The Semaphore Circular No 659 The Beating Heart of the RNA May 2016

HMS Mersey alongside in Antigua where she is currently the West Indies Guardship. The photo is courtesy of NCM 6 Shipmate Keith

Ridley who was hanging around hoping for an invitation on board!!!

This edition is the first on-line version of the Semaphore Circular, unless you have registered with Central Office, it will only be available on the RNA website in the ‘Members Area’

under ‘downloads’ at www.royal-naval-association.co.uk and will be emailed to the

branch contact, usually the Hon Sec.

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Daily Orders 1. April Open Day 2. New Insurance Credits 3. Blonde Joke 4. Service Deferred Pensions 5. Guess Where? 6. Donations 7. HMS Raleigh Open Day 8. Finance Corner 9. RN VC Series – T/Lt Thomas Wilkinson 10. Golf Joke 11. Book Review 12. Operation Neptune – Book Review 13. Aussie Trucker and Emu Joke 14. Legion D’Honneur 15. Covenant Fund 16. Coleman/Ansvar Insurance 17. RNPLS and Yard M/Sweepers 18. Ton Class Association Film 19. What’s the difference Joke 20. Naval Interest Groups Escorted Tours 21. RNRMC Donation 22. B of J - Paterdale 23. Smallie Joke 24. Supporting Seafarers Day

Longcast “D’ye hear there” (Branch news) Crossed the Bar – Celebrating a life well lived RNA Benefits Page Shortcast Swinging the Lamp Forms Glossary of terms

NCM National Council Member NC National Council AMC Association Management Committee FAC Finance Administration Committee NCh National Chairman NVCh National Vice Chairman NP National President DNP Deputy National President GS General Secretary DGS Deputy General Secretary AGS Assistant General Secretary CONA Conference of Naval Associations IMC International Maritime Confederation NSM Naval Service Memorial

Throughout indicates a new or substantially changed entry

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Contacts

Financial Controller 023 9272 3823 [email protected]

FAX 023 9272 3371

Deputy General Secretary 023 9272 0782 [email protected]

Assistant General Secretary (Membership & Slops) 023 9272 3747 [email protected]

S&O Administrator 023 9272 0782 [email protected]

General Secretary 023 9272 2983 [email protected]

Admin 023 92 72 3747 [email protected]

Find Semaphore Circular On-line ; http://www.royal-naval-association.co.uk/members/downloads or... RNA Website – Members Area – Downloads – Circulars – Code (shipmate)

Snail Trail Mail - Postal Address RNA Central Office, Room 209, PP70, Semaphore Tower,3 HM Naval Base, Portsmouth Hants PO1 3LT

Dear Shipmate,

Welcome to the May Circular – the first electronic copy, with hard copy to the few branches that remain off-line. This is now our main way of communicating with Branches and Members and it is vital that the information that it has is passed on. I hope you are enjoying the lovely longer evenings and the trees coming into leaf – I am enjoying the odd drive in with the top down on my MX5 which is great – good thing I still have my hair (unlike the rest of the Central Office male staff).

I hope you have had a chance to pass around the various materials sent last month, the annual report and accounts as well as the Conference Agenda and the letter from NP and NCh regarding the subscriptions motion. If you have any questions, particularly about the accounts or the trustee report (which does have some technical detail in it), please contact me directly. I am delighted to explain or expand on any aspect of the accounts – and would prefer to do that before Conference rather than an off-the-cuff response which might not be as thorough as I would like.

We will be launching Project Semaphore at the Conference, so even if you only have an observer (better still a delegate), you will be able to meet with the Project Manager, GS or Mr S/M Keith Ridley (NCM6) at the Pussers Rum and dream factory Hugh Player who helped us with the bid and register interest for as part of his latest WI deployment you or your members who don’t have access to a computer. This is an entirely ‘without strings’ programme and I am keen that all 1,500 iPads go to RNA members or their naval veteran shipmates. We will also work closely with the RMA in the first instance. We are in the throes of kicking the project off with the Apple provider – who will sort out training, support, broadband and all things necessary to make this a roaring success. Branch secretaries please share with your members and get some interest going.

You will be pleased to hear that the recently re-launched Shipmates and Oppos programme is working very well with many applications to register coming in, with many more marines and officers than before. Andy and Chrissie are touring the establishments with Release desks and meeting the Writers (or civilian staff), there. The programme is always very well received. I do get teased by the ‘and Oppos’ bit of the title with some members panicking that will are doing away with the title Shipmate in the RNA!! The title of the programme is there to appeal to Royal Marines too – many serving RM have spent little time in ships having been in hot and dangerous parts of the world – given enough time back in HMS OCEAN, ALBION and BULWARK – we’ll get them squared away!!

Some admin details

• Don’t forget to buy your Conference raffle tickets, if you need more books give Nigel a ring please. • Don’t forget to ask around for helpers for the SF(UK) Flag Day and the Childrens’ Fund Street Party at Portsmouth Dockyard for Her Majesty’s 90th Birthday • Please ensure that your accounts and membership forms and fees are submitted in good time and in plenty of time before Conference.

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• Please register your delegate for Conference. We will not be accepting delegates on the day, or delegates from branches who do not comply with the Bye-Laws regarding membership dues and accounts. • The Charity Commission is chasing branches that are out of date with their annual returns. This can look a bit scary since they talk of large fines etc. Please do not ignore, give me a ring and we can sort it out. If your branch income (from all sources) is under £5,000 for the year – you only have to fill in a simple on-line form and once the website knows you are under the £5,000 figure will cancel the need for you to submit accounts. • The other lesson is to ensure that your Charity Commission contact is up-to-date, has an email address and that you have filled in your annual return form as soon as the books are checked for the end of year. • If your Branch Treasurer, or you, don’t have a computer to contact the Charity Commission then chat to me about Project Semaphore and get on-line for your branch for free. The CC is not easy to chat to by phone and impossible by letter (all due to staff cuts and savings). You might be interested to know that 4 years ago my chum who ran the Sailor’s Society rang to say that he had this old wooden door in a skip in Falmouth, from the hostel that they were selling and was I interested? It had a plaque on it saying it was the Chapel door from HMS WARSPITE (first and second WW 15” gun battleship). Well next week it is going on a 3 year loan to the Naval Museum in Portsmouth for their Jutland exhibition, which

HMS Caroline getting dolled up for opens on 24 May. It is going to be a 4 man lift to get it Jutland celebrations in Belfast. there, solid oak! I often think of the countless men who went through that door after Jutland or the many engagements of 2WW looking for comfort or somewhere private to pray or gather their thoughts for lost shipmates or a lucky escape.

Finally, last week I was privileged to arrange for the first issue of 2WW medals to a local man Marine George Higgins who was an LCVP driver on D-Day (Sword beach) and for the following 3 months. His 2 stars and 2 medals were never issued!! Col Mike Tanner the Captain of Portsmouth Base made the presentation, which you can see with an interview from me on http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/d-day-veterans- 70-year-wait-for-medals-is-finally-over-1-7346322. Col Tanner was also able to present the Legion d’Honneur too Looking forward to seeing many of you at Conference – still plenty of rooms and spaces left.

All the best from me and the Central Office (HQ) team

George Higgins and Col Tanner Paul

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Daily Orders

1. April Central Office Open Day.

The photo shows Shipmates attending the recent Open Day after their harbour Boat Trip. Guest Branches included Area 3, Aylesbury and Christchurch. However pride of place for the branch who travelled the greatest distance to attend goes to the first four Shipmates on the gangway......

BZ and well done to Aberdeen Branch for travelling 587 miles to attend and for making the effort. There only disappointment was the ‘English’ beer was no were as good as a pint of Heavy!!

2. New National Insurance Credits for Service spouses and civil partners to help protect your future State Pension

Shipmates will be interested to know, in the article below, which was received from the NNF (Naval Families Federation), that spouses and civil partners of Service Personnel will be able to apply for a new type of National Insurance (NI) credit to protect their State Pension.

The new Class 3 NI credits have been introduced in recognition of the fact that accompanying on deployment overseas may have affected a Service spouse or civil partner’s ability to work and pay NI contributions. This could potentially result in a gap in their NI record and could affect the amount of State Pension they receive in retirement.

The new DWP credits have been taken forward under the Armed Forces Covenant, which states that members of the Armed Forces and their families should receive fair treatment from the nation which they serve. More information about the Armed Forces Covenant can be found at related links (www).

It is estimated that this could benefit up to 20,000 individuals, ensuring that they do not miss out on their State Pension.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:

“We are making sure that military spouses and partners who spend time based overseas get the State Pension they deserve. This is the latest step under the Armed Forces Covenant to ensure that service personnel and their families are treated fairly.”

Am I eligible to apply for the new credits? Service spouses and civil partners will be eligible to apply for the new Class 3 NI credits if they: • Reach State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016, that means they were born on or after 6 April 1953 (if a woman) or 6 April 1951 (if a man); and • Are or have been married to /in a civil partnership with a member of the Armed Forces; and • Have accompanied their spouse or civil partner on a deployment outside the UK at any time

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You can still apply if you are now widowed, divorced or have had your civil partnership dissolved, provided you were married or in a civil partnership at the time you accompanied your partner abroad.

Some Service spouses or civil partners who meet the above criteria will not have a gap in their NI records and so will not need to apply for the new credits. For example, you may not have a gap if you:

• were working in a job during the accompanied assignment where you paid UK NI contributions • were self-employed and paying self-employed Class 2 NI contributions throughout the accompanied assignment • received certain benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance (previously called Incapacity Benefit or Invalidity Benefit) or Child Benefit for the whole of the accompanied assignment(s)outside the UK

To find out how much your State Pension is worth, and to check whether there are any gaps in your NI record for the periods you were overseas, you can use an online tool on GOV.uk called ‘Check your State Pension’(www). See related links.

