RBLS Legion Scotland Today Autumn Winter 2022

LEGIONSCOTLAND

New Haig House, Logie Green Road, Edinburgh EH7 4HQ

Patron Her Majesty The Queen

President

Mark Beverstock

National Chairman

Martyn Hawthorn

National Vice Chairman

David Paton

National Treasurer

John Whitelaw (interim)

Chief Executive Officer

Claire Armstrong

EDITOR FOR LEGION SCOTLAND

Claire Armstrong

MANAGING EDITOR

Ciaran Sneddon

DESIGNERS

Juanita Adu, Amanda Richardson

SUB-EDITORS

Sian Campbell, Andrew Littlefield

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR

Clare Harris clare.harris@thinkpublishing.co.uk

STORIES TO SHARE?

Please contact magazine@legionscotland.org.uk or call 0131 322 1076.

Submissions received by 8January2023 will be considered for inclusion in the next issue, but we appreciate your stories at any time and may be able to share them through other avenues such as social media. Articles are likely to be edited and inclusion is not guaranteed.

Sending high-resolution images as email attachments will increase the chances of us being able to use your story.

The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Published on behalf of Legion Scotland by Think Media Group 20 Mortimer Street, London W1T 3JW 020 3771 7200

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Copyright © Legion Scotland 2022. All rights reserved.

Legion Scotland is a trading name of the Royal British Legion Scotland SCIO, Scottish Charity No.SC003323

Reflectionsand remembrance

WELCOME TO the autumn edition of Legion Scotland Today which, as ever, is also a Remembrance issue. As I write this in late September, the period of national mourning for the death of Her Majesty The Queen has just ended. However, I, like many others, continue to reflect upon her life of service and dedication to causes and charities here and abroad.

A thread of Remembrance runs right through this issue

The Queen was a stalwart of the Armed Forces community, and of Legion Scotland itself. It’s an impossible task to summarise all of her achievements and efforts, and I will not attempt to do so here. We have put together a special commemorative feature that touches on some of the key aspects of her relationship with the Royal British Legion Scotland on page six, but this is far from a complete overview. I hope that in the months ahead of us, we will all find a way to share our collective memories of what she offered us.

Earlier this summer, many of us had come together to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. It was a joyous occasion, and one on which I look back all the more fondly given what has happened since. The link between Legion Scotland and the Queen was made clear by three members receiving Jubilee Honours for their own service to the organisation. We touch on this on page 10, and again on page 22.

The achievements of our members, and what they provide for their local communities, is a source of great pride. We always try to highlight as many of your stories as we can, whether it’s a branch reopening in Helensburgh (page 17) or what the Women’s Section has been up to (page 13) this year.

A thread of Remembrance runs right through this issue. It’s a subject which is important yearround but particularly comes to the fore at this time of year. The conflict in Ukraine is a further reminder of the ramifications of war, and our thoughts are still with those affected.

I hope you and yours are able to commemorate together this November, and that you continue to have good health.

Dr Claire Armstrong CEO Legion Scotland

CONTENTS

06

A TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN

We honour the life and legacy of our devoted patron, Her Majesty The Queen.

10

13

OUR PATRON

ON THE COVER

Our patron and sovereign, Her Majesty The Queen. We look back on her contributions to the veterans community on page six, and again on page 34.

SOCIAL MEDIA

facebook.com/ LegionScotland

twitter.com/ LegionScotland

14

LEGION HIGHLIGHTS

The latest news from across the organisation.

WOMEN’S SECTION HIGHLIGHTS

Updates from the Legion Scotland Women’s Section.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

Key details for your membership, including upcoming events.

17

18

LOCAL HERO

Meet the team behind the newly re-formed Helensburgh and District branch.

SCOTTISH WAR POETRY

Discover Scotland’s part in this historical art form.

22

24

28

MEMBER FOCUS

Annie Ogilvy BEM reflects on her Jubilee Honours.

AUTUMN ATTRACTIONS

Six more must-see museums.

POPPYSCOTLAND NEWS

News and stories from our partner organisation.

34

IMAGE FROM THE ARCHIVE

A 1978 royal visit.

A LIFE OF SERVICE

In honour of her passing, we pay tribute to the dedication and commitment shown by our late patron and sovereign, Her Majesty The Queen

WORDS: JOAN MCFADDEN

We are all deeply saddened by the passing of our patron Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

As queen, head of state, defender of the faith and head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty touched the lives of so many during her 70 year reign. However, there was something extraordinarily special and deeply personal about her relationship with her Armed Forces and the veterans community.

Her Majesty had deep family ties to the military. In February 1945 she enlisted in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, becoming the first female member of the Royal Family to serve full time in the Armed Forces. She fell in love and married a naval officer who was dutifully by her side until his passing last year, and her children and grandchildren served in the Armed Forces and maintain close associations with the services.

She was one of the last links to the extraordinary wartime generation, and during her 70 year reign her family served in conflicts and danger zones around the world. She felt the sorrow and anguish of the families of the thousands of Armed Forces personnel who lost their lives during her reign.

Her Majesty understood first-hand the challenges of service life and the sacrifices that the nation asks of its men and women in uniform and their families. Each November, at the Cenotaph in London, Her Majesty kept her solemn duty and led the nation in Remembrance.

Her relationship with her Armed Forces transcended that call to duty. She had a genuine and natural affinity with the men and women who served their country, often long after they had retired from active duty. Always interested in what they and their families were doing and had to say, Her Majesty was truly relaxed in their company. She was an inspiration to everyone whose life she touched and in whose name, as commander in chief, they served, generating loyalty, pride and devotion to duty.

The motto of the Royal British Legion Scotland is Service Not Self and Her Majesty, with her lifetime devotion to serving her people, was the epitome of this sentiment. As we reflect on her remarkable and extraordinary life, a promise of lifelong service made and fulfilled, we will always be grateful and rejoice for her devotion and service, but there will remain something missing in our hearts.

We will remember her.

God save The King.

Rear Admiral Mark Beverstock National President

HER MAJESTY The Queen’s relationship with Legion Scotland has been longstanding, professional and yet also deeply personal for many members. It spanned decades and generations, with members of all ages having precious memories of meeting her, taking part in Legion Scotland ceremonies with her, and always being aware of her respect and support for the organisation.

The Queen’s love of Scotland was well known to all, and it seemed fitting that she should die at her beloved Balmoral, where she spent so many happy times. The circumstances of her passing also allowed Scotland to show

The Queen attends our Royal Review in 1981

its love for her and, in turn, many Legion Scotland members paid their own quiet tribute as her cortege travelled through the country and then lay in rest at St Giles’ Cathedral.

A PATRON LIKE NO OTHER

Dr Claire Armstrong, CEO of Legion Scotland, is typical of many who feel personally bereaved. “We were in complete and utter shock as we watched the news coverage through the afternoon with a sense of dread and when the announcement was finally made shortly after 6pm, it was hard to take in,” she says

“My daughter and I both cried. I was deeply moved. She was truly

a remarkable woman, held in high esteem, respected, and much loved.”

