and the unique relationship we have each the other.

I come to the reunions to refresh old friendships and make new ones, and frankly I care not one jot where we meet. Last Remembrance Sunday I dined with a few members at the Victory Services Club in London. It was a delightful evening, the location had no bearing on the pleasure of the evening, it was the company of friends that was the true enjoyment. For this reason I believe we should relocate our reunions to the midlands and centre the real soul of our association onto the Army Apprentice National Memorial located at Alrewas, Staffordshire.

Our association is well represented in the development the memorial. Six of the ten Trustees are ex-Arborfield, the monolith carries the AAS badge, the school is immortalised in a stone bench that carries the name Arborfield and the AOBA logo. Thus the School Gates and all the symbolism it implies are engraved onto granite. It will defy the ravages of time, and tell future generations who we were and what we were about.

I would ask you to consider what I have said and join me in voting for the Midlands Hotel and AANM option.”

After these passionate words the membership of the AOBA voted almost unanimously to hold the 2012 reunion at the NMA. I hope everyone will join me in saying I truly believe this to be the very best option for the long term viability of our wonderful organisation

David (Tich) Schofield 65A
Honorary Secretary
Arborfield Old Boys’ Association

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

AOBA 2012 Calendar .....................

2011-09-02T16:19:00.000+02:00

I have 13 hard copies of our 2012 Calendar left - all properly bound with the hanging spine thingie ............

They are available at £5.00 each plus what ever it costs to post to where ever you happen to be in the world.

if you'd like one contact me through the website with your address and I'll walk down to Post Office and send it to you - then let you know the cost which you can send via PayPal.

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Lt DJ Clack 1st Batt Rifles

2011-08-22T13:28:00.001+02:00

Sorry, I missed the repatriation information--away for a few days...........

Comment.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Hopefully this repatriation will be the last to arrive in the UK through RAF Lyneham and I wish it was the last ever, but probably that wish will not be granted If there are further ones along the old route it will be serviced from RMA Repatriation Network as normal.

I would advise you to monitor our website at – www.rmarepatnetwork.org – where I will post all updated information concerning the change of route as RAF Brize Norton becomes operational.

When the change over becomes operational I will individually email all on our Repatriation Network and explain our intended involvement

Blondie

-----------ooOoo----------

REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 18^th August, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Lieutenant Daniel John Clack (24), 1^st Battalion, The Rifles, 3^rd Commando Brigade RM

Lt Clack died in an IED explosion while leading a foot patrol near the village of Dactran, Helmand Province, on 12^th August, 2011. Four other soldiers were seriously injured.

Service veterans and members of the public turned out in the following “stations of vigil” to pay their respects to the fallen as the cortege made its way on the 47 mile route from the point of arrival at RAF Lyneham to the John Radcliffe Hospital at Oxford. .

Royal Wootton Bassett - Town Centre (1540)

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, RMA

The High Street in Wootton Bassett was literally packed for the repatriation of Lieutenant Clack. Along with the family and friends there were numerous veterans in berets and medals, plus 55 members of the Royal British Legion Motorcycle Branch and four RM veterans in berets.

Mr James Gray, MP for North Wiltshire was present, as was the Chairman of Wiltshire County Council. Lt Col Harper Cook and Major Matthew Scalia of the United States Army were there, both presently stationed at Warminster.

37 standards were paraded:

Royal British Legion Swindon, Leyton, Hungerford, Brockworth Ladies, Abertillery, Merthyr Tydfil, Warsop & Medon Vale, Devon County, Sidmouth, Devizes, Dursley & Cam, Mortimer, Gillingham, Purton and Farnham Common.

Associations: The Rifles (Gillingham), The Parachute Regiment (Swindon and West Berkshire), 101^st Airborne, The Gloucestershire Regiment (Stroud), The Canal Zone Veterans, The Royal Berkshire Regiment (National and Windsor), RAF Regiment (Bath), RAF (Corsham and Chepstow), The Dorset Regiment (Gillingham and Bath), 43^rd Wessex Division, The Royal Regiment of Wales (Newport), The Royal Observer Corps (12 Group), and the RAF and Defence Fire Service.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (1610)

This report from Pat Bristow, RMA

There were three Association standards paraded: Royal Marines (Swindon), Royal Engineers (Swindon) and Royal Signals (Swindon).

These were accompanied by 10 service veterans, about 30 members of the public and 12 police officers.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and High worth (1630)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAFA

Unfortunately, due to family commitments, I was unable to attend the repatriation, but I have been told that there were about 14 people at the bridge of the B4000 in the downpour, to pay their respects to the cortege. Also, several drivers of passing cars stopped and stood by the roadside.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA.

(1645)

Report by Jim Hawkins, RMA

There were six RM veterans from RMA Poole, with their Branch standard, accompanied by some wives: June, Pearl, Eileen, Grace (former QARANC) and our regular ex-army comrades Ray, Bert and Gerry. We were joined by our other regulars, Air Commodore Marcus Witherow RAF Regt (Retd) and his wife Mary, and Andy and Debbie, our hosts from the College Farm pub, and Eric and Karen Ridley. We welcomed also other former soldiers: Lt Harry MacKarness, Coldstream Guards and his son (who is a cadet at Sandhurst), Major Paul Adey RM, Lt Frank Attrill RM, and Rod Asham, Royal Signals. Other family members and the public included Diane Blease, Paul and Barbara Vincent, Gary and Louise Mothersill, Graham Vizor, Mrs Barker, Ruth Wheeler, Geoffrey Turner and Maurice and Sue Conway-Lee.

Serving officers from the Academy included Captain Phil Burrill RN, Major Barcenas of the Spanish Army, Lt Col Vaudin, Royal Signals, Flt Lt David Faulkner RAF, WO1 Al Sylvester RAF, and WO2 Andy Gannon, AGC. Numbers are down as everyone is on summer leave.

The salute to the cortege was led by Captain Phil Burrill, Royal Navy and ordered by WO1 Mark Hannington, Mercian Regt., the Academy RSM.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction (1700)

This report by Joy Blake

On a very rain-drenched afternoon, over 90 people attended the Folly Hill lay-by at what was our 107^th meeting to show our respects for the arrival of the cortege, this time bringing home Lt Daniel Clack. 232 serving personnel have been returned to the UK in this way during the time we have met at Folly Hill. The cortege passed by at 5pm.

As well as the veterans wearing berets and medals, local townspeople from Faringdon and surrounding villages attended, together with the Chairman of the Vale branches of the Royal British Legion, Mr David Drew, the Town Mayor, Dr Mike Wise and the Chairman of the Vale of The White Horse District Council, Mrs Alison Thomson.

We were visited by a BBC Oxford television crew, who put the Faringdon Repatriation Group on the map and also interviewed the vice-chairman of RBL Faringdon, Tom Scrivens, the town mayor and myself.

Standards paraded were the Union flag, RBL Faringdon, Highworth, Shrivenham and Wantage, and the RAFA from Brize Norton & Carterton. Numbers were a bit down, mainly because of the heavy rain, flooded roads, etc.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way. (1720)

This report from John Walker, RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood true and firm to honour Lieutenant Daniel Clack.

There were nine Royal British Legion standards on parade: Bicester, Bicester & Launton, Bodicote, Chalgrove, Headington, Islip, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens Section, and Wheatley. Association standards included: Coldstream Guards, Guards Division (Newbury), The Parachute Regiment (Oxford), RAF Police, Royal Navy & Royal Marines (Oxon), Royal Marines (Windsor), the St George Society and The Banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

Also attending were the Deputy Lord Mayor of Oxford, Councillor Alan Armitage and Brigadier Nigel Mogg, Honorary Colonel of The Rifles.

There were 55 service veterans with berets and medals and 30 others from all three services. The Thames Valley Police were out in force, doing their normal duties and parading alongside us, under the command of Chief Inspector C. Agger, and Graham Choldcroft, the Thames Valley Police Chaplain. Mary and John from the church joined us as always, John having half masted the Union flag early in the morning. A fire tender from the Oxford City Fire & Rescue Service attended with a full crew, along with a Red Cross emergency vehicle crewed by Andy Sugar and I/c Kerry Blunt. The public from Oxford turned out in large numbers, despite the awful weather - at least 200 at the Final Turn, with several hundreds leading off the Oxford ring road into Marston and up Headley Way to us at the Final Turn.

