WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BATTALION EVENTS

Millennium stadium game Squad 2012-13 This is something of a privilege for both us and the Royal Welsh 1. LSgt Quamuri and will continue on an annual 2. LSgt Dwyer basis. It gives our boys a great 3. Gdsm Walters chance to play on the hallowed 4. LSgt George (Captain) turf and an extra piece of silver 5. Gdsm Bilton ware. This year saw us missing eight key players from what 6. Sgt Soko can only be described as our 7. LSgt Sanigar first choice team. This was now 8. Lt Evans a chance for our young guns to 9. Gdsm Devise Capt Bardsley enjoying some of the Les Contamines back country gain some experience and also 10. Gdsm Groves allow me to gauge the enemy EX COCKNEY CYMRU: 11. Gdsm Tyres for next season. We lost 15-7 Battalion skiing trip to but great things came from it, 12. Gdsm Evans 35 Les Contamines, not least our young ones 13. Gdsm Buretini by Capt BHN Bardsley stepping up to the plate and 14. Gdsm Nambukibuki now the Royal Welsh going 15. LCpl Nuku n Friday 8th March 2013, under the command of Maj away with false hope. Bring on Launders, a proportion of the Battalion deployed for 2013/14 season. 16. LCpl Walters O two weeks to the resort of Les Contamines in France. 17. Gdsm Davies 05 Army Caps 18. Gdsm Soko The first week was enjoyed by arrived on the first day 2010 LSgt Dwyer Number 2 Company and combined with bright 19. LSgt Lewis 88 2011 LSgt Dwyer Number 3 Company, the sunshine - conditions could 20. LSgt Hiscock second week by the Prince of not get much better. The six 2012 LSgt Dwyer 21. Sgt Lewis 29 Wales’ Company and Support instructors: Major Launders, 2013 LSgt Dwyer, LSgt George, CSgt Geen, Sgt Skitt, Sgt Eccles, 22. Gdsm Carter Company. In total 80 members LSgt Hiscock, Gdsm of the Battalion participated in Sgt McCovoy and Sgt Harriot Nambukibuki 23. LCpl Jane the trip, with abilities ranging (HAC), all did a sterling job in improving each and every 2013 Gdsm Buretini (sevens) 24. Gdsm Cray from complete beginner to a man. In doing so everyone 25. Gdsm Classbe few seasoned professionals. Army A 2013 achieved either the basic ski 26. LSgt Devine The snow gods were on the proficiency or for those that Gdsm Bilton 27. RQMS Ryan Battalion’s side. Twenty had skied before, the advanced Army development centimetres of fresh powder ski proficiency. 28. Sgt Scarf squad 2013 29. LCpl Lodwick Lt T Evans 30. LSgt Rowlands Gdsm Evans 35 31. Gdsm Fullman Gdsm Carter 32. Gdsm Davies 11 Gdsm Groves Capt Baldwin (Rugby - Selected Infantry Coaching Coach) staff 2013-14 season WO2 Radford (Coach) Capt B Baldwin Sgt Prosser (Coach) WO2 Radford LSgt Devine Sgt Prosser (Conditioning coach) LSgt Devine LSgt Hayton Admin NCO L/Cpl Austin educating Capt Bardsley in Après Ski

BATTALION EVENTS 49 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

Maj Launders taking full advantage of the snow conditions The victorious Jamboy 2 boat at full tilt

The Guardsman brought the Jones who at the grand old age Welsh sprit in abundance to of 48 completed his very first THE PRINCE OF WALES COMPANY – the Bars and clubs of Les weeks skiing. As much as he Eton Dorney Dragon Boat Contimines, and took the ski enjoyed it, and his terrible Racing Festival hard, play hard mentality to a jokes we greatly appreciated Lt T Hutton whole new level. However with by all, we are not sure he will the excitement and promise of be going back in a hurry due to ragon Boat Racing is an up and coming sport in the fantastic skiing the following the physical and mental toll it DUK. Fiercely competitive, it pits teams of ten men and day, the 07:30 muster parade took on his body. was never missed. A special women against each other in minutes of water borne thank you must go to Sgt Scaff The Battalion is always under fury. It is a test of skill and endurance, but more than this, and Sgt Skitt who did a pressure to send a small skiing of timing and most teamwork. fantastic job making sure the team to compete in the Infantry G4 side of the expedition ran skiing competition instead of The modern sport has its roots company realised that this in an ancient folk ritual of could be a fantastic without a hitch. using the funds for an contending villages held over opportunity to build team expedition such as this one. A few exceptional characters the past two thousand years spirit and take part in a However, this trip has again came to light throughout the throughout southern China, as physically tough exercise justified the decision to send 80 exped, the first being an opportunity for community whilst representing the Guardsman Sambuca (Harding people for a week to get valuable celebration and bonding. Battalion in a public forum at 53) who made his soul experience that would usually the same time. Teaming up Teams of up to ten people crew purpose to buy everyone in Les cost our civilian counterparts a with his platoon commander, thirty foot long, narrow, flat Contamines a shot or two. It is small fortune. The two weeks they were able to acquire bottomed, canoe style boats a shame that his skiing ability were both a great success and generous funding from the with a helmsman at the rear did not match his level of thoroughly enjoyed by all. Bring Regimental Trustees and put a and a drummer at the front. generosity. The second is Padre on next year. team together. With the crew The sport in the UK has been spaces oversubscribed, a ‘row- dominated by corporate teams off’ selected the men who who regularly attend Dragon would form the crews, with the Boat Racing festivals as team remainder coming to support. building exercises and days Twenty eight men of the Prince out, bringing in ringers to give of Wales’s company travelled themselves a competitive to Eton on the 3rd July with advantage over their rivals. high spirits but little idea of One such event was forecast what to expect. The day was for the 3rd July 2013 at Eton fantastic. With the weather Dorney lake, promising a full holding and bar open, crews day of competitive racing, with were able to enjoy the racing up to twenty different crews, from the Eton Rowing Club each vying for the title. boathouse with its fantastic In a moment of inspiration Sgt facilities. Clay pigeon shooting Gdsm Saunders re-living his recent wedding Scarf of the Prince of Wales’s and other activities were also

50 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BATTALION EVENTS

commented that with no prior This sort of event brought all experience, our two teams had members of the teams been able to win by working as together. From those who had one, as a team in unison. shared the experiences of Herrick 16 to the new draft Following the trophy and men of the company. A whole medals presentation the event day spent away at this type of was finished off by a fantastic event, achieves much of what gourmet BBQ and drinks that we desire to see in our soldiers; ran into the evening. The team work, physical fitness interest taken by the other and determination, as well as teams in the Battalion and being fantastic fun and wider Army was met with providing good morale. relish by the men of the I know all who took part on the company who showed a day are grateful for the fantastic public image of the opportunity to compete, and Welsh Guards answering are therefore thankful to the questions and socialising with trustees for their backing of the the other teams. teams in entering the event. LSgt Lawrence proudly displays the Dragon Boat winners trophy on all day for those who could on The Queen’s Birthday ORATORY SCHOOL CCF find the time. Parade two weeks previously, Lt J P Marsden rowing in time came naturally. It soon became apparent that The high level of fitness, team the competition was fierce, or some time informal links have existed between spirit and determination and crews decked out in their Fthe Oratory School CCF and the Welsh Guards. In displayed by all rowers, set team kits looked raring to go. recognition of this, and to mark their centenary year, it formidable times, eventually With no prior experience of was agreed that the CCF would re-affiliate to the Welsh qualifying both team for the Dragon Boat Racing on our Guards from the Rilfes. part, the teams from EDF in finals. their matching kits, and the The Final was first past the The first Oratory School CCF school site resulted in a fall in body-building Acton Refinery post. For the two Welsh Guards camp took place in Tidworth in numbers. By 1967 the CCF team posed the greatest crews it was a race between 1913 and the CCF continued to revival was well underway competition. What they hadn’t ourselves. We had had run throughout both World however, and by the early Wars with many of the boys realised however, is that it is fantastic instruction through 1970s sections of the Royal always the Red Dragon that from the school serving with our qualifying races from our Navy and were gives a lead….. distinction in these periods, professional helmsman, a set up. Since then the CCF has Captain Birdseye figure and most notably Lieutenant- The format of the event was a gone from strength to strength something of a Yoda in the Sir Carton de Wiart. The series of heats, with three school’s CCF was at a low ebb and this was demonstrated by Dragon Boat Racing world. boats racing at a time. Each by 1966 after two moves of the the re-affiliation parade. event was timed with the two Sitting on the start line, with fastest times combining to our drummer Guardsman form the qualifying time. The Jones 16 looking resplendent fantastic team from Gable in Tunic and Bearskin it was all Events, the organizers, kindly to play for. It was a punishing offered us a second boat free sprint, with the lead changing of charge, enabling all those 5 times but race eventually who came down to participate going to Jam Boy Two, with in the racing. From the outset Jam Boy One milliseconds as Jam Boy One and Jam Boy behind, both boats coming Two crews took to the water, it within 1 second of the course was clear that the Welsh record. Good natured ribbing Guards teams were made for from the other participants the task. For these men, who that we somehow had an kept the time immaculately unfair advantage was soon whilst marching as the Escort quelled by the organizers who The Commanding Officer inspects the cadets

BATTALION EVENTS 51 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

The Band of the Welsh Guards marches past the saluting dias at the front of the Oratory School

The day began with a parade taking the salute from the dais to showcase the current framed Regimental Colours which saw the three when the parade marched activities of the Welsh Guards replicas, a signed picture of contingents of the CCF form up past. The standard of drill and in the build up to Trooping the HRH The Prince of Wales and a at the front of the school, with turnout was excellent and this Colour. Unsurprisingly there montage of the Regiment’s the Army contingent was in no small part due to the was equal interest in getting year, including photos of Operation Herrick 16 and resplendent in their new Welsh drill evening the Cadets hands on the weapons and ceremonial duties. The Guards Regimental headdress received a week prior from trying on a bearskin both from Commanding Officer for the first time. The Welsh the Cadets and the school staff. Sergeant Scarf and Lance concluded proceedings with Guards Band added to the air Whilst the VIPs were invited by Sergeant Rowlands who an apt speech, informing the of ceremony and celebration the Headmaster and the CCF attended the school to Cadets of the provenance of Contingent Commander to of the occasion with a fine administer a crash course. the symbol that they were now attend lunch, the Guardsmen performance that the wearing over their left eye and With the parade concluded the were hosted by the Cadets spectators thoroughly welcoming the new bond cadets were fallen out to be offering them the opportunity appreciated, in spite of the forged between the school and blustery weather. Major Neville shown as much as possible to ask questions in a more the Regiment. Topham, an ex-Welsh Guards about what the Battalion had relaxed environment. The day was rightly a Drill Sergeant who now heads to offer with various stands With lunch concluded the celebration of the links the showing the weaponry used up the Army section at the Cadets returned to the parade Oratory School and the Welsh on tour including HMG, GMG, school, led the parade on square for the presentations to Guards have shared over many behalf of the school. Both the Javelin and a .338 sniper rifle. exchange hands. The school years. The formal affiliation of Regimental Adjutant and the Furthermore there was a PTI presented the Welsh Guards the CCF, as the newest of these Commanding Officer were in on hand to advise the Cadets Officers’ Mess a silver statue of links, serves to cement, attendance to inspect the on fitness standards in the a Cadet, and the Battalion recognise and formalise a Cadets, with Colonel Bonas Army and a ceremonial stand presented the school with relationship that will continue long in to the future with the bond growing stronger as the “The day was rightly a celebration of the links the Oratory Welsh Guards approach our School and the Welsh Guards have shared over many years.” own Centenary in 2015.

52 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BATTALION EVENTS

WELSH GUARDS SPORTS TOUR 2013 CYCLING -‘The Long and Winding Road’ Lt T Evans Captain C Fenton

8 members of the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards ising out of the saddle, struggling to find that hidden 2deployed to Europe on a sports tour and battlefield Rreserve of energy, the final push for the line was tour. The trip covered over 2000 miles over a period of 8 nothing that Sir Bradley Wiggins would have recognised. days, playing rugby and football in three different The previous 129.5 km, over some nine hours, had taken countries. their toll.

The first stop of the tour was at Welsh Guards triumphed 3-2 The knowledge though that Wellington Barracks, London. SHAPE in where there with a strong all round the finish line was waiting The event was superbly where both football and rugby performance. around the final bend of that organised by the team at matches planned. After two winding mountain road was Princess Gate Water and This trip was an excellent short training sessions, both enough to help find that supported by LSgt Jury and his opportunity for the members teams headed into for previously elusive reserve. recruiting tem. It involved of the Welsh Guards to learn an afternoon of culture before The cocktail of emotions that around 100 people, mainly about the role of the Welsh matches were played in the followed on from finishing from Wales, including rugby Guards and other units in the evening. The rugby team L’Etape du Tour in the French legends Ryan Jones, Rhys played against the number one Second World War. The tourists Alps were: jubilation that it was Williams and Ian Gough. A team in Belgium. It was a hard visited War Memorials and held all over; relief that Team WG fantastic weekend was had by fixture, the Welsh Guards XV a service in honour of those had avoided the dreaded all, and £45,000 was raised for defended very well however who had made the ultimate sweep-up car and injury (a the Welsh Guards Afghanistan the opposition managed to sacrifice. The War memorial number of serious crashes had Appeal. Other events included find gaps and came out on top gave an opportunity for all to occurred on the technically L’Etape du Tour, Annecy with a narrow victory. The reflect on previous conflicts demanding downhill sections France; and the cycling leg of football team had a fixture around the world. against a local civilian team, of the route); frustration that Walk-on-Wales from Chepstow which they won 2-1. Their The final stop of the tour was training had not been done Racecourse to Chester defence in midfield was the NATO School of and a better time achieved; Racecourse, which involved outstanding as was their will communications in Latina, and eventually exhaustion. participants using all sorts of to succeed. It was a very . Both teams headed into This was 7 July 2013 and a wheeled contraptions to get promising start to the sports and Rome to team of three, the author, the there. The key lesson identified tour. experience some Italian culture Adjutant and Capt Major, had from all of these events is that and cuisine. Sadly we were come a long way, both literally although these challenges Both teams then made their unable to formalise a rugby and figuratively, from the first were, and are, achievable with way to CENZUB in France, which is the French centre of fixture. The football team team training ride of 20 km little or no training and a never excellence for Close Quarter played their final game against around a snowy Richmond give-up attitude, cycling from Battle. The rugby team a team based 15km outside Park in November 2012. Pembrokeshire to London, or Naples. After a slow start the 130 km around the French Alps conducted training sessions Following the return of the team came back from behind would be much more with the CENZUB rugby team, Battalion from Op HERRICK 16 to win in a very convincing rewarding and enjoyable with which had only recently been many more people at formed. It was great to see the game 3-1. The football team proper training and Regimental Duty were keen to guardsmen interact with their had a very successful tour preparation! get on their bike. For some it French counterparts. This which will put them in a good was seen as a low-impact Next year the Club’s intentions training session gave the team position for their final match opportunity to improve fitness, are: to expand the interest of the opportunity to practise which will be played at Cardiff and maybe for others an road cycling across the some of their more Park Stadium. complicated moves against a opportunity to wear head-to- Battalion, and to enter a team solid defence. The football All in all it was a very toe lycra. Whatever their into the Army road racing team played against the successful tour for the Welsh motives a good number of the series; to expand the Club’s instructors at CENZUB who Guards. The men were true Officers’ and Sergeants’ remit to include mountain were a strong side but with the ambassadors for the Regiment. Messes participated in a range biking and triathlon; and to speed and flair of the Welsh The relationships formed over of events between March and conduct regular training Guards football team proving this period will no doubt lead September 2013: The highlight sessions, particularly over the to be too much for the to greater things on distant was certainly the Ryan Man Winter months, in preparation opposition to handle. The battlefields in the future. cycle from Pembrokeshire to for the riding season next year.