How do I apply? You can apply for the new Class 3 NI credits anytime from 6 April 2016. There is no time limit in applying for the credits, although if you apply after you reach State Pension age any increased State Pension might not be paid for periods before the date of your application. For information about applying for the new Class 3 credit visit www.gov.uk/dwp/ni-credits-armed- forces-partners (www).

The Class 1 NI Credit: A wider range of benefits for deployments since April 2010 The new Class 3 credits do not replace the existing Class 1 NI credit for those who have accompanied a partner on a posting since April 2010, and which contribute not only towards entitlement to new State Pension, but also towards Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Bereavement Benefits (to be replaced for new claimants by Bereavement Support Payments in April 2017).

More information Further information about NI credits for Service spouses and civil partners is available online at www.gov.uk/dwp/ni-credits-armed-forces-partners (www) For more information about the New State Pension, visit www.gov.uk/new-state-pension (www).

3. Blonde Joke.

Apologies to all Blondes (Sorry Chrissie and Michelle!) but we haven’t had a Blonde Joke for a few months………

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A blonde lady motorist was about two hours from San Diego when she was flagged down by a man whose truck had broken down. The man walked up to the car and asked, "Are you going to San Diego?" "Sure," answered the blonde, "do you need a lift?"

"Not for me. I'll be spending the next three hours fixing my truck. My problem is I've got two chimpanzees in the back, that have to be taken to the San Diego Zoo. They're a bit stressed already so I don't want to keep them on the road all day. Could you possibly take them to the zoo for me? I'll give you $100 for your trouble." "I'd be happy to," said the blonde. So the two chimpanzees were ushered into the back seat of the blonde's car and carefully strapped into their seat belts, and off they went.

Five hours later, the truck driver was driving through the heart of San Diego when suddenly he was horrified! There was the blonde walking down the street, holding hands with the two chimps, much to the amusement of a big crowd. With a screech of brakes he pulled off the road and ran over to the blonde.

"What are you doing here?" he demanded, "I gave you $100 to take these chimpanzees to the zoo." "Yes, I know you did," said the blonde. "But we had money left over so now we're going to Sea World."

4. Navy Deferred Pensions

Did you serve after 6 April 1975 and leave before you had complete 22 years service or Officers after 16 years service? If so, you are reminded that you may be entitled to a preserved pension from age 60. Read on...... Prior to 6 April 1975 there was no provision for a preservation of pension benefits and service personnel who left the armed forces had to have completed 16 years from age 21 (officers) or 22 years from age 18 (other ranks). Those who left before that date without completing the above criteria, lost all pension entitlement. (This is very unlikely to change despite appeals to the Govt)

The rules changed on 6 April 1975 to provide for pensions to be deferred for payment at age 60 for all those discharged over the age of 26 with a minimum of 5 years service. On 31 March 1978 the age criterion was dropped and on 6 April 1988, the qualifying period was reduced from 5 to 2 years. Deferred pensions can be claimed at age 60 or at age 65 if your service began after 5 April 2006 and after that point. However, you can claim your preserved pension sooner if you become permanently incapacitated.

Service pensions are administered by Veterans UK but pension payments are made by Paymaster (1836) Ltd, the paying authority for the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS).

For further information For help and information on your armed forces pension please ring the Veterans UK on 0800 085 3600 or write to:

Veterans UK Pension Division Mail Point 480 Kentigern House

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65 Brown Street Glasgow, G2 8EX

The form is here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/service-personnel-and-veterans- agency-spva-pensions-forms

5. Guess Where? An Establishment

This month can you name this Naval establishment? Please forward any other pictures to the HQ that you may have for ‘Guess Where’ so that we can publish them in forthcoming Circulars. No looking on Google or Wiki!!

Answers in next month’s edition.

Last month’s answer!

HMS President London.

6. Donations received for the Central Charities and the Charter Challenge

Central Charities Fund

In memory of the late Lt Cdr Plummer £50.00

Naval Service Memorial Fund RNA – Wadebridge £66.00 RNA – Deal & Walmer £10.00 N Kirtley £ 5.00 D Monk £90.00 J Taylor £15.00 S Howarth £ 5.70 D O’Hare £10.00

‘In memory of the late....’ Peter EA Lock £388.30

Thank you very much for your continued support.

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7. HMS Raleigh Open Day 27 July 2016

HMS Raleigh will be opening the gates to the public on 27 July 2016 between 1200 and 1700. There will be a range of demonstrations and displays and it will be a great opportunity for anyone who wants to take a trip down memory lane to visit the establishment. Entry on the day is free and there is no need for advance bookings.

Additionally Captain Rob Bellfield, the Commanding Officer of HMS Raleigh, would like to extend an invitation to any branches who would like to visit HMS Raleigh for a passing-out-parade. Any branches wishing to do so should contact Jackie Devereux, Executive Department Co-ordinator, HMS Raleigh, Torpoint, Cornwall, PL11 2PD or email NAVYTRGRALEIGH- [email protected]. .

8. Finance Corner

Dear Shipmates

After my last article in the Circular regarding Easter Eggs, I nearly fell off my chair when Andy walked into my office in which he very kindly bought me an Easter Egg. I now can’t say the boys don’t buy me anything! (GS note: She’s forgotten flowers and numerous cappuccinos – cheek!)

 Year End Returns 2014

They are still 9 Branches who have not submitted their accounts to Central Office (HQ) for 2014. Can I please ask for a copy to be returned to HQ ASAP. I have informed your Area NCM that you have still not submitted your accounts, so they might offer what assistance is required. They are:

Area 2 - RNA Isle of Sheppey, Area 6 - RNA High Wycombe, RNA Swindon, Area 8 - RNA B’ham Cotteridge, RNA Bloxwich Area 10 - RNA Kendal, RNA Todmorden, RNA Birkenhead, Area 12 - RNA Banbridge

 Year End Returns 2015

Please note the Year End Returns as per the Rules & Bye-Laws Page 40 B19, (c) should be returned to Central Office by the 30 April 2016

Thank you to all those branches that have sent their Year End Returns by the deadline, it is very much appreciated.

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We have noticed a very few branches are downloading the wrong form, ie Club or Area form instead of the Branch Return. These few will be contacted in due course.

Also, please note no Branches shall be permitted to send a delegate to Conference unless it has observed the regulations of the Association in regard to the return of Year End Returns and payment of Subscriptions.

 BACs

Many thanks for those Branches who are starting to use the BACs system. For those Branches that are may I please ask, that when entering your payment information, there is a reference box, can you please type either your Branch Name or your Branch Account Number into it. You will find it on your Customer Activity Summary which is in the top left hand corner. Your assistance is really appreciated as it makes my life so much easier in identification so it can be allocated to the correct account.

 Branch Membership Payments

Shipmates that belong to a branch, as opposed to being on the HQ Roll should pay their joining or annual membership fee direct to their Branch Secretary / Treasurer either by Cash, Cheque, Standing Order or Direct Debit. If the member wishes to pay by S/O or D/D it is essential that the Secretary / Treasurer ensures the sort code and branch bank account are used and NOT the RNA Central Office (HQ) Subscription Bank account details, this is for HQ Roll Members only. Once again I would really welcome your assistance in this issue.

 Decommissioning your Branch

I really hope you never have to use this little reminder, because I will be out of a job !! However if your branch has made a decision to close and decommission your Branch, the Secretary / Treasurer is required to inform RNA Central Office (HQ) in writing or in an E-mail stating when your branch is going to close. This information is very important to Central Office, as we can then provide you with details of the process required to close your Branch. Unfortunately without this information the Staff in Central Office will presume your Branch is still operational.

Yours Aye, Michelle

9. RN VC Series - Temp Lieutenant Thomas Wilkinson Royal Naval Reserve

Thomas Wilkinson was born on 1st August 1898 and died in action on 14 February 1942 was a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

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Wilkinson was 43 years old, and a temporary lieutenant in the Royal Naval Reserve during the Second World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 14 February 1942 in the Java Sea, off Malaya, HMS Li Wo, a patrol vessel, formerly a passenger steamer, commanded by Lieutenant Wilkinson, sighted two enemy convoys, one escorted by Japanese warships,

Lt Wilkinson told his crew he had decided to engage the convoy and fight to the last in the hope of inflicting some damage, a decision that drew resolute support from the whole ship's crew.

In the action that followed, a Japanese transport was set on fire and abandoned, and Li Wo engaged a heavy cruiser for over an hour before being hit at point-blank range and sunk. Lieutenant Wilkinson ordered his crew to abandon ship, but he went down with Li Wo. His VC is in the Imperial War Museum.

10. Golf Joke

An old man had been on a desert island for a considerable number of years. One day, while he is knee deep in the sea spearing a Fish, he notices a strange movement in the water. A few minutes later, a few feet away from him, a gorgeous woman in a tight wetsuit stands up. Dumbfounded, he simply watches her approach, dripping with water, teeth flashing, hips swaying. “How long has it been since you last had a cigarette?” she asks in a throaty voice. “My dear, it’s been ages,” the old chap answers in a shaky voice. The woman Diver opens the zip of her breast pocket and fishes out a packet of cigarettes and a lighter. She places a cigarette in his mouth and lights it. She lets the man take a drag and then sks: “How long has it been since you last had a nice Scotch?”. “A long long time,” the old man replies, holding his breath.

The woman pulls down the front zip of her wet suit, just enough to reach down and bring out a bottle of Whiskey. She places her hands around the neck and gently twist the cap open. She takes a swig, licks the liquid on her lips and passes the bottle to the guy and then asks, her finger toying suggestively with her front zip, “Tell me, how long has it been since you last played around?” “My God,” breathes the old boy. “Don’t tell me you have golf clubs in there too!”