Legion Scotland has a long history of royal patronage and when The Queen took up her role at her accession in 1952 she was following her father, King George VI, and her grandfather, King George V. The next year her husband, the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was elected as a member at the annual conference and since those early days, The Queen has always been part of Legion Scotland’s most important events.

In 1971, Legion Scotland’s Golden Jubilee, she granted us the royal title. A few years later, in May 1977, Legion Scotland led the organisation of the

20th Annual Conference of the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League in Edinburgh, where The Queen attended the reception.

As on every occasion when she met members, she showed great interest in and knowledge of the organisation and her legendary charm put all at their ease. The following year, on 3 July

She was truly a remarkable woman, held in high esteem, respected and much loved

The Queen speaks to a worker at the Lady Haig Poppy Factory

Coronation Day, June 1953

The official opening of New Haig House

A military procession through Edinburgh

1978, she opened New Haig House in Edinburgh, which continues to be used as Legion Scotland’s headquarters to this day.

ROYAL SUPPORT

Another important moment in the shared history of Legion Scotland and Her Majesty The Queen came in 1981. It was then that she carried out the Royal Review, joined by 3,000 Legionnaires in Holyrood Park to mark Legion Scotland’s Diamond Jubilee. During the event, she met with ex-servicemen and women who were living with disabilities, as well as veterans of the First World War.

This event illustrated the warm connection between The Queen and Legion Scotland as she spoke about the organisation and herself in the same breath.

“Our organisation was established in order to alleviate the terrible suffering among exservicemen after the First World War,” she said. “I am thankful and proud to say that the contribution by the Legion has been tremendous. The Royal British Legion Scotland will always be needed by the country and your role will

evolve as the needs of the community evolve. Above all, I know that you will carry out your duties in keeping with your motto: Service Not Self.”

That message rang true in her own actions over the decades and was clearly illustrated in her commitment and support for Legion Scotland. Each year, she corresponded through the national president and sent greetings and good wishes to members during the annual conference. In 2021, Legion Scotland’s centenary year, she sent her congratulations for reaching such a momentous milestone.

IN REMEMBRANCE

As head of the Armed Forces, The Queen was committed to honouring the service and sacrifice of the entire community, and possibly nothing symbolised this more than in leading the nation in Remembrance every year. The

Looking back over the decades the lasting emotion alongside grief is that of gratitude

Addressing the crowds

Visiting Virginia, USA in 2007

Patriotic supporters

The coffin carrying The Queen passes along the Royal Mile

HM The Queen 1926-2022

image of her laying a poppy wreath in silent grief and great dignity is one that will stay with many veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces. Beyond this, many will also have their own personal memories of meeting a warm and caring Queen who recognised and valued their service.

Legion Scotland prides itself on being at the heart of Scotland’s veterans community and has always valued The Queen’s patronage and involvement with the organisation.

Looking back over the decades, where The Queen made so many events special and showed so much interest in its members, the lasting emotion alongside the grief is that of gratitude. For a lifetime of service, for inspiring so many and for meaning so much to Scotland, The Queen will always have a very special place in the hearts of the members of Legion Scotland.

As we enter the traditional weeks of Remembrance, honouring those who died in service of their country, we include The Queen, and the Royal Family, in our thoughts. Her dutiful commitment to Legion Scotland’s values over the decades have further strengthened them, and it has been an honour to have her at our side for so many years.

MEMORIES OF HER MAJESTY

Members and HQ staff offer their personal recollections

Jon Brookes, chairman of Nairn branch and an area trustee

“I joined the Royal Navy as a marine engineer mechanic and our ship visited Malta in November 2005 to coincide with a state visit by Her Majesty The Queen. I was incredibly nervous and her smile put me at ease instantly. She asked what my job was and where I was originally from. When I said Birmingham she replied tongue-in-cheek that I couldn’t grow up further from the ocean. I was so saddened by the news of her death and the respect shown to ‘the boss’ has been heart-warming.”

Tam Douglas, veterans community support manager at Head Office

“In September 1975, I was part of the Royal Guard furnished by 1st Battalion the Royal Scots, based in Ballater. I was excited rather than nervous as around 100 of us waited to meet The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. She commanded the room when entering and easily put us all at ease when speaking to us. Although we knew her death was coming it was still a shock. Her love of Scotland and its people was obvious, and she was a queen recognised and adored by the rest of the world.”

Alan Hamilton MBE, chairman of Livingston branch

“My first involvement with The Queen was on my first birthday on 2 June 1953 – Coronation Day. I was on parade in my pushchair as my father, Corporal John Hamilton, Royal Auxiliary Air Force, was on parade. In 1971 I joined the Territorial Army and served 41 years during which time I was on parade on my 25th, 50th, 60th and 70th birthdays for the jubilees. I met The Queen once at Holyrood Palace and she left an indelible impression because she made me feel like she was so interested in me and what I was doing and was going to do. At about 1am on 13 September I paid my respects to her at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh.”

Speaking to CEO Claire Armstrong in the days following The Queen’s death, Joy Crawford shared the above image of her and her husband, Colin, meeting The Queen. Joy met Her Majesty several times, and on this visit, The Queen asked after her family. When Joy confirmed how all four kids were doing, The Queen commented that that would certainly be hard work and something she knew all about from personal experience. Joy said it was a complete honour to have met her on more than one occasion and like all of us has been deeply affected by her passing.

National President Rear Admiral Mark Beverstock “It was a huge privilege to be invited to the service at St Giles’ Cathedral, and it was a really beautiful service in a fitting and historic place. Veterans have a unique and special relationship with Her Majesty and Operation Unicorn gave us a focus in Scotland to pay our respects. The organisation was immaculate and as we waited for The Queen in St Giles’ it was eerily quiet as her cortege came up the Royal Mile. The silence was broken every minute by the booming of a cannon, and we were all very conscious of the drama of seeing her being carried in. The young lads carrying the coffin did such a fantastic job – we were all so proud of them.”

Joy Crawford, Bathgate branch

Joy Crawford and her late husband, Colin, with The Queen

A memorial screen in Piccadilly Circus, London

Alan Hamilton MBE on Coronation Day

Headline news around the world

Keeping you up to date with Legion Scotland’s latest LEGION HIGHLIGHTS

PLATINUM JUBILEE

HONOURS FOR THREE LEGION VOLUNTEERS

Trio of charity stalwarts receive awards to mark Platinum Jubilee

THREE ROYAL BRITISH Legion Scotland members were named in Her Majesty The Queen’s Jubilee Honours List. The longstanding members of the RBLS community were among the 1,134 people to have been awarded as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Retired Lieutenant Commander Martyn Hawthorn, former national chairman for Legion Scotland, received an MBE for voluntary and charitable services.

Martyn’s involvement in Legion Scotland began some 28 years ago, and he served as Moffat branch secretary for 18 years. Since then, he has moved up the ranks of the organisation, with a record that includes National Executive Committee representative for Dumfries and Galloway, area secretary, and national vice chairman.

Martyn’s tenure as chairman will come to an end next year.

Also recognised was Billy Dingwall, who first joined Royal British Legion Scotland in 1954 after serving as a submariner in the Korean War.