BATTALION EVENTS 53 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

MOTOR CROSS NOTES Sgt Hughes 39 Captains’ and Subalterns’ Tournament, Tidworth, 20-21 July 13 L-R: Lt Col Bartle-Jones, Maj Bettinson, Capt Davies, Lt Marsden he Welsh Guards Enduro Team entered the Team REME TSummer Series Round 2 last with 4 riders: Sgt Scarf 15 BATTALION POLO RESURRECTION and the author, PoW’s Coy; Gdsm Cole, Number 2 Capt C J P Davies Company; and Gdsm Campbell from Support Company. here was a time, many years ago, when the Welsh Gdsm Cole entered Expert and the remainder Sportsman. TGuards were consistently the best polo team in the Gdsm Cole had a really good broke his bike in an RAF round Army. In the meantime there have been numerous race, impressing Col Mike earlier this year. players who have played competitively however Tizzard, the Army Motor Sport After a tricky tight race all operational commitments have served to interfere with Officer. He finished 5th in a Welsh Guard riders completed the establishment of a regular Battalion team. strong class with three of the the round in good form with riders above him being former This year saw a concerted to hit their balls. This was only a few broken bits of bike. British Champions. He will effort to put Welsh Guards Polo followed by half an hour of As for the second round, we are enter Expert event in the Army back on the map which it had polo-specific riding lessons in good stead for the Championships later in the year dominated for so many years which essentially became an forthcoming Army and has a good chance of riding previously. opportunity for the Household Championships. It was also in the Army Team next year. One week after the Queen’s Cavalry Trooper on the course good to see some friendly faces Birthday Parade five members to show off. ‘Stick and Ball’ was Having taken an early lead in from Battalion as we rode of the Battalion, essentially an hour of individual time to the first lap, the author crashed round a demanding course. out, breaking the bike and those who supposedly knew practise hitting the ball, on the requiring a pit stop. After a This is a relatively new sport for how to ride, made their way to pony this time. Finally, we little throwing up, he managed the Battalion and it has been Tidworth Polo Club for an rounded each day off with a to get back in to finish the race. encouraging that there has introductory 3 day course on chukka, 7 minutes of riding Sgt Scarf also crashed in a been so much support. Polo. Set in stunning grounds round in circles chasing the ball tricky wood section but, with Hopefully as we are now adjacent to Tedworth House, it and ignoring most of the help from spectators, got back established and bedded in, we was fortunate that there were rulebook at the same time. on his bike. Gdsm Campbell will continue to receive support few prying eyes to witness our Fortunately for us and our very finished the race – his first for a as we tackle the rest of the ungainly attempts at picking patient instructor she did see while as he had to have a few summer series and push on to up a new sport. Whether this some improvement by the end months off because of he the Army Championships. was falling off chairs, falling off of the course. Overall the horses or simply failing to hit course was exceptionally good the ball after a 40 metre run- fun and a great introduction to up the whole course had little the game, so much so that all fear of succumbing to over- five of us have returned confidence. regularly during the summer The days were spent carrying for further instruction. out a variety of activities. As mentioned at the beginning ‘Chairs’ was an hour of the aim this year was to kick- standing on a chair and start Battalion involvement in practising our swings, Polo. To that end the year watching in fascination at would not have been complete where some people managed if we had not entered a

54 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BATTALION EVENTS

In the quarter final they faced day, doing a really good job of the very well drilled higher closing down the Navy’s key goal team; the player. The third chukka game was great end to end started well with a quick goal stuff – very watchable – with from Michael O’Dwyer, but the the Welsh Guards having Navy then took and kept the several near shots at goal in lead for the remainder of the the first chukka. Michael O’Dwyer did a great job match. The Navy went on to opening up the play; and beat the Household Cavalry in Rupert Hackwill brought his the semi final, but were beaten South African high goal by the King’s Royal Hussars in experience to bear on a hot the final.

RYAN JONES TESTIMONIAL YEAR WITH 1ST BATTALION WELSH GUARDS Lt Col Bartle-Jones follows through, Captains’ and Subalterns’ Maj A F Bowen predominantly Battalion team inexperienced team, the first apped by Wales for the first time in 2004, Ryan Jones in to a tournament. The step on the ladder has been Chelped his country secure a first Grand Slam in 27 Captains’ and Subalterns’ taken. years when they completed a clean sweep in the Six Tournament was our target. Nations championship in 2005. That summer saw him Due to commitments We aim to build upon these play in all three tests for the British & Irish Lions in New elsewhere we only had 3 foundations. Over the next few Zealand, where he was the player of the series. Battalion members available, months several Guardsmen however, Lt Col Bartle-Jones, a will be introduced to riding at With 73 caps at the end of the was killed by a rogue Afghan very experienced and skilled the Sandhurst stables with the 2012/13 season, Ryan is now policeman. The letter was player, kindly agreed to step hope being that they will catch one of a select group of just six distributed to all Welsh into the breach. Whilst the the bug and maybe next year Welshmen who have won Guardsmen and it had a three Grand Slams. Ryan has profound and positive results of the two matches find themselves in Tidworth for captained Wales on a record 32 influence on unit morale due to may have been slightly three days discovering how occasions, surpassing Ieuan Ryan’s high profile in Welsh predictable for such an exhilarating the game can be. Evans’s record. rugby. INTER REGIMENTAL POLO Ryan sent a letter to 1st In September 2012 some of the Brigadier R H Talbot Rice Battalion Welsh Guards during Battalion’s wives and our tour of Afghanistan in 2012 girlfriends (WAGS) took part in his year the Regiment fielded one of only five teams to enter expressing his sorrow at the a cycle ride and Ryan’s Tthe Inter Regimental competition this year: the team death of LCpl Lee Davies who contribution in the saddle included three Welsh Guardsmen – Brig Robert Talbot Rice (the Regtl Lt Col), Lt Col Guy Bartle-Jones, Capt (Retd) Rupert Hackwill (who came over from South Africa to play in the match); and was ably captained by Col Michael O’Dwyer IG.

Left to right: Brig R H Talbot Rice, Capt (Retd) R Hackwill, Col M O’Dwyer IG, Lt Col G Bartle-Jones Ryan Jones with the Triple Crown

BATTALION EVENTS 55 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

Brigadier Peter Williams breaking the fantastic news to the WAGs on Wheels Ryan Jones with the WAGS, some looking pretty rough after a few hours in the participants that they had raised £25,000. Ryan Jones is seen on the left of the saddle or perhaps an hour sleeping on the floor mats in the gymnasium. photograph after he had completed his turn in the saddle. Bit of lippy and some mascara wouldn’t go amiss girls! assisted in raising £25K for the Trophy in March 2013. As a Guardsman; some of those superb. We have all made a Welsh Guards Afghanistan rugby mad battalion, this win who attended may never be true friend in Ryan and the Appeal. Ryan has since visited had a hugely positive affect on the same again! £50K he has donated to our the unit on numerous morale and in the recuperation Appeal will boost our funds no Events still to go as this goes to occasions as part of his of a battle weary unit; Ryan’s end. But this year has not been press include a Question of testimonial year and he is a contribution was significant. about money, it has been hugely popular character with Sport event in Swansea, a Testimonial Events about getting involved in the young soldiers, all of Grand Finale in the Millennium countless events that have whom idolise Welsh rugby Welsh Guardsmen have been Centre in Cardiff where the taken place and having fun heroes. Ryan has been present at all of Ryan’s Welsh Guards Band will be along the way. Ryan is a true exceptionally generous to the testimonial events, from front and centre with high gentleman, he cares WGAA and has set aside £50K dinners in Cardiff to a race day profile names from the passionately about the boys from his testimonial to give in Llanelli, to a Boxing Night in entertainment industry. The and this is manifestly obvious directly to our Appeal. the Lancaster Hotel in London final event will be a dinner in every time he visits us or we go in which all fighters came from the Churchill War Rooms in Battalion Rugby to one of his events. the Battalion. Welsh early December where Col Tim Battalion rugby has also Guardsmen supported and Collins will be speaking. Thank you to Ryan from all benefitted enormously from took part in the RyanMan cycle Welsh Guardsmen, young, old, Ryan’s influence. Following ride from Pembroke to London, All in all this has been a past, present, injured and from several training sessions with stopping off in Cavalry fantastic project to have been the families of our deceased. the Battalion rugby team, Ryan Barracks along the way for a involved in. Ryan Jones is a We wish him well in his future gave an inspiring and much needed pit stop. The man mountain in Welsh and I am sure many of us will emotional speech immediately Battalion ran a combat sporting terms and his be watching closely as he prior to them taking to the field weekend for 20 civilians who contribution to the Welsh moves from rugby into the to win the Army Premiership had a taste of life as a Guards this year has been unknown world outside sport.

Ryan Jones in Wellington Barracks getting a feel for the uniform worn in Afghanistan Put a bit of effort in lovely boy… there’s still 4000 miles to go!

56 BATTALION EVENTS 1ST Battalion Welsh Guards Medals Parade, 6th December 2012, Cavalry Barracks, Hounslow

BATTALION EVENTS 57 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

CSgt Peters and LSgt Cunningham lifting the cup

attendance due to other totally rebuilt with the right BATTALION FOOTBALL 2013 commitments. To combat this balance of experience, youth WO2 AM Davies and coupled with the new and a new found appetite for Battalion football. It also 013 has been a busy time for the Battalion and during season starting in October, the demonstrated that the breaks in the work schedule the Battalion Football Battalion decided to hold the 2 Ellicott Cup at the end of Battalion has a very high team has been quietly ticking along. The squad has seen August. This is the football standard of footballers at its a change in Football Officer with Captain Miller getting equivalent of the 300 cup and disposal. The result of the posted in May and WO2 Davies taking the reins. the trophy is a lasting memory tournament itself saw Number of Gdsm David Ellicott who was 3 Company lift the trophy after Back in April Captain Miller In May the Battalion team a former Number 2 Company beating Support Company in took a squad of 12 on a joint played against the Royal Welsh the final. rugby/football sports tour. The team in Cardiff City stadium. member who was sadly killed tour consisted of 3 48 hour This was Captain Miller’s last prior to the Battalion deploying The future of Battalion Football stays, in 3 countries; Belgium, game as the football officer to Iraq. The tournament was a is very bright and I am France and Italy. In Belgium and was a fitting send off for a huge success enabling the anticipating a successful they stayed just outside person who had done much to squad to be stripped apart and season. Brussels and had a couple of raise the profile off the training sessions on the first Battalion team. day. The following day they After the end of the sports tour played a match against a local the Battalion went straight into team resulting in a 4-0 win. drill practice for Trooping the The visits to Italy and France Colour which resulted in had a similar pattern, resulting limited opportunities to in a 2-1 win against a local conduct training. When Italian team and 3-1 win training was held there was a against the French team. smaller than normal “The Battalion has a very high standard of footballers at its disposal.” Worthy runners up, Support Company Team

58 BATTALION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BATTLEFIELD TOURS

we were treated to a ten Association were there in force, course exceptionally delicious we were then hosted to an dinner (thank goodness the excellent lunch in the town hall portions were small) in a local with yet more speeches and restaurant and our hosts, the which usually turned into quite Executive Council members, a singsong. This year, however, could not have been more we were kindly invited to lunch generous. We certainly slept with Raf Truyens (the Mayor for well that night! many years and an Executive Sunday is always the day Council Member) and his Hechtel commemorates their family sitting out in his sun liberation. It follows the same drenched garden. We returned format every year, a march to London the next day. from the Town Hall to the Our trip had been most Church, a church service, a successful and Regimentally I march to the cemetery and think I can say that Hechtel, of then to the Town’s Monument, Regimental Adjutant receiving the Book Autumn Storms all the many places the 1st and from the author Gerard Wuyts a specially created place in 2nd Battalions fought through which stands a Sherman Tank. in NW Europe, we have one of The Service in the church is the closest bonds too. They go A TRIP TO HECHTEL always adapted to take into to enormous lengths to look 7 – 9 SEPTEMBER 2013 account our presence and the after us and are immensely Colonel T C S Bonas choir really do sing our proud of their connection to National Anthem well. The the Regiment. It is a special any readers of the Regimental Magazine will know local Band provide the place and I am hoping that for that each year the Mayor of Hechtel – Eksel invite the marching music (and they are M their 70th anniversary next very good), the locally based Welsh Guards to join them to remember and September we will once again Logistics Company provide the commemorate the liberation of Hechtel in early field a strong contingent. September 1944. The Association for a great many years Firing Party to fire volleys at the have accepted this invitation and, up and till recently, Cemetery and Monument and Finally, I have to mention a many of the Veterans Units and have sent a large contingent of Association members. man called Gerard Wuyts organisations (in the Region) whose father was murdered by provide the Standard Bearers. In the last couple of years, and morning of Saturday 7 the Germans in the town Speeches are given by the for a variety of reasons (costs, September, a trouble free during the battle. In 2004 he Mayor, who incidentally is a numbers, age), the Association journey. This was not so trying published a very detailed book new one this year (Jan have not been able to mount a to get out of Brussels with a on the battle of Hechtel with Dalemans), and I reply on Hechtel trip and which also hire car and what with trams, excellent pictures, maps and behalf of the coincided with visits to other tunnels, really inadequate sign illustrations, the only problem Regiment/Association. Whilst battle sites and laying wreaths posting and significant traffic for us being that it was in the days ceremonies are there in Cemeteries where Welsh we did not quite make the Flemish. But this year, and to to remember those who fell in Guardsmen are buried. Last timings we envisaged. But we my surprise, he presented me the battle of Hechtel as well as year Brigadier Johnny Rickett made it to Lommel (close to with his book “Autumn Storms the 35 towns people who were and his wife Fanny, kindly Hechtel) where we were over Hechtel” 6 – 12 September murdered by the Germans represented the booked into quite a chic hotel 1944 in perfect English. It was a during the week, it is Regiment/Association and this with an excellent restaurant lovely touch and I look forward year myself, Vivien and Brian nevertheless rather a colourful and bar area. The Council to showing it to those able to and Sandra Keane attended. affair. would not hear of us paying for make the trip next year. We duly set off from St Pancras the hotel which was incredibly With the ceremonies finished (Hechtel will be on Sunday 7 on Eurostar to Brussels on the generous of them. That night by 1 pm, and when the September 2014).

BATTLEFIELD TOURS 59 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

www.walkonwales.org

cheering us on our way. The Mr Cameron what the walk was hospitality that all participants all about. were shown by the local and So, to the final day where over wider communities touched us 400 people arrived in Sully for all very deeply and is the drumhead service. As Sam something we will both cherish Bossi’s team lead us through and never forget. Penarth and past the pier, so Inevitably, as our team of the numbers of walkers grew walkers entered its final stages, and as we were led by the Band numbers began to swell with of the Welsh Guards up to the up to 160 walkers joining daily. steps of the Senedd, there were WALK ON WALES The days were filled with over 700 walkers, stretching Captain Jan Koops laughter and chatter as old back across the Barrage. It was friends were reunited (often a truly wonderful and fter a full year of organisation, Walk on Wales was after up to 30 years apart) and inspirational sight. launched from the steps of the Senedd in Cardiff by A the banter flowed, embracing Over the duration of the Walk Lord Guthrie, our President, following the blessing of the everyone on this magical we have managed to raise over baton at Llandaff Cathedral. The ensuing ten weeks saw journey. And mention must be £350,000 with further funds the beautiful baton, engraved with the names of the 50 made of the very kind invitation still being collected. It is not too Welsh Guardsmen killed in active service since WWII, by the Prime Minister to attend late to donate, which you are travel the entire length of the stunning Welsh coastline. a reception in 10 Downing able to do by going to the Street on Tuesday 29 October home page of our website at Starting with Team 1, the baton and the diversity of the where Jan Koops and Dai www.walkonwales.org and was passed on to each of the beautiful coastline, gave Graham were able to explain to clicking on the ‘Donate’ button. eleven teams as the Walk everyone who took part a progressed round Wales, with sense of joy and contentment. local events taking place From the start, the Walk was during each stage, co- supported by an impressive ordinated by each of the flow of new and diverse teams. The Walk would never walkers, all brought together have achieved all it did without under our wonderful family the selfless and inspiring ‘umbrella’. Each and every leadership that these Team town and village that we Leaders demonstrated. passed through did their bit to Each morning, often with support the walkers and the family members in attendance, two charities, the Welsh one of the names on the baton Guards Afghanistan Appeal was commemorated during a and Combat Stress, for whom drumhead service before the we were raising money. The walkers set off. In this way village of Aberporth gave us each day of the Walk had its the most humbling welcome own special focus which, when with school children, along combined with many with their families and friends, colourful, interesting walkers lining the streets, singing and

“Over the duration of the Walk we have managed to raise over £350,000.”