1.1 Book Review

All the books mentioned below are available from ‘NavyBooks’, the new brand name for what was ‘Maritime Books’, at www.navybooks.com

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FORGOTTEN SACRIFICE

Michael G Walling

Historian Michael Walling tells the complete story of the Arctic Convoys and the vital role they played in helping Russia repel the Germans. Punctuated by torpedo attacks in freezing waters, Stuka dive bombers, naval gunfire and weeks of total darkness in the Arctic winter, with ships disappearing below the waves because of ice and snow that weighed down their decks. Drawing on hundreds of oral histories from eyewitnesses and veterans of the convoys this offers a fresh retelling of one of World War II's pivotal, yet often overlooked, campaigns. £8.99

THE REAL X-MEN

Robert Lyman

This is the thrilling story of the development and operational deployment of human torpedoes - 'Chariots' - and 'X-craft' midget submarines in the Royal Navy during WWII.

The commando frogmen who rode the Chariots and operated as divers from X-craft were the forerunners of toady's Special Boat Service. £20.00

MARITIME PORTSMOUTH

Paul Brown

Paul Brown focuses on the long history and current status of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Now fully updated, this concise and helpful guide includes preserved ships - VICTORY, MARY ROSE & WARRIOR. It also considers the other historic sites of Portsmouth & Gosport. £16.99

WARSHIPS IN FOCUS

The Naval Photography of Michael Lennon

Michael Lennon’s earliest memories are of catching the Isle of Wight ferry from Old Portsmouth in the 1950s – passing HMS VERNON & HMS DOLPHIN, the mine-sweepers, submarines and torpedo boats moored alongside and seeing HMS FORMIDABLE laid up at anchor in the Solent. In 1963 he was given his first camera and he hasn’t stopped taking photos of warships since. This magnificent collection of crisp, black and white photographs captures all kinds of warships over a period of 50 years – Aircraft Carriers, including two ARK ROYALs, Destroyers, frigates, fast patrol craft, sweepers and submarines, including two A Class HMS ANDREW and HMS ASTUTE, as well as naval auxiliary vessels such tug boats, fleet tenders and ferries.

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A cracking bargain – 178 ship pictures with captions putting the ship, the photograph and the background into context. Pure nostalgia. £19.99 Published: 6 May 2016

12. Operation Neptune – Book Review

This is a personal recommendation by the GS. I know that many RNA members have been thinking recently about D-Day, with our Shipmates being awarded the Legion d’Honeur for their actions. We received a review copy of Operation Neptune – the D-Day landings 6 June 1944 edited by Tim Benbow. It is an absolutely superb book and one particularly suited to those who have served. It gives concise and technical details of the sea elements of D-Day (Op Neptune) and is a brilliant summary. It comes from the history written by the Admiralty Battle Staff and had Appendices stuffed with all sorts of details. The best book of RN part of D-Day that I have read, highly recommended. Published by Casemate UK and is ISBN 978-1- 909982-9-0.

13. Aussie and Emu Joke

An Aussie truckie walks into an outback cafe with a full-grown emu behind him.

The waitress asks them for their orders. The truckie says, 'A hamburger, chips and a coke,' and turns to the emu, 'What's yours?' 'Sounds great, I'll have the same,' says the emu.

A short time later the waitress returns with the order 'That will be $9.40 please,' and he reaches into his pocket and pulls out the exact change and pays.

The next day, the man and the emu come again and he says, 'A hamburger, chips and a coke.' The emu says, ' Sounds great, I'll have the same.' Again the truckie reaches into his pocket and pays with exact change.

This becomes routine until the two enter again. 'The usual?' asks the waitress.

'No, it's Friday night, so I'll have a steak, baked potato and a salad,' says the man.. ' Same for me,' says the emu. Shortly the waitress brings the order and says, 'That will be $32.62.' Once again the man pulls the exact change out of his pocket and places it on the table.

The waitress cannot hold back her curiosity any longer. 'Excuse me mate, how do you manage to always pull the exact change from your pocket every time?'

'Well, love' says the truckie, 'a few years ago, I was cleaning out the back shed, and found an old lamp. When I cleaned it, a Genie appeared and offered me two wishes.

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My first wish was that if I ever had to pay for anything, I would just put my hand in my pocket and the right amount of money would always be there.' 'That's brilliant!' says the waitress. 'Most people would ask for a million dollars or something, but you'll always be as rich as you want, for as long as you live!'

'That's right. Whether it's a gallon of milk or a Rolls Royce, the exact money is always there.' says the man. Still curious the waitress asks, 'What's with the bloody emu?'

The truckie pauses, sighs, and answers, 'My second wish was for a tall bird with a big arse and long legs, who agrees with everything I say.

14. Legion D’Honneur Round Up –

At a Ceremony in the Harrogate Borough Council Chambers on Saturday 19th March two former Harrogate Branch RNA Members, now on the HQ Roll and Life Members, were presented with the Ushakov Medal and Legion D'Honeur Medals, in front of 80 Family, Friends and Shipmates.

Shipmate Les Hall received his Ushakov Medal from No 11 Area President, Commodore Paul Sutermeister. (Pictured Opposite) Shipmate Les, who is 91 served on HMS SUFFOLK from April 1941 to August 1945. He served in the RN from November 1939 to March 1957.

Shipmate John Rushton is shown receiving his Legion D'Honneur Medal from The French Consul, Jeremy Burton. Shipmate John, who is also 91 and a former Royal Marine, was on a Tank Landing Craft, part of the Armoured Support Group, which landed on Sword Beach on D-Day. He served in the Royal Marines from 1942 to 1946.

On 5th April 14 Shipmates from Ferndown Branch mustered at the gangway of HMS Victory to attend a Legion D’Honneur presentation ceremony for three of their Shipmates.

The presentation was made by former 1st Sea Lord Admiral Sir Jonathon Band GCB DL to S/Ms Bob Branett (HMS Redpole), Ron Cunningham (Landing Crafts) and Charles Grant (HMS Nelson) with the ceremony being held in the Great Cabin, they were accompanied by Branch Chairman, Shipmate Mick Arnold MBE.

Following the ceremony everyone was invited for refreshments in the WO & Senior Rates Mess and a tour of the ship by S/M Mick Arnold, as this was his first ship!

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A luncheon was hosted by the RNA Woking branch on the eve of St George’s Day, at which the Mayor, Cllr Derek McCrum, was guest of honour. The occasion was not only to celebrate our Patron Saint’s day, but also an opportunity for the Mayor to present French Légion d’Honneur medals to three of our own shipmates.

The photo shows L to R: Bill Blount, Cllr Derek McCrum, Gordon Mustard and Henry Rice

Branch Secretary, Rod Fraser, read out a brief history of these men’s achievements:

Shipmate Bill Blount served in the Royal Marines during WW2 on board a Landing Craft Gun (Large), which was armed with 2 4.7’s and Oerlikons. Bill was shell loader on the 4.7” on his landing craft, which gave covering fire to the Canadians landing on Juno Beach. Bill’s craft came under heavy fire and received a hit which killed one Royal Marine and wounded many others. They continued firing at enemy beach emplacements until ordered to bombard Caen. Bill’s craft was engaged continuously for 3 months, mainly patrolling the Normandy coast on what was known as the trout run. On completion of their tour the gun barrels were completely worn out.

Shipmate Gordon Mustard served on mine sweepers during WW2, mainly keeping the North Sea and North Atlantic free of mines, and clearing the way for Russian convoys. Gordon’s mine sweeper was called to clear the approaches to the Normandy so that the Mulberry Harbour could be constructed. Under continuous fire from shore batteries, Gordon’s craft escaped serious damage, unlike some other craft taking part. Gordon, then just 18, was in charge of the electrics used in sweeping for mines.

Shipmate Henry Rice served in the Royal Navy during WW2 and was drafted to H.M.S. Eastway, with was a landing ship dock. This carried inside the hull stores, vehicles and troops. It also carried equipment for the installation of the Mulberry Harbour. Whilst unloading at Juno Beach, warships off-shore were continuously firing overhead. On return trips the Eastway carried wounded personnel and damaged equipment. Henry was a Signalman spending many hours on watch on an open bridge. He says he was one of the lucky ones as his ship wasn’t hit.

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After the presentations Rod Fraser proposed to the three shipmates, thanking them for their service to the country.

UPDATE BY GS

I have talked to the MoD desk officer responsible for the Ld’H. The French authorities have been overwhelmed by the number of applications and are only accepting a certain number each week. They are just getting to those who applied in May/June 2015 and medals for those should be received about July/August. Any issues give GS a ring.

15. Covenant Fund to Support the Armed Forces Community

Branches and Shipmates will be interested to know that the £10 million, per annum, Covenant Fund to support the Armed Forces Community (Which includes Veterans) is currently closed to applications but will open again in May 2016.

Please see the link below for details of the Covenant Fund grant priorities and how to apply.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covenant-fund-guidance-on-how-to-apply

16. Coleman/Ansvar Branch Insurance

Discounted insurance can be purchased from Coleman/Ansvar Insurance for as little as £104. The policy has been tailored to meet the needs of RNA Branches located in the UK (including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.) The policy covers the following range of activities: o RNA branch meetings o Collections in local towns o Parading of standards o Fundraising events not exceeding 500 persons in support of RNA

Working with Ansvar, a specialist charity insurer, Coleman have created an insurance policy at a very competitive premium based on three core covers:

o Public Liability cover with a limit of £5,000,000. This will cover RNA branches for their legal liability arising from bodily injury to third parties or damage to third party property arising during the course of normal RNA branch activities. o Employer's Liability cover with a limit of £10,000,000. This will cover RNA branches for their legal liability for injury to people employed by the RNA branch or people working for the RNA branch in a voluntary capacity. o Money - cover is provided for £2,000 in Transit and £1,000 in a safe in respect of monies collected by each RNA branch at any fundraising events

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The total cost for the three sections of cover is including 9.5% insurance premium tax, which accounts for the small increase (blame MR Osbourne). RNA members can also select extra covers at an additional premium. Some of these covers include All Risks, Personal Accident, Trustees Indemnity and Business Interruption.