A member of Inverness branch, Billy has spent time as a local committee member, branch standard

bearer and branch vice president. His enthusiasm and vigour have contributed hugely to Legion Scotland’s continued presence in Inverness, and he has been a Life Member since 1995. Billy has made an annual commitment to lay poppy crosses at the 175 Commonwealth War Graves in Inverness’s two main cemeteries.

Annie Ogilvy was the third Legion Scotland volunteer to be recognised for her outstanding commitment to the organisation, and for her fundraising efforts which have helped countless people and causes across the country.

She joined the RBLS Women’s Section in Arbroath in 1976 and has been an active supporter ever since.

You can read more about Annie’s time with Legion Scotland, and her honours experience, on page 22.

HOW TO NOMINATE YOUR PEERS FOR AN HONOUR

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Active, long-standing members of RBLS and Poppyscotland, as well as employees, are eligible for nomination. Do not tell them you are putting them forward!

WHO CAN NOMINATE?

Anyone associated with Legion Scotland or Poppyscotland can make the nomination, but it must be endorsed by a leadership figure from one of the

two organisations, such as a trustee, chairperson, secretary, president or Head Office manager.

HOW DO I BEGIN?

The key first step is to provide RBLS Head Office with a typed, digital document containing a draft citation. The citation is the cornerstone of the nomination, and it must meet the requirements of the official Cabinet Office form.

This can be found at www. tinyurl.com/LegionHonours

WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE?

In this order, your citation should cover:

• What is the primary achievement of this person?

• To what extent has this person been involved with RBLS or Poppyscotland?

• What are a few recent or current achievements of the nominee? Why do they deserve an award now?

• What are this person’s individual contributions, characteristics or skills that set them apart?

WHAT’S MY DEADLINE? You can submit at any time. Legion Scotland’s National President will submit citations received by the end of the first week of March for the New Year’s List, or the end of the first week of September for the next year’s Birthday Honours List.

Annie Ogilvy BEM and Martyn Hawthorn MBE

NEW DECISIONS MADE AT CONFERENCE

MEMBERS MADE TWO key decisions at the 2022 Annual Conference, covering both Legion Scotland’s membership and its voting policies.

From 1 November 2022, there will be one single membership category. This won’t change how memberships are processed for the upcoming membership year, so renewals and new applications will proceed as normal. However, over the next 10 months, updates and amendments will be introduced.

An updated constitution is due to be submitted for approval to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR). A copy will also be shared with all branches and posted on our website once finalised.

The 2022 amended version will take account of the changes required with respect to single category membership, including eligibility to hold an office bearer post within a branch and attend conference for 2023. More information

BEST KEPT WAR MEMORIAL

on this will be provided to branch committees directly in the near future.

Amendments have also been agreed to the One Member One Vote policy. As of the last four years, all members have the right to vote and for their voice to be heard at conference. Ahead of 2023, the following changes will be introduced:

•Members no longer have to register their intent to vote by March each year.

•Branches will confirm with all members whether they wish to vote in 2023.

WINNERS ANNOUNCED

contest, said, “It’s inspiring to travel round Scotland and see the pride that local communities take in looking after their memorial and ensuring it looks its best. This year it was very close, but Nairn stood out due to its superb floral displays as well as the very high standard of general maintenance.”

•All motions/proposals will be circulated to branch secretaries at least eight weeks before conference.

•Branch committees will be required to engage members in discussions about these proposals and take a vote on each one. They will submit the votes to Head Office by 19 May at the latest. It is hoped that these changes will ensure that no member misses out on the chance to vote. We will continue to provide guidance to all branch office bearers in the regular bulletins and encourage members to regularly engage with their branch committee and attend meetings in order to participate in this democratic process.

Champion of Champions

Nairn and District Memorial

Large Community with Gardens Monifieth Memorial

Small Community with Gardens Ballater Memorial

Large Community without Gardens

Dingwall Memorial

Small Community without Gardens

NAIRN AND DISTRICT WAR Memorial has been named Champion of Champions in the 40th annual Best Kept War Memorial awards. The sandstone monument, itself in its centenary year, was praised for its “superb floral displays”, well-maintained stonework and accessible paths.

Head Judge Bill Tait, a horticulturalist who first conceived the idea for the

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Bob Towns MBE, president of Nairn branch, added, “It has been a real team effort, and we decided to concentrate on the basics this year: neat, clean and tidy with a good flower display.

“There are hundreds of names on the memorial, including two I served with during my time in the Queen’s Own Highlanders. It is only fitting that the memorial, and the surrounding gardens, should be maintained properly.”

Fort William and District Memorial Satellite Memorial with Gardens

Royal Scots Fusiliers Memorial Satellite Memorial without Gardens

Men of Cockburnspath Parish Memorial

New Entry

Rogart Memorial

National All Categories Entry

Montrose Memorial

WINNERS IN FULL

Some of the Best Kept War Memorial award winners

In-person attendees at this year’s Annual Conference

A message from the chairwoman

IN JUNE, THE Women’s Section held their first Central Council meeting since 2019. The meeting was held in New Haig House in Edinburgh and was well attended by representatives from the areas. It was our first chance to discuss any problems we encountered during the last few years, and how best to resolve them.

CEO Claire Armstrong came to speak with us and hosted a short question and answer session. This was really helpful and gave us the support we needed to continue, secure in the knowledge that we were not alone.

After this it was down to the business at hand, which included confirmation of our conference to be held next year in Galashiels (date TBC).

The following year, 2024, will be the 100th since the Women’s Section was formed. This is a major milestone for us and will take a lot of arranging, yet we’re prepared for the challenges involved and are looking forward to a successful event.

During lockdown we have kept ourselves busy with local poppy

ANZACDAYEVENTLEADSTO NEWGALLIPOLICONNECTION

AS PART OF THIS year’s Anzac Day commemorations, National Chair Lil Davidson and Vice Chair Sheila Elrick attended the annual Legion Scotland event at Edinburgh Castle.

The service, conducted at the Scottish National War Memorial, also included Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Frank Ross, representatives of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), the Scottish government and international

appeals and where possible have attended Remembrance days, Armed Forces Days, and various individual commemorative events.

We have continued to raise funds for various ex-servicemen and women’s charities, all the time adhering to local Covid-19 restrictions –no mean feat.

We were also pleased to congratulate our Vice President Annie Ogilvy (Arbroath branch) on receiving the BEM in the Queen’s Jubilee Honours list 2022 (see page 22). Everyone was really pleased for Annie as she is such a valued member of the Women’s Section.

We are all looking forward to a bit more normality going forward, and any new challenges that present themselves. We wish the Legion Scotland family all the best for the future and continue to live by our motto, Service Not Self.

50TH ANNIVERSARY IN STONEHAVEN

governments, including those of Australia and New Zealand.

Lil was able to ask Iain Anderson from CWGC about her husband’s grandfather, who died in Gallipoli. Within days of their meeting, Iain and his colleagues had located the gravestone and provided an image of it by email. Lil explained that she and her husband George were “extremely grateful and quite emotional” for all the effort put in.