60 WALK ON WALES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE WALK ON WALES

WALK ON WALES 61 was hot and so was the and will contest the Cup with COLONEL IN CHIEF’S CUP GOLF competition. The Welsh Guards ever more fervour next year. team met the Grenadier COMPETITION 2013 Our team were runners up and Captain (Retd) Peter Richardson Guards in the semi –final, won the Colonel’s Prize, the formerly Welsh Guards winning all of our matches. team consisted of (see photo) Household Cavalry defeated seated: Capt Peter Richardson, he preliminary rounds of the Cup were held at by narrowest of Robin Malcolm, standing: Col margins. Holes up were tied, Worplesdon Golf Club on 4th April. There were 9 team Sandy Malcolm, Lt Col Guy T each side had won one match entries representing every Regiment of the Household Bartle-Jones, Robbie O’Rourke, and the countback procedure Division. Captain Andrew Morgan. was used for the first time to (Captain Ben Bardsley played decide the one halved match. in the preliminary rounds) Each team consisted of 6 would have to be abandoned The Household Cavalry won by players that played foursomes because of a blizzard. virtue of being one up as they The trophies and prizes were (alternate shots) in pairs. We Astonishingly the snow melted stood on the 18th tee for the presented by Robin Malcolm, received a bye in the morning as if by magic and the fight halved match. In the final the Captain of the Guards Golfing Society. matches and met the continued to a very Household Cavalry defeated Coldstream Guards in the satisfactory result for the Welsh Welsh Guards by 3 holes up, Should any Welsh Guardsman afternoon. Each of our pairs Guards. winning two matches and wish to join the Guards Golfing managed to win and overall losing one. The Household Society either as full or won by 11 holes up. The games The finals were held at Cavalry were fortunate this associate members please were played in very cold Worplesdon at the end of year but their ascendancy may contact Peter Richardson by conditions and at one time it August in stark contrast to that be nearing its end as the Welsh e mail looked likely that the golf of the earlier rounds, the sun Guards are narrowing the gap [email protected]

62 ASSOCIATION EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE WELSH GUARDSINDIVIDUALREGIMENTAL ARTICLES MAGAZINE

OTHER ARTICLES

border into Belgium. One cannot imagine their feeling and those of their countrymen who greeted them after four years of occupation. They entered Brussels on 4th September under the command of a distinguished Welsh Guardsman, Brigadier Sir Alexander Stanier whose 231 Brigade had landed on D- Day and was temporarily attached to the . Brigadier Stanier recalled, “I took them up to the outskirts of Brussels so they could enter the city together with the leading British troops. The Brigade fought in the and by which time they also included Belgians who had joined them Brigadier Sir Alexander Stanier Inspecting the Training Battalion at Sandown Park St David’s Day 1944 after liberation. It was a long road from Tenby in 1940 to Munster in 1945 and there FROM TENBY TO GERMANY were many casualties. One The Crusade of the Belgian Brigade Piron who stayed the course was Roy Lewis Armand Poupaert who with his family escaped from his n May 1940 the Germans invaded neutral Belgium and home town of Ostend in May Iafter eighteen days of fighting against overwhelming 1940. They fled by boat to odds King Leopold surrendered. Southampton and settled in war-time Britain. The Belgium Government and Headquarter was in the Armand joined the Brigade in many soldiers and civilians Atlantic Hotel in Tenby where Tenby and served with it until escaped to Britain and formed there is a plaque to the end of the war. He got to a government and an army in commemorate their stay there. know Wales very well and look exile. The new Belgian army From being 450 strong in 1940 a liking to it’s mountains, so Tilbury on the 3rd August 1944 was created in Tenby three the Brigade increased to 2000 different from the flat days before the Belgian Officers and men in 1944. They for Europe. They entered active landscape of Belgium. He Infantry Brigade took shape trained in many camps Wales service on th 9th August and drove a Bren Gun carrier and under the command of Major including Carmarthen, fought their way through while weaving his way through Jean-Baptiste Piron. It became Crickhowell and Chepstow France until the great day the crowds in Brussels saw his known as the Brigade Piron. before they embarked at came when they crossed the cousin, neither had known if

OTHER ARTICLES 63 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

THE LONGEST JOURNEY - Falklands Revisited Lieutenant Colonel (r) Tony Davies OBE Chairman Falklands Veterans Foundation (RSM 1 Welsh Guards 1982)

aving travelled to the Falkland Islands some dozen Htimes in the past decade, on Pilgrimages and Charity Business regarding Liberty Lodge, I have seen the benefit that hundreds of Veterans had received from such visits.

With this in mind, together Ben Parry slept all the way, with the C.E.O., Derek (Smokey) Everett never shut up and both Cole, I proceeded to plan a Bill and Nicky Mott kept Welsh Guards orientated bumping into people they Pilgrimage to take place during knew, which did have its February 2013. With the help advantages as we later were to of several of our Island Friends experience. On arrival at Mount we soon came up with a very Pleasant we were met by our interesting and workable old friend and veteran, Gary itinerary. Both Smokey and I Clements Royal Marine,in the Battlefield Tour 2003, Leopoldsburg, Military Museum. have visited the Islands three Liberty Lodge Mini Bus and Armand Poupaert rides a Bren gun Carrier for the first in 60 years. With him is Padre Willie Pryor times in the past year so it was taken to Stanley. Everyone by not difficult to put everything now wide awake and picking the other was still alive. While visited each other’s countries in place. I then set about the out, some way off route, some on duty in Dover Armand had for dinners and official selection process, the result, a of the old landmarks from 1982. combination of who would met Audrey who was serving occasions. Liberty Lodge, an idea want to go, who might benefit in the Wrens and when he conceived by Smokey, owned, In September the Welsh Guards from the Pilgrimage, and returned to Britain in 1952 they built and run by the Falklands Association went to Belgium to indeed who would add were married. He worked in Veterans Foundation, on land mark the 30th anniversary of something to the whole the motor trade in London but donated by The Falklands its liberation and the part experience. with his memories of Wales in Island Government, is a haven played by two Welsh Guards mind on retirement moved The journey South, was as in the South Atlantic for Battalions who were in the permanently to Abergavenny expected a little tedious! R.A.F. Veterans and families of Guards Armoured Division. where they soon found friends Civilian Charter flight, arrive at Veterans who took part in the Jean-Baptiste Piron, then a in the Monmouthshire Branch Brize Norton at 7pm, take off at South Atlantic Conflict of 1982. General, was present at the of the Welsh Guards 11pm, 9.5 hours to Ascension It is supported by major Ex Association. parade in Brussels but Island, off the plane for 2 hours Service Charities and, to date, tragically died sitting beside Sir Armand was an associate and back on for another 8. The since its’ opening in 2009, not a Alexander Stanier, the member and he and Audrey good news, no delays. We single veteran or family Brigadier who had led him and rarely failed to attend a arrived at the Islands, some member has been charged a his men across the border in gathering or the Branch or the more refreshed than others, fee for its use. Run by a local September 1944. annual Welsh Guards Battle Field tour when Armand In June 2013 Armand Poupaert, returned to many places he a lively and active man all his had fought in as a young life suddenly died aged 91 in soldier. A native of Ostend he his adopted home town of spoke French as well as Abergavenny and is survived Flemish and was often called by Audrey. His funeral service upon to interpret when the amid the mountains he loved tour party needed it. was particularly moving and He was overjoyed to meet when Welsh Guardsmen acted former members of his Brigade as bearers and provided a when the Monmouthshire guard of honour. The Branch Branch formed links with the Standard was displayed as a West Flanders Branch of the tribute to a very special Brigade Piron Association and member and friend. Davies, Nicky Mott, Andy Brinkworth, Bill Mott

64 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE OTHER ARTICLES

manager and administered slightly in order not to confuse Thomas 03, was killed by an Mahoney and his Milan Team, from the FVF UK Office, we the reader, (who may have Argentine shell during the Kevin Sincock, helped out 42 totally rely on grants and been there), on the route and battles for the “run-in” to Commando in taking out donations from Charities, order of march we took in Stanley. In the background can Argentine strong points during businesses and those who stay 1982. Contrary to popular be seen Mount William and their attack. We then made a at the Lodge for its upkeep. belief by some media Tumbledown to the left on the very poignant trip to the top of There are four double/twin operatives, The Welsh Guards crest. In order for visitors to Mount Tumbledown, where rooms incorporating a flat, did play a further part in 1982 recognise the site, a new Cairn Ron Mackenzie, (RSM 2 S.G.) in disabled facilities and many after the Sir Galahad was has been built on the road near 1982, talked us through the more attributes. It boasts to be bombed on 8th June. the minefield, outside which attack. Ron ably supported by the cross and tributes lie. Just a one of the finest houses in Then came visits to San Carlos us all, read the Scots Guards mile further down the road Stanley. On Rowland’s Rise, Military Cemetery, The Collect and laid a tribute at the towards Stanley, we also overlooking the entrance to Museum and on to Goose cross on the crest of Mount stopped at the site of the Scots Stanley harbour, it is situated Green, Darwin and the Tumbledown. A very moving Guards diversionary attack, on one of the best plots on East Argentine Cemetery. En route experience. prior to the main attack on Falkland. This together with the we had stopped at the spot Tumbledown on the night of A day later we then held a granting of Indulgence where L/Cpl Thomas 03 was the 13th June. This is where Service at the Welsh Guards Facilities to all 1982 Medal killed below Wall Mountain on D/Sgt Danny Wight and L/Cpl Memorial at Fitzroy, on the Holders, has ensured a steady 13th June 1982. headland overlooking the site stream of occupants annually. Pashley R.E. died attacking where the Sir Galahad and Sir www.falklandsveterans.org.uk The photograph with Davies, Argentine trenches. We then Nicky Mott, Andy Brinkworth with our local guides, went to Tristram were bombed on 8th Suitably refreshed we set and Bill Mott was taken at the the top of Mount Harriet, when June 1982. Equally as the day about the visits programme, place where L/Cpl Christopher during the night attack, L/sgt previous, a very emotional starting where we all landed, at the jetty in San Carlos Water. “Contrary to popular belief by some media operatives, Although our visits described here are as they took place, I The Welsh Guards did play a further part in 1982 after the have juggled them around Sir Galahad was bombed on 8th June.”

OTHER ARTICLES 65 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

in Action during the conflict, at South, apart from my own first Teal Inlet. We also managed to pilgrimage, I would without a visit Sapper Hill, Mount doubt say that this to me was Longdon, The HMS Glamorgan the most beneficial. I am Memorial near Gypsy Cove and certain none of us had not the Penguin wildlife sanctuary laughed, yes cried, nor felt so at North Shore. The 1982 close to each other, since we all Memorial In Port Stanley and left the services. All the first had a very moving visit to the time “returnees” were Garden of Remembrance extremely moved by their where there is a tree planted experiences, all delighted to with the name of every person meet with, socialise with and killed in 1982. experience at first hand exactly All ten of us were hosted by the how the Islanders themselves Ron MacKenzie Governor, His Excellency Nigel felt. This, in turn helped them understand exactly what they experience. Three of those sister of Gdsm Paul Green who Haywood at Government had gone through. To see what present had been injured and was killed on the ship. The House, and also generously has transpired since 1982, to as a result, casualty evacuated Manager of Liberty Lodge, wined and dined at Tim and feel the sorrow, gratitude and after that fateful air attack. Ellen Davis, also Tim and Jan Jan Miller’s house, (where we total togetherness from the (several others took place after Miller, great friends, hosts and sang for our supper), and the Islanders themselves, I am the ships were hit). Three supporters of all Welsh following night again at Ian others had also been on the Guardsmen who have and Sheila Stewart’s house. At certain has helped everyone of ship and luckily escaped returned in the past fifteen the Miller’s House we formed those present. They now all uninjured. The wind was years or so to the Islands. the 8 plus 2 Club, (82). Eight want to go back again, all blowing at 75 miles an hour Taffs, a Jock and a Matelot! made new friends during their On the morning of 14th June which unfortunately prevented Agreed to meet every year trip and I am certain, are all 1982, the rest of the Battalion, us launching the boat to take from henceforth, and Ron better able to deal with their supported by two Companies MacKenzie duly elected as first us over the site to lay a wreath. own “issues” from 1982. They of 40 Commando, carried out a chair. As it was formed in Tim Not to be deterred, The are now also far more heli-borne assault on Sapper and Jan Miller’s house, we also Reverend Richard Hines, knowledgeable as to what they Hill, shortly after which was made them honorary Stanley Cathedral, conducted a took part in, during the when the Argentine forces members. service at the memorial. Ben Falklands War. capitulated and the surrender Parry read the Roll of Honour Having been involved in announced. The importance of such visits and Andy Brinkworth laid the organising and assisting many cannot be over emphasised, Wreath. As well as the 10 We also, during the Pilgrimage pilgrimages for veterans and the benefits of which everyone Pilgrims present were, Carol managed to visit the some family members, of all who has been will testify to. Green and her husband Phil, Internment Site for all our Killed the trips that I have made More than a number of members of the Task Force of 1982 are still experiencing problems in coming to terms with their experiences. We still have many veterans calling on the expertise of Combat Stress and other Service Charities for help, and in the main, this is not purely financial. We are very grateful for the Continued Support received from the Army Benevolent Fund (The Soldier’s Charity), and other Service Charities. We would also like to thank the Welsh Guards Benevolent Fund who also assisted in making this trip the tremendous success that it Service at Fitzroy was. Thank you.

66 OTHER ARTICLES OUT OF AFRICA COMES A MULTI-FACETED DIAMOND

OTHER ARTICLES 67 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

OUT OF AFRICA COMES A MULTI-FACETED DIAMOND Chris Beynon eorge Morgan began his long and interesting life on G14th January 1931. He was born in Roath, Cardiff and was educated at Roath Park Boys School.

Upon leaving, he went to work George has more gongs on his for Great Western Railways at chest than my brother Sylvest- Cardiff for three years before (can any of us match him?): enlisting in 1st Battalion Welsh British GSM clasp NI, South Guards in July 1948. Arabia, Borneo, George, it must be said wore commendation LSGG. caps, hats, beret and kepis of PJM (Malasia) DMM (Rhodesia varying shapes and sizes GSM (Rhodesia) throughout his military career Zimbabwe Independence that even James Lock & Son Medal, South African GSM, would be hard pressed to keep Internal Ops & External Ops, track of. Welsh Guards, South African – oh bother it, Rhodesian and Nvasaland Staff my hands got cramp! He has Corps, 6th (Independent) more variety than Heinz – and Company Rhodesia Regiment, they were established in 1869. 2nd South African Infantry George has written a really Battle Group, 701 Battalion interesting account of his life South West Africa Defence serving King, Queen and Force and Special Duties country which will be produced Witwatersrand Command, in full in Welsh Guards centenary South African Defence Force! rugby book. I hope this article Oh, and 14th Int!! Bare headed and assorted photographs whet there, mind you. your appetite.

distinguished Welsh of finishing school and after THE ARTIST AND THE MASTER COOK Guardsman, Sir Carol Mather training Guardsmen joined Roy Lewis once said, “Apart from a one of the three Service Battalions. acing and the Welsh Guards have close links and wooded knoll there was no green grass at all except that of particularly with one of the country’s most famous Local houses were R the racecourse itself which was courses, Sandown Park in Esher. requisitioned for some of the flat as a pancake.” But Pirbright men and also a platoon of the The newly formed 1st Battalion was one major difference and Bisley were near where Auxiliary Territorial Army (ATS), trained there between March between Caterham and new Guardsmen daily fired Lee twenty women who carried and June 1915 and the Sandown Park, especially Enfield rifles and Bren Guns, out administrative duties Regiment’s Training Battalion freedom to walk out into Esher threw grenades and came to under the command of a moved to Sandown Park in or Kingston, a luxury rarely terms with a projector Anti- Sergeant. They wore the Leek June 1940 where it was based enjoyed in the Depot where tank weapon, the PIAT which on their uniforms and became until August 1946. attempts to “walk out” very had a kick like a mule. part of the family. often resulted in staying in After surviving one of the There was no assault course Among the many great after being thwarted by the strictest basic training regimes but field training took place characters who served there Sergeant of the Guards at the in the Army at the Guards where horses once ran and the was Joseph William Isaacs, main gate. Depot, Caterham recruits men slept in stables and tote known as Joe in the family and became Guardsmen and Training facilities at Sandown buildings and drilled on the car Ike in the Regiment. He was entered a new world. Freedom Park were limited as a park. It was a military version born in Abertillery, Monmouth

68 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE OTHER ARTICLES

in 1903. After working in a December 1941 in the Middle local colliery he sought a better East and Sergeant Isaacs the LE CHEMIN DE LA LIBERTÉ life and joined the Welsh - following one of the hardest wartime Training Battalion Master Cook. escape routes across the central Guards in 1923, Regimental The portrait of Sergeant Isaacs Pyrenees into northern Spain number 2731610. He served in hangs in Regimental Paul de Zulueta the 1st Battalion at home and Headquarters and there is a in Egypt and in 1938 qualified copy in the Guards Museum in as a Master Cook Class 1. Wellington Barracks. According He served in Wellington to Ray Isaacs when his father Barracks at the same time of served overseas he lost the top the Coronation of King George join of his finger when mincing V1 and his son Ray recalls him meat which seems to be saying he received the restored in the portrait. Coronation Medal “in He was one of many great recognition of the number of characters of his time and was eggs I cooked to feed the at Sandown Park when exceptional number of troops tragedy struck in nearby Imber in the Barracks.” Ray Court on Sunday 30th June remembers being on the roof 1944. In the midst of sports day of the Officers Mess and seeing The author and son at the Col de Pecouch, the Spanish frontier immediately behind them at the Metropolitan Police the Mounted Regiments or the ground a V1 flying bomb Indian Army forming up to join n the night of 12th September 1943, a 19 year old the Coronation procession. landed and killed twenty and Omountain guide and ‘passeur’, Louis Barreau, was wounding more. Eighteen betrayed by French collaborators - ‘La Milice’. Surrounded After a brief spell in the newly Welsh Guardsmen, one Army by German troops in an isolated barn, now ablaze, above formed 2nd Battalion he Physical Corps NCO and a served in the Training Battalion the village of Sentenac-d’oust, he dashed for safety private in the ATS lost their towards the Bois de Plantach. Louis Barreau was cut down in October 1939 until his lives. discharge in October 1945, a before he made 50 metres. Ray Isaacs is a very loyal legend in lifetime and one Sixty years on, almost to the climbing to over 8000 ft with Associate Member of the privileged to have his portrait day, my younger son, Hughie, an unnerving number of London Branch of the Welsh painted by one of the nation and I stood at the marble cross ascents and descents each Guards Association and it is greatest artists who was killed marking the spot where Louis day. Over the course of the War, easy to see why. His father was serving in the 2nd Battalion in was murdered. By then we had there were some 35,000 active in the branch after his Normandy. walked for just three hours and successful escapes across the retirement and was present at Rex Whistler, a famous painter 14 kilometres along the ‘ Pyrenees by French men and Sandown Park in November of murals, books illustrator and Chemin de la Liberte’ from women alone; and around 1946 when the Colonel of The stage designer was aged 35 France to Spain. As I gulped 6,000 by Allied servicemen – Regiment, The Earl of Gowrie when he volunteered for some water, Hughie lingered at mostly aircrew. But of these, VC, unveiled a plaque service in 1940 and was the memorial lost in thought. only 782 escaped over the commissioned into the commemorating the He was the same age as Louis mountains of the Ariège – the Regiment. Everywhere he was occupation of the 1st Battalion had been at his death. Chemin de la Liberté, a fact that stationed he painted and in the Great War and the bears witness to its difficulty. The Chemin de la Liberté, is when the Guards Armoured Training Battalion in the one of several escape routes The “good escapee” says the Division was formed he second. from France to Spain and, at 1944 document Tips for designed the Divisional sign Joe Isaacs worked in the Grade Five difficulty, its most escapers and evaders “is the which was based on the “Eye” catering trade after completing taxing. The trail runs from the man who keeps himself fit, which the Guards Division of 22 years in the Regiment but bridge over the Salut river in cheerful and comfortable; a 1915-18 had worn. his retirement was sadly cut Saint-Girons (100kms south of man with sound common Whilst at Sandown Park Rex short when he died aged 52. Toulouse) to Esterri d’Aneu in sense, and above all a man of Whistler painted two portraits, The portrait of him keeps his Spain. The escape route is just great determination.”I could one of fellow Officer Jock memory alive and thanks to his over 50 miles, 35 hours of not recall any such description Lewes a founder member of son Ray his story has now strenuous plodding, starting at from my army confidential the SAS who was killed in the been told. a height of 1290 ft and reports. And I began to