Please note that the policy will only be available on-line at the following link;

https://thecolemangroup.co.uk/coleman-insurance-brokers/organisation-specific/cona

17. Royal Naval Patrol Service and British Yard Minesweepers

Shipmate Paul Mawhinney recently lost his ‘Sea-Dad’ Shipmate Tom Bates, who crossed the bar in March. To honour Tom and his brave shipmates of the RNPS he kindly forwarded this very interesting article for your information.

Tom Bates served as a National Service seaman between 16 March 1943 and 28 August 1946 serving on board a number of British Yard Minesweepers (Eighty ships of the 136-foot YMS type were ordered by the U.S. Navy specifically for transfer to Great Britain under Lend- Lease. For accounting purposes they were carried on the Navy List as "British Motor Minesweepers" (BYMS) and numbered in a separate sequence from 1 to 80. Upon transfer to Britain, BYMS-1 to BYMS-80 were assigned the British pendant numbers BYMS- 2001 to BYMS-2080. Their general characteristics were identical to those of their U.S. Navy counterparts. Names were not assigned them by the Royal Navy. Seventy more BYMS' bore hull numbers from 137 to 284. These were originally built for the U.S. Navy as YMS' and transferred to Britain on, or shortly after, completion. On the Navy List they were designated BYMS, with their original U.S. Navy numbers).

They were wooden, 270 ton, 136ft long, poor seafaring vessels which formed the back bone of the Naval Patrol Service based mainly at HMS Europa in Lowestoft, who provided protection to the Arctic Convoys which were constantly being harassed by German U- boats. The Arctic route was the shortest and most direct route for lend-lease aid to the USSR, though it was also the most dangerous. Some 3,964,000 tons of goods were shipped by the Arctic route; 7% was lost, while 93% arrived safely. This constituted some 23% of the total aid to the USSR during the war.

In August 1939, Sparrow's Nest, Lowestoft became the Central Depot of the Royal Naval Patrol Service, at the most easterly point of Great Britain, then the closest British military establishment

18 to the enemy. The advantages of using small ships for minesweeping and other duties had been recognised during WW1 and many of the crews of the peacetime fishing fleets had been encouraged to join the Royal Naval Reserve. At first known as 'Pembroke X' the depot later became HMS Europa and was the administrative headquarters for more than 70,000 men and 6,000 ships which included trawlers, whalers, drifters, MFV's (Motor Fishing Vessels), ML's (Motor Launches), and later MMS (Motor Minesweepers or 'Mickey Mouses'), American produced BYMS (British Yard MineSweepers) and numerous requisitioned vessels

Within a short while the Royal Navy had almost taken over Lowestoft with the establishment of no fewer than five Naval Bases, HMS Europa (RNPS Headquarters), HMS Martello (the local Minesweeping Base), HMS Mantis (Coastal Forces MGB's and MTB's), HMS Minos (Harbour Defence, small escort and other craft) and HMS Myloden (Landing Craft Training for RM Commandos and Combined Operations). Here, however, we are only concerned with HMS Europa. The RNPS fought all over the world in all theatres of the war and were involved mainly with minesweeping and anti-submarine work. The only RNPS VC was won at Namsos by Lt. Stannard of Arab during the Narvik campaign but over 850 other awards were made to RNPS personnel as well as over 200 Mention in Despatches.

Vessels from RNPS were on convoy duty in the Atlantic and the Arctic, in the Mediterranean and the Far East but many will first think of the keeping clear of the War Channel. Throughout the early years of the war mines were laid by the Germans by sea and air around the British Isles in an attempt to strangle the coastal convoys which were used to keep Britain supplied. It was the work of the RNPS to keep the shipping lane clear so that the convoys could continue and this meant constant minesweeping because as soon as an area had been cleared it was a simple task for E-Boats or aircraft to mine it again.

This hazardous work was recognised by the award of a unique silver badge to RNPS minesweeping and anti-submarine crews. It was not an automatic award and only given to those officers and ratings who had completed six months sea-time. The first issue was with a vertical pin at the back but so many of these were lost that it was changed to having four small eyes so that it could be sewn onto the sleeve. Because the majority were Royal Naval Reservists the RNPS became 'a Navy within a Navy' and was given a number of unofficial titles, 'Harry Tate's Navy' and 'Churchill's Pirates' being two of the more polite. The peacetime crews becoming Naval seamen together made for a special cameraderie which continued in the Service throughout WW2 even though by the end most RNPS members were 'hostilities only' who had probably had no connection with the sea before the war.

18. Ton Class Association Film – Dangerous Game

RNA members may be interested to view this latest addition to the website of the TON Class Association.

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The TCA have obtained a special licence from the Imperial War Museum to display the film Dangerous Game, on our website. It is a documentary made in 1976 about the dangers posed by the sea mine and the challenges of keeping the seaways open.

The 25 minute film includes footage of TON Class minesweepers, and HRH The Prince of Wales, when in command of HMS BRONINGTON. It can be viewed via the button on our website www.tca2000.co.uk

19. What’s the difference Joke

20. Naval Interest Groups Escorted Tours - Shipmate Mike Critchley

As many of you know I sold my company - Maritime Books - in Cornwall late last year …..I am now “ Retired”. When I sold Maritime Books the new owner was not interested in a small part of the business that saw me escorting groups of customers to areas of Naval interest round the globe. I have met some great people doing such trips so will continue, so long as I am able, from home here in sunny Gosport.

Shipmates may be interested in some of the forthcoming trips. It is an ideal opportunity for you to meet fellow travellers come from all walks of life from all parts of the Uk and often further afield too.an opportunity to meet new folk for you - and your wife perhaps?

Forth coming trips include

APRIL - Oslo Fjord - Long weekend in an ex Norwegian Navy Minesweeper. 22-25 April £245 inc flights from Stansted. 3 places remain. ( Regret Boys only!!)

MAY - Jutland weekend. Preview visit to HMS CAROLINE in Belfast. Local Maritime Festival + Visit of 5 UK and Irish naval vessels. 26-31 May. Also includes a Visit to Giant Causeway. 4 places remain.

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SEPTEMBER Glorious Gosport 8 -11 September. A look "behind the scenes" at many military sites and establishments not normally open. Write for details.

OCTOBER . Historic Malta - always a very popular trip and this year includes a Military Tattoo and Trafalgar Night dinner (15 couples only) . 15- 22 October . Write for details.

NOVEMBER - we are thinking of a trip to the Far East to include the 75th Birthday celebrations of the RNZN ( Auckland 17-20 November) Please advise if interested.

For more details drop me a short e mail - [email protected]

21. RNRMC Donation - Thank you

The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity have formally written to thank the RNA for their ongoing support and the £3,000 have donated from the Central Charities Fund. They also wish to convey their thanks to the many Areas and Branches who individually donated over £6,000.

The letter, in full, can be found at the rear of this edition.

22. Battle of Jutland 100 – Paterdale

I am sure Shipmates are aware that the Battle of Jutland affected all areas of the UK including those inland! Here is one example observed by the General Secretary, Paul Quinn whilst relaxing in the Lake District. Paul was visiting St Patricks Church in Paterdale when he noticed this plaque and the Ensign above it.....

23. Smallie Joke

Went for a Chinese last night and got chatting to the waiter. He told me that during the war he had been selected as a Kamikaze Pilot and that his codeword was Chowmein.

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I said correct me if I am wrong but didn’t you Kamikaze pilots sacrifice their lives to which he replied

Wait for it......

I survived because I was a Chicken Chowmein boom boom!!

(GS – groan)

24. Supporting Seafarers Day – Assistance required please.

On Thursday 23 June Seafarers UK, formerly King George’s Fund for Sailors, will be going back to its fundraising roots in the form of Supporting Seafarers Day, hosting bucket collections at train stations and locations across the United Kingdom. Seafarers UK are currently inviting supporters from the maritime community to join together in full force and to share the same message – to support the seafarers that our ‘island nation’ so heavily depends on. The Royal Naval Association (RNA) and Seafarers UK have always enjoyed a close relationship and they are grateful for the support the RNA has shown them over many years. They would like members of the RNA to join them on Supporting Seafarers Day by volunteering to collect cash donations across the United Kingdom and help make a real difference to the lives of those from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets. Whether you can offer a few hours of your time or more, there is a part for you to play in Supporting Seafarers Day. Seafarers UK are seeking Lead Volunteers who will manage and co-ordinate the collections at one of the main train stations which have already been booked or at a location of their own choice. They also need Collection Volunteers who can simply spare a few hours to join one of the collections and to represent the maritime community. Seafarers UK has currently confirmed the following train stations for which they urgently need volunteers: • Birmingham New Street • Devonport (Plymouth) • Dockyard (Plymouth) • Edinburgh Waverley • Hull Paragon Railway • Liverpool Lime Street • London Cannon Street • London Charing Cross • London Waterloo • Manchester Piccadilly

As a Supporting Seafarers Day volunteer you will receive the full support of the Seafarer UK Fundraising Team and have access to their exclusive Supporting Seafarers Day website page where you will be able to download a variety of information, guidance and details about the day.