This year marks 50 years of Stonehaven Women’s Section branch. The official birthday party was held on 15 January, and among the celebrants were three of the founder members: Vi Beattie, Elma Scott and Sheila Elrick. They led proceedings by cutting the cake, and amid a healthy turnout from members, the event marked both an important milestone and a chance to look to the future.

Send us your stories from the Women’s Section for the magazine and monthly bulletin. Just email magazine@legionscotland.org.uk

The ceremony at Edinburgh Castle

Chair Lil Davidson, Veterans Support Community Administrator Sally Orr Ewing, and Vice Chair Sheila Elrick at the 2022 Legion Scotland conference

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

By keeping up your membership of Legion Scotland you help the charity to support veterans through comradeship, befriending and much more

MEMBERSHIP

BULLETIN

Our monthly e-bulletin is the best way to keep connected with other branches, national events and Legion Scotland news. Sign up by getting in touch with Head Office at info@ legionscotland.org.uk.

DIRECT DEBIT

One way to help your branch and ensure your membership is up to date is to register for direct debit. There is still time to set this up for 2022/2023. Direct debits are processed on the 1st and 15th of every month. You can use the form on the page opposite in order to set up your direct debit, or get in touch with Head Office. If you have already paid this year but would like to set up a direct debit for the future, you can do so at any time.

SAVE THEDATE

Events for your diary

2022

OCTOBER

21: Inverness Garden of Remembrance dedication, 3pm at Cavell Gardens

24: Edinburgh Garden of Remembrance dedication, 11am at Scott Monument

25: Glasgow Garden of Remembrance dedication, 11am at George Square

NOVEMBER

5: Festival of Remembrance, 7pm at Caird Hall, Dundee

11: Armistice Day Service, 11am at Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh

12: Festival of Remembrance, 2pm and 7pm at Royal Albert Hall, London

13: Remembrance Sunday event, 11am at Edinburgh City Chambers

13: Cenotaph March, 11am in Whitehall, London

GIFT AID

We have set up a Frequently Asked Questions page on the website to help make the process easier. Just visit www.legionscotland.org.uk/news/ direct-debit-faqs

SINGLE MEMBERSHIP

Following the successful motion for single category membership as voted for by the members in May 2022, all members will now fall into a single category as of the 1 November 2022. This will not affect how you renew or join your branch, but we will be updating administration paperwork in the coming months for next year.

ONE MEMBER, ONE VOTE

Every member who has renewed or joined for 2022/2023 is entitled to vote on the motions submitted next year. Get all the details, including how to secure your vote, on page 11

Signing up to Gift Aid costs nothing and is an important part of our income. Sign up using the slip at the bottom of your renewal letter. You can check if you are eligible at www.gov. uk/claim-gift-aid. If you are eligible, please speak to your branch or Head Office to set up Gift Aid, as this supports what we do.

LEGION ACTIVITY

In addition to the monthly bulletin, you can keep up with the latest news, events, commemorations, Last Posts and more on our website at www.legionscotland. org.uk. You will also find regular updates on the Legion Scotland Facebook page, and other local branch pages.

For any queries not covered in this section, talk to your local branch, visit www.legionscotland.org.uk or call the membership team on 0131 550 1586.

Service, 11am at Scottish National War Memorial, Edinburgh Castle

MAY

5: Silver Poppy Golf Competition, 9am at St Andrews

26-27: Annual Conference, beginning 9am. Venue TBC

DECEMBER

11: Legion Scotland Christmas Carol Service, 4pm at Canongate Kirk

2023

JANUARY

29: Wreath laying for Earl Haig, at the Scottish National War Memorial, Edinburgh Castle

APRIL

25: ANZAC and Gallipoli Day

29: Scottish American Memorial Day, 1pm in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh

JUNE

19: Armed Forces Day flag raising, 10am at City Chambers, Edinburgh

24: Armed Forces Day, marked nationwide. National event in Edinburgh, venue TBC

All dates are subject to change. For the latest information and event-specific updates, make sure to visit: www. legionscotland.org.uk/Pages/Events

The 2021 Remembrance Day parade in Edinburgh

LOCAL HERO

Send your inspirational stories to magazine@legionscotland.org.uk

RE-OPENINGTHEDOORS INHELENSBURGH

AS LOCKDOWN restrictions

eased this year, many Legion Scotland branches met up for the first time in months, if not years. Clubs were also opened, allowing communites to reconnect.

But perhaps even more exciting than existing branches reuniting was the resurrection of Helensburgh and District branch after a three-year absence. Having closed in 2018, partly due to the lack of a chairperson, the branch was formally recognised by the National Board once more in December 2021. Since then, the local team – led ably by chairman and Falklands veteran Geoff Coles – has found great success.

At one of the first meetings Geoff organised, before Helensburgh and District had officially re-formed, he was asked why he wanted to start a new branch. “My answer was, ‘It’s a good question,’” says Geoff. “‘But it’s because I think Legion Scotland does good.’ And certainly several of the older members enjoy the comradeship, but we also do a bit of Remembrance and we’ve offered some support to veterans.”

Geoff’s involvement in the Legion world goes back almost 20 years, when he lived in Cornwall. Returning a favour led to him joining the local Royal British Legion branch as vice chair, before a quick – and unexpected – promotion to chair. During lockdown, Geoff moved to Helensburgh and was keen to join the local Legion Scotland branch, only to find out it had closed down.

“The website said my nearest was Bridge of Weir, so I looked on the map, but it was the other side of Glasgow,” he explains. Determined not to lose access to a local branch, Geoff began the long process of relaunching a closed outpost.

The journey hasn’t always been easy –protocols to be followed, a name to be determined, the continuing unrest

of Covid lockdowns, to name just a few obstacles – but the result has been worth it. New members continue to join in a steady stream, with the current tally sitting just shy of 50.

On 25 June, Helensburgh and District branch was joined by a number of VIPs – including Lord Lieutenant of Dunbartonshire Jill Young MBE, Naval Base Commander Commodore Bob Anstey and Legion Scotland National Chairman Martyn Hawthorn MBE –for the standard dedication ceremony. This is a key milestone in any branch’s first few months.

“We chose to do it outside because of Covid, but also because the local war memorial is non-denominational,”

explains Geoff. In preparation for the event, a class of sailors came to help tidy the memorial, sparking what will be a long-term relationship between the branch and the naval base. Helensburgh and District branch has also formed relationships with veterans’ charity Garelochhead Station Trust.

The other forces behind the branch are: President Dennis ‘Spike’ Jones, Secretary James Lew Jack, Treasurer John Webster, Welfare Officer Pam Durrant and Public Relations Officer Melanie Neil, who handles social media and spearheaded the branch’s Best Kept War Memorial entry.

It’s early days, but the branch has no short supply of passion and enthusiasm.

www.helensburghlegion.org.uk

Looking at the excellent work carried out by our branches and members

How a community rallied to bring back a local Legion Scotland branch

Why did I want to start a new branch? Because I think Legion Scotland does good

Dennis ‘Spike’ Jones, Geoff Coles and Argyll & Bute Provost Maurice Corry at a Falklands anniversary wreath laying

Dignitaries at the dedication ceremony

SCOTLAND’S WAR POETRY STORY

From the battlefield to books: this is the tale of the Scottish influence on war poetry.