OTHER ARTICLES 69 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

father, Norbert Barreau and 3,000ft. But at least the day Louis’s uncle, Jean. The name seemed set fair. The mountain Barreau remains revered in the ponies of the Merens breed, Ariege region. sturdy and Jet black, and so At first glance, the second day legend has it, used as pack from Aunac to La Cabane de horses during Napoleon’s Subera with just 16 kilometres march on Moscow in 1812, to walk seemed relatively roamed the upper slopes of the trifling. But the geology of the Pic de Lampau; vultures, kites, Ariège region of the Pyrenees, eagles and buzzards with their dominated by jagged plaintive ‘pee-weeeee’ sound limestone rocks, swept above us. Mediterranean vegetation, the After two hours climbing, we The author passing the crashed remains of a Halifax bomber' grass sharp to the touch, came across the wreckage of a makes for hard going. The four-engined Halifax bomber wonder about my motivation I remember that night getting weather the week before had which crashed here during the not been kind and the path for such an arduous journey. into my goosedown filled last days of the War. A stone became steep and sticky, The Welsh Guards had given sleeping bag, headtorch on, plaque in memory of Flight- climbing up 2,000ft to the Col me the priceless gift of reading Rosemary Bartlett’s Sergeant Donald Thorne and de la Core, down a few friendship and a lasting biography of Tolstoy, a six other crew members marks hundred feet then up again to affection for ‘adventurous miniature bottle of Lagavulin – their final resting place – a the Col de Soulard (5,210ft). training’ ever since a failed cask strength – jostling for commemorative wreath of From there, It was a steepish attempt to complete the ‘haute attention to my side and fading poppies placed in 2004 descent to the refuge at La route’ across the Alps in the thinking it is life’s contrasts by former members of 644 Cabane de Subera (4,946ft) – spring of 1978. The evenings that give it such joy. Squadron – tied to the plaque. I our billet for the second night. were also beginning to draw in September 1943. We tried not The Cabane has no warden felt both proud and on that wonderful ceremony to lose sight of what it must and we had rather hoped for inexpressibly sad and thought of innocence of carefree have been like for an escapee solitude, but found ourselves of the final scene of Blackadder holidays with my two sons, the then. Wearing espadrilles, a sharing the manky bunk beds Goes Forth and Lieutenant elder now hard at work in the tatty suit, maybe an overcoat with five Frenchmen who were George’s request for City; the younger, my stuffed with a few sausages there until the snow arrived in “permission for lower lip to companion on this journey, and cheese, but little else to early October ‘refurbishing’ the wobble, sir”. now in his penultimate year at sustain them. Hughie and I hut. After a few skirmishes in university. I was touched he At around 1pm we made it to were‘ Northfaced up’, a toasty our O level French, we lapsed felt the same. the Col de Craberous at 8,000ft. refuge hut to look forward to into a few desultory hand Swivel-eyed marmots sitting And so we completed the first most evenings, a chef to rustle signals. Sleep should have bolt upright on the boulders come easily but, for me, it day from Saint Girons to the up a warming stew, and little leading up to the Col observed rarely does above 5,000ft, not manned refuge hut at Aunac – prospect of being ambushed our progress. I remember helped by one of the 23 kilometres and ten hours of by a patrol from SS Das Reich. I remarking to my son, Hughie, Frenchmen, Algerian in meandering paths, a compass tried also not to forget the 102 ‘ “Well, we’ve broken the back of appearance, who got up every bearing here and there, a passeurs’, men like Louis this little jaunt”. In my two hours to make himself a longed for lunch of salami and Barreau who acted as guides experience such a sentiment is cup of tea. strong Pyrenean cheese at the on the escape routes who always a precursor to a sharp village of Alos with its “lavoir” were either shot out of hand, We started day three unrested reversal in fortune. In my of ice cold water to replace the or met an even grimmer end in and a little anxious. We only complacency, lolling under the five litres we had drunk a Nazi concentration camp. had eight miles to walk but cornflower blue sky, I looked between us before lunch. Their names included Louis’s with two climbs of just under across to the Col de Pécouch and reckoned we had just “I felt both proud and inexpressibly sad and thought of the three hours walking until our arrival at the Refuge des final scene of Blackadder Goes Forth and Lieutenant George’s Estagnous, one of the more request for “permission for lower lip to wobble, sir”. well-appointed huts in the

70 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE OTHER ARTICLES

Pyrenees, with not one, but working in the hut from May to two chefs. I forgot all I had October, viewed me with tired been taught, failed even to disdain but was good enough take a compass bearing, and to give us a bowl of steaming toddled off barely casting a rice before we rolled into our backwards glance at the clouds sleeping bags. I slept fitfully, rolling in from the Vallée de beating myself up over such a Bethmale below. rooky error of judgement, a torchlight procession of ‘what The afternoon unravelled. We ifs’ running through my mind. took what I thought was the quicker route to the base of Mt The next morning the fine Valier’s peak, now cloaked in weather had returned, and the heavy cloud and mist, then a views and route to the Col de traverse for 50 minutes to the Pécouch pixel sharp. But the Look what's behind you! the author oblivious to an impending reversal of fortune' Col de Pecouch marked by day before had worn us both navigation cairns. But once you out, and all that we could ignore the French guide gras, boeuf de Chalosse, miss one cairn, you are likely to manage was to climb to the Col standing next to me. chariot des fromages; and the miss the lot and the mind soon de Pécouch and clamber down Armagnac soufflé. Towards the “Rassurez-vous, il sera clair au begins to play games, to the Refuge des Estagnous. end of dinner, I said to Hughie, sommet.” imaginary routes appearing We were now just three hours here and there, all rational from the Spanish frontier to the Clear at the summit it may have “Promise me you’ll have a crack thought slipping quickly away. south. It must have been an been, but I reminded myself at this again when you are 57, uplifting moment for those 782 that goals in life, though with one of your children, God Some four and a half hours who escaped this way during important as an aiming mark, willing? later, I said to Hughie, as calm the War, weary to the point of often reveal an unconscious and steadfast a companion as His face wore a somewhat collapse, ravenous with wider purpose. We decided to one could hope to have, “look, quizzical almost mocking air. hunger, but Churchill’s ‘broad, begin the three and a half hour I’m sorry, I really haven’t much sunlit uplands’, within their descent to the pre- arranged “Papa, I rather hoped at 57 I of a clue where we are, cock-up grasp. pick up at the Aire d’acquel, would be on my yacht city Idaho beckons, we’d better content that we had shared an somewhere in the southern try and make our way back to We tucked into a lunch of pate, experience whose memory Peloponnese, you’ll be 94 then where we had lunch.” He cheese and salami with an ‘ice cold in Alex’ beer. Within half would endure. and I hope still with us, looked concerned and touched whiskey sour in hand.” my face affectionately with his an hour we had slipped into Val There remained some left hand. “I think you’re right d’Isère mode, basking in the unfinished business: the We smiled and raised our dad, you do look pooped.” early autumn sun. With a Michelin One Star restaurant in glasses to one another as the twinge of guilt I remarked to Saint Girons. We chose the 35 waiter wheeled in the Retracing your steps. Easily Hughie, Euro menu: gateau de fois Armagnac soufflé. said; never easily done in life. Stumbling across scree and “It’s still a beautiful day, we’ve snow, my boots so sure footed got five hours left of sunlight, in the Chilterns now like shall we press on, back for dinner by 7, I would have dancing pumps, we shuffled thought?” down Mt Valier’s north face, giving each other quiet words Hughie raised an eyebrow, of encouragement from time smiled and carried on reading to time. We got back to the his book. Refuge des Espugues, where “Well, it was just an idea,” I said. we’d had lunch, at 7pm, two Mars bars and a bag of nuts The next morning was our final between us but, fortunately, chance to make it to the plenty of water from the frontier. It was raining hard source at the refuge. The and we could barely see ten shepherdess, living and feet in front of us. I chose to Navigation cairns, what navigation cairns!

OTHER ARTICLES 71 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

THE WELSH GUARDS 1916 CORNET Jeff Heenan. (Hon. Secretary London Branch)

n December 2012, John Tipton and his wife Betty, (John's Ifather was in the Welsh Guards and John and Betty have been Associate Members of the London Branch Welsh Guards Association for over 30 years) saw a BBC Antiques Roadshow, which showed a musical instrument called a cornet which had been presented to the Welsh Guards by HRH The Prince of Wales in 1916, and used in France during the Great War.

The cornet belongs to Paul ** According to the Royal the recruitment officer told me cornet has a lot of sentimental Gratrix, from Swansea. John Archives, it is thought that the that I would go to Kneller Hall value to me as I have had it in contacted the BBC who Cornet was presented by HRH for my training and start on my possession for 22 years. forwarded his query to The Prince of Wales to the bottom rank. I questioned this I am willing to loan the Paul Gratrix: Welsh Guards in France in and explained about my instrument to Regimental 1916,to mark the naming of degree but was told I could go And the story unfolds: The Prince of Wales Company. Headquarters Welsh Guards in as an Officer with a degree for on the understanding that Paul writes: The valves are individually in anything except a at any time I wish to have the bandsman and I would have to The story starts when I was 14 numbered 13, 14 and 15 which cornet back it will be returned start at the bottom. (22 years ago). I was a tuba indicates that it must have to me. belonged to one person. player (and still am) and As you can imagine this was a I have always been interested I understand the importance discovered the cornet for sale bit of a shock and when I in finding out who this cornet of the instrument in relation to in a flea market. It was without explained this to my father he belonged to and would hope the history of the Welsh Guards case, dented and black all over. stated that he would not this could be made possible. and the anniversary year. I purchased it as I was entertain the idea of me joining collecting musical instruments. It was an amazing coincidence on bottom rank as he had paid Paul Gratrix When I arrived home I cleaned that when I found the cornet so much money to keep me at (Our thanks to John Tipton, the cornet to discover the I was already planning a career university. It was with great Paul Gratrix and Nick Farr for following inscriptions: in the Welsh Guards as a sadness that I was forced to informing us about this part bandsman! I applied to join "This cornet was presented to choose a different career. The of The Welsh Guards History.) when I completed my GCSE the Welsh Guards by H.R.H. The results and was told that Prince of Wales and used in because they were good France during “The Great War" results I should consider A- the front of the cornet says : levels. I took this advice and did WG. 1. 1916. A-levels. Having passed these I ‘History of the Welsh Guards’, returned to "Sign up" and was by Dudley Ward. told to consider doing a degree and that with a degree I could The King had approved (19th enter as an Officer and would March 1915) of the King’s start on a higher wage. I again Colour, The Regimental Colour took this advice and and the eight Company successfully won a place at the Colours. He also conferred a Royal College of Music to study. further distinction on the Regiment by sanctioning the On completion of my degree (5 title of ‘The Prince of Wales’ years) I returned once again to Company, for the leading sign up to the Guards. As I was company of the 1st Battalion.” about to sign up to the Guards

72 OTHER ARTICLES WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE OTHER ARTICLES

SOME ACTIVITIES OF THE EAST GLAMORGAN BRANCH DURING 2013 Robert Kennelly (Associate member East Glamorgan Branch)

he East Glamorgan Branch continues to be a success Twith an average of 12 members attending every month. In this we a blessed by having the facility of the Gelliwasted Club in the middle of the town and a very cosy assembly room given over to our Branch.

Sadly during the last year we Our annual trip to Imber was have lost our 2 remaining well supported with about 30 Great Hall at Westminster wartime members, Lionel members attending. During Gowen and Glan Hughes, our visit were again reminded Lionel served at the end of the of the dreadful events of the war in Belgium and then that faithful and the grave loss Palestine. Glan joined the of life that occurred by woeful Welsh Guards in 1945 but remained in the UK as a driver - happenstance. It is so sad to we miss them very much. think of those fine young men and the sacrifice they made in The Branch has three very 1944, now very much part of active officers: Howard Main, Welsh Guards history. Ken Haines and John Hooper. During the past year we have We also never forget our little organised two very well ceremony in Ynysangharad subscribed days’ out - the first Park to honour the six lads of being to Parliament in June the town who fell in the Capt. Mark Adams MM. PSAO C Comp 3 Royal Welsh Pontypridd followed by our now annual Falklands war, once again the trip to Imber Court. The London members turned out with trip was a most interesting day and a great experience for all, ladies in style for our lads. but be warned - from the Great We had a most interesting Hall of Westminster to join the address from Captain Mark walking tour there are a Adams, the PSAO of the Royal number of steps to climb, Welsh at the Broadway TA rather a hard pull for some of centre. He told of one of his our older members. It was a beautiful warm evening when winter tours in Bosnia and the we set out to return home - problems to overcome in that then as we entered Cheney benighted part of the world, Walk Chelsea we stopped -and the cold being just one of one hour later we were still in them. .As a young soldier Cheney Walk, totally snarled up during a tour of Sneakey Falklands Memorial, Ynysangharad Park in the chaos that is London Beakies in , traffic. It took a bit off the edge Corporal Adams as he was of the day as our supper then, received a Military Medal arrangements at the Sally for his efforts there. Our next Pusey pub in Wotton Basset at event will be an address by junction 16 had to be cancelled. (It is worth noting by Catrin Collier our most famous “He told of one of his winter tours in any Branches on the M4 that author from the town and Bosnia and the problems to overcome in the Sally Pusey is well worth a whose father served as visit, £8 for a carvery meal - wartime Welsh Guardsman; that benighted part of the world, the cold enough for a Guardsman!) we look forward to it greatly. being just one of them.”

OTHER ARTICLES 73 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

THE WELSH GUARDS COLLECTION

Thomas Plant with Stan Evans Shrewsbury branch of the KSLI and their Ladies

THE WELSH GUARDS COLLECTION out for Thomas doing a stag! experience. Our season really gets going at Through natural wastage, age, Established 1995 Easter weekend but as you will ill health other commitments President: Brigadier J F Rickett CBE recall the whole Country was etc, we have lost two more Chairman: Colonel T C S Bonas flooded out and Park Hall was staff this year. Our Building Treasurer: Mr J O Williams no exception to the constant Services Manager Graham Secretary: RQMS D Brown downpour and howling winds Binnie has not enjoyed the best Curator: Mr S T Evans, Cartref ni, 44 Crossfield Avenue, which saw fewer visitors than of health this last year and Over, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 1EG normal. It was as though attends regular visits to the Telepnone: 01606 593953 Easter had been cancelled. Still hospital and Specialists. E mail: [email protected] on the positive side it did give Graham tells me he can see us a little more time to do them some light at the end of the s I reflect over the past months since our last “behind the scenes jobs” tunnel and hopes to be back to Aeditorial I begin to realise what a topsy turvy season polishing cleaning and display his “old self” sooner rather than it has been. rotation , we like the display to later. Our Treasurer John look as fresh as possible. To Williams has taken over the Before the season had actually the BBC camera crew and all add to our worries we are very immense task of Sectretary / started we were hosts to the that goes with it including the much down on our “front of Treasurer of the Montgomery / very popular BBC series very popular expert Thomas counter staff” who assist our branch of the Welsh “Antiques Road Trip” The Plant arriving in a 1960`s visitors whilst they enjoy the Guards Association He is also programme in its seventh Triumph open top sports car series revolves around two dispite all the rain. We were Antique experts travelling filming for four and a half around the Country in classic hours for a clip on the cars aiming to buy the best programme that will probably bargains from a £300 starter last six or seven minutes. (Well given to each. At the end of that`s showbiz?) The BBC team each program their purchases said “it was probable in the are included in a local auction whole previous six series that to see who can make the most the Welsh Guards Collection profit. Whilst they travel was up there with the best around the Country they drop they had filmed and had in on local activities and enjoyed the whole experience attractions. On the 22nd of immensely. The show will be February we were visited by aired later on in the year. Look MDO Charles Singleton, Stan Evans and Mathew Lucas