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To volunteer for Supporting Seafarers Day or if you would like more information please contact the Seafarers UK Fundraising Events Officer at [email protected] or call 020 7932 5960. Thank you. www.seafarers-uk.org/get-involved/supporting-seafarers-day/

RNA Longcast

2016 6-8 May RNA Londonderry Branch - Battle Of the Atlantic Commemoration 7 May National Standard Bearer Competition – HMS Collingwood 7 May Area 5 Quarterly Meeting - Beccles 13 May HQ Open Day 29 May Main National Jutland event –South Queensferry event 31 May Portsmouth/Plymouth/Belfast/Chatham Battle of Jutland Commemorations Orkney Commemoration – NP and GS with NS 10 Jun SOC 10 Jun AMC Meeting 10 Jun FAC Meeting 10 Jun National Council Meeting 11-12 Jun National Conference 12 Jun SOC (Conference Wash Up) 12 June Patrons Lunch at the Mall – 22 RNA members attending 25 June Armed Forces Day – Cleethorpes (GS attending for NP) 01 Jul HQ Open Day 09 Jul Dublin Branch Summer BBQ at the Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire 1 Aug HMS Queen Elizabeth departs Rosyth for sea trials (TBC) 6 Aug Area 5 Quarterly Meeting - Southend on Sea 12 Aug FAC Meeting 13 Aug AMC Meeting 19 Aug HQ Open Day 10 Sep National Council Meeting 7 Oct HQ Open Day 21 Oct Dublin Branch Trafalgar Night Dinner at the Royal Irish Yacht Club Dun Laoghaire - (Deputy National President Guest of Honour) 21 Oct Inverness Branch Trafalgar Night Dinner – GS is GoH 22 Oct Lee on the Solent & Stubbington Trafalgar Dinner – (DNP GofH) 5 Nov Area 5 Quarterly Meeting - Harwich 10 Nov Field of Remembrance – Westminster Abbey 13 Nov Remembrance Sunday – NVCh and GS at Cenotaph 19 Nov AMC Meeting 26 Nov FAC Meeting 10 Dec National Council Meeting 23 –3 Jan 17 HQ Closed for Christmas

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D’ye hear there’.....

News from around the Areas and Branches

RNA Glasgow Branch

The City of Glasgow Branch celebrated their 20th Anniversary since the formation of the branch at the AGM on 17th March.

There are only three original members left they are: Shipmates Brian MacKenzie, David Carlin and William (Bill) Bannerman.

Sadly Bill could not attend the celebrations as he is confined to home with a shoulder injury. However S/M Brian Mackenzie (Secretary) and David Carlin (Treasurer) did the honours and cut the Anniversary Cake. S/M Kenny McKinnon stated that membership in the Branch is steadily improving that it will be around for a long time yet.

RNA Aylesbury Branch

Shipmate Ron Hale is raising funds for the Aylesbury RBL and the Poppy Appeal, which has raised the fabulous total of £47,000 in nine years.

All the pins shown in the photograph are available for a minimum donation for £2.00 each.

For further details please contact S/M Hale at [email protected] or 01296 427629

RNA Shrewsbury Branch

Shipmates should be aware that the Shrewsbury Branch meetings are the 2nd and last Friday of the month.

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RNA Huntingdon & District Branch

On Monday 14th March, shipmates from the Branch attended the annual Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth service at the Huntingdonshire District Council Offices. Shipmate Victor Lucas, in one of his last duties as High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire, gave a reading. The Reverend, shipmate Andrew Milton gave the blessing and led prayers, and S/M Karl Webb attended as Branch Secretary and PRO.

Huntingdon & District Branch are very active within our local area, we are regularly invited to civic ceremonies, and local events, of which we always try to send at least one Branch member to represent us. Our shipmates are also keen to take part in the non- ceremonial events throughout the region, and this month, shipmate Pete Aston competed in the Cambridge Festival of Running Cambourne 10K for the second year in a row.

Always keen to promote the RNA, Pete sported a running vest with the Royal Naval Association printed across it, and to the cheer of the local crowds, it was announced that he was a member of the RNA as he crossed the finish line. BZ Pete.

RNA Hazel Grove Branch.

Hazel Grove RNA are trying to raise £600 for a tree to be dedicated at the National Arboretum in memory of the SS STOCKPORT that was lost in WW2 during the battle of the Atlantic with all hands.

SS STOCKPORT was a merchant ship taken up from trade that was used by the RN to follow the convoys across the Atlantic. Her role was to sail to the site of any ships sunk by the German U-boats and collect any survivors. Her job in peace time was to ferry passengers to Holland and she had a top speed of just 13 knots.

Records we have available show that she rescued hundreds of men from the Atlantic, ensuring that they saw tomorrow. This includes 350 men rescued from ships that had been torpedoed whilst on convoy SC107 during October 1942.

She was sunk on February 25th 1943, hit by two German torpedoes and sinking within 3 minutes. She was never seen again

25 and all hands on-board, including several that were rescued earlier that day all perished.

Hazel Grove RNA feel it is important to remember her and the brave men who gave all as the Merchant Navy are often overlooked in remembrance.

We hold an annual memorial parade every February in Stockport, but the group would like a tree as a more permanent memorial.

In recent years we have been contacted by 2 separate families of hands that have been lost and these have always been treated as VIPs at our parade.

We are asking for donations towards the tree. Any cheques can be sent to the Hon Secretary Shipmate Gary Wenn at 21 Barnaby Road, Poynton, Stockport, Cheshire, SK12 1LR. Please write on the back “tree fund”. Should we raise more than the £600 then all extra will be donated straight to the Arboretum.

RNA Portland Branch

On the run-up to the Portland branch 50th anniversary in 2006 the Branch Committee commissioned a silver server to endow to HMS Portland as a annual award to a member of the ship's company who had performed over and above their normal duty. The server (then to be known as the Portland Plate) has been awarded ever since and last year the Chairman S/M Ben Cartwright and ‘Mr Vice’ S/M Dan Sherren were honoured to be invited to the ship at

Devonport to award the plate in Captain Simon Asquith's cabin. It has cemented our well established relationship with our affiliated ship which has resulted in Portland Branch members being invited to a reception and day at sea over 11-12 May. Needless to say these events are hugely over-subscribed such is the interest in OUR ship and her Ships Company.

RNA Belfast Branch

Senior Naval Officer Northern Ireland, Cdr John Gray, with the First Minister for Northern Ireland, Arlene Foster, open the Jutland Square Memorial on Belfast’s Shankill Road recently.

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CROSSED THE BAR – Celebrating a life well lived

Clifford Michael Ruddick – Bristol Branch

Ken, as he was known, was born in Carlisle on 25 August 1923 and joined the Royal Navy in 1942 as an air mechanic (engines)in Port Division Warrington. He saw service in a number of Air Stations and then got a draft to HMS Pursuer, which was a lease lend Aircraft Carrier serving on the Arctic Convoys. Ken used to say the worst thing was the terrible weather which was so bad it sometimes took the ship several days just to turn around. Ken left the Navy in 1946 as a Leading Air Mechanic (Engines).

He joined the RNA at HMS Flying Fox, Bristol in 1989, where he became Chairman of the Branch. He oversaw the branches various moves from Flying Fox to the Old Spillers Cub on the Portway, Sadly there was an accidental fire and the Club burnt to the ground and had to move again to the Mission to Seaman in Avonmouth, and then finally to its current home, the RAFA club.

Ken was known to many Shipmates in No 4 Area, for his participating in the Sods Opera at the annual Reunions, with his mate Jeffery, starring as Flanagan & Allen, they even one a prize one year. Ken spent many years with Bristol branch, and was made President some years ago, for his long service. Very sadly Ken crossed the bar in the Queen Alexander Hospital Portsmouth on 23 March 2016 after a short illness. He will be much missed by his Family and RNA Shipmates. Calm Seas

Tom Bates - Bloxwich Branch

It is with a very sad heart that Bloxwich Branch advise that Shipmate Seaman Tom Bates JX 437190, crossed the bar in the early hours of 7 March 2016 in the Palliative Care Unit in Walsall Manor Hospital after suffering a number of setbacks over the past two years. He was 92.

Tom served as a National Service seaman between 16 March 1943 and 28 August 1946 serving on board a number of British Yard Minesweepers. Tom served on quite a number of these wooden, 270 ton, 136ft long, poor seafaring vessels which formed the back bone of the Naval Patrol Service based mainly at HMS Europa in Lowestoft. Whilst on board the various minesweepers Tom was part of the forces that gave protection to the Arctic Convoys which were constantly being harassed by German U- boats.

Tom also witnessed part of the German U-boat surrender in 1945. He told his Shipmates how the German

27 submariners were very happy to surrender to the British - rather than to the Russians who they feared greatly. All this happened just a few months prior to Tom's discharge, after which he returned to the West Midlands.

He was an active member of RNA Bloxwich until a couple of years ago when it became too difficult for his to get out and about to meetings or attend organised events. He will be very sadly missed.

Stewart Brown Johnson – Harrogate Branch

Harrogate Branch is very sad to announce that Stewart Brown Johnson has crossed the bar on 9th April aged 83.

Stewart reached the rank of Chief Petty Officer Writer who served from April 1950 to June 1972. He served in HM Ships: Barfleur, Cumberland, Pellew. Foreign in HMS Falcon in Malta along with shore establishments including; Drake, Ceres, Cochrane, Seahawk and Neptune.

He will be missed by his Family and Shipmates at Harrogate & District Branch RNA.

Reverend Russen Thomas – Bude Branch

Shipmate Russen was born on 26th October 1930 and served as a Padre during his Service life. Russen became involved with the Bude Branch whilst still living in Somerset but the allure of Stratton, an ancient town once much larger than neighbour Bude, proved too great and for the final few years of his life and ministry he became a ‘Strattonite’.

Having become a Member of Bude branch, he then became the Area 4 Padre and became very supportive and active at both levels. Russen was a total gentleman and will be remembered with the highest respect by his shipmates for whom he also acted as Branch Welfare Officer. He was elected "Shipmate of the Year" by his colleagues and was active within the local church circuit, particularly at St. Michael's in Bude.