My thanks to Mike Townsend (RBL Central) for helping me put these lists together. Thanks again also to the veterans’ wives and partners for serving tea and coffee, etc., bringing home made cakes and also for clearing away after the parade. The weather saw heavy rain as the cortege passed us by at 1720hrs. The parade marshal was G. Whelan (former Para) and his 2i/c was J. Lewendon (former RA).

Their courage and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

Compiled by PH (Duty Scribe)

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

CSM Huxley Grenadier Guards

2011-08-09T18:42:00.002+02:00

I'm sad to announce the passing of ex-permanent staff CSM, and Chelsea pensioner Doug Huxley, who died on July 19th age 90 years.
His obituary appear in today's Telegraph, http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituar ... uxley.html

a long and outstanding military carreer.

Rest in peace, Doug.

Herbie

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Cpl Palin, Rifles, & L/Cpl Watkins 9/12 Lancers

2011-07-26T08:20:00.001+02:00

REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 21st July, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Lance Corporal Paul Watkins (24), 9/12^th Royal Lancers (Prince of Wales)

L/Cpl Watkins was fatally wounded by small arms fire while providing covering fire from his Jackal armoured vehicle for a foot patrol in an area west of Gereshk, Helmand Province, on 16^th July, 2011.

Corporal Mark Anthony Palin (32), 1st Battalion, The Rifles

Cpl Palin died as a result of an explosion from an IED while operating in the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province on 18^th July, 2011.

Royal Wootton Bassett - Town Centre (1640)

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, Royal Marines Association (RMA)

There were about 50 military personnel in uniform attending this repatriation and joined the veterans wearing berets and medals and 47 members of the Royal British Legion Motorcycle Branch, supporting the families and friends of the repatriated soldiers.

24 standards were paraded, including: Royal British Legion - Swindon, Abertillery, Devizes, Merthyr Tydfil, Gloucester City, Brockworth & Winchcombe, Newnham, Beckford & Ashton-under-Lyme. Associations: 43^rd Wessex Division, The Rifles (Dorset and Somerset), The Dorsetshire Regiment (Gillingham and Bath), Aden Veterans, Royal Observer Corps, Canal Zone Veterans, The Parachute Regiment (Swindon), Royal Navy (Swindon), RAF (Corsham), The Royal Berkshire Regiment (Windsor), The Royal Regiment of Wales (Newport) and The Wiltshire Guards Association.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (1655)

This report from Pat Bristow, RMA

There were four Association standards paraded; Royal Marines (Reading), Royal Signals (Reading), Royal Engineers (Swindon) and the RAF Lyneham Old Boys.

Ten veterans attended, along with 20 members of the public and four police officers.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and High worth (1705)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAF Association

By the B4000 bridge over the A420, District Councillor Elaine Ware and nine others stood to pay their respects to the cortege as it passed by at walking pace. Traffic pulled over into the lay-by opposite and the occupants stood by their cars. Oncoming traffic drew to a halt as the cortege approached.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA.

(1710)

Report by Jim Hawkins, RMA

There were eight Royal Marines veterans from RMA Poole and Guildford, accompanied by some wives. The standards of RMA Poole and Guildford were paraded. Other veterans included Air Commodore Marcus Witherow, RAF Regt., Major Peter Hasting, RM and their wives Mary and Diana respectively, and Lieutenant MacKarness, Coldstream Guards.

Uniformed officers from the Defence Academy included Majors Pawlowski and Baz Melia of The Rifles, Major Eyre Brook of The 9/12^th Royal Lancers, Majors Richards and Prideaux of The Queens Royal Lancers, Majors Catton, Pennefather, Titericks, Allen, Pritchard, Waldemayer and Carson, of The Royal Marines, Captain Nick Gasson, Royal Navy, Chief Officer Chris Locke of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and Major Claire Heighington, RMP. There were also some 15 Academy civilian staff and members of the public in attendance.

The salute to the cortege was led by Major Eyre Brook, 9/12^th Royal Lancers and ordered by WO1 (ATO) Scott Johnstone, Royal Logistics Corps.

Many thanks to PCs Page and Pennington, MOD Police, for their traffic control.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction (1715)

This report by Joy Blake,RBL

The Folly Hill lay-by was well attended once again, with 68 people attending, to await the arrival of the cortege, which passed us by at 5.15pm, with the rain more or less holding off. More people also attended the Fernham Road junction as they normally do.

Many regular stalwarts attended, but we had a number of new faces. One of these was a motor bike rider on his way home from work, who told me his father was the standard bearer of the Islip Royal British Legion and would be attending at Oxford. His attendance with us, together with his workmate and other people stopping off on the main road, was much appreciated.

Among the usual veterans wearing berets and medals, together with townspeople from Faringdon and many surrounding villages and towns, we had attending the Mayor of Faringdon, Dr Mike Wise, the Chairman of the Vale of The White Horse District Council, Mrs Alison Thomson, Mrs Wendy Simpson of the Wantage Neighbourhood Support Group and the community police assisting with traffic control and telephone contacts. The standards paraded were the Union flag, Royal British Legion Faringdon, Bampton, Highworth, Shrivenham, Wantage, and the Royal Navy Veterans Association of Wantage.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way. (1805)

This report from John Walker, former RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood true and firm to honour these two soldiers.

There were 10 Royal British Legion standards paraded: Bicester & Launton, Bloxham, Chalgrove, Headington, Henley, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens Section, Marston and Wheatley. Association standards included The Coldstream Guards, Guards Division (Newbury), RAF Police, Royal Marines (Bicester), Royal Navy & Royal Marines (Oxon), The Royal Tank Regiment (Oxon) and The Banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Oxford Rod Walker, Lord Mayor Councillor Elise Benjamin, Chairman Oxfordshire County Council Councillor Patrick Greene, Colonel ( Rtd) BAC Duncan MBE., Royal Tank Regiment.

There were 54 veterans wearing berets and medals and 35 others from all three services. Thames Valey Police was out in force doing their normal duties and also standing alongside us on parade, under Chief Inspector C. Agger. There were also Graham Cloudcroft (Chaplain to the Thames Valley Police), Mary and John from the Church (John having half-masted the Union flag), and John Jones of the St Johns Ambulance. Two RBL Bikers, Tony and D. Dickinson joined us, Martyn being elsewhere on duty. The Oxford public was out in force, not only here at the Final Turn, with their huge Union flags and the Ulster flag, but also from the Oxford ring road into Marston and all the way up the hill to us.

Many thanks to Harry Mennie (former Para) for helping me put these lists together and also to the wives and partners of the veterans for their help in organising tea and coffee, etc. and for clearing away afterwards. We thank also Father Aldo for the use of the church facilities, not only for the wash area but also for the use of the large car park. The parade marshal was J. Lewendon (former RA). G. Whelan was away on other duties.

The weather was kind, with late sun and 15⁰C. The cortege passed us by at 1805hrs.

Their Courage and Sacrifice Will Not Be Forgotten

They will not be forgotten

Complied by PH (Duty Scribe)

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriations after RAF Lynham

2011-07-21T12:42:00.002+02:00

Gentlemen, several of you have asked about arrangemnts that will come into effect once RAF Lynham closes in the near future. Here is the latest information I have received. I will of course keep you updated as far as I am able................................

“Brize Norton is a huge air base far busier than Lyneham. As a result, a new repatriation facility is being built on the far side of the air base, to allow a more personal experience and to prevent unnecessary impact on a fully operational air base, which will have double the occupants once Lyneham closes down.

As you can imagine there is more than one exit/entrance onto the base, in case of incidents etc. These are not manned all the time, imagine how much manpower it would take. The new repatriation centre is located close to one of these exits and means that on the day of a repatriation, families can arrive and depart without moving through the main part of the airbase.

The exit also leads straight onto a main road outside camp which means hearses do not have to transit through the camp over speed bumps etc, they can move straight onto a public highway and on to their next destination which is, sadly, the coroners in Oxford.

The road from the Crash Gate (as it is known) joins the roundabout which leads either to the main entrance for Brize Norton or to the main road. The exit/entrance being touted as "the back door" is actually about 300m from that roundabout.

Beyond that roundabout an area has been identified where the cortege can stop and members of the general public can pay a tribute a la Wootton .