74 THE WELSH GUARDS COLLECTION Members of the Cardiff Branch one of the founder members of financial support, On this so it was extra special or him us to enjoy. the Oswestry Town Museum occasion I would like to thank and his band of brothers. We made an exception to our which is also a very demanding the members of the Bangor Being a Cardiff boy myself it loaning in policy on this one Sub Branch WGA for the job as you would expect in its was particularly pleasant for occasion and Mathew has infancy. Our very best wishes to unexpected donation we me to welcome on 21st allowed us at the WGC to them both. At this point I would received last June. It was a September Secretary Tony display these treasures for the like to thank two members of massive gesture from such a O`Shea and 15 members of the following two years. I can`t our team who are not Ex Welsh small body of men and an Cardiff Branch Welsh Guards. thank Mathew as much as he Guardsmen but wanted to help especial thanks to “Dai Talking of days as a youngster deserves but you can by out, Dan Powell from Park Hall Moggs”for making it possible. particularly Canton, making the effort to visit us who is ex Royal Tank Regiment To assist in the production Grangetown and Ely and of and see them. Mathew from and Albert Barkley another of100 year book to course once or twice Leamington Spa is pictured local man who served with the commemorate the formation mentioning my beloved Kings Shropshire Light Infantry. and celebration of the Welsh “Bluebirds” back where they with MDO Charles Singleton Had it not been for these two Guards 100th Birthday, Brian belong in the premiership. both members of the “Western guys we would have had to Front Society” We are also John has been working along As we look forward to the next close for two days every week. working with “Firing Line” The with Mark Jenkins( ex Adjutant two years and what they mean To every one who helps out no 1WG) who visited us in March to us, the outbreak of the 1st history of the Welsh Soldier and matter how great or small we in supplying hundreds of WW in August 1914 and then of the National Army Museum at could not survive without your photographs portraying our course our formation in Cardiff Castle from the early input. My personal thanks goes existence over the past 98 February 1915 a special display months of next year. Our host out to you again. We have a years to Mr Gareth Lewis to is a must for this once in a at Park Hall has once again new MDO (Museums professionally scan these lifetime event. We have been come to our rescue and have development Officer) for the photographs to be digitised extremely fortunate and given us another building to next year or so Charles later for inclusion in the book. privileged to take delivery of house this unique display. Singleton and is doing his best This has been a massive job for one of the biggest private Thanks again to Mr Martyn to try to recruit volunteers from Brian but he has carried it out collections of genuine Hughes and his fellow the public centre. If you think in his usual meticulous authentic uniforms weapons Directors at the Countryside you could spare the odd day to manner. Well done Brian I hope and artefacts relating to the experience. help out I would very much you get the recognition you 1st WW in the Country. Once again if you feel you would appreciate your joining us. deserve. The”Mathew Lucas Collection” like to get involved with any of On a far brighter note artefacts On that same day we had a is the result of 36 years of are coming in at an amazing visit by the Shrewsbury branch compulsive dedication in these activities I am always at rate, almost every month of the KSLI and their Ladies and uncovering and safeguarding the end of a telephone. visitors will bring items in and on that day Albert was on duty these treasures for the likes of Regards, Stan 67 on some occasions they have no Welsh Guards Connections at all.Also we must thank all “To every one who helps out no matter how great or small we those kind people who give us could not survive without your input.”

THE WELSH GUARDS COLLECTION 75 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

BRANCH REPORTS

created for you, with one of the Regiment generally and also to WELSH GUARDS ASSOCATION aims being: help those in difficulty financially or health-wise” President: Colonel T C C Bonas ‘To maintain connection Vice Presidents: Brigadier J F C Rickett CBE between past and serving Please support your local R Lewis Esq. members of the Welsh Guards Branch, they are there for YOU. Treasurer: Major K Oultram and promote their mutual Brian Keane Secretary General Secretary General: B Keane Esq. interest and the welfare of the E-mail: [email protected] Maindy Barracks, Whitchurch Road, Cardiff CF14 3YE Telephone: 029 2078 1342 E-mail: [email protected] CARDIFF BRANCH (Founded 1919) ince the Regiment has returned from active duty in President: Colonel C J Dawnay SAfghanistan they have been tremendously busy on the Chairman: David W Parry (22831847) home front with Freedom Marches, Trooping the Colour Treasurer: Alex Webb (22370877) and numerous other high profile activities. There has also Secretary: Terry O’Shea (24047142) been a healthy contact between the serving and non- 43 Pwll Evan Ddu Coity serving parts of the Regiment, and we can thank the Bridgend, CF35 6AY Commanding Officer for taking the lead. Telephone: 01656 655889 This year, for the first time in Next year the Association is E-mail: [email protected] many years, there will be a planning to hold a Battlefield visible presence from the Tour incorporating Hechtel, he year started with the January Parade by the Battalion at several Freedom which it has done for many TBattalion in Cardiff, which was enjoyed by all, and we towns on Remembrance Day, years in the past. In would like to thank the Battalion for inviting us to join which will be very much September 1944, the Welsh their day. It was the best of starts to 2013. appreciated by Association Guards captured Hechtel from February: The Ladies night members. We also hope that the Germans, and ever since them for making it possible for Dinner had to be cancelled at Officers will support their the local people have held an us to join them at Hounslow. short notice due to an affiliated Branch functions annual service of It seems that the Battalion has unusually high number of when requested since this remembrance, and to give taken the lead in high profile members being affected by goes a long way in thanks to the Welsh Guards. national events this year, on a illness, the knock on effect of encouraging the younger In 2015 we celebrate 100 years scale like never before. which resulted in the Annual generation to attend. Branch since the formation of the Members have been greatly Draw having to be held at the committees work extremely Regiment and plans are impressed by the outstanding earliest available date hard in arranging these events, already in hand. It will be a professionalism displayed following the cancellation. The and such attendances helps to fantastic year incorporating nationally and broadcast draw, held at the United boost their morale. Presentation of New Colours, around the world. “We are very Services Mess on Monday 4th proud of your success and Once again the Association was the Troop, Regimental Dinners March was a great success - wish to offer our invited to celebrate St David’s Day and many other events. A thanks in the main to the congratulations for all your at the Cavalry Barracks Regimental Battlefield Tour will efforts of Mrs Boston and her hard work in achieving such Hounslow. This is always a special also take place, visiting battlegrounds of WW1 and team of helpers who put on an high standards in the short time, to meet young Guardsmen WW2. It is going to be a busy excellent buffet which was time from operational to and their families, and to help time, and chance for us all to enjoyed by all. ceremonial”. bridge the gap between the celebrate together. generations. Hopefully the St. David's Day, as guests of the 25th August saw the start of Association will be turning out in Finally let us not forget why we Battalion was a most the Walk on Wales charity event force again in 2014. have an Association – it was pleasurable one, and we thank from Cardiff Bay, where we

76 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

were able to join with the Ladies Night Dinner scheduled crowd of well- wishers to give for the end of November would them a good send off. not take place. In September a group of At the time of writing this members visited The Welsh report we will be looking Guards Collection at Oswestry forward to being able to where we were given an welcome the ‘Walk on Wales’ excellent tour and talk by the walkers as they finish in Curator, Mr Stan Evans (67). The Cardiff. Also, to remember our group thoroughly enjoyed the fallen comrades in November visit, and would highly at Cathay's Park, Falklands recommend the trip to others. Memorial and the National Gort Barracks 1961 or 1962 Memorial Remembrance On our return journey we In May, a barbeque was good match nevertheless. ceremony. stopped at the Prince of Wales organized by Associate Imber Court this year was yet Pub in Ross-on-Wye, to round Please note: members, which again was off our day with an excellent another successful day with a extremely successful resulting meal. Branch AGM will be held on the very good turnout from the in a great night being enjoyed first Monday of June 2014 Branch. On our return we October saw the cancellation by all. Our thanks must go to visited the Falkland Chapel at of our Branch Dinner, the Branch meetings are held on Terry, Steve, Peter and ‘Big Al’ Pangbourne. Even though we delayed Darts and Shooting the first Monday of every for all their hard work. didn’t have time to stay very competition at Maindy month at the United Services Next was a trip to the Houses of long, the staff looked after us Barracks and also the Mess, Wharton Street, Cardiff. Parliament. The trip itself was extremely well. After leaving announcement that the Branch ALL WELCOME. great but the journey back Pangbourne we travelled to horrendous. The coach left Wooten Bassett for a meal (one London at 6 pm and due to the we missed on our return from EAST GLAMORGAN BRANCH volume of traffic (which was the Houses of Parliament bumper to bumper) did not earlier in the year due to traffic (Formed 1920) arrive back in Pontypridd until hold-ups!) President: Lt. Col. D C Macdonald-Milner almost 1am the following We now look forward to the Chairman: Howard Main (23577106) morning. I suppose this could delayed “Darts and Shooting Treasurer: W John Hooper be called an ‘unforgettable competition” since we have to Secretary: Ken Haines (23523287) journey!! Trevone, Duffryn Road defend our last year’s winning Rhydfelin (A report on the trip can be title. We are all keeping our Pontypridd CF39 5RU found in the magazine written fingers crossed that the roof on Telephone: 01443 492316 by Bob Kennelly.) the Sergeants’ Mess will soon be repaired. A few of the Branch went to the he year began with the Branch celebrating St David’s Millennium Stadium to watch Finally a huge vote of thanks to TDay with the Battalion at Hounslow. Everything went the Battalion play rugby in the everyone at Maindy Barracks without a hitch, and we all agreed that this was the best Sir Tasker Watkins Challenge for all the help and support one ever. Cup against the Royal Welsh. they have given us over the last Unfortunately the run of the ball year, it is very much Early in the year we lost two turnout by Association wasn’t with us on the day, but a appreciated. very good Association members in and around the members when Glan Hughes surrounding areas as well as the and Lionel Gowen passed people of Pontypridd and away. They will be sadly missed Rhondda valleys. Sadly, the local and our thoughts and television companies did not condolences go out to their think it worthwhile to report on families. the day, except for a fleeting image on the news. The biggest event in our area this year was when the Next on the agenda was our Regiment was given the annual jaunt across the Severn Freedom of Rhondda Cynon Bridge to Paignton, where we all Taf. There was a massive enjoyed a wonderful few days. Members of the East Glamorgan Branch at the Darts and Shoot

BRANCH REPORTS 77 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

LLANELLI BRANCH (Formed 1974) President: Mr John Harding Chairman: Keith Horrell (24838137) Treasurer: Vernon Jones (22217890) Secretary: Alan Cunningham (24125105) 197 Cockett Road Cockett Swansea SA2 0FH Telephone: 01792 554151 (Home) (Work: 07976971336) E-mail: [email protected]

Rob Rees, Roy Copson and Andrew Brown he Branch had a busy year with the usual Branch Tmeetings, and holding a barbeque for ‘Walk on Wales.’ Collection boxes were also placed along the way and a healthy sum of £2646 was raised. Some members also took part in a bicycle ride from Shrewsbury to Swansea, raising over £2000 for them.

This was very much a team The Branch would like to effort, and we thank all who remind everyone that we now played a part, especially the meet every two months (the Llanelli Cadets, under the first Thursday of the month), direction of a former Welsh and in 2014, our first meeting Guardsman, Major Ray Batsford. will be Thursday 6th February. New and lapsed members are WoW Barbecue A few members visited the welcome. Pembrokeshire Lunch, and we pray for the former Secretary, We wish all those stalwarts on Trevor Warr, who at the time the sick list a speedy recovery was undergoing medical and return to Branch duties treatment. and activities.

Andrew Brown, (Best Shot, Darts & Shoot) with Captain D Davies

Roy Copson, Vernon Jones and Al Cunningham at the Darts & Shoot Alan Cunningham and Vernon Jones

78 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

LONDON BRANCH (Formed 1926) OUR MEETINGS President: Lieutenant Colonel C F B Stephens Chairman: A H Doughty BEM (2741552) IN 2014 WILL BE: Treasurer: Douglas Wilcox (2739697) Secretary: Jeff Heenan (23523251) FRIDAY FEBRUARY 2014 27 Mount Gardens Meet at 4pm Garrison Sgt. Mess, then 4.30 pm Annual Harrogate General Meeting (London Branch) N Yorkshire HG2 8BS If there is one meeting you should attend it is this one!!! Telephone: 01423 879326 E-mail: [email protected] 1ST MARCH 2014 St. David's Day (Details from RHQ) ur Christmas Celebration Lunch for 2012 featured the Welsh Guards Association Annual General Meeting (Date and Location to be notified from RHQ) O“Abba Girls” which was an excellent afternoon's (London Branch first Friday meeting from 4pm onwards.) entertainment, with many members taking full part with the Abba wigs etc. (various photographs are about SATURDAY 14TH JUNE 2014 showing how members fully enjoyed themselves!) The Trooping of the Colour. Christmas Lunch 2013 has another surprise with full SUNDAY 22ND JUNE 2014 audience participation, along with our usual sing-along! Imber Court Meeting Members are asked to bring their sunglasses! (To be confirmed by RHQ note change of day to Sunday) SUNDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2014 It has been decided to cancel meetings throughout the Remembrance Sunday (Details from RHQ) First Friday Meetings in April, country. If we have not heard May, September and October from you for some time, drop SATURDAY 6TH DECEMBER 2014 2014, due to the high cost of us a line/email address so that Lunchtime Christmas Party. (Date to be confirmed) travel etc. Members are we can keep you up to date. encouraged to attend the An invitation has been Branch Annual General Please note that our meetings now start at 4pm. received from the Mayors of Meeting, St David's Day Lunches at 12 noon. celebrations and the Montchamp and St Charles de Remembrance Day Church Percy in Normandy inviting the Service and Parade. Welsh Guards to take part in the 70th Anniversary of the D- We meet at the Garrison Sgt's & WO's Mess at Again our thanks to all our Day Landings on the 6th June Wellington Barracks, by kind permission of the Garrison Committee Members, and of the and Battle of Normandy. Sergeant Major W D G Mott, OBE. MVO. Welsh Guards. course our Chairman and The visit is being planned for Treasurer Richard Doughty and 6th June 2014. Arrangements Doug Wilcox, for all their hard are still being looked at time of of Frank Tipton, (no relation) Ironically Frank applied to join work. writing, if you are interested, Frank has been looking after the Welsh Guards, but they had please contact Hon. Sec. We continue to encourage his brother’s grave in St Mary their full quota, he then tried to more retired Welsh Guards to Sadly during 2013 some the Virgin Church Bromfield join the Royal Artillery, his support the Association, members have passed away, Shropshire, and next to his father's Regiment, they also whether at our meetings in our thoughts and condolences brother's grave is 2735754 had their full quota, so he London or the various events go to their loved ones, their Gdsm John Lewis who died in eventually managed to join the that take place around the names are entered in the 1940. His name is on the War Royal Air Force Police. country. We do need younger Memoriam section of the Memorial along with Frank’s members in London Branch, Magazine. brother, 4207862 Gdsm Leslie Our yearly thanks to Brian but appreciate the difficulties Tipton Welsh Guards. Our Keane and Major Keith Oultram and the costs of attending the And Finally: John and Betty thanks to Frank Tipton for his at Maindy Barracks and RQMS meetings. The Association in Tipton whilst attending the kindness and for also looking Des Brown and Yvonne general is looking at ways to Welsh Guards Ludlow Races, after John Lewis's grave – there Mitchell at RHQ for all the help encourage people to attend met a gentleman by the name are some nice people about! and assistance during the year.

