Ajax New Past up For

NEWSLETTER MARCH 2020

CONTENTS

Committee Details Chairman's Report Secretary's Report Membership Secretary's Update Standard Bearer’s Report Royal Navy & Royal Marine Charity Basil Trott – 100th Birthday William Lambard – Rededication of Tree Résumé South America Trip December 2019 Mayor of Ajax Gala Invitation Louise Ashton and her South American Family Links Commemorative Trip Report South America 2019 Ajax Nameplate Battle of River Plate Commemorative Shield Bristol Times Article – Dave Lear Silver River Lodge Signed Photograph Archivist Update

SEPARATE PAGES Reunion Details Reunion Booking Form

1935 - 48 1963 - 85 Nec Quisquam Nisi Ajax www.hmsajax.org 2. 3.

everything and anything in her bag, including a travel iron, tablets, potions and it was rumoured CHAIRMAN Nigel Masters she even had an original copy of the Bible! The Lookout It was felt by the group members that it would be only fitting to thank Malcolm with a gift, so a Golden Cross Terrace Station Road, Swineshead collection was made with group members donating and l am pleased to say on February 5th l had Boston, Lincolnshire PE20 3LP the pleasure of presenting Malcolm with the gift, he intends to use it for a Bird Watching trip Tel: 01205 820127 somewhere. Mobile: 07743 381153 [email protected] Looking ahead, the Association's next event will be the Reunion, taking place at the Heights Hotel on Portland. The dates are 2nd, 3rd and 4th October. This will be, I can assure you, a fantastic SECRETARY weekend. There is so much to see and do either on the island or in the surrounding area of Peter Danks Weymouth, etc. Please if at all possible attend this “Do”. Entertainment has been arranged for the 104 Kelsey Avenue Southbourne, Emsworth www.hmsajax.org Saturday night by our very own Simon Cowell, Mick Fox, he and Alf Larkin, being residents of Hampshire PO10 8NQ [email protected] the island are making all the arrangements, liaising with the hotel etc. As always there are various Tel: 01243 371947 options; three night, two night, one night or just the Gala Dinner. I am really looking forward to [email protected] seeing you there. Booking forms have gone out electronically and are included with this Newsletter. MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN'S REPORT SECRETARY Just to finish I became, briefly, the owner of a trampoline and inflatable jacuzzi over the weekend. Paul Parker Hello Everyone. Welcome to the March 2020 Newsletter. I 8 Templecombe Road have just about recovered from our Grand Tour of South I say briefly as “Storm Dennis” then blew them into next doors garden! Eastleigh, Hampshire America, everyone I work with, my family and friends are Best Regards SO50 8QL now very aware that for nineteen days in December I was part Tel: 02380 693709 of the experience of a lifetime .To commemorate the 80th Nigel Masters Chairman Mobile: 07962 080240 [email protected] Anniversary of the Battle of the River Plate my fellow travellers and I visited Chile, Uruguay and Argentina. The TREASURER group included relatives of crew members of HMS Ajax, Ian Darbyshire Exeter and Achilles who actually fought in the Battle, the 28 Antony Road, Torpoint, Mayor of Ajax, Ontario and Associate members. Cornwall PL11 2JR Tel: 01752 815789 The tour brought together old friends and others who very [email protected] soon became friends; we flew together, we walked together, SECRETARY'S REPORT ARCHIVIST/WEBMASTER/ we “cable carred” together, sailed together, road tripped I hope all our Members have had and will continue to have a healthy winter and spring without NEWSLETTER EDITOR together, some of us swam in the River Plate together, some too much interference from the visiting storms! Some 42 members of the Association spent an Malcolm Collis tangoed together and we all drank together .The trip was a amazing time in Chile, Uruguay and Argentine in what proved to be a memorable and historical The Bewicks, Station Road fantastic tribute to all those who fought and died at the Battle trip sharing national experiences to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the River Plate and Ten Mile Bank, Norfolk PE38 0EY of the River Plate .We were made so welcome wherever we Tel: 01366 377945 to make new friends. See report within this newsletter and as Malcolm has mentioned elsewhere [email protected] visited, including British and German Embassies, Churches, a there will be a Trip Brochure available shortly. I am sure it will live long in the memories of those Yacht Club, a British Society and even a Freemason's Lodge! who attended. I do hope those unable to attend will enjoy reading of the events that took place. MERCHANDISE OFFICER The memorial services were, again, so fitting and expertly Michael Fox organised. What was very evident was how much knowledge This year's Reunion is, I believe, the 55th, so it would be good to have your support. If you have 6 Bown Hill local people had of the Battle and their realisation of what it any ideas how to commemorate the 55th year, please let Alf or Mike know as they are managing Southwell, Portland the Reunion this year. Mayor Shaun Collier is planning to attend with his wife Rose which will be Dorset DT5 2ED meant to the British nation at the start of the Second World Tel: 01305 823436 War. an opportunity for many of you to meet them. If I have got the number for the reunion wrong, [email protected] could I be advised of the correct detail? Weymouth I am sure will provide many memories of I would like thank everyone for some time spent while in the Navy doing work up etc. There are also plenty of very attractive COMMITTEE MEMBER making it such a memorable and tourist spots to see in the area - I am sure Alf and Mike could list a few in the June Newsletter. Alan (George/Phil) Phillips enjoyable time. Malcolm for his 8 Orchard Way amazing organisation of the tour, Best wishes Send Hill, Send, Surrey GU23 7HS we would have been literally lost Tel: 01483 223299 Peter Danks Secretary [email protected] without him; to Graham Irwin our Travel Counsellor, Peter STANDARD BEARER Danks and Alan Phillips for Alf Larkin compiling the comprehensive Stonecleave Tour Diary which will published 26 Wakeham Portland Dorset DT5 1HN very soon, to my roommate Bob Tel: 01305 457259 Burton for looking after me when [email protected] l became tired and emotional! To Julie Pullen for having Nigel presenting gift to Malcolm 2. 3.