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

The Latest on Bordons future

2011-07-21T12:30:00.000+02:00

Read what ITV reported about Bordon

http://www.itv.com/meridian-west/army-camp-to-close36660/
Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Arborfield Latest news

2011-07-21T12:28:00.000+02:00

Have a read of this BBC report

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-berkshire-14198087

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation Cpl Palin 1st Rifles & L/C \watkins 9/12 Lancers

2011-07-20T07:09:00.003+02:00

Subject: The Repatriation of Corporal Mark Anthony Palin (1st Battalion) The Rifles and Lance Corporal Paul Watkins (Prince of Wales's) 9th/12th Royal Lancers

Comment

Please check on www.rmarepatnetwork.org for any changes to the timings for this repatriation, which if needed I will alter up to 10:00 hours on the 21^st, after which I will be on my way up to our ‘Vigil Point’

Regards

Blondie

-----------ooOoo----------

The Repatriation of

Corporal Mark Anthony Palin (1^st Battalion) The Rifles

and

Lance Corporal Paul Watkins (Prince of Wales’s) 9^th/12^th Royal Lancers

will take place on –

Thursday, 21^st July, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 13:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 14:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Cortege expected to leave RAF Lyneham 15:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Cortege expected to leave Wootton Bassett 16:10 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 16:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 16:35 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 16:40 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 16:45 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 17:25 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 17:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

----------ooOoo----------

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of HighLander S McLaren 4 Batt RRS

2011-07-18T18:36:00.002+02:00

Please see www.rmarepatnetwork.org for updates and also for photographs etc relating to the repatriation mentioned below.

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

-----------ooOoo----------

REPATRIATION REPORT

Tuesday, 12^th July, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Highlander Scott McLaren (20), The Highlanders, 4^th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

Highlander McLaren was killed after going missing from Check Point Salaang, Nahr-e Saraj (South) District, Helmand Province, on 4^th July, 2011.

Wootton Bassett - Town Centre (1558)

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, RMA

Councillor Paul Heaphy (Town Mayor) and a 12 man repatriation party of Highlanders in uniform joined family and friends to see Scott McLaren brought home through Wootton Bassett. Locals and veterans were joined by 67 members of the Royal British Legion Motorcycle Branch.

22 Standards were paraded:

Royal British Legion - Abertillery, Hungerford, Merthyr Tydfil, Devizes, Purton, Dursley & Cam, Swindon, Rothbury & District, Henlow Beds and Woburn.

Associations - The Royal Scots Regiment, Aden Veterans, Canal Zone Veterans, Royal Navy (Pershore), The Rifles, The Parachute Regiment (Swindon, The Royal Observer Corps, RAF (Corsham), Korean Veterans (Swindon), The Royal Regiment of Wales (Newport), The Royal Berkshire Regiment (Windsor) and the Wiltshire Guards Association.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (11620)

This report from Pat Bristow RMA

There were three Association Standards on parade: Royal Marines, Swindon and Reading and The Royal Engineers, Swindon. We saw eleven veterans, plus a serving female Sergeant of The Adjutant General’s Corps. We were joined by over 30 civilians, a Fireman and 45 police officers from the adjacent HQ, led by Inspector Alan Carr.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and Highworth (1627)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAFA

On the B4000 bridge over the A420, District Councillor Elaine Ware and 11 other gathered to pay their respects as the cortege passed by at walking pace. Oncoming traffic slowed right down.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA. (1632)

Report by Patrick Hopper, RMA

There were 10 Royal Marines veterans, joined by our usual veterans from the army (RE, RA and R. Berks), plus some of the lady wives. Other veterans included Air Commodore Marcus Witherow RAF Regt and his wife Mary and Major Peter Hasting RM and his wife Diana. The Standard of RMA Poole & District was paraded. About 15 members of the public also attended. We were also delighted to see young Lance Corporal Ryan Dominy of the Holbeach Detachment of the Lincolnshire Army Cadet Force, in uniform, along with his Mum and “Granpy“.

Uniformed officers from the Academy included:

Royal Regiment of Scotland: Majors Jonathan Kelmanson, Jules Kilpatrick, Duncan McKinnon, Doug Watson, and Steve Gamory

Royal Marines: Majors Nick George, Andy Prichard, Doug Pennefather, Al Carns, Innes Catton, Baz Lewis and Will Norcott.

The salute to the cortege was ordered by WO1 Tony West, Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction (1640)

This report by Joy Blake

About 70 people attended the repatriation meeting at Folly Hill lay-by for the soldier returned from Afghanistan, Highlander Scott McLaren.

The cortege passed us by at 4.40pm and we had eight Standards, together with the Union flag paraded. There were many veterans wearing medals and berets, together with the Faringdon Town Mayor, Mr Mike Wise, the Chairman of the Vale of The White Horse, District Councillor Mrs Alison Thomson and Mrs Wendy Simpson of the Wantage Neighbourhood Support Group. Many people who came were from outlying towns and villages as well as townspeople from Faringdon. Several people joined us when they parked their cars opposite the lay-by, just prior to the cortege coming by.

The Standards paraded were: the Union flag, Royal British Legion Faringdon, Beedon, Highworth, Shrivenham, Wantage, Oxfordshire Womens’ Association, RAFA Brize Norton & Carterton and the Royal Navy Veterans from Wantage.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way.

This report from John Walker, RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood bold and true to honour Highlander Scott McLaren.

There were 12 Royal British Legion Standards on parade: Bicester, Bodicote, Bloxham, Chalgrove, Headlington, Henley, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens’ Section, Marston, Wheatley, Bicester and Launton.

Association Standards included: The Coldstream Guards, Canal Zoners (Oxon), Guards Division (Newbury), The Parachute Regiment (Oxon), RAF Police, Royal Navy & Royal Marines (Oxon), The Royal Tank Regiment (Oxon), The St George Society and The Banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

There were 52 veterans in berets and medals and 40 others from all three services. Also there were The Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Ian P. Inshaw and Colonel BAC Duncan MBE (Retd) representing The Royal Tank Regiment Association (Oxon), Mary and John from the church (thanks to John for half-masting the Union flag early that morning), and the Thames Valley police who were out in force, doing their normal duties and parading with us under the command of Chief Inspector Ceila Agger. Also, as on many parades was Graham Choldcroft, BCU Chaplain (Oxfordshire).

The Oxford public at The Final Turn were out in force, at least 200, with many more at the bottom of the hill and leading up to us. Union flags and the flag of Ulster were also carried. The weather was kind and sunny at 17⁰C.

The Parade Marshal was G. Whelan (former Para) and his 2i/c was J. Lewendon (former RA). The cortege passed us by at 1705hrs.

Their courage and sacrifice will not be forgotten

Report compiled by PH (The Duty Scribe)

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation fo Highlander S McClaren 4th RRS

2011-07-10T20:12:00.000+02:00

Subject: The Repatriation of Highlander Scott McLaren (4th Battalion) The Royal Regiment of Scotland

Comment

Please note that any updated information will only be circulated via the website www.rmarepatnetwork.org up to 11:00 hours on the day of the Repatriation.

Regards

Blondie

-----------ooOoo----------

The Repatriation of

Highlander Scott McLaren (4^th Battalion) The Royal Regiment of Scotland

will take place on –

Tuesday, 12^th July, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 13:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 14:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Expected to leave RAF Lyneham 15:15 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Expected to leave Wootton Bassett 15:40 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 16:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 16:05hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 16:10hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 16:15 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 16:55 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 17:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

----------ooOoo----------

Blondie

blondie@rmarepatnetwork.orf

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Maj (Retd) James D Gill REME

2011-07-06T10:42:00.000+02:00

Nigel Canning 77C read this in this month's Craftsman magazine.

Maj (Retd) James D Gill, commissioned service 1996 - 2002, died 19 May 2011 aged 49. I have no other details but but can only assume that it is "Jimmy" who was 77C B Coy. He reached ASM before commissioning and was my boss as BEME 160 (Wales) Bde when we both left REME in 2002. Originally from Kettering he went back to that area on retirement. We spoke on the phone that Christmas but sadly I lost touch after that. I would be grateful if anyone has any other information.

Replies to me and I'll forward them to Nigel ...............

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation Report Cfn Found & Pte Bellingham

2011-06-28T09:05:00.001+02:00

REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 23rd June, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Craftsman Andrew Found (27), Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

Cfn Found, serving with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, died in an IED explosion while on operations near Adinzai’I in the Gereshkh Valley area of Nahr-e Saraj, Helmand Province, om 16^th June, 2011.