BRANCH REPORTS 79 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

missed and our thoughts and Meetings are still held the first MERTHYR TYDFIL BRANCH condolences go out to their Monday of the month at the Ex (Formed 1953) family and friends. We also Serviceman Club Merthyr Tydfil President: Captain Harry Legge-Bourke give our best to those who are at 20.00hrs. Old and new Chairman: Tom Peters (23523035) not in the best of health and members are made very Treasurer/ hope for speedy recoveries. welcome. Secretary: Errold Jones (24581438) 18 Marshall Crescent Penydarren MIDLANDS BRANCH Merthyr Tydfil CF47 9JA (Formed 1953) Telephone: 07903417048 E-mail: [email protected] President: Captain T Macdonald Milner Chairman: R Jaynes (2739272) ell here we are again with another year gone. Treasurer/ WThe Branch as a whole has had a busy time of it Secretary: Jonathan Bayliss (23523208) with get togethers and a few ‘jollymens’ outings. 2 Weston Court Long Compton The Branch once again months the excitement will Shipston on Stour celebrated St David’s Day with heighten once the Committee Warwickshire CV36 5JX the Battalion at Hounslow or the ‘Committee for the Telephone: 01608 684834 Barracks, with a Church Parade Committee’ has put final E-mail: [email protected] and a lovely "short" march touches to what is going to past (personal reasons!) and a happen. he past year has been very quiet for us again. Our fantastic atmosphere Christmas Lunch 2012 was cancelled due to lack of This year the Branch has been T afterwards. The scoff was hit by the death of some numbers to make it viable, also, the Hon Secretary went to excellent and the backbone members. In Australia to give his daughter away at her wedding. entertainment in the Marquee September of last year John kept everyone tapping away The Annual Lunch was held on was unable to come due work Williams (54) passed away in for hours. April 28th 2013. Forty two commitments as she is also an London. Although living in people attended but only about Inspector with Warwickshire Just a short three weeks later a London since leaving the Police. I know her very well as few of the Branch attended the Battalion, John was a Merthyr one fifth were Association we worked together in the Army Cup Final at Aldershot. man through and through. members. Colonel and Mrs H Police. Again, a fantastic atmosphere Boddington together with Then in February we lost Ivor with a result in no doubt Major H Bettinson also We hope to carry on as a Thomas who lived in Aberbeeg whatsoever. attended. Another invited Branch but we are finding it but somehow managed to get difficult to say the least. We were saddened by the over the valleys to attend guest was Captain Lucy Sewell cancellation of the Bi-annual meetings regularly until it got of the Warwickshire and Best wishes and good health Dinner, as I had personally too much for him. Ivor was a Worcestershire Yoemanry TA are sent to all members of the visited many of the pubs and member of the Branch even who had been to Afghanistan Midlands Branch, and hoping clubs in Merthyr warning them before I was born. with the Battalion on their tour you can support the Branch in of the Association’s Just recently we have lost Mr last year. Unfortunately she 2014. forthcoming arrivals. Grant Harper (Chairman of the Last year we couldn't field a Branch for many years). Grant team for the Darts and Shoot. was one of the Original "F This year we are looking Troop" who helped form the forward to the fray. As of now Branch back in 1953. Everyone there is trouble with the who knew Grant will roofing but we are waiting remember him with a smile on with anticipation for another their faces. Grant, even at 92 date as our trophies have been hardly ever missed a meeting - "on loan" for long enough. the only times he did was after he’d attended the A.G.M. and The Branch as a whole is Troop weekend in London looking forward to the when he always seemed to go Centenary Celebrations that A.W.O.L. for a month or so. are being arranged for us. I Steve Liversage and Malcolm Davies the Monmouthshire Branch think that over the next twelve These members will be sadly taking a break on their ‘Walk On Wales’ adventure

80 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

MONMOUTHSHIRE BRANCH (Formed 1920) President: Captain D M Davies Chairman: Alan Mountjoy (239297747) Treasurer/ Secretary: Steve Liversage BEM (24141822) 7 Shaw Close, Ebbw Vale , NP23 6QQ Telephone: 01495 302567 E mail: [email protected]

espite a membership scattered far and wide, the Branch Secretary Steve Liversage presenting the DBranch keeps to its traditions of holding monthly Monmouthshire Branch Trophy to Guardsman Moriarty meetings and social gatherings as well as supporting Association events. The purpose is to reunite in the real serving halves of the Regiment. Cwmbran, Gilbert Priddy (3WG) sense of the word not via technology and this also applies from over the Severn Bridge Also present were Brian Keane and Eric Jones (1WG) from to the families of members who are part of us. There are the Secretary-General of the Merthyr who will celebrate his many towns in the Branch area and over the years we Association, Major Glyn White centenary in 2015 along with have arranged events and meetings in them but we also and Lieutenant Colonel Eric the Regiment. get practical support from exiles who travel long Sturdy who pronounced Grace distances to take part in our affairs. in Welsh. He was Medical The Monmouthshire Branch Officer in the Battalion in Berlin Trophy awarded to the Welsh in the early 1950s and has Guards Sportsman of the Year We hold meetings which are Chamber which is followed by many stories to tell of the was first presented in 1968 mini-reunions on the second a Civic Reception in the Mayor’s leading Nazi war criminals in and the winner’s list consists Thursday of every month and Parlour. This is an ideal way to Spandau Prison, in fact he mainly of rugby players. The most of them are at Branch HQ, start our year and in turn we written a novel based on Hess 2013 winner was a boxer, The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny. invite the Mayor to our Reunion which is shortly to be 30154036 Guardsman The exceptions are in May and Dinner in the Angel Hotel. published. Taking time off from Moriarty from Anglesey, a October when we meet at The At the 33rd Annual Reunion his job at Buckingham Palace member of Prince of Wales’s Capel Hotel in Bargoed, a very Dinner to be held there in was Sergeant Shane Brandon, Company who made a great friendly venue, and in February October 2013 two serving fresh from Balmoral, who impression and received the when our Annual General officers who are members of comes from Pontypool and trophy and a certificate from Meeting is held in the Council the Branch were present, the who regularly attends the Branch Secretary Steve Chamber of Abergavenny previous Adjutant in the Dinner. Liversage. He was the first Borough Council. boxer to become Sportsman of Battalion Major Tom Spencer Four great Guardsmen of the the Year for nineteen years. For several decades we have Smith and his successor in the 273 era enjoyed meeting each been closely linked with the role Captain Christopher other and we were honoured The major Regimental event in Ancient Borough and every Davies. Their presence to see them once again, Ray 2013 was ‘Walk On Wales’ Mayor invites the Branch to strengthened the links Cumbley (2WG) from Cornwall, which raised funds for the hold our February AGM in the between the serving and non- Bill Powell (3WG) from Welsh Guards Afghanistan

VIP Guest at the Monmouthshire Branch Dinner

BRANCH REPORTS 81 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

Appeal (set up in 2009) and Lewis (Ebbw Vale), 2739251 Bill Combat Stress (1919). Among Powell (Cwmbran), 2741085 the walkers were Steve John Tunley (Ebbw Vale), Liversage and Malcolm Davies 22831602 Alan Woodhouse who last trod Mother Earth (Abergavenny). Another seriously on route marches in stalwart of the past 23836045 Surrey. It was not a stroll in the Malcolm Fry, once of Cwmbran park but a test of endurance but for many years retired in which was tiring to say the Pembrokeshire, attended his least. Other Branch members local Branch lunch in personally raised large Pembroke Dock in October and amounts of money in their recalled the many events local areas and also deserve Monmouthshire Branch held in great credit. the 1970s. Captain Ben Parry presenting Brian John with the Loyalty Trophy at the Wroxeter Lunch In 1963 there was no Magazine We appreciate the hard work The Branch AGM was held After the talk the Branch as impressive as the one we and the thought that goes into before our St David’s Day Lunch wished to show their have today, it was called an the Association and thank where Captain Parry announced appreciation to Mr Brian John Annual Report but was full of Brian Keane for all he does for his retirement as Secretary, The news of the Battalion and Band for his loyalty and the us. We rely on ourselves for Secretary position would be and also of all the Branches, contribution he has made to funds and also the support taken over by myself and the the latter containing lists of the Branch over the years from members have from their position of Branch Chairman by members and where they helping at Dinners to arranging ladies who enjoy our functions Mr Brian John, Capt Parry would lived. It records that we had transport and driving the coach and are part of the Regimental hand over his duties after the three survivors of the Great to various journeys. Brian, once family. 2014 will mark the Wroxeter Lunch in July. more takes up the position of War and six others who still 100th anniversary of the support the Branch fifty years Branch Chairman. He is second outbreak of the Great War and The St David’s Day Lunch was later. generation Welsh Guards, his 2015 of course will be very held at our regular venue at the Henllan Nr Welshpool and was father Ted John was a founder They are 23104153 Derek special for us all. We will plan well attended. As always there member of the Branch and Davies (Ebbw Vale now Branch events in the was plenty to eat with good served on the committee for 25 Wiltshire), 22831721 Mervyn Regiment’s centenary with company. years. Brian was presented Delve (Abertillery now everyone in the Branch family with the Statute for the Branch Gloucestershire), 2741392 Roy in mind. The main event of the Branch Loyal and Dedicated Service by was the summer lunch at the Captain Parry which was sadly Wroxeter Hotel Nr Shrewsbury. one of the last duties he would Our guest was Major (Retd) J make as Branch Secretary. Warburton-Lee who gave an MONTGOMERY/SHROPSHIRE BRANCH interesting talk and update on Ben took over the reins from the Walk On Wales charity walk. Dick Roberts in 1993 and has (Formed 1950) It was decided to donate the from the start said he would do President: Mr R G P Plowden raffle takings for the day the duties of Secretary until he Chairman: Mr B John (23523171) (£230.00) to the Walk On Wales retired from his civilian job, and Treasurer/ charity. after 20 years that day has Secretary: Mr J O Williams (23860183) 83 Balmoral Crescent Oswestry Shropshire SY11 2XH Telephone: 01691 653244 E mail: [email protected] he main event of the year to most Welsh Guardsmen Twas to watch the Welsh Guards Trooping the Colour. This years Trooping of the Colour was a brilliant display and all that took part are to be congratulated. Those who attended the Colonels Review or lucky to have had tickets for the actual day or just watch the parade at home on their TV, all commentated on how much they enjoyed it President Mr Roger Plowden with Mrs Di Parry Capt Ben Parry with their gifts and thought it was a wonderful parade. and the Presidents wife Mrs Helen Plowden.

82 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

Captain Parry presenting yours truly with the Gavel and the duties as Branch Secretary - his smile says it all! finally arrived. The Branch handing over the branch gavel decided to show its to yours truly. All I can promise appreciation to both Ben and the Branch members is that I Di for looking after us for so will not use the gavel with as many years and we were able much enthusiasm as Ben did!! to take that opportunity at the Ben and Di are taking the Wroxeter Hotel. opportunity in their retirement The presentation was made by to travel around Europe in their our President Mr Roger caravan. I know Ben will Plowden and his wife Mrs manage to visit the odd Helen Plowden. The look of vineyard or two in the quest for complete shock and surprise his search for a few bottles of on Bens face was in itself a claret wine! On behalf of the picture but also proof that we Branch members I wish to say had managed to keep the thank you both and hope you presentation a secret. Ben was have a long and happy NORTH AMERICA BRANCH presented with a claret jug and retirement, and the best of luck four wine glasses engraved in your new adventures as (Formed 1986) with the Regimental Crest and ‘Travellers’ and hopefully we Treasurer/ Di was presented with a cut will see you at our Branch Secretary: Andrew Suter (24704978) glass vase and a bouquet of lunches. 8314 Tintinhull Lane flowers. (The costs were met Waxhaw I would like to close by wishing through donations from our N. Carolina our Members, Associate members) USA 28173 Members and Friends a very Telephone: (from UK) 001 704 8140676 Once Ben had recovered he Happy Christmas and a Mobile: 001 968 0814 made his final presentation by Prosperous New Year. E-mail: [email protected]

am glad that I can contribute this year on behalf of all Ithe former ex patriots here in North America. Around this time last year Hurricane Sandy was about to hit the U.S cost and you all know how devastating the storm was you really had to be there to believe it.

It is always a challenge to keep Missouri, 200 mph plus winds it together when you witness hit for twenty minutes shifting first hand the devastation a massive hospital two and a mother nature can throw at half feet of its foundations, it the planet. I think one of the was the only building standing most devastating storms I after the storm hit, an analogy arrived at was after the F5 that can be used would be like tornado that hit Joplin a nuclear blast hitting, and

BRANCH REPORTS 83 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

Devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy everything being decimated know he was the Chairman NORTH OF BRANCH flat to the ground. The picture here for a long time, he travels (Formed 1946) says it all, even the bark was to the UK and was last at a ripped off the trees, flag poles function with his Beefeater President: Major K Oultram bent in half. The day the storm friends last year. Chairman: Trevor Davies (22831186) hit, a high school graduation Treasurer: Arnold Brassey (24125038) What an amazing turnout for Secretary: Keith Bonehill (22831043) was about to take place at the the Walk on Wales Afghanistan 5 Halls Place, high school. The day before, a appeal enjoying catching up London Rd, decision was made, due to with all the daily reports and Northwich, high attendance, that the seeing old friends and as Cheshire, graduation should take place always glad to contribute CW9 8BA at the university instead. The where I can. Tommy McDonald Telephone: 01606 41317 next day the tornado flattened E-mail: [email protected] Milner had a good kayak the school avoiding possibly hundreds of deaths: the journey to support the appeal, he year 2013 was a quiet one for the Branch. Our tornado was mile and a along with Chris Beynon Tannual Lunch was held in December (2012) again at quarter wide. Unfathomable representing the Rugby lads. the Mercure Hotel, Christleton, Chester. We find this to be back home when we moan A big pat on the back from all an excellent venue, and will continue to use in the about gale force winds!! and the Welsh here in the USA. foreseeable future. The Scots Guards Association Band Aberavon losing again!! This is a story of irony, when I played a selection of music for our entertainment, which was enjoyed by all. I have tried tirelessly to drum first went to my wife's home in Ohio I noticed there were up reports from all the old As I mentioned last year, we uniform, a Territorial Band, Welsh flags flying everywhere Guards here but I think the hold ‘Chairman led’ meetings also in dress uniform, and road plaques displaying Welsh in general abroad like to during the months of January, approximately forty members Welsh byway signs. Cut a long keep a low profile, I think I have April, July and November of various Regimental story short there is a massive only ever met 3 other Welsh (which is our AGM), the Associations, members of the Patriots in the twelve years I Welsh cultural studies there at remainder being ‘Social Polish Brigade Association and have lived here. If you are on Rio Grande, amazes me to this meetings’ well attended by members of the Chorley British facebook you can catch up day to see the Red dragon members and wives, who Legion. After the service we with my travels on facebook, flying proudly displaying enjoy buffets and hot pots. retired to the local TA Centre talk about miles on the road Cymru-Am-Byth flying proudly Please come along, you will be for refreshments and bar also, Owen Gwyn Evans 09 he in the town. You can find out made most welcome. (which we were thankful for is up and down the east coast more by visiting the website since the day as bitterly cold April saw members of the seems like every week from http://www.rio.edu/madog/ with a biting east wind) Branch attend Chorley British The photos show the local Prince Edward Island Canada Legion (Lancs) for the Falklands The Chairman of the British signage posted. Not bad for a to Miami Florida, rather him Remembrance Parade at Legion made himself known to small proud nation. than me, but fair play to drive Chorley War Memorial situated us and thanked us for six hours over here is as easy attending. The memorial has Time to sign off. Please call me at the entrance to Astley Park as driving from Cardiff to the names of those who lost some time or drop me a line The memorial has been Swansea back home, it’s a their lives on the Galahad, and would love to catch up. My old recently re-furbished, with the breeze, I would like to see his Welsh Guards memorial in a was placed in Astley Park by friend Ken Evans is coming to the late Major Keevil, at his own diet improve though his photos prominent position – all the the states November the 18th cost. (The Secretary General of his on road dishes are not wreaths from the Parade were for a couple of weeks, we plan and I attended this exactly cholesterol friendly. laid at this memorial. on hiking and visiting a few gentleman’s funeral a couple I stay in touch with Dave Keen civil war sites one of his The parade was very well of years ago) There was and he enjoys his retirement favorite pastime studies (the attended with two mounted originally some doubt about also in Canada, as a lot of you term study is light) sorry Ken. police officers in dress keeping this memorial at the

84 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

park in Chorley, but it would Mrs Harding and Mrs Davies great to see Regimental Mott and his Leg 2 Team. After appear that it has now been for providing the refreshments Sergeant Major Martin Topps a the Drum Head ceremony the resolved. monthly without fail. “Thank North Walian, handing over the Baton was handed to Bry you ladies” Colour, a proud moment for Wigley the son of Sgt Mal In June we held a mid-year Aberffraw. Wigley to carry along the coast lunch at the Mercure Hotel, I would also like to thank RHQ to Connahs Quay. All the followed by a Social in July, hot- staff for their continued The A.G.M. was for a change Wigley family lead around 150 pot in October and AGM in assistance during the year, also not bad but sadly it was to be walkers with the Welsh Guards November. Major Keith Oultram, our the last time I would meet up Band setting the pace as we President, and the Secretary with Grant Harper, Chairman Two members have returned did a lap of the racecourse General Brian Keane for their Merthyr Branch. We had a to the fold, namely Robert before setting off along the continuous help. noggin together in the Crown Harper (23929604) and Steven North Wales Coast. A real lump Plaza Hotel where he was Crow (24299391). We warmly The members of the North of in the throat moment! Thanks staying. I attended his funeral welcome them back to the England Branch as well as to Dave Wigley for organising with the Branch Standard with Branch. Associate members wish the the Charity night at the Naval Stan Evans We have a close Battalion the very best for the Club Connahs Quay. Once again I commend our relationship with the Merthyr coming year. Social Secretary Barry Monteith Branch since we won the Darts Tim and Jan Miller from the (23877223) for organizing the Finally, thanks to all members Association Cup for the first Falkland Islands carried the social side, and for the effort he of this Branch for their regular time in our history with the baton on behalf of Gdsm Paul puts in – “thank you Barry, support at our various help of the Merthyr Members Green's family of Rhyl they from all the Branch members” functions – we, the Branch in our team at Nesscliffe. RIP now live in the Falklands We must not forget our team of committee will continue to dear friend. running the Fish & Chip shop. Thanks to Les Peake & Wendy Lady members, Mrs Monteith, work on your behalf. Garrison Sergeant Major Bill for the Black Tie Ball at Mott, together with his Rhuddlan Golf Club a brothers Major Nick Mott and wonderful success. NORTH WALES BRANCH ex Regimental Sergeant Major (Formed 1936) John Mott, led Leg 2 of the Walk Llandudno rocked: first to the President: Captain A.C. Hopkins on Wales from Chester to roar of over 50 Goldwing Chairman: G. Binnie (24060777) Bangor with our President Cpt. Motorbikes who provided a Treasurer: H .Mears (2740728) Chris Hopkins. The start at “guard of Honour” for the Secretary: D. Webb (235223061) Chester Racecourse was well walkers along Llandudno 2 Arran Drive attended to the delight of the Promenade. The Llandudno Rhyl organisers. The Baton was Town Band brought them in North Wales LL18 2NS brought up from Chepstow with Men of Harlech as local DJ Telephone: 01745 334340 overnight by a merry band of Ian Turner wound up the E-mail: [email protected] cyclists to a fanfare from the crowd at the far end of the Band of the Welsh Guards, with Prom. Llandudno further 013 here already!! Another year to report on Branch Colonel Hugh Bodington supported us by laying on “An 2activities. It all started on St. David’s Day in Hounslow leading his incredible team of Evening with Billy Mott” at the although not on the scale of the previous year it was an cyclists into Chester George Hotel. The families of excellent turn out yet again. I would like to thank the Racecourse at the end of their the fallen have been at the Regimental Sergeant Major Brian Baldwin for letting us into epic overnight cycle. A fantastic heart of the walk and each day, achievement from amongst following the drumhead the mess on the Thursday night, getting the Bar up and others, Nigel Thomas of Blue service, the baton is presented running and also buying the first round. After the Parade Mountain in full butcher’s to a family member to carry for on St. David’s Day we made our way back to the Sergeants costume riding a monstrously the day. The support given to Mess for the usual swift half - I ordered a Port, to the mess heavy old-fashioned butcher’s the families by the walkers, cheering, as I had the last out of the bottle! I had to replace bike and a newlywed couple and the walking teams also the it, much to the amusement of D/Sgt Jiffy Myers. on a tandem. Rousing general public was quite speeches from the Lord Mayor simply humbling. Bry Wigley, Trooping of the Colour was as 22217422 Bill Rowlands from of Chester Cllr Jill Houlbrook son of Sgt Malcolm Wigley you know done by the Bala, proudly showing off his ,the newsreader Huw Edwards walked the entire Leg 2 as did Battalion this year and it was Coronation Medal. He and his and Olympic gymnast, Beth Dave Evans (with blisters to nice to have a Branch Member son enjoyed the ambience of Tweedle. Hugh Bodington show for it) and Sgt Jim present who was on the same the day and met new friends handed the baton over to Carlyle’s father staggered parade 60 years ago (1953) later in the Mess. It was also Garrison Sergeant Major Bill everybody by walking the