He leaves his lovely wife Wendy and a devoted daughter. Russen crossed the bar on 16th April, aged 85yrs. "Safe Journey, Russen".

Ben Dear – Huntingdon & District Branch (Founder Member)

Huntingdon & District Branch have the sad duty to inform you that shipmate Ben Dear ‘Crossed the Bar’ on Saturday 23rd April 2016. Ben was a founder member, and first Standard Bearer, of the Branch and will be sorely missed by all that knew him.

Ben joined HMS Ganges on the 25th April 1966 before moving to HMS Cambridge and qualifying as a gunnery rating. Ben’s sea time was spent onboard HM Ships Zulu, Brighton, Intrepid, and

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Scylla. Shore bases included St Vincent, Excellent, Pembroke, and Nelson (where he was discharged on 25th September 1977). After his time in the Royal Navy, Ben and former Naval Service personnel, living around Huntingdon, looked at maintaining the naval traditions and friendships forged whilst serving under the White Ensign. Ben was a founder member of the Huntingdon & District Branch of the Royal Naval Association and the Branch was commissioned on the 20th June 1981 -- with Ben as the first Standard Bearer. Huntingdon RNA have always been an active Branch; Ben and his first wife, Erica, were keen to support fundraising events including parties for local children -- which often made the papers.

A shoulder injury meant that Ben had to give up his role as Branch Standard Bearer; but that did not stop him carrying out special roles for the Branch, he was our wreath layer at the annual Remembrance Day Service. Sadly, his health meant he also had to give up that role in the last couple of years. Ben wasn’t able to carry out the more formal duties over recent years, but he enjoyed being part of the Branch and was determined to take part in all social events whenever he could. At the Annual Trafalgar Day Dinner, Ben would always pipe ‘Hands to Dinner’, usually wearing different items of naval kit — much to the amusement of our members and guests, our dinners will never be the same without him.

Even after his diagnosis of cancer, Ben was determined to get out and about whenever he could. It was great to see him at the VE Day celebrations in 2015, and although he had to use a wheelchair, Ben attended the 2015 Remembrance Day Service in Huntingdon and enjoyed a couple of traditional drinks after the parade. One of Ben’s final wishes was to see the Branch Standard replaced, it was pretty heavy, and after being paraded for over 35 years, was beginning to look out of place with some of the more modern versions. Ben was consulted throughout the organisation of ordering a new Standard, and sorting out a shortened service written in order to enable him to Parade the original Standard one last time. Sadly, on the day, he was not well enough to attend the Service, but had been pleased to see the new Standard and knowing the old one was now Laid up at St Mary’s Church (where it was originally Dedicated in 1981).

Shipmates have been visiting Ben throughout his illness, often with some Pusser’s Rum at hand for an impromptu toast; for someone with a terminal illness, he showed great courage in his final months, a strong character who will be remembered by all those who met him. Sadly, Ben Crossed the Bar on St George’s Day, two days short of his 50th Anniversary since joining the RN, and also his wedding anniversary to Rose. Our thoughts are with Rose and Ben’s family at this sad time.

Rest in Peace shipmate.

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RNA Members Benefits

UK Holiday Group /CONA Holiday Service

• Variety of special deals for both Groups and Individual. 1% of turnover thorough CONA Holiday Service is returned to the RNA. http://www.royal-naval- association.co.uk/news/323/members-holidays-service

Coleman/Ansvar Insurance Discounted Branch and House hold Insurance - 01323 744149 http://www.thecolemangroup.co.uk/coleman-insurance-brokers/organisation-specific/cona

Funeral Service

• Significant discount form Veterans UK www.veteranfunerals.co.uk Tel 07889 009393

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

• RNA member entry just £10 plus four guest at £10 each provides access to the all attractions including the Submarine Museum, RM Museum and Explosion!.

Legal Services

Free 30 minute legal advice with Coffin Mew. [email protected] 0800 827168

Breakdown Service

RAC Breakdown and recovery service [email protected] or 0207 4025231

Organisers of Reunions should be aware the CONA Travel will match or better any other ‘like for like’ Reunion/Group Trips bookings so why not give them an opportunity to impress you. 0844 264 2122 [email protected]

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Shortcast (Run in date order)

Shortcast

2016

HMS Bulwark, Albion and Centaur Association – 6 May 2016

The 2016 Reunion Weekend is booked the Bosworth Hall Hotel & Liesure Spa, Market Bosowrth, Warwickshire from May 6 to 8. Please contact the Secretary, Denis Askham at [email protected] or details

HMS Wizard and Cadiz Association – 6 May 2016

Reunion at the Inglewood Palm Hotel, Torquay from May 6 to 9. Membership is open to all who have served in Battleclass V & W Destroyers and type 15 Frigates.

For more details contact Jim Watkins at [email protected]

HMS Euryalus Association – 20 May 2016

All commissions reunion from May 20 to 22 in South Shields. Contact Florrie Field at [email protected] or Blood Reidy at [email protected]

HMS Hermione Association – 20-22 May 2016

HMS Hermione Association will hold its annual reunion from May 20 to 22 at the Best Western, Feathers Hotel, Mount Pleasant, Liverpool. Anyone wishing to join us will be made most welcome that also includes families of those lost onboard. If you are planning to book, call 0151 709 9655 and quote ref: Hermione Association.

Federation of Naval Associations – 20 May 2016

AGM/Social and reunion at Prince of Wales Hotel, Southport from May 20 to 23. Has your Association wound up? This is an excellent opportunity to meet up with those wishing to carry on regardless. All are welcome with no frills or drills. Details and booking forms available from Robbie Robson at [email protected]

HMS Cavalier Association – 20 May 2016

Reunion will take place from May 20 to 23 at the Victoria Hotel, Torquay. Bookings by Isle of Wight Tours on 01983 405116

Neptune Association – 21 May 2016

West Country relatives and friends are to remember those lost at sea on HM Ships Neptune and Kandahar on the Hoe at the War Memorial on Sat 21 May at 10.45am

The Neptune Association is holding a service of remembrance to remember all those lost at sea 74 years after their tragic loss in 1941. Members, relatives and friends in the area are invited to

31 attend and pay their respects.

Neptune lost 763 men (with just one survivor) including 150 New Zealanders (their greatest loss in WW2) and 37 South Africans. Kandahar had her stern blown off and she lost 73 men and the total lost at sea (836) in this little known tragedy was the Royal Navy’s 5th worst loss of life in WW2.

K force, consisting of 7 ships, left Malta to intercept a crucial enemy convoy loaded with Panzer tanks, fuel and military equipment en route to Tripoli, Libya to reinforce General Rommel’s Axis forces. Neptune entered a huge enemy mine field, hit 4 mines and sank in the Mediterranean in the early hours on the 19 December 1941. Kandahar tried to rescue the survivors but was badly damaged and subsequently sunk by HMS Jaguar.

More information on the website at www.hmsneptune.com

HMS Coventry D118 Association – 21-22 May 2016

Reunion will take place on May 21/22 at the GIs Association, Whale Island. Muster for church service at 1015 at the Still & West Public House, Old Portsmouth on Sunday.

Full details can be found on the website at http://www.hmscoventry.co.uk/reunion.php or contact Chris Howe MBE at [email protected]

848 Squad, Royal Marines - 21 May 2016

The first and maybe the last reunion will be held from May 21 to 22 at the Belmont Hotel, Leicester. For full details contact Barry Lewington at [email protected]

HMS Hood Association - 21 May 2016

HMS Hood Association. AGM at 1500 and 41st Reunion dinner 1900 at the Royal Maritime Club, Portsmouth. May 21. Church Service at St Ann’s Church, HM Dockyard, Portsmouth at 1000, May 22. On 24 May, A Commemorative Service in the arena by HMS Victory with Hood’s Bell as the centrepiece incorporating the 75th anniversary of the sinking of HMS Hood on 24 May 1941, an action in which 1415 personnel died. For further details of all these events contact Chairman Keith Evans on 01428 642122.

HMS Liverpool Association – 11 June 2016

Reunion takes place on June 11 at the GIs Association, Whale Island, mustering at 1200. Our association is made up of those who served on the Cruiser and the Type 42 Destroyer and new members are always welcome. For more information and membership details contact John Parker at [email protected]

HMS Belfast Association – 17 June 2016

The 2016 Association Reunion will be held over the weekend of 17 - 19th June at the ‘Tillington Hall Hotel’, Stafford. A visit and Tour of the National Memorial Arboretum will take place. See the ‘Seahorse’ for full details. Enquiries & Bookings can be made to - [email protected] or to Dave Gibbon at [email protected] Places are limited so please book early.

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HMS Sirius F40 1966-1993 Reunion - 18 June 2016 50th Anniversary of Commissioning Reunion at HMS Drake on 18 June 2016. Details available at www.hmssirius.info or Facebook page, H M S Sirius (make sure you leave the spaces) or contact Andy Ayres at [email protected] or [email protected]

HMS Lincoln Association - July 2016

The HMS Lincoln Association from the 68/69 commission are planning their 2016 reunion in the City of their name Lincoln. On September 12, 1970 the ships company having marched through the streets were given the freedom of the City. The association are now in the planning stages of returning for a reunion in July 2016, and early indications are that the City authorities are delighted it’s going to happen, and joint events are being organised.

The association would like to hear from any ex Lincoln crew members from both commissions and of course any who took part in the Freedom march, who would either have been 68/69 commission or the 70/71 commission there was a mixture of personnel from both. They are invited to contact Mike (Yorky) Sutcliff at [email protected] to see if they would like to join us for this rather special reunion event.