Private Gareth Leslie William Bellingham (22), 3^rd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Staffords)

Pte Bellingham died from small arms fire while on patrol near Khar Nikarin,in the Upper Gereshk Valley, Helmand Province, on 18^th June, 2011.

Royal Wootton Bassett - Town Centre (1720)

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, RMA

There were over 2,000 people lining the High Street of Wootton Bassett to pay tribute to the two soldiers coming home. Joining the families and friends were Mr James Gray, MP for North Wiltshire, Group Captain John Gladstone MBE DFC ADC RAF, CO of RAF Lyneham, Assistant Chief Constable Mike Veale of the Wiltshire Constabulary, the Chairman of Wiltshire County Council and Corporal Johnson Beharry VC, Princess of Wales Royal Regiment.

Several contingents of uniformed personnel, representing REME, the Mercian Regiment and Scottish Regiments supplemented many veterans in berets, and 58 members of the Royal British Legion Motorcycle Branch. My apologies for any that I have missed.

Royal British Legion Standards included Dursley & Cam, Tamworth, Tewkesbury, Lambourn, Merthyr Tydfil, Chichester and The Witterings.

There were 11 Association Standards for REME, including Bournemouth, Bristol, Coventry, Doncaster, Kettering, Luton & Dunstable, North Devon, Scotland, Shropshire and Swansea. Also there were the Standards of The Mercian Regiment; The Staffordshire Regiment (Wolverhampton, Ensford, Tamworth, Rugely and Lichfield), The Parachute Regiment (Swindon, North Staffordshire and 101^st Airborne); The Royal Berkshire Regiment (Windsor); The RN Association (Swindon and Tewkesbury); The Malaya and Borneo Veterans; Beachley Old Boys Association; The Royal Regiment of Wales (Newport); RAFA Dunstable and the Normandy Veterans, Stoke on Trent.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (1745)

This report from Stan Holland

There were three Association Standards paraded on the main road outside the Police HQ: Royal Marines (Reading), Royal Engineers (Reading) and the RAF Lyneham Old Boys. We have since heard from Tony Davie, the Standard Bearer of RMA Reading, that when ITV attended at Gable Cross, their party included Corporal Johnson Beharry VC, who personally greeted everybody on parade. There are very few people in the world today who have the privilege of shaking the hand of a holder of the Victoria Cross. A rare moment. There were six veterans present, along with two Firefighters,10 police officers and 30 members of the public.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and High worth (1800)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAFA

On the bridge of the B4000 over the A420, District Councillor Elaine Ware and nine members of the public stood to pay their respects as the cortege passed very slowly by. They were joined on the other side of the road by three drivers who got out of their cars and stood by their vehicles. Oncoming traffic also drew to a halt.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA.

(1805)

Report by Patrick Hopper, RMA

10 Royal Marines veterans assembled, along with veterans Bert (former Royal Berkshires) and Gerry (former RE, Korean War), with several of the wives to pay their respects to the fallen. The Standards of RMA Poole & District and Guildford Branches were paraded. Other veterans included Air Commodore Marcus Witherow (RAF Regt. Retd), his wife Mary and Major Peter Hasting RM (Retd) and his wife Diana.

Uniformed personnel from the Defence Academy included Lieutenant Colonels Heardman, Chris Platt and Paul Johnson, Majors Steve Bharat, Lisa Gill and Ben Creed, RSM Bryce and Staff Sergeant Wilde, all of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Captain Phil Burrill, Royal Navy, (Academy Chief of Staff), Major Olly Briant and RSM Mark Collacott of The Mercian Regiment, and WO1 Brett Taylor, Royal Scots Dragoon Guards. These were joined by about 15 Academy civilian staff, families and members of the public.

The salute to the cortege was ordered by WO1 Mark Hennington, The Mercian Regiment, the Academy RSM.

Many thanks to the two MOD Police officers who directed traffic.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction

This report by Joy Blake

Their was a large turnout of people for the repatriation at Folly Hill today, when we paid our respects to the two soldiers returned home. The cortege passed us by at 6.15pm and there were 86 people present, plus five children. These included townspeople from Faringdon and surrounding villages, as well as many veterans with berets and medals, and members of the Royal British Legion.

Also attending were relatives of a local family who were on holiday from New Zealand, who were impressed by the cortege and what we did at Faringdon and district towards the repatriation of fallen soldiers of our Armed Forces.

Also in attendance were the Faringdon Town Mayor and his Escort, Mike and Ingrid Wise; the Chairman of the Vale of the White Horse District Council, Alison Thompson; and members of the community police. I was good to welcome back Bill Collins from Beedon (Newbury), with his standard.

Standards paraded were the Union flag, Royal British Legion Frangdon, Beedon, Highworth, Shrivenham, Wantage, Oxfordshire Womens Branches, RAFA Brize Norton and Carterton and the Royal Naval Veterans from Wantage.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way.

This report from John Walker, RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood true and firm to honour the two fallen soldiers.

There were 12 Royal British Legion Standards: Bicester, Bicester & Launton, Bloxham, Bodicote, Chalgrove, Hazelmere, Henley, Islip, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens Section, Marston and Wheatley.

The 10 Association Standards included: The Coldstream Guards, Canal Zoners (Oxon), The Guards Division (Newbury), The Parachute Regiment (Oxon), RAF Police, The Royal Navy & Royal Marines (Oxon), Royal Marines (Bicester and Windsor), The Royal Tank Regiment (Oxon), St George Society and The Banners of The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and The Royal Dragoon Guards.

We were honoured today by the presence of Corporal Johnson Beharry VC, PWRR, who paraded along with us to honour the two soldiers.

There were 65 veterans with berets and medals, and about 60 others from all three services. At least 200 members of the public joined us at the Final Turn and the ring road into Marston that leads up the hill to us was, as always, well attended. The Thames Valley Police were out in force, doing their normal duties, as well as parading with us, under the command of Special Inspector Philip Quickenden. Mary and John from the church were there, John having half-masted the Union flag earlier in the day. St John’s Ambulance were again in attendance, as were the two RBL Bikers, Martyn and Tony. The vets’ wives once again looked after us with tea/coffee and home made cakes, etc. The Union and Ulster flags were also there. The parade marshal was G. Whelan (former Para) and his 2i/c was J. Lewendon (former RA). The cortege passed us by at 1900hrs.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

Footnote: A group, under the command of WO1 (RSM) John Rochester RSDG and now the SQMS of The Royal Hospital, Chelsea, came to give us support to the above soldiers, but in particular for Crafstman Found, REME, who was attached to their regiment at the time of his death, The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards: Sgt Jim McElland (Pensioner, RHC), Lt Col Mike Oliver, his son Captain Nick Oliver, Captain James Leslie, WO1 (RSM) Paul Savage (Banner Bearer), Staff Sergeants Smith and Hugh Hinde, all these being former members of The Scots Greys, The Caribiniers or The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.

Report compiled by PH (The Duty Scribe)

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Cfn Andrew Found

2011-06-24T09:06:00.002+02:00

There was a really good turn out at Wootton Bassett yesterday. Best part of two hundred REME soldiers in uniform and a large number of REME veterans in berets and ties. I also noted that a number of the RBL 'bikers' were sporting REME badges on their leathers. There seemed to be more standards than I had seen previously, so I took place a little further down at the end of the standards by the Crossed Keys . I was disappointed not to be joined by any AOBA members, but may well have missed them among the many hundreds that were on both sides of the high street.

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Cfn A Found REME & Pte G Bellingham

2011-06-21T16:30:00.004+02:00

Comment

Any changes to timings will be posted on the website up to 10:00 hours 23.06.2011

www.rmarepatnetwork.org

-----------ooOoo----------

( Gentlemen, I intend to be in the town on the south side, to the right of where the standard bearers parade. I may be with a motley crew of Gunners and ' Royals'. The rallying point, a REME sidecap.)