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY'S REPORT Subscriptions can be paid using the Subscribe button on the joining page on our website, you can do it when you join or as an existing member. Future payments are taken out on that anniversary This is my first report as your new Membership Secretary and I realise just what a huge void I and we are notified by PayPal that the payment has been made. have to fill taking over from Judi, I will do my best to maintain the high standard she has set. Bank Transfers or Standing Orders can be set up using the details below:

I have completed a check of current members and as of February 2020 we have 203: the BANK DETAILS: HMS Ajax and River Plate Veterans Association (RPVA) breakdown is as follows: ACCOUNT NUMBER: 24865868 SORT CODE 30-99-56 CHEQUES payable to HMS Ajax & RPVA and sent to: Life 5 This includes Basil Trott from the Exeter Cruiser 11 PAUL PARKER (MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY) Frigate 53 8 Templecombe Road, Eastleigh, Hants, SO50 8QL Tel 02380 693709 Associate 120 [email protected] Honorary 14 A reminder of the change to the Association’s Constitution passed at last year's AGM: Crossed the Bar If any member fails to pay their subscription following a reminder after one year I am delighted to say that at the time of writing this report we have had no notifications of membership may be closed at the end of the second year if there has been no response members Crossing the Bar. I am pleased to say that memberships are generally being kept up to date. Please do check that New Members yours has been paid for the current year. There have been no new joining members during this reporting period but Graham Irwin becomes an Honorary Member. Graham in his capacity as Travel Consultant worked long and Paul Parker hard with the Association on the South America trip. Without him, it is fair to say, there probably would have been no trip or certainly not what we all experienced. The five committee members present on the trip agreed that we should invite Graham to become an Honorary Member and this was done when we presented him with a variety of gifts on the bus on the way to Buenos Aires Airport. He accepted.

Birthdays STANDARD BEARER’S REPORT

Happy Birthday to the following crew members who had birthdays in this Newsletter period Duties during this Newsletter period were exclusively centred (December to February inc.) upon Montevideo and Buenos Aires where Dave Lear and Paul Parker had volunteered to act as Standard Bearers. The CRUISER Association's new 3-piece flag pole was put to good use with Basil Trott 100 Hearty congratulations three ceremonies on the 13th at Montevideo and two in Buenos Raymond (Jerry) Kirk 96 Aires on 15th.

FRIGATE The Association is very grateful to the pair of them and the Paul Byrne 68 presence of the Standard certainly added to the solemnity of each Ray Dowsett 78 event. Douglas Hadler 82 Michael Harte 79 For Uruguay, special permission had to be obtained to display the David Lear 61 Standard as ordinarily the display of military flags is not Clive Morris 73 permitted. Scot Morrison 52 Tommy (Scouse) Murray 63 Cliff Pantrey 79 Michael Scully 54 Derek (Shiner) Wright 61

I have not included the years served on the ships as there are several members who have not Paul & Dave at the British submitted their details. If I have missed your birthday please let me know. Cemetery

SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscriptions remain the same, £12 for individuals and £18 for families. 4. 5.

Birthdays STANDARD BEARER’S REPORT

SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscriptions remain the same, £12 for individuals and £18 for families. 6. 7.

ROYAL NAVY & ROYAL MARINES CHARITY BASIL TROTT HMS EXETER – 100th BIRTHDAY

The RNRMC's role is to support our sailors, marines and their families, for life. One of our four surviving River Plate Veterans has recently turned 100. On 22nd December 2019 Beneficiaries lie at the heart of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity's purpose, it is our Basil Trott HMS Exeter celebrated his 100th birthday with a family party. duty to remain focused on their needs. Since 2007, the Charity have funded projects and facilities that boost morale for those who serve today and has also distribute millions of pounds annually The family thanked all the members of the Association for all the wonderful cards and kind to military charities which care for the children, families and veterans of the Royal Navy and thoughts Basil received on his birthday. Several of the names stirred memories for Basil and Royal Marines. helped to make it an exceptional day for him. The RNRMC supports the whole naval family by providing funding through four pathways: Apparently when Basil opened his card from HM Fit for Life the Queen his comment on seeing the card was PROMOTING health, fitness and well-being for all those who serve and their families. typical of his sense of humour, “Why has she sent me a card. She doesn't know me!”

Quality of Life PROVIDING enhancements to facilities, activities and services which improve the Naval Service experience for all those who serve and their families.

Through Life PREVENTING the unique set of pressures faced by those who serve and their families from escalating by providing a safety net in the form of relationship support, mental health services, help in transitioning from the Service and support which provides dignity and care in old age.

End of Life PROTECTING Naval families when the worst happens, by providing immediate and unquestioned financial assistance.

To find out more about the Charity visit www.rnrmc.org.uk or contact your Association Basil with his Royal card

It was through a life minor grant of £5000 that helped members of our Association visit South Malcolm presenting Salver to Basil, with Sadie America in 2019. I called in to see Basil and Sadie in Cambridge on my way home from the South America trip on the 19th December and played him the video clip of Association members in the hotel foyer in Buenos Aires singing “Happy Birthday”. I also presented Basil with an engraved silver salver to mark the occasion.

Basil served in Exeter 1936 to 1940 Y Turret and Trott Lane in Ajax is named in his honour. Congratulations Basil.

Malcolm Collis

Basil even got a mention in the Navy News 6. 7.

ROYAL NAVY & ROYAL MARINES CHARITY BASIL TROTT HMS EXETER – 100th BIRTHDAY

Quality of Life PROVIDING enhancements to facilities, activities and services which improve the Naval Service experience for all those who serve and their families.

End of Life PROTECTING Naval families when the worst happens, by providing immediate and unquestioned financial assistance.

To find out more about the Charity visit www.rnrmc.org.uk or contact your Association Basil with his Royal card

Basil served in Exeter 1936 to 1940 Y Turret and Trott Lane in Ajax is named in his honour. Congratulations Basil.

Malcolm Collis

Basil even got a mention in the Navy News 8. 9.