The Fisgard Association – 01 July 2016

20th Annual Up Spirits and Sods Opera featuring Shep Woolley at the Royal Maritime Club on July 1 with July 2 seeing a visit to the Fisgard Museum, HMS Sultan and the Green and White Dinner Dance at the WO & SRs Mess, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth For more information contact Mike Bell for Up-Spirits & Sods Opera at [email protected] and for the Dinner Dance contact Bradley at [email protected] or check http://thefisgardassociation.org or see the Fisgardian.

WRNS - 12 August 2016

A 50th anniversary reunion is planned for all ladies who joined the WRNS during 1966, event to be held on 12th August 2016 in Portsmouth. If you would like to join us, and/or know anyone else who would like to, please contact either Barbara Cotton (nee Binks, Victory 206) at [email protected] or Maxine Higgins (nee Parish, Theseus) at [email protected] We look forward to renewing and making new friendships

HMS President - 13 August 2016

A reunion for current and former Shipmates of HMS PRESIDENT in London has been arranged on board HMS PRESIDENT, London RNR Unit for 13/08/2016 at 12:00. All current and former Shipmates of the Unit are welcome to attend. A 'HMS PRESIDENT Reunion' Facebook page has been set up or further details can be obtained from [email protected].

HMS Valiant Association – 13 August 2016

The 50th Anniversary reunion and celebrations will take place in Plymouth Dockyard and HMS Drake on August 13, 2016. The proposal is to have a ceremony on the jetty next to Submarine Valiant.On completion there will be a reception and buffet lunch at the Senior Rates mess. There is an indoor and outdoor bar and in the evening will be a small buffet supper. The event is open to everyone who served on HMS/m Valiant throughout her career. The day is intended to be a family affair to be enjoyed by all.

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Please indicate your wish to attend and numbers to [email protected] so that regular updates re hotels and arrangements can be sent to you. Please include when you served on Valiant plus department and a contact phone number.

HMS Bristol Association – 24 August 2016

HMS Bristol Association’s planned Reunion, which is to be held at the RNGI’s Association, Whale Island, Portsmouth, on Saturday 24th August 2016. Members and their Guests will have the opportunity to go onboard HMS Bristol for a tour around during the afternoon, before retiring to the RNGI’s Mess to partake of some refreshment and victuals. Hopefully, the evening will be rounded off by entertainment from Shep Woolley and his men.

Further details are as yet not forthcoming at present as the Association’s Committee are still finalising the event and specific details will be published shortly.

HMS Falmouth 82-85 (Last Commission) 26/27 August 2016

Reunion in Sheffield August 26 & 27 2016. For those that served on her during this period please PM me for further details. Mark 'Bill' Bailey

HMS Swiftsure – 3 September 2016

HMS/m Swiftsure (Swiftsure 86 + 30): First reunion to be held September 3 at The Weston Mill Social Club, Plymouth. £5.00 per person. Buffet included. All who served onboard including partners welcome. For further information contact [email protected]

HMS Tiger Association (C20) – 23 September 2016

Reunion will take place at the Heronston Hotel, Bridgend, Mid Glamorgan from September 23 to 26. Further information can be obtained from Dennis Andrew at [email protected]

HMS Ocean Association – 23 September 2016

Reunion from September 23 to 26 at the Aztec Hotel, Bristol. Open to all who served in HMS Ocean (R68) or HMS Ocean (L12), and their guests. Programme includes a gala dinner, and a visit to the Fleet Air Arm Museum. Full details from Malcolm Clarke, [email protected] or Isle of Wight Tours at [email protected] or telephone 01983405446.

HMS Crane Association – 23-25 September 2016

HMS Crane Association U23/F123 (1942-62): Reunion and AGM at the Doubltree by Hilton Hotel, formerly the Gateway Hotel, Nottingham from September 23 to 25. All ex-Cranes and friends welcome. Details from Joe Smith at [email protected]

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HMS Arethusa Social Weekend – 30 September 2016

HMS Arethusa: Social weekend at the Savoy Hotel, Skegness from September 30 to October 3. For further information contact Isle of Wight Tours at [email protected] or tel: 01983 405116.

Regulating Branch & RN Police Association – 30 September/ 03 October 2016

The Regulating Branch and Royal Navy Police Association was founded in 1993 as a non profit organisation for the benefit of all Regulators whether currently serving or have served in the Royal Navy to keep in touch, renew friendships and to occasionally meet at social functions. We have an active membership of 200 on our books with a high retention rate but, like all voluntary organisations, we are always anxious to recruit more people to our membership.

The prime focus is in preserving the rich history of the Branch primarily through the maintenance and administration of our museum which is located in Southwick Park, Portsmouth (HMS DRYAD as was).

The Association has benefitted from members from all parts of the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and mainland Europe and there is the opportunity to meet old friends at our reunion and AGM which, this year, will be held at the Aztec Hotel, Bristol during the weekend 30 September and 3 October 2016.

I would encourage all ex-Regulators to learn more about the Regulating Branch and Royal Navy Police Association by browsing our comprehensive website and perhaps you will be further convinced of the value of our efforts so that you will decide to join us and assist in meeting our goals. http://www.rba93.com or contact David Lodrick [email protected]

HMS Eagle Association – 07-09 October 2016

HMS Eagle - Commissions 1952-72: ‘Friends of HMS Eagle’, are holding a 44th Anniversary ‘Nautical Experience’ Weekend Reunion at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel, Bristol, from October 7 to 9. After the very successful last 9 Reunions held around the UK – All ‘Eaglets’ plus wives/partners & guests are very welcome to celebrate the 44 years since the ‘Mighty E’ decommissioned in Portsmouth in 1972.

There will be a ‘Meet & Greet’ on the Friday evening in the ‘Park Suite’, followed on the Saturday with various Tours from the Hotel, including visits to Brunel’s ‘SS Great Britain, ‘Harbourside’ boat and railway trips’ plus Heritage Museums. The evening is taken up with a very Nautical Gala Dinner and traditional ‘Up Spirits’ enactment, followed by dancing and entertainment in the ‘Ballroom’, which includes the local Sea Cadet Unit, ‘Bristol Adventure’ performing ‘Colours’ & ‘Ceremonial Sunset’. (All Commissions 1952-1972 are very welcome. Hotel accommodation at very good rates.

For details, please contact Main Organizer, Danny du Feu (Ex-L/Sea(Boats) Email: [email protected] or Events Sec. Bill Melvin (Ex-L/PTI) Email: [email protected]. See you there!

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HMS Lowestoft Association – 7-9 October 2016

The 6th annual reunion of the HMS Lowestoft Association will take place at the Aztec Hotel, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4TS from October 7th to 9th 2016. All ex-Lowie's 1961-1985 and guests are welcome. For booking & more info contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 or email [email protected] or email: [email protected] or visit http://www.hmslowestoft.co.uk

HMS Tartar Association – 07 October 2016

Annual reunion at the Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from October 7 to 10. All ex-Tartar’s and wives are welcome, come and meet up with old shipmates. Bookings to be arranged by IOW Tours on 01983 405116. Contact [email protected] for further information.

HMS St Vincent Association - 07/10 October 2016

The annual reunion will be in the Royal Beach Hotel Southsea over the weekend 7/10 October with the AGM on Saturday in St Vincent, transport is included. For further details and for booking contact IOW Tours on 01983 405116 or email [email protected] or ring Soapy Watson on 07786 565485 or 01329 310078

RN Writers Association - 14 October 2016

The World's Oldest Military Association. The 129th RNWA Reunion Dinner takes place at the Union Jack Club, London on October 14. Serving and ex-serving Writers and serving Logisticians (Personnel) and guests welcome. For further information, see the website www.rnwa.co.uk for full details and a booking form or contact: RNWA Secretary Les Heyhoe at [email protected]

HMS Resolution Association – 16 October 2016

The HMS Resolution Association are holding their annual reunion at Barrow this year to mark the 50th anniversary of the launch of HMS Resolution. The reunion dates are from October 16 to 18.

The reunion includes a visit to the launching slipway, courtesy of BAE Systems.

Contact the secretary at [email protected] or find the full information on the association and reunion on our website http://www.hmsresolution.org.uk

Bay Class Frigates Association – 17 October 2016

Reunion at Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea from October 17 to 19, 2016. All ex-Bay Class men and guests welcome. Contact Doug Turk at [email protected] for details.

Survey Ships Association - 28-31 October 2016

The Survey Ships Association will be holding its twenty-second reunion at the Aztec Hotel, Bristol on the w/e of 28th – 31st October. For information on membership and reunion please send a SAE to: The Secretary SSA, 17 Eliza Mackenzie Court, Lindisfarne Close, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 2SB, e-mail: [email protected], or telephone 023 9232 4795.