The Repatriation of

Private Gareth Bellingham, (3^rd Battalion) The Mercian Regiment

And

Craftsman Andrew Found, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

will take place on –

Thursday, 23rd June, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 14:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 15:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Expected to leave RAF Lyneham 16:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Expected to leave Wootton Bassett 17:10 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 17:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 17:35 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 17:40 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 17:45 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 18:25 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 18:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

----------ooOoo----------

Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Cpl Pike 4th Batt RRS,L/Cpl Gill 42 RM & Rflm Lamb 1st Batt Rifles

2011-06-13T11:03:00.001+02:00

REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 9^th June, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Corporal John Michael Pike (26), The Highlanders, 4^th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland

Cpl Pike was fatally wounded by gunfire while on patrol in the Pupalzay area of Lashkar Gah District, Helmand Province, on 3^rd June, 2011.

Lance Corporal Martin Joseph Gill (22), 42 Commando, Royal Marines

LCpl Gill died of gunshot wounds received during an engagement with the enemy while on patrol in the Adensee area of Nahr-e Saraj (South), Helmand Province, on 5^th June, 2011.

Rifleman Martin Jon Lamb (27), 1^st Battalion, The Rifles

Rfn Lamb died in an IED explosion while on patrol in the Haji Kareen area of Nahr-e Saraj (South), Helmand Province, on 5^th June, 2011.

Royal Wootton Bassett - Town Centre (1715)

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, Royal Marines Association (RMA)

The High Street was so crowded today that it was difficult to move about and see who was there. I did see Councillor Paul Heaphy, the Mayor of Wootton Bassett, as well as last year’s Mayor and Warminster’s ex-Mayor.

There were uniformed contingents from The Royal Marines, The Royal Regiment of Scotland and The Rifles. Along with the many veterans were eight RMA veterans in berets, plus 37 motorcycles and 58 members of the Royal British Legion Riders Branch.

33 Standards were paraded: Royal Marines Association (Bath and Bristol), The Canal Zone Association, The Devon & Dorset Regiment, two Dorset Regiment Association branches, 43^rd Wessex Division Association, The Guards Association (Wiltshire), The Parachute Regiment (Swindon and Andover), 101^st Airborne Division, Aden Veterans, The RAF Association (Corsham and Chepstow), two Standards of The Rifles Association, The Royal Observer Corps (12 Group), The Royal Artillery (Newport), The Royal Regiment of Wales (Newport), The Korean War Veterans, The Royal Berkshire Regiment, The Gloucestershire Regiment and The Cwmbran Ex-Servicemens Association

The Royal British Legion Standards included Abertillery, Merthyr Tydfil, Dursley & Cam, Swindon, Potterne, Purton, Great Torrington, Lydney & District.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (1730)

This report from Nick Stevens

Four Association Standards were paraded: Royal Marines (Reading), Royal Engineers (Swindon), Royal Signals (Swindon) and the RAF Lyneham Old Boys. There were about 30 veterans and members of the public by the roadside, to pay their respects to the cortege, along with 12 police officers from the adjacent HQ.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and High worth (1745)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAF Association

Where the B4000 crosses over the A420, District Councillor Elaine Ware and 14 members of the public gathered to pay their respects to the cortege as it passed by.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA.

(1750)

Report by Jim Hawkins, RMA

In attendance by the roadside were 10 Royal Marines veterans and the Standards of RMA Poole and Guildford. We were joined by Air Commodore Marcus Witherow RAF Regt. (Retd) and his wife Mary, Major Peter Hasting RM (Retd) and his wife Diana, Captain John Capito RMR (Retd) and two army veterans of the Royal Berkshire Regt. and the Korean War. Also attending were about 20 academy civilian staff, relatives and members of the public.

Uniformed officers from the Defence Academy included Colonel Garth Manger, Majors Nick Copsey, Ed Waldmeyer, Al Carns, Sid Purser, Doug Pennefather, Graham Watson, Andy Titericky, Ros Kearney, Dean Watkins, Will Norcott, Andy Pritchard, Nick George, Innes Catton, and Baz Lewis - all of The Royal Marines; Majors Eoin Carson, William Wells and John Richards of The Rifles; Captain Phil Burrill, Royal Navy, Major Francis Nodder, RLC, Major Claire Heighington, RMP, Wing Commander Steve Hayler and Flight Lieutenant Dave Falkner RAF.

The salute to the cortege was led by Colonel Garth Manger RM and ordered by WO1 Mark Hannington, Mercian Regt., the Academy RSM.

Many thanks to Sgt Eddy McCabe and PC Greening of the MOD Police for their traffic control.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction (1755)

This report by Joy Blake

Today we had about 76 people attending the Folly Hill lay-by and included with the regulars were many veterans, Royal British Legion members and new faces and passers-by. The cortege solemnly slowed right down when it passed us at 6.10pm. We were grateful to the Thames Valley Police for the respect shown to us in the slow procession and the stopping of oncoming traffic.

Of the passers-by there were three soldier cyclists, who were supposed to be meeting their Sergeant Major at the lay-by, but they appeared to have lost their way! There were other new faces from the town of Faringdon and surrounding villages.

Many veterans were there, wearing their berets and medals. In attendance also was the Chairman of the Vale of The White Horse District Council, Alison Thompson), Faringdon Town Mayor, Mike Wise, councillors from Faringdon, as well as Wendy Stimpson from the Wantage Neighbourhood Action Group.

Standards paraded were: the Union flag, Royal British Legion - Faringdon, Bampton, Shrivenham, Wantage, RAFA Brize Norton and Carterton and the Royal Navy Veterans from Wantage.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way. (1855)

This report from John Walker, former RDG

We here at The Final Turn stood true and firm to honour these three soldiers.

There were nine Royal British Legion Standards: Bloxham, Chalgrove, Headlington, Islip, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens Branch, Marston and Wheatley.

Association Standards included: The Coldstream Guards, Canal Zone (Oxon), RAF Police, RAF PTI Association (Windsor), The Royal Marines and Royal Navy (Oxon), The Royal Marines (Bicester), The St George Society and The Banner Of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

There were 55 veterans in berets and medals and 38 others from all three services. The St John’s Ambulance was represented by John Johns and Mary represented the church and who had been out early to half mast the Union flag, as John is on holiday. Thames Valley Police were out in force, doing their normal duties, as well as parading with us, under the command of Chief Inspector C. Agger. The two RBL Bikers were with us again (Tony and Martin)!

Once again there was a huge turnout by the Oxford public. Here at the Final Turn we had over 240 people, with many more coming off the ring road into Marston, leading up the hill to us. Many had huge Union flags and again it was nice to notice the presence of the Ulster flag.

I would like to mention my usual helper Ian (former Ox & Bucks LI) who has not been feeling too well of late. We wish him well. His duties are now being carried out by Mike Townsend, RBL Carterton. Thank you Mike. The parade marshal was G. Whelan (former Para). His 2i/c was J. Lewendon (former RA). The weather was overcast but dry, and 16⁰C. The cortege passed us by at 1855hrs.

Their Courage and Sacrifice Will Not Be Forgotten

As an afternote, on Tuesday 7^th June a group of us, which included four Royal British Legion Standards attended the funeral of our oldest veteran who attended, Leonard Rudman, who died, aged 97, on 19^th May. He lived in Woodstock, about 30 minutes drive away. I say drive, because that is what he did until about four months ago. Born in 1914, he joined the RAF in 1936 and served throughout the last World War until 1964. He was a fine gentleman and was always very smart in his turnout. The church service was held at St Mary Magdelene Church in Woodstock. His Grace the Duke of Malborough was there as Len was a very hardworking member of the local Royal British Legion and had been, all his life since leaving the RAF. The Duke is his Branch President. Len, it was an honour to have stood alongside you, Sir. May you rest in peace.

Report compiled by Patrick Hopper, RMA Poole & District, with many thanks to our contributors.

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

2011-06-13T10:19:00.001+02:00

Photographs relating to this Repatriation Report can be found on our website at –

www.rmarepatnetwork.org

together with brief details of the latest causalities. Details of the forthcoming repatriations will also be posted when confirmed

------------ooOoo----------

REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 2^nd June, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Lieutenant Oliver Richard Augustin (23), J Company, 42 Commando Royal Marines

Marine Samuel Giles Alexander MC (28), J Company, 42 Commando, Royal Marines

Both these Royal Marines died from an IED explosion while on patrol in the Loy Mandeh Kalay, Nad-e Ali District, Helmand Province, on 27^th May, 2011.

Marine Alexander was awarded the Military Cross in 2009 for his bravery in a previous tour of Afghanistan, when to protect his fallen Section Commander, he deliberately went out alone to engage the enemy, armed only with his 9mm pistol, his machine gun having run out of ammunition. His determined assault forced the enemy to retreat. His brave action undoubtedly saved the lives of his comrades.