WILLIAM LAMBARD – REDEDICATION OF AJAX TREE It has a tradition of naming streets after sailors who served during the 1939 battle, with William's road called 'Lambard Crescent'. Brenda Kriz from the Town of Ajax sought help tracing any relatives of William Lambard In May political leaders will be staging a re-dedication ceremony for the street and the town is because one of their public schools is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2020. This school is on hoping to trace Marine Lambard's relatives to attend it. Lambard Crescent. William Lambard was one of the seven men who died while serving in HMS Ajax at the Battle of the River Plate. William was twenty years old. Speaking to The News, Ajax mayor, Shaun Collier, said: 'As a veteran of the Canadian forces, I have an unwavering respect for all those who served and continue to serve and am proud of Ajax's The original tree was planted by Council in memory of Royal Marine Lambard under the street naming tradition. Millennium Tree Planting Project; with the dedication ceremony held as part of the nearby 'On my recent trip to Uruguay to mark the 80th anniversary of the battle, I felt a deep sense of Southwood Public School's Remembrance Day activities on November 10, 2000. This tree has humility and pride for those who so courageously fought. since died and been removed and the original plaque is installed inside the school office. 'One of those soldiers was Royal Marine, William Lambard who paid the ultimate sacrifice during As part of Southwood Park 50th Anniversary the battle. a tree will be re-dedicated with a new plaque 'Myself and Ajax Council look forward to welcoming the surviving relatives of William Lambard installed. All students and staff at Southwood on May 11 for a special re-dedication ceremony of Lambard Crescent.' Park will be in attendance. Marine Lambard was born in 1919 to Walter Ernest Lambard and Kate Mansfield Harding. The Town had had no contact with the His mother died in 1937, aged 61, while his father died in 1963, aged 85. It's understood Marine Lambard family and in fact they may not be Lambard also had an older sister called Kathleen Mary Lambard, who was born in 1910. aware of the street named in honour of William and asked if the Association had any Efforts by Ajax to trace his family to invite them to attend a previous dedication ceremony in contact with the Lambard family, which we November 2000 were unsuccessful. didn't? Brenda thought it would be nice to be Brenda Kriz, records and freedom of information co-ordinator at Ajax Town Council, said: 'Where able to extend an invitation to participate in possible, we try to locate and notify the veterans and/or their family when a street is being named this event on 11th May 2020 seeing as there in their honour. was no one here for the initial dedication. 'It is possible that the family doesn't even know of the history of the town of Ajax and the fact that Following a blank Susan from the Town there is a street named after William. managed to uncover additional information showing that his roots were Southsea, Hampshire. 'We hope to be able to locate and contact this family with enough time for them to plan to visit the This led to a request for details of any local paper to put something in and an email request from town of Ajax for this event, if they are able to do so.' Brenda to Tom Morton at The News, Portsmouth. Those with information about Marine Lambard's family can contact Brenda at [email protected] The paper ran the story It was a long shot but …

. Remarkably Brenda was contacted by a Clare Ash and as she explains; “I read the story about William Walter Lambard both in The Portsmouth News and online and decided to help, being a keen genealogist. Canadian town Ajax looks to trace family of Southsea Royal Marine killed in Second World War battle as they honour his sacrifice I am not connected to the family, I just like helping find people. I am currently helping the MOD War Detectives identify the remains of a WW1 soldier found in a Belgian field. THE family of a Royal Marine killed in the first major naval battle of the Second World War is being sought by a Canadian town looking to honour his sacrifice. After a couple of hours on Ancestry and Genes Reunited I had found enough info to send to Brenda in an email” By Tom Cotterill Clare provided Brenda with a family tree and a mailing address for a distant cousin of William Friday, 10th January 2020, 1:38 pm Lambard. As well, she contacted two other family members through the Ancestry site with a Politicians from the community of Ajax, in Ontario, have launched an appeal to find the request to contact Brenda. As a result Brenda spoke to a Ken Lambard who is a second cousin of surviving loved ones of Southsea-born Commando, William Walter Lambard. William Lambard. Probably unable to travel to Canada to attend the rededication of Lambard Crescent, however, the invitation has been extended. It seems Ken lives only a few miles from me Marine Lambard was among 69 Brits killed during the Battle of River Plate in the South Atlantic here in Norfolk as does his daughter to whom I spoke. Both Brenda and I have spoken to Ken and on December 13, 1939. I have sent him an Association joining form so we shall see. The 20-year-old had been serving in the light cruiser HMS Ajax when it, alongside fellow Nice to see “long shots” do sometimes get a result – thanks to Clare's researches. cruisers HMS Achilles and HMS Exeter, went head to head with German 'pocket battleship' Admiral Graf Spee. Malcolm Collis The settlement of Ajax was founded in the wake of this battle and named after HMS Ajax. 8. 9.