WORDS: ROSEMARY GORING

AS THE COUNTRY gathers in November to remember those who fought and fell for their country, it is not just the playing of the Last Post that sends a shiver down the spine. So, too, do the words of poets who, in recording their experiences, bring to life the sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians. Whether it was from the trenches of the Somme or over the skies, in prisonerof-war camps or field hospitals, poets have left us with an indelible record of man’s inhumanity to man.

On Armistice Day, verses are recited which many people will know by heart. There’s the Canadian army doctor John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields (1915): “In Flanders fields the poppies blow/ Between the crosses, row on row”. It was this poem that led to the poppy becoming an emblem of Remembrance, as with Poppyscotland. Another favourite is Rupert Brooke’s The Soldier (1915):

“If I should die, think only this of me:/ That there’s some corner of a foreign field/That is forever England”.

WRITING FROM THE WARD

The atrocities of the First World War ignited poets, and few are more famous than Wilfred Owen. Scotland’s connection to the Shropshire-born Owen is legendary. Sent to Craiglockhart Hospital in Edinburgh to recover from shellshock in 1917, 24-year-old Owen met Siegfried Sassoon, who was also a poet. The upper-crust Sassoon had been sent to Edinburgh to save him from a courtmartial. As brave off the battlefield as he was on it, Sassoon had written a stinging denouncement of the war, called A Soldier’s Declaration (1917) It caused a furore, and it was hoped a spell in Scotland would bring him to his senses.

With Sassoon’s invaluable advice, Owen’s poetry matured. Dulce et

Decorum Est [published posthumously in 1920] and Anthem for Doomed Youth (1917) are among his best known works, but there are many others, their blistering rage molten to this day. That he was shot a week before the armistice makes his words even more memorable.

Despite the prominence of Owen, Sassoon and Brooke, Scotland has many war poets of its own, some of whom rank alongside the finest. They hailed from all corners: the Outer Hebrides and Shetland, Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Lothians, Fife, the Borders, Galloway and all other parts of the country. Addressing both world wars, these poets often saw active service. Some, though, were on the home front. Among them was Jean Guthrie-Smith, who was employed in a munitions factory canteen, which her In the Canteen (1917) describes: “The dishes’ chorus – clatter, clitter, clatter/ The high-pitched talk, the sirens shrilling louder/Deaden the brain”. Another was May Wedderburn Cannan, who worked in the Rouen railhead canteen, and later joined the Bureau of Central Intelligence in Paris. Her poem, To a Clerk, Now at the Wars (1917) reveals – astonishingly –her envy of those at the front.

Among the most remarkable of soldier poets is Charles Hamilton Sorley. Although Sorley spent only a few years

Siegfried Sassoon

in Aberdeen as a child, he was proud of his Scottish heritage. When You See Millions of the Mouthless Dead [published posthumously in 1916] is a devastatingly direct and unsentimental reflection on the death he and his fellow soldiers expected at any moment: “When you see millions of the mouthless dead/Across your dreams in pale battalions go,/Say not soft things as other men have said,/ That you’ll remember. For you need not so./Give them not praise./For, deaf, how should they know/It is not curses heaped on each gashed head?”

Sorley died at the Battle of Loos, aged 20, and his parents found the poem in his kit bag when it was returned to them.

Other notable names include Ewart Alan Mackintosh, who was brought up in England but had a Highland background. As with Sorley, and far too many others, he died in battle. Then there are the couthy poets, whose verses were

designed to cheer; those who were fired up by patriotic spirit, heedless of what lay ahead; and the bereft at home who grieved for their lost loved ones.

POETRY CONTINUES

Among the most prominent names from the Second World War is Hamish Henderson, who later became co-founder of the School of Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh. During the war Henderson was an intelligence officer at the Battle of El Alamein, and fought in Libya, Tunisia and Sicily.

In his long poetic sequence, Elegies for the Dead In Cyrenaica [1942-1947],

Henderson depicted the reality of desert warfare, where soldiers died like flies: “Their deaths were like their lives, human and animal./There were no gods and precious few heroes”.

It’s easy to assume that war poetry is a bygone art, yet it is as alive as when the guns boomed over Arras and bombs fell on Berlin. Whether it’s conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Falklands, Syria, or the war on terror, poets across the world, and in Scotland, are addressing them.

One such poet is Imtiaz Dharker, who was raised in Glasgow. In Drummer, she responded to the murder in 2013 of the soldier Lee Rigby: “So when the

Their deaths were like their lives, human and animal. There were no gods and precious few heroes

Rupert Brooke

A statue of Wilfred Owen in his Shropshire home town

CARVED IN STONE

Poetry on Scottish memorials

The Scottish American Memorial in West Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh is engraved with lines from Ewart Alan Mackintosh’s A Creed (1916):

If it be life that waits I shall live forever unconquered; If death I shall die at last strong in my pride and free

Among the poems most often quoted on memorials is Laurence Binyon’s For the Fallen, written in 1914. You may also recognise it from regular recitals in Remembrance Day ceremonies in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada:

They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them

By public poll, Neil Munro’s Lament for the Lads (1930) was chosen for a memorial to Scottish poets from the First World War, which can be found in Makars’ Court, Edinburgh:

Sweet be their sleep now wherever they’re lying, Far though they be from the hills of their home

They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old

The Scottish American Memorial

blade meets the skin,/The whole street stops, feels the sting./Hack at you, and the city bleeds”.

As recently as this year, poetry has been used to address and interpret scenes from international conflicts. The poet Robert Crawford, who is emeritus professor at the University of St Andrews, has evoked the ongoing battle for Ukraine in his work. Tank, a long poem published earlier this year in the London Review of Books, follows a regiment of armed vehicles under attack: “Dead soldier sprawled in a pit. A fly/Crawls over the dry pupil of his blank, unblinking right eye”.

A MODERN VIEW OF POETRY Tank is an unflinching and haunting account. It draws heavily on the eminent

English poet Keith Douglas’s memoir, Alamein to Zem Zem (1946]. Douglas was a tank commander in the second Battle of Alamein in 1942, and later died during the Normandy invasion. It is also a remembrance of Crawford’s father, Robert Alexander Nelson Crawford (1914-1997), who was a lance corporal in the Scots Guards in World War II. It wasn’t until he was working on the poem that Crawford made the link to his father.

He explains, “[His tank brigade] went all the way from Normandy up to the Baltic. I have no military experience at all. But, as I worked on the poem, I realised that at some sort of emotional level, it was partly because of my late dad I was trying to make the poem.” Since then, the poem has been transformed.

Begun in 2021, it was initially focussed on the North African offensive, but unfolding events made Crawford reconsider: “By the spring of 2022, horrifyingly and uncannily, like so many other people, I was suddenly watching tank warfare on European streets. So, I recast the poem very substantially, reducing some of the desert stuff, and attempting to make it more universal in terms of geography and history.

“Without the first-hand exactness, without what you might call the ‘I was there and this is what I saw, tasted, smelled, touched and heard’ quality of Douglas, I couldn’t have come close to doing it. So the poem salutes Douglas at the same time as stealing from him; but it also gestures towards the awfulness of what’s happening in

Ukraine ... To some extent, the poem says, ‘Hey! This is happening again ...’”