Royal Wootton Bassett - Town Centre

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, RMA

The bodies of Lieutenant Augustin and Marine Alexander MC were flown home to RAF Lyneham today. The High Street in Wootton Bassett was thronged with those wishing to honour these Marines as the cortege passed through.

Along with families and friends were Mme. Rita Schladt, representing the mayor of Blain, Wootton Bassett’s twin town in France and Major Will Norcott RM, currently serving at the Staff College. More than 20 Royal Marines attended in uniform with numerous comrades in plain clothes and at least 15 RMA veterans in berets. Other uniformed presence was provided by four Royal Navy personnel and an RAF officer.

62 motorcycles with 83 members of the Royal British Legion Riders Branch, together with numerous veterans representing all the services wearing berets, also attended.

22 standards were paraded:

Associations - Royal Marines (Bath and Bristol), Korean War Veterans (Swindon, Devon and Cornwall), Parachute Regiment (Swindon), Aden Veterans, Royal Berkshire Regiment (Windsor), RAFA (Corsham), Royal Observer Corps (12 Group), The Rifles, Canal Zone, Royal Regiment of Wales (Newport), The Welsh Guards and Cwmbran Ex Servicemen.

Royal British Legion - Wroughton, Swindon, Devizes, Abertillery, Potterne, Crayford, Dursley & Cam, Bexley Heath and Welling.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419

This report from Pat Bristow RMA

The standards of the RMA (Swindon, Deal and Reading), the Green Beret Association, Royal Engineers (Swindon), Royal Signals (Swindon) and the RAF Lyneham Old Boys were paraded, along with eight RM veterans and others. 30 Police officers attended, under Inspector Wilkinson and 30 members of the public.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and Highworth

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAFA

At the bridge where the B4000 goes over the A420, District Councillor Elaine Ware and ten others, along with a Sergeant who stood on the other side of the road, were there to pay their respects as the cortege of the two Marines passed by. Oncoming traffic stopped and some drivers stood by their cars at this time.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA

Report by Jim Hawkins, RMA

There was a very good turnout today, to honour the two Royal Marines. 14 RM Veterans from the Poole, Guildord and Portsmouth branches, and their regular counterparts, Ray (ex-RA) and Bert (ex-Royal Berkshires), plus several wives of the same attended, along with the standards of RMA Poole and Guildford. The RM Veterans included Lt Col Brian Woodham and Chris Fenwick over from the Home Counties and John Capito RMR (Retd). Air Commodore Marcus Witherow RAF Regt (Retd) also attended.

Serving uniformed officers from the Academy included Royal Marines: Colonel and Mrs Manger, Lt Cols Peter Ward and Corrin, Majors Doug Pennefather, Innes Catton, Baz Lewis, Nick Copsey, David Baldwin MBE and Martin, Major Claire Heighington RMP, along with her children Harriet and Freddy, Major Kearney MBE RLC, Captain Phil Burrill RN, Lt Cdrs Michael Wood and Matt Fazewell RN, Lt Kev Browne RN, PO John Williams RN, and 2^nd Officer Ben Phillips RFA. I apologise if I got one or two ranks wrong or any omissions. It was good to see two of the Royal Marines officers in best blues, though they did admit that they had just returned that afternoon from the funeral of an RM officer, Lt Orlando Roberts, who died recently in an aircraft accident.

There were also many civilians (family members, Academy staff and members of the public), including Mr & Mrs Talbot from Worcestershire, Eric Ridley (our favourite poet!) and his wife Karen, Mrs and Miss Wheeler, Mrs Carden from Australia, Mrs Walker, Charlie Robson of the Sherborne Cadet Force, Christina Mackey and quite a lot of members of the public - too many to name!

The salute to the cortege was led by Colonel Manger RM and ordered by WO1 Mark Hennington, Mercian Regt., the Academy RSM.

Many thanks to PCs Watson and Greening, MOD Police for their traffic control. Where were you guys last week? We had only just managed not to get mown down by the traffic! It must have been the sight of a crusty old veteran standing in the middle of the road, pointing three fingers at the imaginary stripes on his arm that slowed them down!

Just as a footnote, we of the Royal Marines Association who have attended the repatriations for the last four years, would like to offer our sincere thanks to the Defence Academy for inviting us to their celebration of the Queen’s Birthday the day before, which included a cocktail party, a Beat Retreat and a flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. A splendid evening. In spite of the wide variety of uniforms, we all belong to the same family.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction

This report by Joy Blake

Once again many of us met at the Folly Hill lay-by to show our respects, this time for the two marines returned to home soil today. The cortege passed us by at 5.50pm and weatherwise it was a completely different day from the previous week.

Almost 70 people atended our repatriation meeting and these included many veterans wearing their berets and medals; members of the Faringdon & District and other local branchs of the Royal British Legion, community police, Wendy Simpson (Wantage Neighbourhood Action Group), and Major Malcolm Sperrin (RAMC), together with many local townspeople.

Standards paraded were: the Union flag, Royal British Legion from Faringdon, B ampton, Highworth, Shrivenham, Wantage, Oxforshire Womens Branch, RAFA Brize Norton & Carterton and the Royal Navy Veterans from Wantage.

Although we were there to show our respects to the fallen soldiers, our thoughts also went to the family of the late Major John McDonnell VRD RMR, who sadly passed away on 27^th May. John had been a regular and staunch supporter of the Folly Hill repatriation meetings, travelling over from Nettlebed each time. It was only last year that owing to illness and treatment, he was unable to drive. He last attended this year on 17^th March and we mourn his passing, for his commitment to support those we mourn, almost week by week.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way.

This report from John Walker, RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood firm and strong to honour the fallen Royal Marines.

There were nine Royal British Legion standards: Marston, Islip, Headlington, Henley, Wheatley, Chalgrove, Bodicote, Bicester and Bloxham. Association standards included Royal Marines & Royal Navy (Oxon), Royal Marines (Stoke on Trent and Newcastle), Royal Marines (Welwyn Garden City), The Parachute Regiment (Oxon), Coldstream Guards, St George Society, The Royal Tank Regiment (Oxon), Guards Division (Newbury), Canal Zoners (Oxon) and the banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

There were 54 veterans in berets and medals and 35 other from all three services. Thames Valley Police were out in force, doing their normal duties and standing alongside us on parade, under the command of Chief Inspector (Specials) Phil Quickendon. Once again also, the Thames Valley Police Chaplain was with us. There were also 200+ members of the public at the Final Turn with us and many more, all the way up from the bottom ring road leading up the hill to where we stood. Huge Union flags were held by three groups and one group was displaying the flag of Ulster.

A special mention here for three former Royal Marines who came all the way down from Stoke on Trent. They were Frank McCullough (Branch Secretary, Stoke on Trent and Newcastle Branch), Barry Aitken and Tom McEleny. This was their first repatriation parade and we commend them for coming so far to be with us. Also with us for the first time was Bill Veazey, former RAF Police and his two daughters, from the London area. Ian, my loyal helper, who assists me by putting these lists together, was unwell on the day so we missed him dearly, along with his wife Diana (our cake lady). We wish him a speedy recovery.

We thank John from the church who once again half-masted the Union flag early in the morning. Both he and Mary were on the parade with us. St John’s Ambulance (John Jones) was also in attendance. Our two stray RBL Bikers from last week were with us again! The parade marshal was G. Whelan (former Para) and J. Lewendon (former RA) was his 2i/c.

The cortege passed us by at 1825hrs.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

Report compiled by PH (Duty Scribe)

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Ian (Robbie) Mindham 59C or 60A

2011-06-12T15:25:00.000+02:00

Just had this in from Mo Hope .........................

I have to sadly report the passing of one of our ex Apprentice number,whose details could go on the website.
Ian Mindham,known to all as Robbie..due to him coming from Nottinghamshire and the inevitable link with Robin Hood !!

I believe he was either 59C or 60A and was in B Company,and was very well known due to a large red birth mark on the side of his face. He passed away in Worksop due to cancer,aged 67 on Sunday May the 22nd,and his funeral was on Tuesday 31st of May in Worksop,where he lived in Clarenden Drive.

Regards Mo Hope..