BRANCH REPORTS 85 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

whole 20+ miles from Rhos- At the helm of leg 5 was Steve interested please contact me. for the £208 half share of the on-Sea to Penmaenmawr at the Jones, V.J. and Beanz. They led We really need to get working collection given in his memory. age of 81 with his wife. The final from the very tip of the Llyn ready for the centenary 2015. R.I.P. see you at the Re-Org leg to Bangor from Peninsula, past Abersoch, Graham. 22831031 Graham Jones Penmaenmawr before the Pwllheli, Cricieth, Portmeirion (Rhyl)) passed away April 20th. That’s it! Thanks to all at RHQ handover was joined by Bangor and on to Harlech. Nefyn and The Association was well and Cardiff for the support to Section Chairman Dai Morgan District Golf Club laid on an represented at the funeral and the Branch which leaves me to who organised an Evening at excellent welcome. Hafan y we would like to thank Sheila, wish you all Nadolig Llawen a the Regency Hotel Bangor with Mor was a great night with V.J. his wife and daughter Melanie Blwyddyn Newydd Dda. every walker given a drink by DOING WHAT HE DOES WELL the Branch (Da Iawn) I would singing "Calon Lan" - no dry also like to mention the eyes there! Arfon Williams hospitality given to the walkers sang Nessum Dorme which OGMORE BRANCH by the Landlord Gary & Tracy reduced Alison Elson to tears (Formed 1982) who donated the Buffet free for (Da Iawn i pawb) General President: Major T M Wakefield the Branch a wonderful Reddy Watt ex Commanding Chairman: Mr Ray Gorringe (23585533) gesture and what a majestical Officer, Brigadier Peter Treasurer/ spread - fit for a King. Williams, Major Barney Secretary Mr Mike Jones (23523201) Cockcroft, Brigadier Richard In glorious sunshine WO2 Kieth 40 Garfield Avenue Stanford and many faces from Lewis started leg 3 on the Sir Litchard the Sergeants Mess have Galahad lifeboat motoring Bridgend CF31 1QA graced our hallowed turf proudly across the Menai Telephone: 01656 – 650367 alongside the Mayors and Straits to Beaumaris under the E-mail: [email protected] Council Leaders of many of the watchful eye of Captain Philip towns along the route. Katy Roberts RN Rtd, the Captain of he first occasion of note this year was our AGM Sheriden a young 13 year old the original RFA Galahad in the Twhich took place in February 2013. Once again for singer from Rhyl (my Falklands War. He was joined the umpteenth year the Branch Officials and Committee Grandaughter’s friend) raised by a number of Falkland Members were re-elected unopposed. Our President was £112 during a gig at the Crown families and veterans. The regrettably unable to attend so our Vice President, Mr Bard, Rhyl She also sang for us baton was carried for the day at the Wrexham fund raising Albert Burd stepped into the breach and oversaw the by ex-Gdsm Wayne Trigg who day which raised £657. Lastly I proceedings. We thank Albert for officiating at the meeting. was badly burnt when the would like on your behalf, Galahad was hit. Albert Owen thank John Warburton-Lee, Jan The Secretary attended the March 1st saw a large MP joined the walk on 8th of Koops, Dai Graham, Punchy Branch Secretaries Meeting in contingent of our members on September with Brigadier Morgan and our President Maindy Barracks on 12th their way to Hounslow to Standford and R.S.M. Martin Captain A.C. Hopkins for February. As ever he found it celebrate St. David's Day with Topps for a wreath laying making this possible. an informative with much the 1st Battalion. This was a ceremony at Penrhos for David discussion between the various great day out with plenty of Williams KIA 8/6/1982 Bangor Section now meet at Branch Secretaries. Our thanks “meeting and greeting” of old the Regency Hotel, Bangor on Mark Horwood and his self- to Brian Keane as ever for the friends from the past. The the 3rd Monday of the month proclaimed “Reservoir Dogs” Buffet afterwards. organization was as good as 1900hrs, it is opposite the rail set off from Fourmile Bridge to Station and also on the bus complete the remaining 3 days route to make it easy. Wrexham along the beautiful west coast section has also started at the of Anglesey and head back War Memorial Club, Wrexham. onto the mainland but before It is next to Tesco's, on the first stopping at the watering hole Thursday of every month at "The Bulkeley Arms" courtesy 1900hrs. Come along you of Maldwyn Jones 92, for an never know who you might evening of music and meet! entertainment!! Next morning they heading off past The Branch A.G.M. was held at Caernarfon and along the Llyn the Bod Erw, St Asaph. All Peninsula. Many thanks to J.W officials were re-elected. We Lees Brewery for sponsoring need new blood on the this leg. committee, so if anyone is The New Monument at Cefn Cribwr

86 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

The New Monument at Cefn Cribwr The Old Training Battalion/Guards Depot in D Lines ever and the food and Branch members attended an Glamorgan Branch invited us you have a full turnout we are entertainment laid on was first unveiling ceremony of a new to attend the Commemoration not required. It will be class. Memorial for the local men Service at Imber Court on interesting to see if we can get who had lost their lives Sunday 23rd June, regrettably the same numbers when it is On the 20th March our fighting for their country, only the Secretary and his wife re-arranged. sporting fraternity took to the including one Welsh and a friend could attend but it M4 to see the Army Rugby Cup Our Branch Annual Guardsman 2736992 L/Cpl was a memorable day and I Final in Aldershot to watch the Remembrance Service will take Henry Glyndwr Thomas of the think the East Glam Branch Battalion XV play 3 Yorks (Duke place in Nolton Church, 3rd Battalion who died on 8th should be applauded for of Wellingtons) and after a Bridgend, on Sunday 20th May 1943 at the battle for attending year after year even tough battle, win the coveted October 2013 when we will Hamman Lief, North Africa. He though numbers are inevitably Army Cup. Any victory against once again pay homage to the is buried in the Enfidaville War dwindling due to the passing the Duke of Boots is always fallen Welsh Guardsmen from Cemetery approximately 100 years. memorable. Well done the the Borough. kilometres south of Tunis. lads! We also attended the We were once again Despite the inclement weather On Saturday 26th all being well Millenium Stadium on 19th represented at Bridgend on there was a large turnout of we shall be travelling to April to support them against Armed Forces Day on 29th school children, civic Stratford on Avon for the the 2nd Royal Welsh Regiment June when our Branch dignitaries, including the First Christmas Fair, a number of for the Sir Tasker Watkins VC Standard was on parade. As Minister, the Archbishop of members have indicated they Cup, regrettably they were not usual the Corps of Drums and a Wales and local Mayor and would like to go so hopefully a successful this time: you can't detachment of marching Veterans. good day will be had by all. win them all eh? troops from The Welsh Following the religious service Transport Regiment, RLC (TA) Sadly we have lost two We held our Dinner Dance on the “Last Post” and “Reveille” lead the Parade followed by members so far this year: Saturday 13th April in the was sounded by a bugler from The First Minister, our two MPs, Masonic Hall in Bridgend and 23908633 WOI (RSM) Bill Evans the Royal Welsh Regiment. Our CO WTR, Veterans and various once again there was a healthy who died on 2nd February Branch Standard was on Detachments of Cadets. Our attendance sitting down to 2013 and 2734152 Gdsm Ossie parade carried by the Chairman Ray Gorringe Dinner, with the Guests of Evans who died on 16th Chairman and the Secretary (23585533) was once again the Honour being the Mayor and September 2013, aged 93 carried the Parachute Parade Marshall. The Parade Mayoress of Bridgend County years. Regimental Standard. ended at the Recreation Centre Borough. We must thank the where a fine buffet and Branch members turned out at Ladies Section for their help in On 15th May a number of entertainment was laid on. A their Cremations and were setting up the Hall prior to the members went over to good day was had by all. thanked by the families for event and also the Manager Pontypridd to attended the We were sad to hear that the their attendance. We also and Chef for doing us proud. Welsh Guards receiving the Darts and Shooting turned out in Pontypridd for We then enjoyed the rest of the “Freedom of the Borough of Competition had to be the Cremation of 22217103 Mr evening dancing to the music Rhondda, Cynon, Taf” parade. postponed, the Secretary in Glan Hughes who although a of our musician Dave Escott. Great to see the boys particular was looking forward member of East Glamorgan representing the Battalion on On Saturday 4th May on a cold to defending the Gerry Branch, when he was in good home soil again! blustery morning in Cefn Greenstock Cup. Always by health attended many of our Cribwr, near Bridgend, our The Secretary of the East coincidence it seems, when Branch functions. We have also

BRANCH REPORTS 87 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

showed our support to other of the month and if you are in neighbouring Branches the area please do call in. including Swansea. Inevitably Our AGM will be on Monday we have members and their 10th February 2014 so if you spouses who are not in good are able to attend, please do health and we wish them all come along. the best. The Chairman, Secretary and We shall end the year with a Committee would like to thank Social night instead of an all the members for their official meeting for what support throughout the year promises to be a good night. and especially the Ladies Food as ordered by members Section at all our meeting and will be served and followed by functions. Members of Prince of Wales, 1962 an entertainer for the rest of We wish everyone a Merry the evening. tribute to the Walk on Wales Our oldest Member Bill Cleary Christmas and a Happy New and the fantastic team who who is 90 this year is now in a Branch Meetings are still held Year and send our thanks and organised it and took part: in the Caefatri Public House, Best Wishes to all at RHQ and Nursing Home. He is cheerful Captain Jan Koops, Chris Bridgend on the 2nd Monday the Cardiff HQ. and still enjoys a cigarette and Beynon, Tony Davies OBE, a Pint. Captain Chris Hopkins, Howell I must thank Roy Bennett for Graham, Fiona Koops, Rob SWANSEA & WEST GLAMORGAN Nichols, Dave Price, Andrew his continuous help and BRANCH Morgan, and Major Glyn White support to the Branch and his Rtd MBE. We cannot tell you dedication to the Swansea (Formed 1927) how much we admire your Branch, also to all Branch President: Major Charles Carty MBE TD tenacity, courage and devotion officers and Members, thank Chairman: Bryn Pennock (23877288) to such a wonderful cause. you again for you continued Treasurer/ Also all the volunteers, walkers support. Secretary: Peter Williams (23877300) and everyone else taking part I would also like to thank my 12 St Peters St have our total admiration. wife Pauline and Daughter Cockett Nicky for their constant help Swansea SA5 5BX The Branch is still going strong and support - where would I Telephone: 01792 416010 but we need new members. be without them in my role as E-mail: [email protected] Our Chairman Bryn Pennock and President Major Charles Secretary! nother year older but we are all young at heart and Carty Rtd MBE are doing their To all Welsh Guardsman Old utmost to recruit new Awhen I see young Welsh Guardsman whether it be in and New, and all your families, members. active service in Afghanistan or on Royal Duties I still feel we wish you good health and as if I am still with them as we never forget, and we are all Our Branch lunches have happiness, from all the part of the Family. It is only the body that ages never the continued this year and have members at the Swansea and mind or the heart and even now feel two inches taller as if been a great success and long West Glamorgan Branch - and I was still in the Guards. may they carry on. to Spider, have a drink on me!

I know I speak for all serving been injured and now need all and Ex Welsh Guardsman our help to get them back on when I say we are happy in the the road to recovery, we wish knowledge that the Regiment is you all the very best for the now home from active service future. safe and well. Wives and Families have no more Next year is the 70th sleepless nights and worries Anniversary of Hechtel and we but our hearts go out to those are looking forward to whose loved ones have paid celebrate with those wonderful the ultimate sacrifice - they will people who suffered so much never be forgotten. in World War two.

Also to those boys who have As a Branch we must pay 300 Williams, Canada 1964

88 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

MT Bathtime, Canada 1964 Roy Bennett and his Wife Olive, September 2013

WELSH GUARDS REUNITED (Formed 2006) Webmaster: Allan Rogers (24220048) - England President: Major (Retd) David Woods - France Chairman: Major (Retd) Martin Browne BEM - Spain Treasurer : Mike Cummins (24472964) - Wales Secretary: Paul Morgan – England 141 Hacton Lane Upminster Essex RM14 2NL Telephone: 01708 531511 300 Williams, Hubert Ellis, Bill Cleary, RSM Peter Robinson Swansea Cenotaph 2009 Technical Support: Mike Cummins (24472964) - Wales

he Welsh Guards Reunited (WGR) website has Tmanaged to continue much as it ended last year, attracting new members (we now have 3, 241 members compared to 3,070 at the same time last year). Admittedly many of these members simply come looking for details of relatives or just for a look at the galleries and what is on offer and don't return often, but we have a nucleus of really proactive members who contribute regularly and without whom WGR would not exist – so to this band of merry members a great big thank you, your continued support really is much appreciated and valued. 300 Williams, Bill Cleary and 100 year old Welsh Guardsman 2009

We continue to try and attract Join us and keep up to date at: younger members through WGR website: other means and our WGR www.welshguardsreunited.co.uk Facebook page now has over 450 members. The age old WG WGR Facebook Group: tradition of newly discharged www.facebook.com Guardsmen needing just that /groups/welshguardsreunited little bit more of a nudge to join WGR Facebook Page: in with anything remotely to www.facebook.com/pages/welsh do with the Welsh Guards guardsreunited/109019635828553 Association is, unfortunately still alive and kicking but we WGR Twitter - Follow us at: will continue to do our best to @WelshGuardsWGR Roy Bennett and his Wife Olive, September 1953 get them back in the fold.

BRANCH REPORTS 89 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

Each year in these notes we www.geocities.com/richoyouknow mention our extensive photo /brianbrenchleypics.html gallery. We now have over Things were shaping up nicely 11,000 images covering all eras for tremendous representation of service in the Welsh Guards from the WGR Branch at this and are really proud to be years Dart and Shoot holding these photographs competition to be held at safe and secure for future Maindy Barracks, Cardiff on 12 generations to see. Anyone October, so it was with great reading this article and not a disappointment that we were member of WGR really should informed of the event having be encouraged to join the site to be cancelled. We can only if only to peruse the gallery assume that our team sheets and share their own photo's had been leaked to the wider with other like minded people. Association, who had, quite A recent new member of WGR rightly, become intimidated by (Daniel Richards) had the sheer quality and researched and digitized experience being mustered! newspaper articles pertaining Names such as Paul Rosser, to Welsh Guardsmen killed or Neil Rice, Larry John, Chris injured in the Great War, these Duggan, Knocker Knowles to are now located in their own name just a few. Names to photo album within our strike fear into any opposition galleries and contains over 250 – is it any wonder the images - a fascinating and competition was cancelled! historically significant resource we are proud to hold. Thanks once again to Allan Rogers (24220048) our superb This year, as in every year, we Webmaster for running yet have lost some remarkable another excellent on-line AGM. An example of a digitised Great War newspaper cutting now held on WGR Welsh Guardsmen and friends, Although still a relatively too many to mention here young concept, the on-line (they are all hopefully AGM process is becoming the remembered in the Memoriam norm for our members and Page) and when it is physically although we never seem to get and logistically possible the the numbers participating that Welsh Guards Reunited we would wish, we suspect Standard will be paraded as a this is simply a reflection of mark of respect (normally by what happens in all other the one and only Dennis Branches of the Association, “Knocker”Knowles). One were a small nucleus of person who sadly passed away individuals participate in nearly this year and who will not be everything, whilst the larger mentioned in the Memoriam majority of branch members page is one of our Branch dip in and out as and when Associate Members, regular they wish. This is of course contributors and good virtual quite acceptable, even though online friend to many, Brian a little disappointing, we as a “Boy” Brenchley (pictured), a Branch are there to provide our Grenadier who served from members with a service, if they 1946 to 1971 and who at the simply want to log on to view age of 82 was adding so much photographs or wish to take a to WGR. He had his own web full part in topic discussions, page recording his career, if that is up to them – the main you get a minute, take a look, thing is that they know where it's full of wonderful photos to come to keep in touch and Brian - very first picture in uniform, October 1946 and memories; ask a question.