HOW SCOTTISH POETRY DIFFERS

With such a rich legacy of war poetry in Scotland, does something distinctive set it apart? Crawford hesitates before pointing out that, unlike elsewhere, Scottish poems exist in several languages. “Charles Murray’s Dockens Afore His Peers [1917] is a superb World War I poem (though very much a home-front poem) in the Doric; Sorley MacLean’s North African World War II poems in Gaelic are sniper-sharp, and true to their shudderingly dramatic back-story; Charles Hamilton Sorley’s When You See Millions of the Mouthless Dead is stunning, and (as with Edwin Morgan’s The New Divan sequence from 1977] is in English. Maybe each of the three languages propelled its users into war in subtly different ways, and so we’ve ended up with such a striking array of reactions?”

Whatever the truth, poetry about war metaphorically sits on a different shelf, remaining as relevant today as when first composed. No matter where they are written, these poems provide an insight into all facets of war and conflict.

More than just something to read once a year in November, war poetry can help all generations better understand our common history.

AN HONOURABLE MEMBER

Annie Ogilvy BEM on a life in Legion Scotland and how she earned her Jubilee Honours

IT WAS a challenge of its own to keep news of the award secret.

Annie Ogilvy, a stalwart of Arbroath branch, knew in April that she was the recipient of a British Empire Medal (BEM). Not only that, but her honour was to be bestowed as part of the historic Platinum Jubilee celebrations that took place this summer.

Sadly, though, the news was not to be revealed until June. That meant a six-week period of secret-keeping. “It was a job, I tell you!” Annie says, of not revealing her honour.

“I couldn’t believe it, to be honest. A lady tried beforehand for years and never got anywhere, so it was a shock in a way, when I found out.”

News of the award came by post from London, and when the full honours list was finally announced, it was family who Annie told first.

“I told my son first and then my two daughters. They were amazed by it as well.”

It should really be no surprise that Annie met the criteria for the prestigious honour. Her service to Legion Scotland – and specifically to the Women’s Section – is one that sparkles.

Annie first joined the Women’s Section in 1976. She was already part of the military and veterans’ community, with six of her eight brothers taking up roles in the Armed Forces, and her husband

I’m proud of it all, and I’ve really enjoyed every bit of it, to be honest ... everything thrown my way, I did it all

also serving in the RAF. Legion Scotland remains a family affair, with Annie’s son a member of Arbroath branch, and her two daughters often coming along to help out with events.

“I started in the Women’s Section and then I was on the committee for years,” she explains. “And then I was asked to carry the standards for years, so I did that. In 2003 I took on the chair of Arbroath branch, and I’m still there.”

Annie joined the main Legion Scotland organisation in 1986. “I’d be a millionaire if I’d been getting paid,” she jokes, as she looks back on her involvement in various Women’s Section and Arbroath branch initiatives and campaigns. “But I wish I could do more. I feel like a fraud, to be honest. In lockdown I got my knee done and I haven’t quite got back into the swing of things yet.”

In the 46 years since she first joined the Women’s Section, Annie has well and truly made her mark. From 2010, she held the title of chair and vice chair of the Women’s Section Central Council for six years – “I still get phone calls from

Aberdeen and Perth, we’re all in touch!” – and has earned a gold badge from both Arbroath branch and the Women’s Section for her service.

“I think I’m proud of it all, and I’ve really enjoyed every bit of it, to be honest,” she says. “I’ve always helped with the veterans, and ANZAC, and Age Concern. Everything that was thrown my way, I did it all.”

Her nomination for the British Empire Medal highlights this long history of service. Whether it is parading one of her two branches’ standards each year, or providing support, comfort and wellbeing to members in need, she has earned accolades for her empathy, generosity and commitment.

In 2020, Annie’s husband passed away. “I was left a widow and I just threw myself into work at the Legion,” she says. “I got a lot of support from the branch and the Women’s Section at that time.”

That support continues, in the shape of regular meetings and events with both the Women’s Section and Arbroath branch. But mostly, Annie continues to support her community. The Legion Scotland motto, Service Not Self, almost seems to have been written about her.

SHARE YOUR STORY

Voices of Veterans is a Legion Scotland campaign that pays tribute to veterans of all ages by sharing their stories. If you have a tale to tell, whether you left service yesterday or 50 years ago, or know someone with a story and would like to nominate them, let us know. Please call 0131 322 1076 or email magazine@legionscotland.org.uk

Reflecting on a lifetime of RBLS memories

WORDS: CIARAN SNEDDON PHOTOS: KIM CESSFORD

AUTUMN ATTRACTIONS

IN THE SPRING issue, we looked at six Scottish military museums. Of course, there are many more to choose from. Here are just six other attractions to

There’s much to be found

museum

consider this autumn. We’d love to hear more suggestions for inclusion in future issues. Send your ideas for days out to magazine@legionscotland.org.uk

Need to know: Some 200 years of history are preserved in this engrossing museum, which takes visitors from Napoleonic times right the way through to both world wars and beyond. Audio guides are available in nine languages and there are also fully guided tours that include a look around a World War I replica trench, revealing what life was like for Gordon Highlanders.

Insider knowledge: Legend suggests that the Duchess of Gordon, the wife of the 4th Duke of Gordon who formed the regiment in 1794, offered a kiss as an incentive to sign up to fight.

Ready to go? Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10am-4.30pm. Good access throughout, including ramps, a lift and a wheelchair.

A regiment like no other

MONTROSE AIR STATION HERITAGE CENTRE

LOCATION: WALDRON ROAD, MONTROSE

Need to know: On 26 February 1913, RAF Montrose became the first operational military airfield in the UK. Almost 90 years on, the site now hosts a heritage centre that details the human stories of the base and its role in the Second World War. The attraction is formed of several different buildings, each containing photographs, artefacts and other memorabilia, mostly focused on the 1940s. Replica aircraft, including a Spitfire and a Tornado, are perhaps the jewels in the crown, but there are other highlights too: the well-decorated pilot’s bedroom, and a fascinating section all about animals at war, including dogs, horses and carrier pigeons. Well worth a visit, no matter where your particular interests lie.

Insider knowledge: On Sunday afternoons, you can watch as members of the Amateur Radio Station meet to use traditional radio techniques and equipment.

Fort George is a fine example of 18th-century military engineering

Ready to go? Open 10am-4pm Fridays and Saturdays, and 12pm-4pm on Sundays. Easy access throughout the one-floor museum.

RUSSIAN ARCTIC CONVOY MUSEUM LOCATION: BIRCHBURN, ON THE SHORES OF LOCH EWE

THE CAMERONIANS COLLECTION

LOCATION: LOW PARKS MUSEUM, HAMILTON

Need to know: It was in 1689 that the Earl of Angus created the Cameronians – the British Army’s only regiment to have a firmly religious root. Its soldiers were Covenanters and in the weeks that followed its formation, the regiment fought at the Battle of Dunkeld. The Cameronians disbanded in the 1960s to avoid merging with other regiments. The first Cameronian museum opened in 1931, and the collection now holds weaponry, diaries, artwork and textiles.