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

repatriation of Lt OR Augustin & Mne SGW Alexander MC RM

2011-05-31T21:37:00.001+02:00

Comment

Please check on www.rmarepatnetwork.org for any updated information

-----------ooOoo----------

The Repatriation of

Lieutenant Oliver Richard Augustin

and

Marine Samuel Giles William Alexander MC

42 Commando, Royal Marines

will take place on –

Thursday, 2nd June, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 14:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 15:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Expected to leave RAF Lyneham 16:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Expected to leave Wootton Bassett 17:10 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 17:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 17:35 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 17:40 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 17:45 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 18:25 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 18:30 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

----------ooOoo----------

Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of C/Sgt KC Fortuna 1st Batt Rifles

2011-05-31T07:56:00.002+02:00

Please note, I will be on Holiday for the next two weeks, my apologies for not passing on details of repatriations during that time,

Comment

A selection of photographs for this repatriation can be found on the website plus any updates for the forthcoming repatriation for the two recent casualties

www.rmarepatnetwork.org

------------ooOoo----------

REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 26^th May, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Colour Serjeant Kevin Charles Fortuna (36), 1^st Battalion, The Rifles

C/Sjt Fortuna died from an IED explosion while leading a patrol in the Sayedabad Kalay area, Nahr -e Saraj (South), Helmand Province, on 23^rd May, 2011.

Wootton Bassett - Town Centre (1830)

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, RMA

Due to the lateness of this repatriation and a previous engagement I was unable to stay until the cortege arrived at Royal Wootton Bassett. I did however manage to collate a short report up to five minutes before the arrival.

Major Carter, 2i/c 1^st Battalion, The Rifles, headed a party of more than 100 members of the Regiment, most in uniform, to support family and friends assembled in the High Street. They were supported by four RM veterans (Dave, John, Stuart and Dick), numerous other service veterans in berets and medals, with 23 motorcycles and 56 members of the Royal British Legion Motorcycle Branch.

22 standards were paraded, including:

Royal British Legion - Lydney, Wroughton, Merthyr Tydfil, Hungerford, Abertillery, Devizes and Dursley & Cam.

Associations - Royal Gloucester, Berkshire & Wiltshire Regt (Newbury & Swindon), Royal Berkshire Regiment (Windsor), Korean War Veterans, Duke of Edinburgh’s Royal Regiment (Reading), Cwmbran Old Comrades, The Rifles, 43^rd Wessex, Dorsetshire Regiment Old Comrades (Bath), Parachute Regiment (Swindon), Royal Observer Corps, Canal Zone Veterans and Aden Veterans.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (1702)

This report from Pat Bristow RMA

There were five Association standards present; Royal Marines Swindon and Reading, Royal Engineers Swindon, Royal Signals Swindon and the RAF Lyneham Old Boys.

The crowd assembled included 10 service veterans and about 20 members of the public. Five police officers from the adjacent HQ also attended, led by Inspector Steve Bridges.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and Highworth (1708)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAFA

On the B4000 bridge over the A420, the very heavy rain eased off as seven members of the public gathered to pay their respects to the cortege as it passed by.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA.

Report by Patrick Hopper, RMA

12 Royal Marines veterans, along with our fellow retirees, Ray (RA) and Bert (Royal Berks) and some wives, attended. Unfortunately, the standard of RMA Poole was not present, as it was required elsewhere at the funeral of a retired RM that day.

Uniformed officers from the Defence Academy included Major Chris Pawlowski and Major John Richards of The Rifles. Representing 3^rd Commando Brigade RM, of which 1^st Rifles is an integral part, were Colonel Manger and Majors Doug Pennefather and Innes Catton RM. Also attending were Wing Commander Tony Wheeler RAF and Major Claire Heighington RMP. Although this was a sad occasion, we were happy to see Major Claire in such good spirits. Her husband was back on short leave from Afghanistan, and is now within eight weeks of completing his tour. We were joined by about a dozen members of the public.

The salute to the cortege was led by Major Richards of The Rifles and ordered by WO2 Peter Davies, RLC.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction

This report by Joy Blake

The cold, wet and windy evening did not put off the almost 70 people who attended the repatriation of C/Sjt Kevin Fortuna, the cortege of which passed us by at 7.15pm.

This repatriation had been the 100^th time we had attended the Folly Hill lay-by and apart from a few on holiday, the usual stalwarts, veterans and townspeople from Faringdon and other local villages attended, as well as some new faces. Many of those attending were members of the Royal British Legion from different local branches.

Among the new faces was the new Chairman of the Vale of The White Horse District Council, Alison Thomson, together with other councillors, the Town Mayor of Faringdon and Escort, Mike and Ingrid Wise and the Town Mayor and Deputy Town Mayor of Wantage, Patrick O’Leary and Jim Sibbald.

The standards paraded were as follows: Union flag, Royal British Legion Faringdon, Bampton, Shrivenham and Wantage, RAFA Brize Norton and Carterton and the RN Veterans Association from Wantage.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way.

This report from John Walker, RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood tall and firm to honour this soldier.

There were eight Royal British Legion standards: Bloxham, Bicester, Chalgrove, Henley, Islip, Marston, Oxford City and Wheatley.

Association standards included The Coldstream Guards, Canal Zoners (Oxon), Parachute Regiment (Oxon), Royal Tank Regiment (Oxon), RAF Police, The Royal Navy and the banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

There were 60 veterans in berets and medals and 30 others from all three services. St John’s Ambulance provided two representatives, John Jones and Ann Collier. Mary and John from the church were out again early in the morning, putting the Union flag at half mast for us. We must mention here volunteer Thames Valley Chaplain, Graham Choldcroft with us yet again, as he had been so many times in the past.

There were at least 150 members of the public at the Final Turn and hundreds more from the Oxford ring road coming round and leading up the hill to where we parade. We also had two RBL Bikers, Martin White and Tony Carr, who would normally be at Royal Wootton Bassett, but one whose bike broke down, so they cut their trip short and joined us.

Thanks to Ian (former Ox & Bucks LI) for helping me put these lists together and to his good lady for the homemade cakes. Also thanks to all who helped at the tea and coffee counter, and to Mary and John, for clearing away afterwards.

The parade marshal was G. Whelan (former Para) and 2i/c J. Lewendon (former RA).

The cortege passed us by at 1955 hours. The weather was overcast but dry, after heavy rain.

THEIR COURAGE AND SACRIFICE WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN.

Compiled by PH (Duty Scribe)

Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of a Soldier from 1St Batt The Rifles

2011-05-25T15:34:00.001+02:00

The Repatriation of

An unnamed soldier from (1^st Battalion) The Rifles

will take place on –

Thursday, 26th May, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 16:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 17:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Expected to leave RAF Lyneham 18:15 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Expected to leave Wootton Bassett 18:40 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 19:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 19:05 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 19:10 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 19:15 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 19:55 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 20:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

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Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

2011-05-24T10:01:00.001+02:00

Over-write your message here - do not over-write the link below

Comment

For photographs relating to this repatriation, please go to –

www.rmarepatnetwork.org

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REPATRIATION REPORT

Thursday 19^th May, 2011

From operations in Afghanistan, the repatriation of:

Marines Nigel Dean Mead (19), 42 Commando, Royal Marines

Marine Mead died in an IED explosion while operating as part of Combined Force Nad ‘Ali in Wadi Loy Mandeh, Helmand Province, on 15^th May, 2011.

Wootton Bassett - Town Centre

This report from Duncan Wostenholm, RMA

The repatriation of Marine Mead took place this evening, joining family and friends to pay tribute to the young member of 42 Commando, was about 15 of his Royal Marines colleagues in uniform. 12 RMA veterans in berets (including John Ellis and Dave Powell who attend most repatriations), 43 rider of the Royal British Motorcycle Branch, three Town Criers and numerous veterans from all services, in berets.

21 standards were paraded:

Royal British Legion - Leyton, Lambourn, Hungerford, Swindon, Abertillery and Merthy Tydfil;

Associations: Royal Marines Bath and Bristol, Aden Veterans, Royal Observer Corps, RAFA Corsham, RNA Swindon, Korean War Veterans, Swindon and Stoke on Trent, Royal Berkshire Regiment Windsor, Royal Regiment of Wales Newport, Cwmbran Ex-Servicemen, Parachute Regiment Swindon and West Berkshire, Parachute Regiment and Airborne North Staffordshire and the 101^st Airborne.