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Swinging the Lamp - May 2016

1st 1797 First Spithead Mutiny ended with issue of Admiralty orders against abuses. 2nd 1932 Publication of BR.224. The Gunnery Pocket Book. ‘Having been approved by My Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty is hereby promulgated . . . By Command of Their Lordships . . .’ 3rd 2008 The RN Hospital Gibraltar paid off. The gates were closed by the youngest member of staff, MA Kirsty Taylor, watched by the last CO, Surg-Cdr Martin Randle RN. Task transferred to the Princess Royal Medical Centre at Devil’s Tower Camp. 4th 1945 Formidable, fifth of the name, operating off Sakishima, hit by kamikaze aircraft and demonstrated the superiority of the armoured flight deck over the wooden flight deck in USN fleet carriers. 5th 1918 Sloop Rhododendron torpedoed and sunk by U-70 in North Sea. 6th 1957 ‘Off caps’ at payment replaced by hand salute. Hitherto cash was placed in sailor’s inverted cap. 7th 1945 Last British merchantman and last U-boat to be sunk in Second World War: Avondale Park, torpedoed by U-2336, 7 miles S.E. of May Island, and U-320 by Catalina X/210 off Shetland (61.32N, 01.53E). 8th 1895 Renown launched at Pembroke Dockyard. The first British battleship with all-steel armour plating. 9th 2006 Lt-Cdr John Walter George Wellham DSC, the last surviving pilot of the Fleet Air Arm attack on Taranto in 1940, died aged 87. Born on the Isle of Bute 2 January 1919, the son of a retired Petty Officer. 10th 1966 Fleet carrier Eagle, Capt J.C.Y. Roxburgh RN, returned to Singapore after seventy-one days at sea, a peacetime record for a British carrier. She had been engaged on the Beira Patrol maintaining the UN embargo on oil supplies reaching Southern Rhodesia. Her Buccaneer, Sea Vixen, Scimitar and Gannet aircraft had carried out over 1,000 sorties, flown 600,000 miles in 2,000 flying hours searching for oil tankers. RFA Tidepool arrived at Singapore after eighty days at sea, and having conducted seventy- eight fuel replenishments off Beira. ‘This operation, which is under the overall direction of C-in-C Middle East, Admiral Sir Michael Le Fanu, once again illustrates the Royal Navy’s ability to maintain a military presence in an area a long way from its base in support of the policy of HM government’ 11th 1944 Destroyer Bicester bombarded targets in the Ardea area, south of Rome.

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12th 1982 Brilliant, Type 22 frigate, destroyed three Argentine Skyhawk aircraft in the first operational use of Sea Wolf. Her Lynx helicopter was the first to fire Sea Skua in action. Glasgow, Type 42 destroyer, damaged by bomb which failed to explode. Operation Corporate. (Editors Note – Thank goodness she was there as I probably wouldn’t be writing this....) 13th 1787 First convict convoy eventually sailed from Spithead for Botany Bay, arriving 19 January 1788. Sirius (Capt Arthur Phillip, who experienced some difficulty over a commodore’s pennant, and who shifted to Supply), six transport and three store ships. 14th 1918 Destroyer Phoenix torpedoed and sunk in Adriatic by Austrian submarine U-XXVII. 15th 1954 HM Yacht Britannia, with HM The Queen embarked, entered Pool of London for first time at end of Commonwealth Tour. First FORY, Vice-Admiral Conolly Abel Smith invested KCVO on board with own sword. 16th 1940 Warships of the Royal Netherlands Navy arrived in British waters to cooperate with the Royal Navy. 17th 1917 Second experimental use of Sea Lions for detecting submarines. 18th 1941 VC: PO Alfred Edward Sephton (Coventry) for gallantry in an air attack on cruiser Coventry south of Crete by German aircraft which had been attacking the hospital ship Aba. The medal was stolen on 25 September 1990 while on display in Coventry Cathedral; never recovered. 19th 1765 Gosport victualling yard established 20th 1917 Flying-boat 8663 sank UC-36 in North Sea – first submarine sunk by RNAS. 21st 1982 The Battle of Falkland Sound. 3 Cdo Bde began the landings at San Carlos Bay. Men of 40 and 45 Cdos RM and 2 and 3 Para were put ashore by landing craft from Fearless and Intrepid. The logistic and transport shipping within San Carlos Water was protected by the thin grey line of escort vessels in adjoining Falkland Sound: destroyer Antrim; frigates Argonaut, Broadsword, Brilliant, Plymouth, Yarmouth and Ardent, supported by FAA Sea Harriers of 800 NAS and 801 NAS. Sustained fighter-bomber attacks by over forty enemy aircraft brought a day of intense naval warfare. Ten aircraft destroyed by Sea Harriers and by Sea Wolf and Seacat SAMs and many more damaged. Ardent hit by several bombs and fought to a standstill. Her blazing wreck was finally abandoned and she sank early on 22 May. Argonaut, seriously damaged, remained at anchor for the next eight days as a static AA platform. An UXB in flooded magazine was defused and removed by an officer of exceptional gallantry, Lt-Cdr Brian Dutton DSO, QGM, RN. First DSC to a fleet chief petty officer, FCPO M.G. Fellowes, for defusing UXB in Antrim. Most other warships damaged and all their

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captains decorated. By nightfall, 42 Cdo and supporting artillery and logistics were ashore without loss to themselves and a secure bridgehead established. This was the aim of the operation; a splendid achievement. 22nd 1809 Rear-Admiral El iab Harvey, who had commanded Temeraire at Trafalgar, court martialled for imputing disrespect to Admiral Lord Gambier, his C-in-C; dismissed the Service but reinstated next year, promoted and knighted. 23rd 1941 Destroyers Kashmir and Kelly sunk by German aircraft 13 miles S. of Gavdo (34.41N, 24.15E), during the Battle of Crete 24th 1941 Hood sunk and Prince of Wales damaged by the German battleship Bismarck in Denmark Strait. Swordfish aircraft (Victorious) Torpedoed Bismarck. FAA Sqn: 825. 25th 1982 Destroyer Coventry sunk and frigate Broadsword damaged N. of Falkland Sound by air attacks. Atlantic Conveyor, carrying important helicopter reinforcements, damaged by two air-launched Exocets while in company with carrier battle group 85 miles N.E. of Cape Pembroke, and sank later. Capt Ian North DSC one of twelve men lost. This was Argentina’s national day but there was no sign of the eponymous carrier (25 De Mayo, originally HMS Venerable and then the Dutch Karel Doorman). Operation Corporate. 26th 1703 Death of Samuel Pepys, first Secretary of the Admiralty. 27th 1847 The first Naval General Service medal belatedly approved for all surviving personnel who served in the Royal Navy ‘in the battles of the great war’, 1793–1815, later extended to 1840. Mrs McKenzie gave birth to a son in HMS Tremendous (74) at the Glorious First of June in 1794 and fifty-four years later Daniel Tremendous McKenzie successfully applied for his medal and clasp ‘1 June 1794’. 28th 1915 Admiral Sir Henry Jackson succeeded Admiral of the Fleet Lord Fisher as First Sea Lord, following Fisher’s resignation over the Dardanelles debacle. 29th 1942 Submarine Turbulent sank the Italian destroyer Emanuele Pessagno 78 miles N.W. of Benghazi, in less than a minute. 30th 1997 Hydrographic (H) and Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC) specialisations amalgamated to form a new X (HM) specialisation. 31st 1916 The Battle of Jutland. Admiral Sir John Jellicoe (IRON DUKE) engaged the German High Seas Fleet under Vice Admiral Sheer (Friedrich der Grosse) British casualties 6,748 German casualties 3,058 RN Battleships 28 German 22 RN Battlecruisers 9 German 5 Lost RN 14 Ships (3 Battlecruisers) German 11 Ships (4 light cruisers 1 battelcruiser)

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Delegate to Annual Conference 2016

Branch secretaries should note the following before submitting their application.

(a) Each Branch must comply with Rule 16(c), (No Branch shall be permitted to send a delegate to the Conference unless it has observed the regulations of the Association in regard to the return of balance sheets, the payment of subscriptions and the formation of Branches. This provision has no application to the right of, and expectation for, ships and establishments to send a delegate to the Conference.) but subject to Rule 10(c), (Associate members are eligible to act as a Branch Delegate at Area meetings and Conferences, provided that they have completed three years continuous membership of the Association immediately prior to election as Delegate) and has been in commission for at least three months by the date of a Conference shall be entitled to nominate one eligible Association Member as its Delegate to attend a Conference.

(a) Each Branch nominating a Delegate shall send details to the HQ to arrive not less than one week before the date of Conference. A Branch may change its nominated Delegate provided the Council is notified not less than twenty-four hours before the Conference.

Branch Area

Name of Delegate

Car registration Passenger Name

Delegate’s Address

Telephone No Post Code e-mail

Number of Observers

Name of Branch Hon Secretary Contact telephone No: (if not branch Hon Sec) Contact e-mail address

Name and Address for correspondence (if not branch Hon Sec)

NB: A Delegate will not be confirmed as such unless or until the Branch Balance Sheet for 2015 and Annual Subscriptions for Branch Members for 2016 have been received in RNA Headquarters (Rule 16c). Should either not have been received in HQ, the Delegate will not be accredited and will be admitted as an Observer (without Pool Fare cover).

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Mr Paul Quinn OBE Royal Naval Association RNA HQ, Room 209 Semaphore Tower, PP70 HMNB Portsmouth PORTSMOUTH Hampshire PO1 3LT

12 April 2016

Dear Paul

Thank you so much for your recent donation of £3,000.00 made from The Royal Naval Association to The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.

The ongoing support given by the RNA is hugely appreciated. We are seeing more and more involvement from branches across the country. In addition to these head office funds, we have received support in the way of fundraising and donations from area branches: 3 donations totalling £700.00 so far this year and 25 donations totalling £5670 during 2015. We have also received voluntary support at a number of events and have on occasion called upon RNA members to represent RNRMC at cheque presentations.

Please do pass on my grateful thanks to all RNA members for their friendship and support. We very much look forward to even more closer between the two organisations in future

Thank you once again for your kind donation and for helping RNRMC to achieve our vision of supporting our sailors, marines and their families, for life.

Yours sincerely

Hilary Jukes Regional Fundraiser

The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity Patron: HRH The Princess Royal Vice Patron: Sir Michael Hintze AM, Mr Lance Batchelor Building 29 E [email protected] President: Admiral Sir Jonathon Band GCB DL HMS EXCELLENT T 023 9387 1520 Vice Presidents: Lieutenant General Sir Robert Fulton KBE, Whale Island W www.rnrmc.org.uk Vice Admiral Sir Alan Massey KCB CBE, Portsmouth Sir John Parker GBE FREng Hampshire, PO2 8ER Chairman: Mr Bill Thomas

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