Insider knowledge: The regiment disbanded on 14 May 1968 – the year being a coincidental anagram of the year of the Cameronians initiation.

Ready to go? Open 10am-5pm, Monday to Saturday, and 12pm5pm on Sunday. There is disabled access throughout, and a wheelchair is available to use.

Need to know: This museum tells the astounding story of British efforts to send aid to the Soviet Union at the height of the Second World War. Merchant ships carried the goods from Scotland along the Norwegian coast and then through the Arctic, supported by warships and the air force, in what was an exceptionally perilous mission. Set near Loch Ewe, where the ships would dock to collect aid and not far from where the operation’s HQ once stood, this small but detailed visitor centre covers the full story in riveting detail. There is also a lot for families to enjoy, including interactive quizzes, games and dressing-up.

Ships carried goods through the Arctic in an exceptionally perilous mission

Insider knowledge: The danger involved in the convoys cannot be overstated. It was the most dangerous such route during the conflict, and 85 merchant ships were lost. There were also 3,000 allied deaths.

Ready to go? Open 10am-4pm Monday to Saturday, until the end of October. Reopens March 2023. Disabled access.

A fascinating family day out

A Tornado on display at the Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre

Medals on display

CULLODEN

LOCATION:AROUNDFIVE MILESEASTOFINVERNESS, OFFTHEA9

Need to know: Here was the final stand of the 1745-46 Jacobite Uprising, and the last pitched battle to be fought on British soil. Culloden’s historical significance cannot be overstated, nor can the experience of visiting it some 276 years after the Duke of Cumberland’s forces routed the Jacobites in one blood-soaked hour. Today, the site is cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, and there are several ways to immerse yourself in the past, including a 360-degree presentation and an effective audio tour. You can also seek out stones marking clans’ resting places.

Insider knowledge: Part of the government’s’ success came from the surprise tactic of bayoneting the opponent standing to their right instead of the one directly in front of them. This, in part, led to the death toll of around 1,000 Jacobites.

Ready to go? The battlefield is open daily, and the visitor centre is open

Cold War

MUSEUMS

OBAN WAR & PEACE MUSEUM

LOCATION: ON THE ESPLANADE BY THE NORTH PIER, OBAN

Need to know: This small but well-populated museum looks at Oban’s part in the Second World War. During the conflict, the town was a temporary home to air force crew from Australia, Canada and the US, while the RAF also had a presence in the bay. An exhibition promoting this story opened 27 years ago to mark 50 years since the end of the war, and since then, it has grown into a fully-fledged museum. In addition to the wartime stories,

the attraction also provides a background to Oban’s maritime history, its important railway, and other local points of interest.

Insider knowledge: You can also learn about TAT-1, the first submarine transatlantic telephone cable system, which ran from Oban to Clarenville in Newfoundland. There were two cables, capable of carrying 35 phone calls at a time.

Ready to go? Open daily, 10am-4pm. Closes for the winter on 27 November. Set across one-floor for easy access.

The first submarine transatlantic telephone cable ran from Oban

10am-4pm on Wednesday-Sunday. Closed entirely between 24 December and 11 January. Wheelchairs are provided freely, and powered scooters can be borrowed. The trail through the battlefield has regular benches if you’d prefer to break up the walk into smaller sections.

A small but impressive collection in Oban

Guided tour of the battlefield

Display at the visitor centre

Expect a powerful atmosphere at Culloden

POPPYSCOTLAND ADAPTS

TO MEET EVOLVING NEEDS

LAST YEAR MARKED 100 years of the Scottish Poppy Appeal and one of the reasons Poppyscotland has endured for a century is the charity’s ability to adapt to meet the evolving needs of the Armed Forces community. This continues to be at the heart of their approach today.

The Covid-19 pandemic was particularly challenging for vulnerable veterans. It accelerated some of the trends Poppyscotland had already been monitoring, and new trends emerged.

As a result, over the past year they have been examining how to reshape their welfare delivery model to meet the changing needs of the Armed Forces community in the years ahead.

An important driving principle has been to offer a consistent range of services across the whole of Scotland. While Scotland differs from the rest of the UK in a number of areas, Poppyscotland and the Royal British Legion have also been working to harmonise their offering across the whole of the UK to the greatest extent possible. Poppyscotland believes no one in the Armed Forces community should be disadvantaged by where they live.

This work resulted in a recent restructure of Poppyscotland’s welfare services which now sees the team split across three geographic areas: the North of Scotland, the East and South East and the West and South West.

The welfare support team is comprised of three regional leads, and staffed by seven welfare officers and three welfare support coordinators. They provide support and advocacy for vulnerable beneficiaries and/or those identified as having multiple and complex needs. The team also ensures clients receive appropriate support and advice, and helps to develop and manage individual support plans, acting as the point of contact for clients no matter where in the country they call home.

The welfare support team also has two independent living advisors who provide advice and support to those who are living with, or caring for, someone living with illness, continuing care or disabilities. The advisors help people to access statutory support services and financial advice and support, along with any other appropriate assistance to enable them to maximise their quality of life.

The impact of these changes is already being felt by Poppyscotland’s beneficiaries, with one welfare support client recently commenting: “Last year after a breakdown due to PTSD, I decided to reach out to Poppyscotland. This was a big deal for me at the time,

as I had shunned all things Army for years. After being allocated a welfare officer, we slowly worked on getting housing, counselling and practical and emotional support. Here I am, less than a year later, with my own place, beautifully decorated thanks in part to financial support from Poppyscotland, and more importantly my mental health is much better, and the future looks bright. I am very grateful for the support from my welfare officer and the team at Poppyscotland. The help for veterans is there, you simply need to reach out and ask for it, and I’m glad I did.”

The welfare support team, pictured above during their first get-together since the regional restructure, have decades of experience between them and are dedicated to improving the lives of everyone in the Armed Forces community in Scotland.

If you have an issue, big or small, please reach out to the Poppyscotland welfare support team on 0131 550 1557. Alternatively, you can email the team at GetHelp@poppyscotland.org.uk

Less than a year later ... my mental health is much better, and the future looks bright

Regional focus helps Poppyscotland face the challenges of a post-pandemic world

The welfare support team is here to help

COUNTDOWN IS ON TO 2022 APPEAL

As the nation prepares for Armistice Day and Remembrance services, Gordon Michie, head of fundraising at Poppyscotland, looks back on the last few years

WITH THE 2022 Scottish Poppy Appeal fast approaching I have been reflecting on the last seven years –the time in which I have had the honour to serve our communities.

The highs have been numerous; the poignancy of marking the centenary of the First World War and, in the same period, the commemorations for the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings. We then celebrated VE75 and VJ75, which was followed last year by the centenary of the Royal British Legion Scotland and 100 years of the Poppy. Earlier this year also

The Legionnaire spirit of Service Not Self has been epitomised by each and every volunteer

saw us mark the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War with a fitting programme of tributes. Each of these milestones underlined how much can be achieved when Poppyscotland and Legion Scotland work together.

During that time, we have had to overcome our fair share of challenges too, not least the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which significantly disrupted the 2020 and 2021 appeals.