Gable Cross Police Station - On the A420 just east of the junction with the A419 (1520)

This report from Pat Bristow RMA

There were five Association standards paraded at Gable Cross: Royal Marines Swindon and Basingstoke, Royal Signals Swindon, Royal Engineers Swindon and the Royal Navy Woking.

10 veterans stood to honour the cortege, alongside members of the public and some police officers.

At the Road Bridge - B4000 over the A420 between Shrivenham and Highworth (1535)

Report by Derrick Jeans, RAFA

On the B4000 bridge over the A420, Councillor Elaine Ware and six members of the public stood to pay their respects as the cortege passed by at walking pace. Oncoming traffic came to a halt and several drivers and passengers got out of their vehicles to stand and honour the cortege.

United Kingdom Defence Academy - at the Watchfield Roundabout on the A420, adjacent to the UKDA.

Report by Jim Hawkins, RMA

There were 12 RMA veterans attending, along with one RA, one Royal Berks, one Korean War and one Royal Signals veteran and five wives. The standards of RMA Poole and Guildford were paraded.

Uniformed officers from the Defence Academy included Colonel Manger, Colonel Burnell, Lt Col Gadie, Lt Col Crawford, Majors Catton, Ryall, Purser, Pennefather, Norcott, Carns, Watkins, George, Watson, Waldmeyer, Pritchard, Jess, and Lewis, and Captain Hill, all of The Royal Marines, Captain Sparks RM (Retd), Major Richard of The Rifles and Lieut Mackarness of The Coldstream Guards. We were also joined by six academy staff and members of the public.

The salute to the cortege of Marine Nigel Mead was led by Colonel Manger RM and ordered by WO2 Peter Davies RLC.

Folly Hill Lay-by - east of Faringdon on the A420, just north of the A417 junction

This report by Joy Blake

About 80 people attended, the ex-servicemen wearing their berets and medals at our repatriation meeting at the Folly Hill lay-by on the A420. As it was a later time, working people were able to attend and this was a remarkable turnout.

Many veterans attended and we were able to pay our respects to Marine Nigel Mead, when the cortege passed us by at 6.05 pm.

Included in those attending were local townspeople and members of the Royal British Legion, members of the Faringdon Fire and Rescue Service, town councillors, as well as townspeople from nearby towns and villages. We were alsp pleased to welcome the incoming Mayor of Faringdon and his escort, Mike and Ingrid Wise. Standards paraded were: the Union flag, Royal British Legion Faringdon, Bampton, Highworth, Shrivenham, Wantage, Womens’ Oxfordshire Branch and RAFA Brize Norton and Carterton and the Royal Navy Veterans, Wantage.

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford - near Anthony Padua Parish Church, Headley Way.

This report from John Walker, RDG

We here at the Final Turn stood true and firm to honour this Royal Marine. There were 9 Royal British Legion standards: Bicester, Bodicote, Chalgrove, Henley, Islip, Kidlington, Kidlington Womens Section, Marston and Wheatley. There were 9 Association standards: Royal Marines (national), Royal Marines (Windsor and Welwyn Garden City), The Parachute Regiment (Oxon), Guards Division (Newbury), Coldstream Guards, Canal Zoners (Oxon), St George Society, RAF Police and the banner of The Royal Dragoon Guards.

There were 55 veterans in berets and 30 others from all three services. The Lord Mayor of Oxford, John Goddard, sent his apologies, as did the Lord Lieutenant of Oxford, as they had a prior engagement at a civic reception in the city for the appointment and presentation of the chain of office to the new Lord Mayor, Councillor Elisa Benjamine.

The church was represented by Mary and John (we thank John for being there very early and once again placing the Union flag at half mast. There were about 250 members of the public at the Final Turn and many more standing at the bottom of the hill leading up to us. Reports tell us that there were many all along the Oxford ring road. Thames Valley Police were out in force, with their normal duties, as well as lining the route with us, under the watchful eye of Inspector C. Agger. The Oxford Mail was with us again, taking photographs.

Once again I thank Ian (former Ox & Bucks LI) for helping me put the lists together and his good lady for bringing the homemade cakes. Tea and coffee was served not only to the veterans on parade but also to the members of the public who were there from quite early on. We thank so many local people who donate to this (tea, coffee etc.) and to the vets’ wives and others who help behind the counter.

The weather was dry and 18⁰. The Parade Marshal was G. Whelan (ex-Para) and 2i/c was J. Lewendon (ex-RA).

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.

Report compiled by PH (Duty Scribe)

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Army Apprentices Memorial Dedication Day

2011-05-19T16:52:00.000+02:00

The guys who have been working on the Memorial on our behalf are almost there and final preparations are being made for the Dedication Day on September 7th.

They have been told by 'The Powers That Be' in the event that the number of guests arriving exceed 350 we must provide a Park and Ride service - at a cost of over £4,000!!!

So we have been asked to ascertain approximate numbers, therefore could I please ask you to email me at tich@arborfieldoldboys.co.uk if you are joining us in the day? If you could do this by mid June it would be most helpful to the organisers.

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

AOBA Remembrance Scroll

2011-05-19T16:43:00.000+02:00

All old boys should be aware that Roger ‘Trixie’ Traves, 57A, has now taken over responsibility regarding the production and sending out of the Remembrance Scrolls. Roger’s contact details are as follows:

Telephone: 01202 471063. Address: 25, Denmead Road, Iford, Bournemouth, Dorset BH6 5QH.
e-mail: rog.ski@virgin.net

Roger would like to remind members that he does not automatically send out a Remembrance Scroll when he sees an obituary or notification of death in the OBAN/Forum. He only sends them when requested by whoever has made contact with the deceased family - and only then when the next-of-kin has confirmed that they would like to receive one. The minimum information required, before a scroll is sent, is as follows:

a. Full name of the deceased and his intake number
b. The n-o-k or family member’s full name, ensuring that we have their first name, and the address to where the scroll should be sent

When it has been confirmed that the n-o-k of the deceased has requested a Remembrance Scroll, he will only send one if he has all the detail as listed in sub paragraphs a. & b. above. He will not send a scroll until he's in receipt of all this detail. As you can imagine, if we get any of this detail wrong, it could cause extra grief to the bereaved.

Please keep this information in mind if you hear of any Old Boy attending his Final Passing Out Parade..............................................................................................................

Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Timing alteration---Repatriation of Mne ND Mead RM

2011-05-17T17:37:00.002+02:00

Over-write your message here - do not over-write the link below

Comment

Please note that timings have been delay by one (1) hour. The corrected timings are shown below

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The Repatriation of

Marine Nigel Dean Mead (42 Commando) Royal Marines

will take place on –

Thursday, 19th May, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 15:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 16:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Expected to leave RAF Lyneham 17:15 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Expected to leave Wootton Bassett 17:40 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 18:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 18:05 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 18:10 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 18:15 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 18:55 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 19:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

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Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association

Repatriation of Mne ND Mead ( 42 Commando ) RM

2011-05-17T12:37:00.001+02:00

Over-write your message here - do not over-write the link below

Subject: The Repatriation of Marine Nigel Dean Mead (42 Commando) Royal Marines

The Repatriation of

Marine Nigel Dean Mead (42 Commando) Royal Marines

will take place on –

Thursday, 19th May, 2011.

Flypast over Wootton Bassett 14:00 hours - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

RAF Lyneham (Family Service Starts) 15:00 hour - Timings provided by RAF Lyneham

Expected to leave RAF Lyneham 16:15 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

Expected to leave Wootton Bassett 16:40 hours +/- 30 minutes - Estimated time of departure

- (Approximately 13 miles to GX Police Station)

Gable Cross Police Stn 17:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time to take over responsibility of Cortege

- (Approximately 3..5 miles to bridge carrying B4000)

Bridge over A420 (Carrying B4000) 17:05 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 1..5 miles to Defence Academy)

Defence Academy UK (A420) 17:10 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 4..5 miles to Folly Hill Lay-by)

Folly Hill Lay-by (A420) 17:15 hours +/- 30 minutes

- (Approximately 45 minutes travelling time to JRH)

St Anthony of Padua Parish Church 17:55 hours +/- 30 minutes (Situated at entrance to JRH)

John Radcliffe Hospital (Oxford) 18:00 hours +/- 30 minutes - Thames Valley Police estimated time of arrival at JRH

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Blondie

On behalf of the Royal Marines Association

.............................................................................................................Arborfield Old Boys' Association