90 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

2 Coy Aden 1965/66, L-R; 95 Williams, Eddie Walsh, 05 Williams, 65 Williams

One WG event this year, more our Secretary) who will be able Signals in Belfast 1971, Tac HQ team in front of the vehicle affectionately known as "The Binner" (picture courtesy of Pete Czaja) L to R kneeling :- LCpl Doug Griffiths, than any other which appears to advise on whether or not Young, Steve "Whizzer" Reeves, Capt DP Belcher (OC Sig Pl), and Phil ?? to be pulling people together there are vacancies remaining L to R Standing :- LCpls George Carroll, George Davies, Pete Czaja, Sgt Bob Iles, Capt Dick from all walks of life and (you don't have to be a Fletcher (QM), Capt John Moss (Adj), Reme Cpl, and RSM Reg Coe On the Binner is; Lt Coombes, Capt Oliver-Bellasis and Maj PRG Williams Bn 2IC reuniting many retired and member of WGR to attend, serving Welsh Guardsmen in a everyone is welcome). RE-UNITED AT LAST common cause is the Walk on It really would be remiss of us When we stepped off at Pirbright in 1952 Wales Project. I am sure it will as a Branch not to thank the We thought we'd kissed the Welsh Guards life goodbye and fond adieu be covered comprehensively in people that enable our Branch With jokes and hugs and handshakes we left our mates behind this magazine so will say to function correctly and they And blundered into civvy street to see what we could find. nothing other than we are are the people that run the proud that many WGR Branch -o- website for us. Without the members attended many of Throughout the years we've wondered just how the boys have fared website we are not a Branch the stages raising much Whether they'd remembered and even if they cared and without the website needed funds for two very We tried to stay in contact but it was as we feared communication amongst our worthy causes; the Welsh With each one going different ways most had disappeared. members would be Guards Afghanistan Appeal -o- impossible. The site and Combat Stress. Management Team are purely But with the birth of W.G.R. all the wondering changed WGR Reunion – Porthcawl responsible for the day to day Most of us in touch "On Site" and meetings are arranged Weekend 14/15 Feb 2014. running of the site, ensuring Friends greet friends both old and new both here and overseas Hopefully, by the time this adherence to a very simple set A genuine band of brothers each time we hit the keys. Regimental Magazine is of guidelines which ensure the -o- produced, there should be just site is a happy, safe and Now on a daily basis we log in for our fix six weeks before the eagerly friendly place to visit. Perhaps to share the banter or just to say "Hows tricks ?" awaited WGR Porthcawl The team consists of: It really is much easier than telephone or letter reunion. This really is a most To hang on to your Welsh Guards friends, they don't come any better Webmaster - popular reunion which sees Allan Rogers (24220048) -o- the WGR Membership take over Administrator - A.P-B 2.10.13. the entire Seabank Hotel for the Martin Browne (24433673) weekend. With two nights Technical Support - accommodation (including Mike Cummins (24472964) breakfast), Friday night Moderators - Dennis (Knocker) entertainment, Saturday night Knowles (24122474) entertainment and a meal and Stephen Beard (24220058) a specially negotiated price on drinks, this has to be one of the Our Branch notes end most best value for money events at fittingly with a poem written just £75 per head. Places are by one of our Branch Vice limited and it is usual for places Presidents, regular contributor to be snapped up early, but and virtual on-line friend to anyone reading this and many, the very talented Mr wishing to attend should check Alan Parry-Booth (22326094), with Flicker (Paul Morgan 71 who served in 1WG 1950-52: Where, when, who and what occasion?

BRANCH REPORTS 91 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

MINUTES OF THE 83RD ANNUAL members would be prepared since he has other to pay for future diaries at cost commitments. The President GENERAL MEETING price, and the decision was a realizes that Branch Secretaries OF THE WELSH GUARDS ASSOCIATION unanimous yes. attend their local services, and is hopeful that the Regiment Held at Wellington Barracks London at 1130 hrs Friday Item 2 – Minutes of previous will arrange a ‘presence’ to 14th June 2013 meeting various Branches. Colonel President: Colonel T S Bonas Confirmation of the minutes of Stephens will give the address Vice President: Brigadier J F Rickett CBE the Annual General Meeting in the Guards Chapel, and Vice President: R E Lewis Esq held 15th June 2012 was there will also be a blessing of Treasurer: Major K Oultram proposed by Mr Alan a plaque dedicated to those Secretary General: B Keane Esq Cunningham (Secretary Llanelli who died in Afghanistan. The Branch) and seconded by Mr kneelers purchased by the Present: Hopkins, President North Wales Ken Haines (Secretary East Association are now in place in Branch: Major C Carty, Glamorgan Branch). This was Colonel D C Macdonald-Milner, the Chapel, and are together as President Swansea & West carried and the minutes President East Glamorgan one block, and looks most Glamorgan Branch: Mr M signed. There were no matters Branch: Captain T Macdonald- impressive. Williams, Secretary Aberdare arising from the minutes. Milner, President Midlands Branch: Mr N Owen, Secretary Item 6- St David’s Day Branch: Mr T O’Shea, Secretary Item 3 – Imber Court Cardiganshire Branch: Capt. R J Cardiff Branch: Mr K Haines, The President pointed out to D Parry, Secretary Montgomery The service at Imber Court Secretary East Glamorgan the meeting that St David’s Day & Shropshire Branch: Mr A takes place on Sunday 23rd Branch; Mr A Cunningham, falls on a Saturday next year June, commencing at 12 15hrs. Secretary Llanelli Branch: Mr J Suter, Secretary North America Refreshments will be available and wanted a vote whether the Heenan, Secretary London Branch: from 11 15hrs. Colonel celebrations should take place Branch: Mr E Jones, Secretary Item 1 - President’s Address Stephens, President London on the actual day. There was a Merthyr Tydfil Branch: Mr J Branch will be attending, as unanimous show of hands in Bayliss, Secretary Midlands In his address the President well as a contingency from keeping to the day. Further Branch: Mr S Liversage, touched on the following: East Glamorgan, who details will follow. Secretary Monmouthshire He welcomed and thanked continually supports this Branch: Mr J Williams, Item 7 – Afghanistan Appeal everyone for attending, event. representing especially the Secretaries for So far, the appeal has raised Montgomery/Shropshire their efforts and the tireless Item 4 – Darts & Shooting £1.4 million pounds, with large Branch: Mr Keith Bonehill, work they put in to make the Competition contributions from the Drapers Secretary North of England Association the success story Maindy Barracks will again be Dinner, various events for Ryan Branch: Mr D Webb, Secretary that it is. the venue for this competition Jones’ testimonial year and the North Wales Branch; Mr M since it proved very successful Iron Men to name but a few. Jones, Secretary Ogmore The Regiment is in good order last year, and will take place on ‘Walk on Wales’ are hoping to Branch: Mr R Davies, Secretary and have been kept Saturday 12th October. raise a further million pound Pembrokeshire Branch: Mr P exceptionally busy with with their event which runs Williams, Secretary Swansea & ceremonial duties since The Liaison Team has agreed to from 25th August – 2nd West Glamorgan Branch; Mr Afghanistan. During the ‘man’ the DCCT, and meals and November, with the money Paul Morgan, Secretary Welsh coming months, tours to refreshments can be ordered Guards Reunited. There were Kazakhstan, Belize and the as per 2012. Dave Webb, being shared between the 12 other Association members Falklands are being planned Secretary North Wales Branch Afghanistan Appeal and present. with more in the pipeline. enquired as to the availability Combat Stress. of accommodation for Friday / In Attendance: Redundancies were due to be Approximately £100,000 has published, with many Saturday night, and the already been spent helping WO2 D Brown, Headquarters Guardsmen volunteering to Secretary General agreed to injured soldiers and bereaved Welsh Guards: take up the offer. check this out. families. Apologies for Absence; Item 5 – Remembrance The 2013 Regimental Diary was Alan Cunningham, Secretary Sunday Colonel D Bossi, C.O. Battalion: published free this year due to Llanelli Branch asked if a ‘thank S Rhodes Esq., President sponsorship, but the President November 10th is the date of you’ slip went out to all donors, Aberdare Branch: J Harding did not feel happy to use the Remembrance Sunday. and the President informed Esq., President Llanelli Branch: same Company again. A vote Unfortunately our Colonel, him that he personally writes a Colonel C Stephens, President was taken whether the Prince Charles will not be thank you letter to every single London Branch: Captain C Secretaries thought their attending London this year person.

92 BRANCH REPORTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BRANCH REPORTS

Captain T Macdonald-Milner, The President explained that Branch representing the Item 14 – Points raised at President of the Midlands nothing would dramatically Association. A copy of the Secretaries Meeting Branch, as well as a Trustee, change other that the minutes of the first meeting Mike Jones, Secretary Ogmore reiterated that although the Association HQ committee will held at Wellington Barracks on funds are called the Branch stated his members now be responsible for the Thursday 7th May was ‘Afghanistan Appeal’ they can were upset by the comments Association budget rather than circulated to the Secretaries. also be used for other wars made by the Commanding the Trustees, with the and conflicts, now and in the The main items discussed, but Officer regarding Association funds remaining future. not confirmed, which affects communications via the part of the Regimental ‘pot of the Association were: internet. The President Item 8 – Newsletters, money’ Obviously this would Magazine, Christmas card mean updating the Association 1. St David’s Day – This will confirmed that the Commanding Officer meant no Branch Newsletters and rules. possibly take place in Cardiff offence and has apologised for information should be sent to 2. Presentation of New Item 10 - Laptops his remarks. the office at Maindy Barracks Colours – possibly May, at Alan Cunningham, Secretary no later than 1st July in order to Windsor Castle Captain T Macdonald-Milner give time for copying/printing. Llanelli Branch informed the requested an Officer from the The summer newsletter should 3. Troop 2015 – probably meeting that there were Regiment to support the then be available for posting Welsh Guards Armed Forces grants available functions of the Midlands mid/late July. nationwide to town councils in 4. Biennial Dinner to be called Branch, and this was agreed. Hopefully information for the order to supply Laptops to the ‘Welsh Guards Centenary The President was saddened winter months and spring will various organizations meeting Dinner’ and could take place that Association Battlefield be in the Regimental a certain criteria, but in Swansea. magazine, which should be individuals must apply Tours had come to an end, but available by Christmas (this personally. He asked if the Dave Webb, Secretary of North announced that a small party obviously depends on the Association could supply Wales Branch asked if it was was going to Hechtel in Regiment, who has been given laptops, but was informed it possible to have the Laying up September. There will be a firm orders that articles be was the responsibility of of Colours at Wrexham. He and Regimental Battlefield Tour in submitted by October 1st) Branches. the President of the Branch 2015 which should take in Vice President Brigadier Rickett were due to meet Wrexham many important sites in Item 11 – NMA asked whether there would be Council on June 23rd in order Europe. (Heroes Square) a Winter Newsletter if there to discuss Freedom status for He wished to remember the were delays with the (Branch Secretaries have the Welsh Guards. recent passing of Fred Bowden magazine, and was reassured already been given details of and Armand Poupaert who that would be the case. this venture) The Secretary General requested that further were stalwarts of these tours. Secretary General requested The NMA are aiming to raise suggestions involving 2015 be more articles from the money to build a new Visitor Item 15 - Date of next Association accompanied by sent to him before the next Centre, and the Regiment has Annual General Meeting lots of photographs, which meeting which is on Thursday sent a donation of £3000.A would help the magazine be 5th September 2013. The Secretary General thanked paving stone has also been more ‘reader – friendly’ to the those present for an excellent members. The President stated sponsored, depicting the Item 13 – Review of the constructive meeting, and there would be a bumper Regimental crest. Benches and Association confirmed that the date of the trees have been donated by souvenir edition in 2015. The President praised the next Annual General Meeting bereaved families. Space on The Christmas card for 2013 review carried out by Captain is Friday June 13th 2014 Paving Stones can be was available to view, and was Chris Hopkins. It had been purchased at a cost of £600, The Secretary General and all met with favourable and depict the name of a loved discussed at the Previous members present also wish to comments. one. Secretaries meeting, and many thank the Garrison Sergeant Item 9 – Association Budget suggestions are being Major for his very kind Item 12 – Centenary 2015 (Stand Alone) followed up. The President permission for the use of his Branch Secretaries have A centenary committee has confirmed that the Association Mess for our meetings. We are already received a copy of the been formed with the ‘was not broken’ and the extremely grateful for his proposed changes to the Secretary General and the results were similar to the continued support to the budgets. President of the North Wales previous review. Association.

BRANCH REPORTS 93 FORECAST OF EVENTS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

FORECAST OF EVENTS 2014

JANUARY

FEBRUARY 26 ASSOCIATION ST DAVID’S DAY HOUNSLOW

MARCH

APRIL 12 Ogmore Branch Dinner / Dance, Masonic Hall, Bridgend Midlands Branch Lunch – TBA

MAY 11 ASSOCIATION RACE DAY, LUDLOW 31 Trooping The Colour – Major General’s Review

JUNE 7 Trooping The Colour – Colonel’s Review 13 ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 14 THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARADE 22 Imber Court Commemorations 29 Montgomery/ Shropshire Branch Lunch, Wroxeter Hotel, Nr Atcham

JULY

AUGUST 29 North Wales Branch AGM, Bod Erw, St Asaph SEPTEMBER 6-10 ASSOCIATION BATTLEFIELD TOUR 28 North Wales Branch Annual Lunch, Bod Erw, St Asaph ASSOCIATION DARTS AND SHOOTING COMPETITION – TBA

OCTOBER 25 Monmouthshire Branch Reunion Dinner, The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny

NOVEMBER 9 Remembrance Day

DECEMBER 6 London Branch Lunchtime Christmas Party (date to be confirmed)

94 FORECAST OF EVENTS In Memoriam - Êr Côf

We regret to announce that notification has been received of the deaths of the following

22217103 Gdsm G Hughes 23877283 Gdsm WJP Evans Died: January 2013, Aged: 86 Died: April 2013, Aged: 69 Served: 1944 – 1951 Served: 1961 – 1964

23908633 WO1 WE Evans 2739150 Sgt H J Hansen Died: 11th February 2013, Aged: 69 Died: 19th April 2012, Aged: 87 Served: 1964 – 1982 Served: 1943 – 1947 22326097 Gdsm I Thomas Died: 12th February 2013, Aged: 81 23438089 Lsgt T Grover Served: 1950 – 1952 Died: 10th April 2013, Aged: 76 Served: 1955 - 1959 2739615 Sgt T Gunter Died: 13th February 2013, Aged: 86 25086186 Gdsm P Beddoes Served: 1944 – 1946 Died: 9th May 2013, Aged: 31 Served: 1998 – 2001 2741466 Gdsm H Williams Died: 29th January 2013, Aged: 86 2737179 Gdsm EG Keywood Served: 1946 – 1948 Died: 27th April 2013, Aged: 92 Served: 1941 – 1946 22831693 Gdsm KA Arkell Died: December 2012, Aged: 73 Served: 1956 – 1958 456052 Maj B Phelps CVO MBE Died: 18th June 2013, Aged: 94 22831462 Gdsm R Leyshon Served: 1958 – 1970 Died: February 2013, Aged: 72 Served: 1950 – 1953 22324792 Lcpl M Bailey Died: 21st July 2013, Aged: 82 22217704 Gdsm G Thomas Served: 1950 – 1952 Died: February 2013, Aged: 80 Served: 1946 – 1950 2735977 Sgt F Bowden Died: June 2013, Aged: 93 24141810 Gdsm G Woolridge Died: February 2013, Aged: 58 Served: 1940 – 1946 Served: 1969 – 1975 2734772 Gdsm G Harper 22217807 Gdsm L Price Died: 20th September 2013, Aged: 92 Died: 8th March 2013, Aged: 77 Served: 1940 – 1945 Served: 1953 – 1959 2740760 L/sgt F Holland 23866352 Gdsm I W Parr Died: 15th September 2013, Aged: 87 Died: 27th March 2913, Aged: 70 Served: 1945 – 1948 Served: 1961 – 1967 23523232 Gdsm GD Hughes 2734165 WO2 AH Prole Died: 18th May 2013, Aged: 71 Died: March 2013, Aged: 97 Served: 1936 – 1945 Served: 1959 – 1962

Gdsm W G Williams 22831569 Csgt HA Edwards BEM Died: March 2013, Aged: 86 Died: 15th September 2013, Aged: 75 Served:1940 – 1950 Served: 1957 – 1979

IN MEMORIAM 95 Lt Col Barnwell’s Champagne send off on his final day as the Senior Director of Music on Remembrance Sunday 10th November 2013

L to R, WO1 Bywater, Col Bodington, Brig Stanford, Lt Col Bossi, Lt Col Barnwell, Brig Talbot Rice, Brig Bathurst, Col Bonas

96

WELSHREGIMENTAL MAGAZINEGUARDS 2 0 1 3