RÉSUMÉ OF ASSOCIATION VISIT TO SOUTH AMERICA 2019 Soon on the bus to the Esplendor Cervantes Hotel, Montevideo. Here we were joined by one UK This account appeared on the website – the full Trip Report, with photographs, is available member and two from New Zealand. – see separate article Karina from the British Embassy was there to welcome us and ended up going to the British Hospital with me and a poorly group member. CHILE Montevideo: Sunday 08/12/2019 – on the bus for 0900hrs for a 3 hour city tour returning in Sunday 01/12/2019 28 of us gathered at Heathrow for the short flight over to Paris to connect time for lunch. with our 14½ hour flight to Santiago Chile leaving on schedule at 1955hrs local time. One In the afternoon a number of the group made their way to the Silver River masonic lodge at their member was leaving from Toronto. invitation as members of HMS Ajax & Exeter had visited there some 80 years ago donating Santiago: Monday 02/12/2019 – arrived on schedule at 1020hrs and were soon on the bus to signed photographs – we all received a copy. Everyone really enjoyed themselves and the take us to the Panamericana Hotel Providencia in Santiago. Our Canadian member was delayed brethren really made us feel welcome, especially at the free bar! by snow so arrived later by taxi. Montevideo: Monday 09/12/2019 – set off the 170kms to Colonia del Sacramento west up the Just days before we were due to fly the itinerary was thrown into turmoil by the ongoing civil River Plate and spent the day looking round the old Portuguese town, quite touristy but enjoyable unrest in Chile when the City of Concepción issued a dictate that we should not travel there – nonetheless. the whole reason for this leg of the trip. A hasty change to the itinerary was made and we were 2 more members from the UK joined us in the evening. able to extend our hotel dates at the Panamericana instead. Montevideo: Tuesday 10/12/2019 – a free day for members with a group visiting the Estadio Santiago: Tuesday 03/12/2019 - rather than visit Valle Nevado in the Andes today we went on Centenario y Museo del Fútbol where the first World Cup was held. our rescheduled 3 hour City Tour that turned out to be 7 hours with a long lunch included. This The Mayor of Ajax and his wife arrived to join us. meant a hasty rearrangement of the planned Jonathan Harwood talk that afternoon as we were That evening we attended a reception at the Residence of the British Ambassador to Uruguay Ian committed to an evening engagement. Duddy, another splendid residence just like the one in Santiago and a wonderful evening. The planned Ambassador's reception had been brought forward to 1800hrs to allow staff time to get home before the transport system shut down. Montevideo: Wednesday 11/12/2019 – on the coach for 0900hrs departure to the city of Punta We arrived at the residence of the British Ambassador to Chile, Jamie Bowden and had a del Este about 150kms east along the River Plate. Here we met Andrew Beare who took us to wonderful time although there were far fewer guests there than could be expected due to travel Punta de la Salinas where a crowd of local dignitaries and residents had gathered to greet us restrictions. around the Ajax Anchor where speeches were made and a wreath laid by our Chairman. We then lunched at the Yacht Club before a tour of the city. The large shield for the City of Concepción and gifts for Armando Cartes were presented to the Defence Attaché who will present at a later date in Concepción. A party of 6 from the UK arrived but staying at a different hotel, taking the group total to 42. Santiago: Wednesday 04/12/2019 – at 0900hrs we set off in a small coach, the largest allowed Montevideo: Thursday 12/12/2019 – the group walked to the Museo Andes 1972 Exhibition up the steep twisty roads, into the Andes to Valle Nevado at 3000 metres. The scenery was telling the story of the plane crash in the Andes in 1972. spectacular and nobody could fail to be impressed by the close views of dozens of majestic Following lunch the coach took us to the Graf Spee Anchor site in the port area to meet up with Andean Condors. We took lunch in a small village before returning to the City. our guide; however, things did not go according to plan as the authorities wouldn't let us in and Members attended Jonathan's talk on The Battle of Coronel that had been hastily arranged for futile negotiations ate into our tour time. Consequently the tour was not what it should have been early evening. and only succeeded in making us late for our next appointment at the Naval Museum, keeping two Ambassadors and other dignitaries waiting! The British and German Ambassadors unveiled We were also informed that travel to the sea port of Valparaiso was off-limits, we were due to a plaque on the river front to commemorate our visit. meet the navy at the Naval Museum the next day, so yet another last minute change of itinerary was made. In the evening we joined the British Society of Uruguay at the premises of British Schools Carrasco at the invitation of the Society President. Following a lecture on the River Plate Battle Santiago: Thursday 05/12/2019 – a complete change of tack saw us checking out of the hotel by Jonathan Harwood we sat down to dine with the other guests that included the daughter of and taking the bus 150kms south to the town of Santa Cruz in the wine region. The hotel was Captain Langsdorff, Inge Nedden. delightful and our stay included a tour around the attached museum – quite fascinating. Montevideo: Friday 13/12/2019 – today was the big day being the actual 80th Anniversary day Santa Cruz: Friday 06/12/2019 – being in the wine region we just had to do the obligatory The day started with a service at Templo Inglés (The Cathedral of The Most Holy Trinity) with wine tour at a vineyard some 30 minutes away. The tour included a cable car and historical tour the Association Standard paraded in by a piper. The bugler played the last post and reveille on as well as a little wine tasting. the actual bugle played on Achilles at the time of the battle. The service included the unveiling of Santa Cruz: Saturday 07/12/2019 – our scheduled day to leave Chile so back on the bus up to commemorative plaque by our Chairman and the laying of wreaths by the Association, Mayor of Santiago Airport to connect with our Latam flight over the Andes to Montevideo. Ajax, the Harwood family and the Woodhouse family along with flowers laid in memory of Judi Whilst it was a great disappointment that when in Chile we didn't get to do the commemorative Collis by her granddaughter. things that had been planned over the last 3 years but matters were completely out of our We then moved on to the Cementerio Británico for an act of remembrance at the common grave control. What was to be a commemorative week turned into a touristy week but all enjoyed of 3 HMS Achilles crewmen with the Association wreath being laid by Douglas Batt the son of themselves and accepted the situation. surviving Achilles sailor Bob Batt who was the bugle boy on Achilles. URUGUAY At the Cementerio del Norte the act of remembrance at the graves of the 36 Graf Spee crewmen Saturday 07/12/2019 – our flight took off on time at 1554hrs and with clear skies we had great followed a German theme and the Association wreath was laid by the daughter of River Plate views of the Andes not that far below us. We also had wonderful views as we approached Ajax sailor Colin Chadwick. Montevideo along the length of the Rio de Plata, River Plate. It was straight on the bus to travel to the port area where this time they let us in and we boarded 12. 13. the Uruguayan Training Schooner “Capitan Miranda” that was to take us and a German contingent out to the actual Graf Spee wreck site in the River Plate. Here we all cast individual flowers on the water and the British and German Defence Attachés cast a wreath (biodegradable) as did Inge Nedden. Fortunately we ate on-board as once we docked it was straight on the bus again to attend the Residence of the German Ambassador Ingo von Voss where we again all had a wonderful time – we were beginning to get used to such receptions! Montevideo: Saturday 14/12/2019 – for our final day in Uruguay there was a special treat in store. After much negotiation permission had been secured to view the bronze eagle recovered from the Graf Spee which, due to its controversial nature, had been kept in secret storage out of public view – we were the first private individuals allowed to see it since it went into storage 10 years ago. Having checked out of the hotel we made our way to the location and, after some interesting detours, eventually arrived. With strict instructions regarding photography we were allowed in supervised groups of 8 to spend a few minutes in the presence of the eagle – we were allowed to touch and everybody agreed it was quite spectacular and one of the trip highlights. Our wonderful time in Uruguay was coming to a close as we later departed for the port area to catch the evening Buquebus Fast Ferry over the River Plate to Buenos Aires, a sailing of 2hrs 15mins. ARGENTINA We arrived in Buenos Aires at 2145hrs and most transferred from the port to Hotel Dazzler Maipú, Buenos Aires Buenos Aires: Sunday 15/12/2019 – the coach collected us at 1000hrs to take us to the Cementario de la Chacarita where in the German sector we met up with Graf Spee Association & British Legion together with other dignitaries. Following a moving ceremony our Chairman laid a wreath on behalf of the Association as did Inge Nedden, daughter of Captain Langsdorff. We then made our way through to the British sector for an act of remembrance at the grave of J T Frederick HMS Exeter where the sons of two River Plate Exeter crewmen laid the Association wreath. Following a very quick look around the cemetery we made our way to the premises of Sociedad Alemana de Gimnasia where we joined the Graf Spee Association for luncheon at the invitation of its President Enrique Dick. Following a splendid meal and speeches it was time to depart. Buenos Aires: Monday 16/12/2019 – a morning city tour reinforced what a lovely city Buenos Aires was with its mix of ultra-modern with old and colonial buildings. The trip included the almost obligatory visit to the Cementario La Rocaleta where Eva Peron lies in one of the many fantastic mausoleums. In the afternoon back at the hotel we were joined by a number of Graf Spee members for Jonathan Harwood's talk followed by a general discussion. In the evening we set off for another obligatory visit; the Tango Show at La Ventana. Our show was preceded by a wonderful meal and copious amounts of wine. The performers were splendid and a few members posed for photographs. Buenos Aires: Tuesday 17/12/2019 – a day of leisure for those remaining members before they got ready for tomorrow's departure. We all met up in a waterfront restaurant for our final meal. Buenos Aires: Wednesday 18/12/2019 – our final day and after check-out it was on the bus to the airport for the bulk of us where we said farewell to the 3 flying to Toronto. The rest of us checked in for our KLM flight back to Amsterdam that left a little later than the scheduled 1630hrs departure. Thursday 19/12/2019 – arrived at Amsterdam to find our connecting flight to Heathrow delayed. Eventually we arrived back in the UK and at the luggage carousel we all said our fond farewells with all agreeing it had been the trip of a life time. My grateful thanks to everyone in the group who made the trip what it was. Malcolm Collis Navy News February 2020 12. 13. the Uruguayan Training Schooner “Capitan Miranda” that was to take us and a German contingent out to the actual Graf Spee wreck site in the River Plate. Here we all cast individual flowers on the water and the British and German Defence Attachés cast a wreath (biodegradable) as did Inge Nedden. Fortunately we ate on-board as once we docked it was straight on the bus again to attend the Residence of the German Ambassador Ingo von Voss where we again all had a wonderful time – we were beginning to get used to such receptions! Montevideo: Saturday 14/12/2019 – for our final day in Uruguay there was a special treat in store. After much negotiation permission had been secured to view the bronze eagle recovered from the Graf Spee which, due to its controversial nature, had been kept in secret storage out of public view – we were the first private individuals allowed to see it since it went into storage 10 years ago. Having checked out of the hotel we made our way to the location and, after some interesting detours, eventually arrived. With strict instructions regarding photography we were allowed in supervised groups of 8 to spend a few minutes in the presence of the eagle – we were allowed to touch and everybody agreed it was quite spectacular and one of the trip highlights. Our wonderful time in Uruguay was coming to a close as we later departed for the port area to catch the evening Buquebus Fast Ferry over the River Plate to Buenos Aires, a sailing of 2hrs 15mins. ARGENTINA We arrived in Buenos Aires at 2145hrs and most transferred from the port to Hotel Dazzler Maipú, Buenos Aires Buenos Aires: Sunday 15/12/2019 – the coach collected us at 1000hrs to take us to the Cementario de la Chacarita where in the German sector we met up with Graf Spee Association & British Legion together with other dignitaries. Following a moving ceremony our Chairman laid a wreath on behalf of the Association as did Inge Nedden, daughter of Captain Langsdorff. We then made our way through to the British sector for an act of remembrance at the grave of J T Frederick HMS Exeter where the sons of two River Plate Exeter crewmen laid the Association wreath. Following a very quick look around the cemetery we made our way to the premises of Sociedad Alemana de Gimnasia where we joined the Graf Spee Association for luncheon at the invitation of its President Enrique Dick. Following a splendid meal and speeches it was time to depart. Buenos Aires: Monday 16/12/2019 – a morning city tour reinforced what a lovely city Buenos Aires was with its mix of ultra-modern with old and colonial buildings. The trip included the almost obligatory visit to the Cementario La Rocaleta where Eva Peron lies in one of the many fantastic mausoleums. In the afternoon back at the hotel we were joined by a number of Graf Spee members for Jonathan Harwood's talk followed by a general discussion. In the evening we set off for another obligatory visit; the Tango Show at La Ventana. Our show was preceded by a wonderful meal and copious amounts of wine. The performers were splendid and a few members posed for photographs. Buenos Aires: Tuesday 17/12/2019 – a day of leisure for those remaining members before they got ready for tomorrow's departure. We all met up in a waterfront restaurant for our final meal. Buenos Aires: Wednesday 18/12/2019 – our final day and after check-out it was on the bus to the airport for the bulk of us where we said farewell to the 3 flying to Toronto. The rest of us checked in for our KLM flight back to Amsterdam that left a little later than the scheduled 1630hrs departure. Thursday 19/12/2019 – arrived at Amsterdam to find our connecting flight to Heathrow delayed. Eventually we arrived back in the UK and at the luggage carousel we all said our fond farewells with all agreeing it had been the trip of a life time. My grateful thanks to everyone in the group who made the trip what it was. Malcolm Collis Navy News February 2020 14. 15.

MAYOR OF AJAX INVITATION LOUISE ASHTON AND HER SOUTH AMERICAN FAMILY LINKS

The Mayor of Ajax Shaun Collier has extended an invitation to Association members to join him As one of the granddaughters of Admiral Sir Charles Woodhouse who was the HMS Ajax Captain at a Gala Ball to commemorate the Town's 65th anniversary on 13th June 2020. Other events at the River Plate, Association member Louise Ashton just had to make the Association's long trip will also be planned. This has gone out electronically to members and quite a few are interested out to South America in December 2019 together with husband Richard. in attending. Should anyone else wish to go please note the closing date is 7th March so time is short. Contact details as in the letter or ring me to pass on your interest. However, it turns out that Louise's links with Uruguay Malcolm Collis are even stronger than just the fact that her maternal grandfather fought at the Battle of the River Plate as Louise explains:

“It was my paternal grandparents who met and married in Montevideo. My great grandfather, Fred Shaw, was a civil engineer from Manchester who went to South America to develop the railways. His youngest daughter, my paternal grandmother, was born in Buenos Aires and the family later moved to Montevideo, where she attended the British School Richard & Louise Ashton – Caroline & Phillip Tibbs and later taught there. 2 granddaughters of Captain Woodhouse HMS Ajax

My paternal grandfather worked for Cable and Wireless and was sent to work on the South American station, living in Montevideo (Los Pocitos beach area) in 1918. They probably met at a British Club - social tennis or something, and married in the English Cathedral on 11th June 1919. The Cathedral was then sited closer to the River Plate, later moved about 50 yards up and away from the River, but the plan and interior very much the same as before.

When we went to the church, [on the 13th December 2019 for the Commemorative service] we found the registry for 11/6/1919 with my grandparents' signatures and the names of their parents and fathers' occupations. (Lucy Henrietta Shaw and Arnold Tooke Hayne). It turns out that the name Shaw is very widespread in Montevideo although I'm sure they weren't all my relatives! For example, the bugler in the Cathedral that day and who came to the cemetery with us had the surname 'Shaw'.

Part of marriage certificate

My father was the only child of the marriage and was born in Rio de Janeiro. As a married couple, they spent about 12 years living variously in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, St Vincent and Madeira before returning to live in Wolverhampton in about 1931 (my grandfather then worked in communications in Birmingham.). My father, George Hayne, entered Dartmouth at the age of 13 and was in the RN until retiring as a Commodore in 1979. He was a Gunnery Officer like my grandfather Charles Woodhouse (my mother's father) and he met my mother when Admiral Woodhouse was C-in-C Indian Ocean based in Trincomalee, Ceylon.

One of my father's last jobs was as Naval Attaché at the Embassy in Moscow and his last post was Commodore at HMS Nelson. During his time, he served on HMS Lion which went all round South America and he enjoyed looking up his parents' old haunts and even found a cousin in Chile. His uncle had married a Chilean but otherwise there were no relations left in South America. 14. 15.

MAYOR OF AJAX INVITATION LOUISE ASHTON AND HER SOUTH AMERICAN FAMILY LINKS

Part of marriage certificate

I don't believe he ever saw his grandfather's grave in the British Cemetery in Montevideo which AJAX NAMEPLATE we found on 13th December 2019. Fred Shaw died in his 50s and what was even more surprising I received an email in January from an Andrew Fry asking; once we had found his grave, was that there was another name on his gravestone! - Federico “I am doing some research to a name board to HMS AJAX but I am unsure whether the board is Shaw - illegitimate son? Who knows! from the WW2 cruiser or the post war frigate. I've seen film of the Ajax frigate visiting Ajax in Canada and you could see the board was different to the one on the frigate. Anyway, the day of 13th December 2019 will forever stand I saw an article on your site about the conundrum about the Ajax bells and just wondered what out in my memory as one of extreme emotions with the ship the name commemorating of The Battle of the River Plate and board was from. remembering my Grandfather Woodhouse on the one hand, I've contacted and discovering my other Grandparents' wedding Greenwich and registration at the Cathedral and Great Grandfather's grave at they say it's a the British Cemetery. An amazing coincidence to have such genuine one but a strong connection with Montevideo, in particular, on both not sure from sides of my family. what ship .Does anyone know the My father, incidentally, at the age of 11 in 1939, followed existence of any the news of the Battle of the River Plate very closely and other Ajax name knew all about my Grandfather Woodhouse long before he Nameplate subject of enquiry boards? met him in person when he was 20 and subsequently Reverse side married his daughter! Unfortunately, he died at the age of 65 but he would have been extremely interested to know that I I recalled that we had accepted an offer to borrow a nameplate for the 2012 Reunion although have been on the wonderful Battle of the River Plate trip (of Peter Danks regretted it when he tried to fit it in his car as it weighed a ton! I copied the original Louise’s Great grandfather’s grave in email to Andrew; British Cemetery, Montivedeo a lifetime). “… here at the Royal Naval Association in

Louise Ashton Semaphore Tower Portsmouth we were given the HMS Ajax name plate which weighs about 40lbs and is made of Brass letters on a wooden background in very good nick, (maybe need a polish before use). The General Secretary asked if you would wish to borrow the name plate for your forthcoming re-union and dinner as advertised in October. I have enclosed COMMEMORATIVE TRIP REPORT – a photo to show the name plate to show you the size and to enable you to ascertain if it would be suitable SOUTH AMERICA 2019 for your forthcoming event” The Association has produced a 52 page commemorative RNA Board I added that they later verified that the donor had told Trip Report that is essentially a diary of the 18 days in Chile, them it was off the WW11 cruiser. It is a different Uruguay and Argentina with lots of photos. It will be of style to your photographs and the letters are attached differently and it appears much longer. interest not only to those who visited but also to those who About the same time in 2012 there was on eBay a frigate nameplate that we tried to negotiate wished they were there and those with a general interest. upon without success and although I still have the emails the eBay link is no longer valid. I don't The cost of producing the publication and postage is £6 and know how long the practice of displaying such items has existed but bear in mind there have can be ordered from me by email or phone (see page 2) with been 8 Ajax going back to 1767. payment by: Andrew came back; “The board was said to be from the cruiser but are not sure , it looks old but Bank Transfer - Account Name: HMS Ajax & River Plate would not think it would date back to the 19th C , or probably not WW1 .It is about half the size Veterans Association -- Account Number: 24865868 -- Sort of the one in the photo , but still large at 33 inches wide and unlike most it is believed to be Code: 30-99-56 bronze rather than brass as it has the lines something like a bark effect characteristic in the Cheque payable to - HMS Ajax & RPVA and posted to me casting of bronze and has an attractive light blue verdigris often found on old bronze which has (address on page 2) spread to the back of the board. There is 101 written in pencil on the back, also there are ten PayPal using the “Donate” button on the website Joining screw holes on the back for it to be attached and hung. There is film of the frigate's visit to Page Canada in 1976 and a close up of its name board and the letters are closer together and the http://www.hmsajax.org/?use_flash=1#/joining/4560949163 triangles inside the A's appear smaller. The spacing on this one is the same as the one in your Malcolm Collis photo.

Not sure if he ever solved the riddle, I assume the enquiry was for commercial reasons. If anyone can help identify the ship, please let me know. Malcolm Collis 16. 17.

Not sure if he ever solved the riddle, I assume the enquiry was for commercial reasons. If anyone can help identify the ship, please let me know. Malcolm Collis 18. 19.

BATTLE OF RIVER PLATE COMMEMORATIVE SHIELD BRISTOL TIMES ARTICLE – DAVE LEAR

Following Peter Danks' post trip plea for attendees to spread the word Dave Lear managed to get George Stewart who we met in Montevideo at the Silver River Lodge and other commemorative a full page spread in his local paper – well done Dave. events sent me a link to the “Falkland Reunion / Chay's stop for Smoko” Facebook page. George worked closely with me to organise various events in Montevideo and had served for many years on the survey ship RSS James Clark Ross in the Antarctic.

The Facebook thread is as follows:

Michael Poynor 26 January at 10:03 My father's commemoration shield (left) from the battle of the River Plate.

David Jones I have one of those, passed down through the family to me from my late Grandmother. Which I believe was given to her by one of the Sailors of the Exeter who stayed with her while in Stanley at the time,

Roy Clifton that brings back memories

Douglas Shaw There is a nice section in Maritime museum in Montevideo dedicated to this some interesting things and great models Its worth a visit if you visit the city lots of artefacts from both sides! Also the Goucho museum is really good.

Patricia Emily I have one (below) given to me by my mother. Apparently only a few were made and given out

George Stewart We had the people and relatives from the AJAX. EXETER Association down on the 13 December they would love to have a copy of that

I've not seen one of these before – if anyone can shed any light on it please?

Malcolm Collis 18. 19.

BATTLE OF RIVER PLATE COMMEMORATIVE SHIELD BRISTOL TIMES ARTICLE – DAVE LEAR

The Facebook thread is as follows:

Michael Poynor 26 January at 10:03 My father's commemoration shield (left) from the battle of the River Plate.

Roy Clifton that brings back memories

Patricia Emily I have one (below) given to me by my mother. Apparently only a few were made and given out

George Stewart We had the people and relatives from the AJAX. EXETER Association down on the 13 December they would love to have a copy of that

I've not seen one of these before – if anyone can shed any light on it please?

Malcolm Collis 20. 21.

SILVER RIVER LODGE SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH ARCHIVIST UPDATE MARCH 2020

During my organisation of the South America Trip one of my Montevideo contacts was George A few enquiries and contacts during this period – some quite frustrating when I get no follow-up. Stewart in his capacity as member of The Allies (formerly the British Legion). It also turns out that he is a member of the Silver River Lodge No. 876 in Montevideo and extended an invitation CHARLES WHITTLE to any group member who wished to visit. The reason being that Ajax masons visited the Lodge Keith Harrison is researching his family history and contacted me regarding one of his uncles, and presented a signed photograph. Now the Lodge wished to entertain us in an informal capacity Charles Whittle who his mother had told him had served in HMS Ajax during the war but he had and present us all with a copy of the photograph. The fact that George was also the Lodge barmen been unable to find any details. Two 'Whittle's' appear on the Town of Ajax records - a Rob had nothing to do with the fact that 26 attended – and everyone agreed it had been a brilliant Whittle Ajax 1940/41 and a C. Whittle Ajax 1942 and this one would appear to be the Charles. experience and thoroughly enjoyable. Unfortunately neither Ajax nor I had any further details. As usual in such case he was directed to the MoD site to obtain his service record which he said he would do straightaway – but I have The actual photograph is titled “To commemorative the Victory Visit of HMS Ajax to Montevideo heard nothing further. 3rd & 4th Jan 1940” and bears 17 signatures. It is captioned at the bottom with: FREDERICK MOSES EVANS “Copy of a photograph hanging on the wall at Silver River Lodge No. 876 in Robert Evans is trying to find out about his father Frederick Moses Evans' naval records. He was Montevideo commemorating the visit of H.M.S. Ajax and the many brethren a Chief Petty Officer in HMS Ajax when Robert was born in 1944. aboard who visited Silver River Lodge and Acacia Lodge. Whilst there are seven 'Evans' records for Ajax there were none for a Frederick and he was We shall remember them at the going down of the sun and in the morning.” directed to the MoD. I heard no more from him. December 2019 WBro Dr. Eduardo Silva Worshipful Master WBro Capt. Hernes Rodriguez DGDC Immediate Past Master GEORGE MITCHELL Graham Mitchell contacted me to advise that his father was the blacksmith on HMS Ajax who produced mementos for the crew and he has moulds he made and used. The records list several Mitchell's but no George and I asked him for further details. He sent me two photographs and an image of an exam paper. The top photographs has his father second from right and according to the back Alexandria June 1939 and Graham assumed it was with Ajax crew. The other photograph had no explanation. I further responded saying that “I am not too sure when he would have been in Ajax. Ajax was in Alexandria in 1935 having been diverted on her way to join the South America Division and did not return until the end of that commission. The second commission began January 1938 when she left J H Redmond Albert E Ashbury Portsmouth to join the America & West Indies Undecipherable J F Hawker Squadron. And there she stayed until after war was (possibly H F Kirkham) F C Barbour declared and she took part in the Battle of the River Plate December 1939. Following that she F J Ford F A Smith returned to the UK for a lengthy refit at Chatham up to July 1940 and thereafter she saw action in H Vale Claude R Flaxington E Barnes:F C Keeble:R Knapton:A E Hughes:Edmund R the Mediterranean from 1940 to the end of the war, having also taken part in D-Day. Wilkinson:Undecipherable:Undecipherable:Undecipherable Therefore, if the photograph was taken in Alexandria, the dhows indicate so, in June 1939 then is almost certainly was not when he was in Ajax. Also of note is the fact he is displaying colour If any graphologist, detective or anyone who knows who the missing four are please get in touch. sergeant stripes indicating he was a marine (CPO equivalent) Malcolm Collis 20. 21.

SILVER RIVER LODGE SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH ARCHIVIST UPDATE MARCH 2020

Once again he was direct to the MoD to clarify matters but again I have not heard back from His number was KX79176 and her sister believes he was stationed at Chatham Barracks. He was him – all very frustrating! privileged to be given a cigar by and to have a chat with Winston Churchill during a dinner to commemorate the Battle of the River Plate. The stub of the cigar was kept by the family for a JACK OXLADE number of years. Luke Oxlade is a grandson of Jack Oxlade and he has recently had a son who has been named Laurel also recanted the tale her mother use to tell that when he was stationed in a ship near Jack and is trying to gather information to pass on in due course. He has a few mementos such Ireland he got ashore and stole a prize goose from an Irish farm so the ship could have a as certificates, medals, sword and photographs. Christmas dinner!

J Oxlade appears on the 1939 list and the 1940/41 lists for HMS Ajax and so would have been at I responded that “Nicknames were very common in the The Battle of the River Plate and his name appears on the Ajax memorial wall. navy and it seems nobody was known by their proper name, making record keeping interesting. There is an Oxlade Crescent in Ajax and whilst they have no biography for him they have a file From what you are saying it does seem that your father was note as a result of contact from a nephew in 2004. It indeed in Ajax - the cap tally with Ajax on it and the fact that reads: “Jack rode a Harley Davidson motorcycle. He was he was at the Guildhall, London after the Battle with Winston secretary of the local chapter of riders where he lived and Churchill as this was only for the crew of Ajax and Exeter - used to ride with them on their outings. Jack had a Achilles left South America back to New Zealand and didn't nephew Jim who emmigrated with his wife to Niagara go to the UK Falls and later to Fort Erie, Ontario”. The main naval bases were Chatham, Portsmouth & Plymouth - Ajax started as a Portsmouth ship for first 2 Luke sent in a couple of photos but wasn't too sure what commissions so interesting that you say he was Chatham - the second one was. I his service record should clear this up. updated him - Also interesting that you say he was with the New Zealand The certificate is A navy before the war. Achilles was assigned to the New Crossing The Line Zealand division (until transfer to the newly formed NZ navy Certificate issued when in 1941) sometime before the war with a mix of British & new crew pass over the Douglas Derbyshire New Zealand crew but she was in the Pacific for all of that equator with all due time and didn't meet up with Ajax & Exeter until just before pomp and ceremony the Battle in December 1939. before the court of King Quite a mystery that probably only his service record will Neptune. solve” – watch this space. He was on Ajax in Susan at Ajax also awaits a copy from Laurel so they can amend their records accordingly. August 1938 when he Jack Oxlade’s Crossing the Line Certificate was subjected to the trials 17th August 1938 set by the court. LINC ARK RESCUE An ancient bit of fun! Rick from Linc Ark Rescue emailed to say the charity had been given an HMS Ajax badge and did I know Jack Oxlade After the initial flurry of enthusiasm heard no more. anything about it. I replied that I had not seen anything like this before nor was I sure which HMS Ajax it relates to but clearly it is DOUGLAS DERBYSHIRE Ajax the Warrior depicted on the lapel badge. The daughter of Douglas Derbyshire, Laurel Nesling, contacted me as she is interested in He came back asking if there were any more HMS Ajax meeting crew or relatives of HMS Ajax as he was in Ajax at the time of the Battle of the River and I gave him the following information, 'There is an Plate. Ajax association linked with an American ship called Whilst a Douglas Derbyshire (Stoker 1st Class) is listed on the records of the Town of Ajax as USS Ajax but despite my best efforts through their being present at the time of the Battle of the River Plate in 1939 he is shown as serving in HMS website I've never had any responses from them so gave Achilles rather that Ajax. up. There are also 2 other Derbyshire's for Ajax – M. in 1939 & P. in 1941. http://ussajaxassociation.org/ You could try but your HMS Ajax Badge There is a Darbyshire Court there named in honour of these 3 and a later Frigate member. badge clearly is HMS not USS I added that, 'Records are notoriously inaccurate so we firstly need to clarify which ship he was Not had an update for this one either. on. Although Achilles was assigned to the New Zealand Division at the start of the war she did have a mixed of British and New Zealand sailors so he could have been on either.

Laurel did come back to say she would apply for his record adding that he died in 1970 and she understands that prior to the war he did serve in the New Zealand Navy and was known as Jack. 22. 23.

Laurel did come back to say she would apply for his record adding that he died in 1970 and she understands that prior to the war he did serve in the New Zealand Navy and was known as Jack. TABARIS HIGHLANDERS I was contacted by Richard Loraine-Smith advising that he was about to publish a small book the Tabaris Highlanders 1939 in which he had a picture of HMS Exeter and either Ajax or Achilles. They were taken by his Uncle Corkie Robinson, a volunteer in the Tabaris Highlanders (the FIDF Falkland Islands Defence Force). His story covered the 2 months on the Falklands and his trip in South America.

Apparently The Tabaris Highlanders arrived in Port Stanley, The Falkland Islands, aboard the Lafonia escorted by a destroyer, the HMS Hotspur*. Their role was to prepare defences in the islands if there was a German Raid. The small book includes unpublished pictures of their activities while there from 27th September 1939 to 8th December 1939 just days before the Battle of the River Plate.

* HMS Hotspur together with HMS Havock were assigned to the South Atlantic Division at that time and were the only Destroyers operating there in the company of Exeter & Ajax. They were soon afterwards recalled back to the UK and were not there at the time of the Battle.

Richard did send me a copy of his book when it was published – further details can be obtained from www.tabarishighlanders1939.com

Malcolm Collis – Archivist