Post by aghart on Nov 8, 2022 20:07:55 GMT
24 people present and 16 linked in via Zoom for the November 2022 branch meeting. A minute’s silence was held for Pete Dore ex 5 RTR, one our last two WWII veterans who has sadly passed away.
We welcomed two new members, Dave Gwynn ex 1 RTR and Jonathan Willoughby ex Pipes & Drums. We also welcomed a visitor, Dave Lowe ex 1 RTR.
There was a recap of our October activity, the main points being branch representation at Gen Sinnat’s funeral and General Leakey’s Black Rod presentation at Sherborne.
There was a final update on the imminent remembrance service at Moreton. Members were reminded that branch wreaths would be laid in Bournemouth, Poole & Weymouth on Remembrance Sunday. Members were informed of the Mayor of Poole’s reception at North Road following the ceremony in Poole Park on Remembrance Sunday.
Volunteers were required to help man the RBL Poppy stand in the Dolphin Centre in Poole. The branch was reminded of the pre-Cambrai 105 presentation in the Tank Museum on Wednesday 16th November at 10.00hrs. It was agreed that those who wished to should meet at 0900hrs at the cafe behind the Memorial Hall in Bovington for a pre presentation “Fat Boys Breakfast”
The latest Cambrai 105 update was given. Members were reminded that Ladies Lunch returns needed to be returned by the December social at the latest.
It was announced that we would be laying a wreath on 15th December 2022 at West Lulworth Cemetery. This is for Sgt Stephens RTR, who died on 15th December 1942 after being mortally wounded during a Luftwaffe hit and run attack on Lulworth Camp the previous day.
Members were informed that funding, accommodation and transport for the proposed visit to Ypres in 2023 were being explored.
Members were reminded to bring food and a raffle prize for the December social.
The branch was reminded that there is no meeting in January and the next branch meeting is on Tuesday 7th February 2023.
The meeting then closed, and the Chairman introduced the guest speaker. Col (retd) Tim Hall. Tim gave a very interesting and amusing tale of life as a troop leader, OC and CO (all with 1 RTR) . We knew it would be good and we were not disappointed.