Through all these highs and lows there has been one constant. The Legionnaire spirit of Service Not Self has been epitomised by each and every one of our volunteers across the country, who give up their valuable time to deliver the annual Scottish Poppy Appeal, often in the most challenging of circumstances. Doing so has ensured that Poppyscotland can continue to deliver our vital, life-changing work across the Armed Forces community in Scotland completely uninterrupted.

As we move into this post-pandemic, post-commemoration period that we have travelled through together over the last seven years, I am certain we will come together once again to deliver another successful Scottish Poppy Appeal. Our Armed Forces community need us now more than ever.

With my humble thanks, I look forward to standing shoulder to shoulder with you again across Scotland this Remembrancetide.

Gordon Michie, centre, at a Remembrance event

The Scottish Poppy Appeal is now underway

LAST POST

Tributes to recently departed Legion Scotland members from across the country

BRECHIN VICTOR CLARK

It is with deep regret that Brechin branch announces the passing of former chairman and secretary Victor Clarke at the age of 85. Victor served in the Royal Observer Corps for over 20 years, gaining the Long Service Medal. He was a mainstay of the branch for many years and filled most committee positions at one time or another.

INVERGORDON

RON GOMEZ

A stalwart of the Invergordon branch, Ron Gomez sadly passed away on 14 May 2022.

Born in Calcutta in 1936, Ron moved to Twickenham in 1954 and worked for British Rail. He carried out his National Service from 1956 to 1958 with the Royal Artillery.

He rejoined the Royal Artillery in 1959, reached the rank of sergeant, served in Cyprus, Germany and Hong Kong, and did two tours in Northern Ireland.

After retiring from the Army in 1977, Ron lived in Westbury and worked for London Underground until retiring in 2001. He moved to Invergordon in 2003, and as an enthusiastic Legion Scotland member, helped to revive the local branch. Ron also served on the committee as chairman until his passing.

He was a keen fencer and had a love of horses which he shared with his wife Alison. Our thoughts are with Alison, his daughters Caroline, Sarah, Rosemary and their extended families.

Ron will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

LIVINGSTON

DAVID GEOFFREY WILLIAMS

The Livingston branch is sad to announce the passing of David Geoffrey Williams, better known as Geoff, on 18 February 2022 at the age of 79. He passed suddenly after a short illness.

Geoff served in the Royal Engineers, seeing service in quite a few countries and conflicts. He began his involvement with the Royal British Legion in Wales as a family member. This connection would last for 65 years, including his time with Legion Scotland at the Livingston branch.

Geoff held the position of standard bearer at Livingston branch and area level, attending many parades, and also served as branch chairman. He was never shy about volunteering to help the branch. For the past four years, Geoff volunteered as a befriender for Unforgotten Forces, visiting veterans over the age of 60 right up until his passing.

Geoff will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and we celebrate his many years of support, service and friendship to Livingston branch and Legion Scotland. He lived his life by the Legion Scotland motto, Service not Self.

TAIN ANDREW FARQUHAR Andrew (Andy) Farquhar passed away peacefully in Innis Mhor care home, Tain, on Tuesday 19 July. He was a well-known and

respected man in the town and elsewhere. Andy served with the RAF. He was a great supporter of Legion Scotland and would help out at any events while his health was still good. He will be very sorely missed.

WICK, CANISBAY AND LATHERON The president of Wick, Canisbay and Latheron branch has notified us that 10 members have sadly passed away in recent years. They have not previously received their Last Post.

ROBERT CENTER

Passed away on 26 October 2019

JOHN GUNN

Passed away on 22 November 2020

WILLIAM GUNN, FORMER BRANCH PRESIDENT

Passed away on 22 November 2021

MICHAEL KELLY, FORMER BRANCH PRESIDENT Passed away on 22 February 2020

NEIL MANSON Passed away on 3 April 2020

BOBBY MCBEATH, FORMER BRANCH PRESIDENT Passed away on 22 November 2019

DAVID MORE Passed away on 27 July 2022

DAVID ROSS Passed away on 14 August 2021

JIMMY SUTHERLAND Passed away on 19 June 2022

CHARLIE WILLIAMSON, STANDARD BEARER Passed away on 15 August 2021

Submitting a Last Post

Please submit dedications to recently departed Legion Scotland members to magazine@legionscotland. org.uk. We will endeavour to include these in the next issue, based on a deadline of January 2023. Submissions should be around 100 words, and if you send a photo, we will make every effort to include this.

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Fort Augustus 01320 366247

Fort William & District Glenurquhart Golspie Helmsdale Invergordon Inverness 01463 234378 Kirkwall 01856 873297 Lerwick 01595 692325

Isle of Lewis Lochalsh Lochbroom Lossiemouth Nairn 01667 453201 Sanday Scalloway 01595 880355 Strathspey 01479 873690 Stromness 01856 850731

LEAVE A LEGACY IN YOUR WILL

Leaving the Armed Services can feel like leaving your family and your purpose behind. Many miss the camaraderie and the support from being part of a serving family.

Tain Thurso 01847 893417 Uist

Wick, Canisbay and Latheron

RIDERS BRANCH 0750 774 0800

Across the country

HEADQUARTERS BRANCH 0131 322 1076

Ideal for those abroad, or with no branch nearby

WOMEN’S SECTION sheilaelrick@yahoo. com or lildavidson@ me.com

Arbroath

Ayr & Prestwick Cockenzie & Port Seton Coldstream Dingwall Ellon Forfar Galashiels Inverness Inverurie & Oldmeldrum Larkhall Methilhill Montrose Oldmachar Stonehaven Turriff

The Royal British Legion Scotland makes a difference every day to the lives of veterans in Scotland and their dependants. We are a support service charity providing comradeship, volunteering opportunities, Remembrance activities and frontline Veterans Community Support.

All of these services require the dedication of volunteers and members, but we also need to be able to financially support services.

You can help. By leaving a gift in your Will, your legacy will help us to continue supporting those that have sacrificed their time, life and energy in service to others.

If you would like to leave a gift to The Royal British Legion Scotland and need guidance, please contact us on 0131 322 1076.

THEQUEENATTHE POPPYFACTORY

IN JULY 1978, Her Majesty The Queen paid a visit to Edinburgh to show her support for the Scottish veterans community. While in the capital city, she officially opened New Haig House – the headquarters

for Legion Scotland, Poppyscotland, Veterans Scotland and other charities.

The Queen also visited Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, which sits right beside New Haig House. Inside this exprinting works, dozens of

veterans worked tirelessly to produce poppies for the annual Remembrance commemorations.

This tradition continues to this day. There are now 34 veterans who live with disabilities working in the factory, and between them they make three million poppies, 10,000 wreaths, 60,000 Remembrance

symbols and 40,000 long stem poppies each year. Indeed, even the design of the poppy has changed very little since the time of this royal visit.

The Queen’s longstanding connection to both Scotland and the veterans community is well-known, and she showed great interest in the poppy factory and its people.

Dozens of veterans worked tirelessly to produce poppies

A 1978 visit with Edinburgh’s veterans community

The Queen at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory