Courage Issue 115

Issue 115

Autumn/Winter 2024

COURAGE

The magazine of

War Widows Association of Great Britain

www.warwidows.org.uk • Reg Charity No. 1002656

Member of the Confederation of Service Charities (Cobseo)

PATRON His Majesty King Charles III KG KT GCB OM AK QSO CC PC ADC

PRESIDENT: The Baroness Fookes of Plymouth, DBE DL VICE-PRESIDENTS: The Viscount Younger of Leckie The Rt Hon Baroness Garden of Frognal, PC The Baroness Crawley of Edgbaston, The Baroness Watkins of Tavistock AMBASSADORS: Dame Shirley Bassey DBE, CH DBE, David Domoney C Hort, FCI Hort TRUSTEES CHAIRMAN: Chris Dziuba: chair@warwidows.org.uk VICE CHAIR: Debbie Bowles: vice-chair@warwidows.org.uk SECRETARY: Sue Raw: secretary@warwidows.org.uk TREASURER: Richard Steele: treasurer@warwidows.org.uk GOVERNANCE TRUSTEE: Eileen Kelly McGregor: governance@warwidows.org.uk REGIONAL ORGANISER LIASON TRUSTEE: Liz Carter: rol@warwidows.org.uk REMEMBRANCE TRUSTEE: Chris Dziuba: remembrance@warwidows.org.uk EVENTS TRUSTEE: events@warwidows.org.uk POLICIES TRUSTEE: Terry Whittles: policies@warwidows.org.uk CONTRACTS & DISPUTES TRUSTEE: David Whimpenny: contracts@warwidows.org.uk PROJECTS TRUSTEE: Jeannette Strachan: projects@warwidows.org.uk COURAGE TRUSTEE: courage@warwidows.org.uk COMMITTEE ASSISTANTS: Sue Concannon: Book-keeper, bookkeeper@warwidows.org.uk Helen Raw: IT & website, administrator@warwidows.org.uk Susan Williams: Merchandise, merchandise@warwidows.org.uk Helen Hudson: Assistant to database. database@warwidows.org.uk Margaret Hind: RO assistant, ROassistant@warwidows.org.uk - §§§ -

Please note that we are continuing to use the address War Widows’ Association Mail, PO Box 29265, Dunfermline, KY12 2FH for mail

“Campaigning, Caring, Remembering Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”

Contents Reports................................................................................................................................. 4 A Cat and Dog Tale....................................................................................................... 8 Lincolnshire Branch................................................................................................. 10 Congratulations Debbie and Andy.................................................................. 11 Memories of a Land Girl....................................................................................... 12 Standing With Giants............................................................................................... 14 Founders’ Day............................................................................................................... 16 AGM 2025......................................................................................................................... 18 A Grand Day Out........................................................................................................ 20 Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, Scotland............................................................ 22 Laying-Up Service for the Scottish Standard............................................ 24 In Memory..................................................................................................................... 25 Crantock WI................................................................................................................... 27 War Widows Update- Project Update............................................................ 28 Noticeboard.................................................................................................................... 29 Ooh La La!....................................................................................................................... 33 Christmas Quiz........................................................................................................... 34 Veterans Unclaimed Armed Forces Pensions........................................... 35 Remembering Private James Fraser.............................................................. 36 Dates for the diary 2025......................................................................................... 37 Riddle................................................................................................................................. 37 Poppy Appeal Launch by Jenny Green OBE.............................................. 38 Remembrance 2024................................................................................................... 40 Remembrance in Bawtry, South Yorkshire............................................... 46 Remembrance in Taunton.................................................................................... 46 Remembrance in Plymouth................................................................................. 47 Remembrance at Larkhall Memorial........................................................... 47 Remembrance in Ayscoughfee Gardens...................................................... 48 Remembrance at Newport Cenatoph............................................................ 48 Remembrance in Dennistoun............................................................................ 49 ROL Report & R O Reports................................................................................. 50 Christmas Quiz Answers...................................................................................... 59 -3-

Reports Presidents Ponderings I write this at the end of September, a month I always think of as a golden one with a lot of sunshine and the start of the glowing colours of autumn. This year we seem to have continued a tradition of rain and yet more rain!

However, one golden day in September has stood out in mind though not for the weather. I attended our Founders’ Day Service in the Guards Chapel not far from Buckingham Palace and I believe it was the best yet. The service was devised and led by our Chaplain, The Reverend Wing Commander Ian Brown. It was wonderfully sensitive in its approach while his sermon had us riveted as he was both touching and humorous. Ian had drawn together references to the Wizard of Oz and the Biblical story of Ruth. He had arranged for me to read what is in fact a favourite passage of mine from the Book of Ruth telling the story of a young widow. As he pointed out in his sermon this young woman showed great courage when, faced with the unexpected loss of her husband, she chose to follow her mother-in-law whom she clearly loved to a new country a new God, and all the difficulties of adjustment.

Ian also chose a favourite hymn of mine - “Make me a channel of your peace”. In a world so riven by wars and conflicts the words seemed especially appropriate.

Another splendid feature of the service was the dedication of two new standards for the War Widows’ Association and here a small group of young cadets - all teenage girls acquitted themselves with professional skill and proved to be delightful guests when we all went over to the Officers’ Mess afterwards for a delicious tea and lots of conversation.

I am sure that those war widows who were not able to come would have found it a really worthwhile visit but I do appreciate that for many the effort required to undertake the journey and to pay the costs involved make it prohibitive. I should love to see it recorded so that it could be watched live or watched later but I understand that that can be an expensive business too.

For me another event in September meant the end of an era. I gave up my flat on the Kennington estate just south of the River Thames, having been a tenant of the Duchy of Cornwall for more years than I care to remember. I recall on one occasion as an MP meeting our Patron , then Prince of Wales, in Devonport Dockyard and telling him I was one of his tenants. He gave me a broad grin and said “I hope you pay your rent on time”!

I still need accommodation in London for my work as a member of the House of Lords but I have been fortunate enough to find comfortable lodgings in the Union Jack Club with which I was already very familiar as our Association uses it for meals and meetings as well as for overnight accommodation. It is beautifully run as one might expect from a place so closely associated with our armed services and I am sure many of you will know it too.

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Now of course is that time of year when preparations are in hand for Remembrance Weekend – how quickly the time comes round. I hope to meet as many members of our Association as possible at the various events. My participation was limited last year because I was still recovering from a recent operation to replace a faulty aortic valve, mercifully with the aid of amazing modern micro surgery called a TAVI. I know that many of you have various health problems and I always think especially when at major events of those who cannot make the journeys required for health or indeed other reasons. I always think of our Association as a family supporting one another and long may that continue.

Janet

Chaplain’s Address Dear friends, As winter begins to wrap its chilly embrace around us, I am reminded of the words from Christina Rossetti’s timeless Christmas carol, “In the Bleak Mid-Winter.” This, my favourite carol, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and evocative lyrics, speaks deeply to my soul, particularly the line, “Yet what I can I give Him, give my heart.” As we enter the seasons of Remembrance and Christmas, these words offer profound insight into the nature of true love and true faith.

The winter months can be particularly challenging for those who have lost loved ones.

The festive season, with its emphasis on family gatherings and joyous celebrations, often magnifies the absence of those who have gone before us. It is in this context of profound vulnerability and deep emotional pain that the message of giving our hearts becomes even more significant.

True love, the kind that is enduring and sacrificial, requires an extraordinary level of vulnerability. It asks us to open our hearts completely, to embrace the risk of pain and loss, and to love without reservation. This kind of love is known only too well to many readers of this publication. You have given your hearts, not only to your spouses who served bravely but also to your families, your communities, and each other.

Christians believe that in the same way, true faith demands that we approach God with a heart that is open and vulnerable. It is an invitation to trust in his goodness and grace, even when we do not understand his ways. Just as you have given your hearts in love, God calls us to give our hearts to him in faith. This act of giving is not about grand gestures or material offerings but about the simple, profound gift of our trust and devotion.

“In the Bleak Mid-Winter” serves as a poignant reminder that even in the darkest, coldest times, there is still a light that shines. Christians are reminded at this time of year that this light is the hope we find in Christ. As we navigate the complexities of grief and loss, we can find solace in the knowledge that God is with us. He understands our pain and shares in our suffering. His love is a constant, unchanging presence that offers comfort and peace.

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The Christmas story is ultimately one of hope. It tells of a God who loved us so much that he chose to enter our world in the most vulnerable way possible—as a helpless baby. This act of divine vulnerability speaks volumes about the nature of God’s love for us. It is a love that is willing to enter into our suffering, to walk alongside us in our pain, and to offer us the hope of redemption and new life.

So, if you find yourself singing, ‘In the Bleak Mid-Winter’ during the coming festive season, I encourage you to reflect on the line, “Yet, what I can I give Him, give my Chairman’s Corner heart”. Let this carol remind you that our hearts are the most precious gift we can offer and may those words encourage each of us to continue to open our hearts, despite the vulnerability required, that we might continue show love to those around us.

It is mid-October as I write this although you will probably read it around Christmas. By then Affectionately yours, (hopefully) your tree will be decorated, your presents will be wrapped, and you’ll be able to Padre Ian find your turkey which will, no doubt, be buried somewhere in your fridge.

Chair’s brings Corner Christmas with it a mix of emotions - War Widows especially do not need be reminded of that. go It is mid-October as I to write this although youOur willthoughts probably read Christmas.

By then your who tree have will out toitallaround who have experienced loss,(hopefully) especially those be decorated, your presentsIf will wrapped, and you’ll only recently been bereaved. you be know anyone who will be be able to find your turkey which will, no doubt, be buried alone at this time, or is facing their first Christmas without a somewhere in your fridge. loved one, I hope you can share a little time with them. An invitation to chat, a mince a cuppa; it takes so littleWidows time and Christmas brings with itpie, a mix of emotions - War itespecially can make an enormous difference.

And perhaps it will do not need to be reminded of that.make Oura difference to you too. thoughts go out to all who have experienced loss, especially those who have only recently been bereaved.

For myself, I have good reason to be excited about Christmas this If you know anyone who will be alone at this time, or is year; my first grandchild is due on the 4th of December which will facing their first Christmas without a loved one, I hope you certainly make for atime different My Christmas gift list this year willadoubtless can share a little withChristmas. them. An invitation to chat, a mince pie, cuppa; itinclude takes new items, like cuddly toys, baby grows and nappies! so little time and it can make an enormous difference. And perhaps it will make a difference you too.

But there is to still a lot to do before then and my schedule remains full. So far, I have spent

much time in ILondon, representing thebeAssociation at formal services,this arranging ourfirst own For myself, have good reason to excited about Christmas year; my annual events, ministers and their staff. It is amake privilege be invited grandchild isand duemeeting on thegovernment 4th of December which will certainly for to a different to these events, while business meetings invariably keep me include on my toes; canlike be Christmas.

My Christmas gift list this year will doubtless new they items, cuddly toys,rewarding, baby grows nappies! challenging, andand often, frustrating. And to add further challenge, it seemed that too often my train journeys home risked trips thanks to flooded railfar, lines, But there is still a lot to do before becoming then and mystery my schedule remains full. So I diversions, late notice cancellations, and trains ‘being in the wrong place.’ have spent much time in London, representing the Association at formal services,

arranging own annual events, andwas meeting ministers and So that wasour how much of my summer spent. government Little wonder that I felt notheir guilt staff. about It is a privilege to be invited to these events, while business meetings invariably keep ‘jumping ship’ for 10 days on a cruise holiday from Venice, along the Croatian Coast, and up me on my toes; they can be challenging, rewarding, and often, frustrating. And to add to Amalfi and Sorrento. It was, of course, delightful, although the extreme heat saw me opt further challenge, it seemed that too often my train journeys home risked becoming for fewer shore expeditions and more frequent retreats to the ship’s swimming pool with a mystery trips thanks to flooded rail lines, diversions, late notice cancellations, and cool glass of wine! trains ‘being in the wrong place.’

And a sunshine holiday to be especially welcome summer my home county So that was how muchproved of my summer was spent.

Littlethis wonder thatasI felt no guilt aboutof Shropshire experienced some torrential rainfall. The old town centre of Shrewsbury was - 6 - roads and rail lines. And yes, I know that frequently flooded, as were many of the county’s

‘jumping ship’ for 10 days on a cruise holiday from Venice, along the Croatian Coast, and up to Amalfi and Sorrento. It was, of course, delightful, although the extreme heat saw me opt for fewer shore expeditions and more frequent retreats to the ship’s swimming pool with a cool glass of wine!

And a sunshine holiday proved to be especially welcome this summer as my home county of Shropshire experienced some torrential rainfall. The old town centre of Shrewsbury was frequently flooded, as were many of the county’s roads and rail lines. And yes, I know that summer rains are good for the garden, but for modest gardeners like myself, it meant long delays waiting for the grass to dry out and more frequent lawn mowing sessions. But no doubt my woes will sound familiar to my fellow gardeners up and down the country. Oh, the joys of the British summer!

Thankfully, the wet weather didn’t spoil our Association’s events too much. This year’s Founders Day Service was a notable success with lovely weather and a strong turnout. Next year we will welcome a new Chaplain in the Guard’s Chapel to succeed Padre Deiniol Morgan who has been promoted Colonel and is relocating to York.

Padre Morgan’s support for the War Widows’ Association has been outstanding, and we extend to him our sincere thanks for serving us so well on Founders Days. We send him our warmest congratulations on his well-deserved promotion and wish him every success for the future.

With a new government in office, I was keen to meet with Alistair Carns, the new Minister for Veterans and People, and I did so in September. I was hoping that the Labour government might overturn the previous government’s refusal to award Ex-Gratia Payments to 49 of our widows who had been refused it. Similarly, I also hoped to see a more enlightened approach towards reinstating War Widows’ Pensions to those who forfeited theirs on remarriage or cohabitation. Needless to say, Mr Carns was most gracious and genuinely supportive of our Association. Although he was sympathetic to our campaigns, he was not hopeful of a positive outcome. And so the fight must continue.

Nevertheless, I shall continue to press the MOD for the restoration of War Widow Status to those whose pensions were forfeited. I see this as an unfair and divisive rule which denies parity of entitlement to all War Widows in such matters as HM Forces rail cards and Oyster cards.

Finally, I recently attended the ‘Soldiering On’ awards in London where I joined Chairs of the Single Service Associations. I was accompanied by my ‘plus one’ who was Sue Raw, our Secretary. We enjoyed an amazing evening and met some of the Servicemen and women who were nominated for their outstanding achievements. ‘Inspiring’ and ‘humbling’ were understatements in every case, and I didn’t envy the judges. As I saw it, the nominees were all worthy winners and each deserved an award.

And on that inspiring note, it is time to close this ‘Chairman’s Corner’ by sending each and every one of you my sincere good wishes for a peaceful, safe and happy Christmas, and a prosperous and healthy New Year.

Chris -7-

A Cat and Dog Tale Some time after my husband was killed at RNAS Culdrose, I received a request from my small son of 8, that “Daddy said that when he left the navy, we could have a dog” , so now was a good time to do so. After much wavering on my behalf, as my son was a chorister at Boarding School, and so I would have to look after it, and that a lot of dogs made me sneeze etc etc, without mentioning that I was actually afraid of dogs!!! Fatally, an advertisement appeared in our local newspaper, and I was neatly manoeuvred into going to look at it---”It’s a dachshund, Mummy, and he’s only small ...so he won’t need much care”. Swearing that we would just look at it, the first sight of what looked a rather downtrodden puppy, with suspiciously large feet, which later belonged to a very big longhaired dachsie, Mummy was defeated, and Snuff came home, and stayed for 14 years as the most wonderful friend to all of us, and indeed of all; it was not uncommon to see Snuff invited out to lunch, with me as his chauffeur!

Not long after that our number 1 cat died, and daughter begged for a replacement, and after consulting with our vets, we were recommended to talk to a farmer at Manaccan about a kitten; I was rather reluctant as farm cats can be inbred, but these, I was assured, were top class cats. Off we went to Tregonwell to interview Mr Dennis Williams, and his sweet wife, who assured -8-

me that their cats were “free range” and fed themselves by jumping into a sack of cat biscuits.

One had fortunately had kittens in the stump of a dead tree, right beside “the milk stand” upon which were formerly left churns for collection, but no longer. Up jumped my daughter, and put her hand into a hole in the trunk, which was full of warm fur! She lifted each one carefully, and we found three--subsequently another, tiny one, appeared.

We chose the pretty little all light gray one, but left her as she was too young to leave her mum. As Mr Williams was part of a long line of Champion Golden Guernsey cows, winning every year at the County show, the cats were not only full of good food, but with large amounts of rich milk. Thistle, as she was named, for her tiny sharp little claws, became a wonderful cat, always tiny, and as her owner said, had A levels, she was so clever! Snuff, despite the bad reputation with tiny kittens, which dachsies have, was immediately under this minute paw, and to his horror was joined in his basket by Thistle, for evermore.

The Williams family had a daughter who was at school near Falmouth, so the girls knew each other, and the last time I saw Mrs Williams her daughter had married, but the present incumbents (or perhaps now retired? are our own trustee, Susan Williams, and I believe that the line of beautiful cows still exist.

One makes memories in the WWA, although my branch has faded, and north Wiltshire has adopted me, very kindly.

This isn’t the Last Word-- it is long enough to be a serial!

Pamela Maher Formerly Bailey, and my daughter was born in the same village as the farm

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Philip Dymoke;, the Mayor of Lincoln Cllr Alan Briggs and t the County Council Eddie Strengiel - a good friend of the Associa-on; t Gibson and his wife; the Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jon Munton both with Lincolnshire Branch their children and Dave Lynch the Divisional Fire Ch

Following a tradition started in the early 1980s by the late Maud Mitchell (then RO Each the Lincolnshire was hostemembers d by a war Marga Pam tea Hardy for the county)table havewidow always, held an ret, afternoon party , Paulin andofSue followingJude the Howc famousroB Battle Britain service in presen the glory of Lincoln Cathedral.

Pullen . Also t were Lord Peach’s cadets Althoughevery war widow in common withconviv the rest of the UK, have declined we year.numbers, This is alway s a very ial event and shows the esteem still manage a healthy turnout, welcoming many service widows.

This year’s event was supported by a crowd of 42 guests with 18 dignatories welcomed

by Margaret Lee, our Regional Organiser. Guests of Honour were the Deputy Lord David MitchMarshall, ell Lieutenant Air Chief the Lord Peach and Lady Peach; Hamish Falconer, iatethe Memb er since Lincoln’sAssoc new MP; High Sheriff Mr Philip 1975 Dymoke;, the Mayor of Lincoln Cllr Alan Briggs and the Civic Party; the Chair of the County Council Eddie Strengiel - a good friend of the Association; the Chief Constable Mr Paul Gibson and his wife; the Police 233 words and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones; his Deputy Mrs Sarah Munton both with their children and Dave Lynch the Divisional Fire Chief.

Each table was hosted by a war widow, Margaret, Pam Hardy, Pauline Lambert, Glenda Spacey, Jude Howcroft and Sue Pullen. Also present were Lord Peach’s cadets and supporters who come every year. This is always a very convivial event and shows the esteem in which we are held.

David Mitchell Associate Member since 1975

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Congratulations Debbie and Andy

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Memories of a Land Girl The war began when I was 15 years old and as we lived about 10 miles from Manchester, I remember well the Manchester Blitz. Sitting in our cellar and hearing the German planes flying overhead, anti-aircraft guns going and the crunch of bombs exploding.

In 1942, when I was 18, I became a Land Girl, after a course at an agricultural college in Staffordshire, and was kitted out with my uniform in Chester. For most of my time in the Land Army I was stationed at Mickle Trafford Manor where we had a pedigree jersey herd. We milked by hand at 6.30am and 4.30pm every day.

Each cow had a name and had their own personalities, and they knew their place in the shippen. They knew us and responded to us as individuals. Cows are always very curious and interested in things. I loved them, especially Sprite and Sparkle.

Each cow’s milk was weighed after milking and a record kept of each cow’s yield. Also our cows were regularly checked for TB, which can be rife in dairy herds. So our milk was special as it was very rich in cream and also germ free.

We had at times to act as midwives to the cows although they usually managed on their own. I hated it when it was a bull calf as I knew it would go to the slaughterhouse after a few weeks and they were such lovely little things. I have never eaten veal since then!

In the winter we kept the cows in the shippen, so we had to muck out and swill down before each milking. This meant we had a good midden for muck spreading in the fields – the best fertilizer there is. We also had to wash their udders and teats and our hands!

We worked outside in all weathers and in harvest time we worked until almost dark in order to get the corn in before the rain came.

Incidentally I once fell off a loaded cart and broke my leg. This meant a few weeks in plaster at home but I was soon back working all strapped up! We grew wheat, oats, kale and mangols. Mangols are like swedes but dark red on the outside and we stored them in clamps for winter feed, when we chopped them up for the cows.

Our farm horse was called Prince and he was such a gentle giant. A Shire, he knew - 12 -

exactly what to do and taught me how to turn the harrow at the end of the field. I walked up and down behind the harrow and Prince feeling safe and confident.

The other Land Girl Peg and I shared a flat in the Manor House and we remained friends until she died a few years ago.

On VE night we were allowed to go into Chester to join in the celebrations. It was amazing to see the lights on after years of blackout. The square in front of the Cathedral was crowded with people singing and dancing and we got kissed and hugged by lots of lads in uniform. We were offered free drinks and it was a wonderful evening. We couldn’t stay late as we had to be up early for milking the next morning and had to walk 2 miles back to the farm! We also thought of our loved ones, both friends and family, who were bombed or never came back from overseas service.

We were awarded a medal for our services in the Women’s Land Army (WLA) and I have to say I loved the life, even though the war was raging at the time. It was very hard physical work in all weathers, and we worked very long hours for very little pay but even so, I have very happy memories of my nearly 5 years in the WLA. One day which was to have a great influence on my life I was going home on leave on the train from Chester to Manchester and I sat next to a soldier who was also going on leave, to Yorkshire. As a result of our conversation, we met up in Chester and two years later we were married!! That was in 1948 after we were both demobbed. Such very happy memories.

Dorothy Medley, aged 100

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Standing With Giants After finishing work and dealing with my Mother’s estate after she died, I realised there was a void in my life, so I decided I would try some volunteering.

When I saw that The Poppies Wave was on tour at Fort Nelson Royal Armouries, local to me, I duly signed up with another Veteran friend, and we found other Veterans who had also signed up to help. Those few months in 2018 were very humbling and enjoyable and I roped in my husband Mike too!

After that we went on to help people with trips out who would normally find things like this difficult. A group of us from the previous volunteer opportunity helped too.

Then Covid happened and everything stopped, but the lovely people we had already met through volunteering kept in contact online, like so many people did, with quizzes, coffee chats etc. This camaraderie kept us going and when we were able, we all met for coffee again in person!

My husband and I helped at the local Vaccination Centre for a few months during Covid.

We then heard about Standing With Giants, an amazing project bringing life-size silhouettes of the Falklands heroes who died in the conflict to Portsmouth, Fort Nelson. You can see on the Standing with Giants website (www.standingwithgiants. co.uk) more details of how this incredible project started. It felt really special to us, especially with having links with the Military.

As that project evolved we found out that our volunteer group could get involved in actually helping prepare the silhouettes for their latest project. The People’s Tribute was around 1500 silhouettes being prepared for their journey to Normandy to commemorate DDay on the 80th Anniversary year.

Several of us travelled to Standing With Giants HQ in Oxfordshire to help paint and generally prepare the silhouettes in the workshop. We were one of many groups who helped out, and we really enjoyed meeting some of the team behind the project.

The organisers then invited us, as a group, to witness the departure of the silhouettes en route to Normandy from Fort Nelson in 4 large articulated trucks flanked by 150 Motorcyclists - what a sight this was and so moving, especially as we played a small part in putting them together.

The Silhouettes are currently on their way back from Normandy, arriving in Portsmouth on Saturday 14th September in Southsea, near the DDay Museum, to hopefully a large welcome, flanked again by 40 Motorcyclists, before their onward journey to Stowe National Trust Gardens in Buckinghamshire for display there.

So my message is, if you’re feeling a bit lost, think about some volunteering, it can be so rewarding and you may meet lots of new friends in the process!

Many thanks for reading.

Tracey Penfold-Green - 14 -

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Founders’ Day

Founders’ Day

The Military Chapel, (the Guards’ Chapel) never ceases to take my breath away. It The Military Chapel, is a beautiful space, and has a dignity and Founders’ a calm about Day it, perfectly suited to our the Guards’ Chapel Founders’ Day Service.

never ceases to take my breath away. It is a The Military Chapel, beautiful space, and Chapel the Guards’ has a dignity and a calm never ceases to take about it, perfectly my breath away. It is suited to our Founders’ beautiful space, and has a dignity and a ca ay Service.

about it, perfectly suited to our Founde ay Service.

We were there on the 6th of September this year. ater than usual, but the date was chosen to make it more comfortable. ast year it was so hot and We were there on the 6th of September this year. Later than usual, but the date ondon was overflowing withon tourists. year comfortably warm and was chosen to make more comfortable.

Last yearwas itthis was so hotater andthan London was September year. usual, but the We wereitthere the 6th ofThis overflowing with tourists.

This year was comfortably warm and fortunately the rain fortunately the rain held off. date was chosen to make it more comfortable. ast year it was so hot and held off.

ondon was overflowing with tourists. This year was comfortably warm and fortunately the rain held off.

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onThe a fabulous display paraded the new standards to ourIt Padre.

Both Service was usedastothey dedicate our two standards. was a lovely standards weretotied with red ribbon.

The rule is Itthat they remain furled until The Service was used dedicate our two new standards. was a lovely standards withcadets red ribbon.

The rule Wells is thatGirls theyGrammar remain furled ceremonywere and tied the CCF from Tunbridge Schooluntil put afterand thethe dedication. ceremony CCF cadets from Tunbridge Wells Girls Grammar School put on athe fabulous display as theyour paraded thestandards. standards Ittowas ouraPadre. dedication.

Theafter Service was used to dedicate two new lovely Both ceremony on aand fabulous display as they paraded the standards to our Padre.

Both the CCF cadets from Tunbridge Wells Girls Grammar School put on a fabulous standards were tied with red ribbon. The rule is that they remain furled until standards were tied with red ribbon.

The rule is that they remain furled until display as they paraded the standards to our Padre.

Both standards were tied with after the dedication. ribbon.

The rule is that they remain furled until after the dedication. afterred the dedication.

ReverendIan IanBrown’s Brown’ssermon sermon isis certainly certainly worth Reverend worth aamention. mention.He Hebased basedit itononthe the story of theIan Wizard of Oz. He was so engaging, singing songsHefrom theit story Reverend Brown’s sermon is certainly worth a mention. based on the story ofIan theBrown’s Wizardsermon of Oz.isHe was soworth engaging, singing songs from Reverend certainly a mention.

He based it on the the storystory of Reverend Ian Brown’s sermon isjoin certainly worth a mention.

He based itfrom on the and encouraging us so to in. was Bravo Ian! story of the Wizard of Oz. He so engaging, singing songs the story the Wizard of Oz. He was engaging, singing songs from the story and encouraging encouraging usHe towas joinsoin.engaging, Bravo Ian! story and of the Wizard of Oz. singing songs from the story us to join Bravo Ian! us to join in. Bravo Ian! and in. encouraging and encouraging us to join in. Bravo Ian!

Attendance was up this year, with no fewer than 56 members enjoying a Attendance was up this year, with no fewer than 56 members enjoying a splendid tea inin the Officers’ Mess of Wellington Barracks afterathe Service.

Attendance waswas up this year, with nono fewer than 5656members Attendance was up this year, with no fewer than 56 enjoying members enjoying a Attendance up this with fewer than members enjoying athe splendid tea splendid tea theyear, Officers’ Mess of Wellington Barracks after Service. splendid in tea theMess Officers’ Mess of Mess Wellington Barracks after the Service. insplendid thetea Officers’ of Officers’ Wellington Barracks after the Service. in the of Wellington Barracks after the Service.

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AGM 2025

Our 2025 AGM will be held at The Mercure Winchester Hotel between 11th and Winchester and overlooking the Cathedral you Wessex will be centrally located and mere 13th April. e Cathedral and its beautiful gardens.

Set in the heart of Winchester and overlooking the Cathedral you will be centrally located and mere steps away from the Cathedral and its beautiful gardens.

Winchester has one of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe and is the resting place of Saxon royalty, Bishops and Jane Austen.

Our 2 2 AGM will be held at The Mercure Wessex Winchester Hotel between 11th

e of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe and is the resting place of Saxon d aneThe Austen. hotel is close to the many attractions of this o the many attractions of this historic city. The steam railway, Marwell oo and the historic city. The steam enty to see and do. railway, Marwell Zoo and the Winchester New Forest boasts offer a plethora of café s, bars and restaurants. Each al of England, plenty to see and do. nd a traditional street market, walking distance from the Hotel. There are also

opportunities.

As the former Capital of England, Winchester boasts a plethora of café’s, bars and restaurants.

Each Saturday you will find a traditional street Set in the heart of Winchester and overlooking the Cathedral you will be centrally loca market, walking distance from Hotel.

There also plenty shopping opportunities. stepsthe away from theare Cathedral andofits beautiful gardens.

The Great Hall is one mile away and offers admission from £8. Here you can see King Arthurs Round Table and exhibition.

Wolvesey Castle, one of the greatest medieval buildings in England and the former palace of the Bishop of Winchester in the late 12th Century, is half mile away which can be accessed via a beautiful river walk.

Winchester City Mill with its ancient watermill, café, island garden and wildlife spot are free to enter.

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As the former Capital of England, Winchester boasts a plethora of café s, bars and Saturday youstation will find a traditional walking from the Hotel. T Winchester train is one mile away.street Theremarket, are plenty of taxisdistance outside the station. plenty of shopping opportunities.

The preferred airport for Mercure Wessex Winchester Hotel is Southampton (SOU) 11.9 mile.

Sandy Dawson

Winchester has one of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe and is the resting pla royalty, Bishops and ane Austen.

The hotel is close to the many attractions of this historic city. The steam railway, Marw ew orest offer plenty to see and do.

As the former Capital of England, Winchester boasts a plethora of café s, bars and re Saturday you will find a traditional street market, walking distance from the Hotel. The plenty of shopping opportunities.

s one mile away and offers admission from £8. Here you can see King Arthurs Round ition.

e, one of the greatest medieval buildings in England and the former palace of the ester in the late 12th Century, is half mile away which can be accessed via a beautiful - 19 -

A Grand Day Out Despite my initial reluctance I have encouraged, cajoled and finally convinced to write an article for courage sharing my experience of visiting Windsor Castle to collect the OBE I was fortunate to receive in the New Year’s Honours List, so at the risk of boring you all here it is.

After a very pleasant dinner with Chris and our Sons James and Christopher; and a good nights sleep at our hotel in Maidenhead the 17th of April dawned bright and clear and fortunately despite the prevailing weather forecast, dry. Feeling like the condemned man I ate a hearty breakfast before donning my Morning Dress and heading with my family to Windsor Castle driving a very nice brand new Range Rover (a courtesy car as my own was in the dealers feeling very poorly, and where it remained for seven weeks but that’s another story) After an uneventful journey towards Windsor we arrived at the start of the Long Walk, the drive way to the castle last famously seen during the Late Queen’s funeral with her Stud Groom Terry Pendry and her favourite Highland Pony Emma standing guard as her courtage passed. As we made our way sedately up the walk we were forced to avoid dog walkers, parents and pushchairs but nonetheless what a privilege to be allowed to drive to The King’s front door.

On arrival at the gates the car, contents, occupants and invitations were thoroughly checked by the Royal Protection Officers before the gates swung open and the hydraulic bollards were lowered and we were allowed inside the castle grounds and parked infront of the entrance to the famous quadrangle where national events such as Trooping The Colour and the Knighting of Captain Tom Moore took place during the Covid Lock Down. A clockwise saunter around the quad, receiving congratulations from all members of the Royal Household Staff we passed, (they must get really fed up with saying congratulation sir or mam on investiture days) took us to the main entrance and a further check of invitations before being ushered upstairs to the state rooms.

After a detailed briefing on the morning’s sequence of events and having a hook attached to one’s lapel (Somewhere for the attending member of the Royal Family to hang the award) there was an hour or so to explore and admire the waiting room, in our case the Waterloo Chamber, and admire the ornate decor and - 20 -

numerous portraits of previous monarchs and holders of high office in the realm, literally over a thousand years of history in one room, quite overwhelming. Having then been assembled into the order of march to receive our awards the newly appointed Officers of The Most Honourable Order of The British Empire were escorted through the Kings Reception Room and Kings Presence Room to await our moment of presentation by The Princess Royal in the Grand Reception Room.

With my family present in the chamber to witness the event I was welcomed by the Princess with the words “Good morning David it’s jolly nice to see you in my place for a change.” The presentation of the award was brief, but not brief enough for the Lord Chamberlain as the Princess and I had clearly spoken for too long, (well I had to mention the War Widows as well as the Arboretum), and she was reminded to move things along. Her parting words were that we were clearly not paying attention which led to a very smiley departing handshake between the Princess and I. Immediately after the presentation we were ushered in to St Georges Hall and subject to a barrage of flash photography similar to that at a graduation ceremony for which a small fortune was charged for the digital images, thereafter it was back to the Quad and a few quick snaps with our phones then on to lunch at the Ivy restaurant across the road from the castle, and then home to return the borrowed car.

A day to be remembered, but one that would not have been possible without the support of so many friends and colleagues both at work and at the National Memorial Arboretum and the Royal British Legion. The title OBE is often referred to as “Others Buggers Effort” and not unkindly so as it is in my opinion a team effort to achieve and should be regarded as a team award.

In short, a once in a lifetime experience but definitely a Grand Day Out. David Whimpenny - 21 -

Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, LadyScotland Haig’s Poppy Factory, Sc

At the end of August, our Secretary Sue Raw and I t thetoend of a meeting ugust, in our Secretary Sue Raw and I needed to attend a meetin needed attend Edinburgh at the Poppy Factory and were invited to a factory tour beforehand.

Edinburgh at the Poppy actory and were invited to a factory tour beforehan Our guide, avie, Davie,was was very very knowledgeable knowledgeable andand we we thoroughly enjoyed our time t guide, thoroughly enjoyed our time there.

t the end of ugust, our Secre Edinburgh at the Poppy actory guide, avie, Kate, was Sue &very Davieknowled

Most of us know the history of the poppy as a symbol of both remembrance and hope for a peaceful ate, Sue avie future, and the poem by Lt Col John McCrae ‘In Flanders Fields’ which influenced Lord Haig in 1921. The Most us he know the history the poppyinas a symbol offunds bothfor remembrance Earl Haigof Fund establised sourcedofsilk poppies England to raise disabled ex-Servicemen.

Fewfuture, poppiesand made wayby to Lt Scotland and Mc in 1926 Haig ield for a peaceful thetheir poem ol ohn raeCountess In landers suggested the establishment of a factory to make poppies specifically for Scotland.

It silk in uenced Lord aig in 1921. The Earl aig und he establised sourced was her idea also to employ war disabled men to make the poppies, and interestingly England to raise funds for disabled ex-Servicemen. ew poppies made thei hers is the special design of a botanically correct poppy with four petals and no leaf, her Scotlandover and 1926 Richmond ountesspoppy aig with suggested thetwo establishment ofaa facto preference theinoriginal which had petals and a leaf, poppieswhich speci callytoday. for Scotland. It was her idea difference remains ate,also Sue to employ avie war disable

make the poppies, interestingly hers isHouse the special designRoyal of aMile. botanical The first premises were inand the grounds of Whitefoord on Edinburgh’s poppy with fourstart, petals and no soon leaf, expanded her preference over the original Richmon From a very humble production and by the 1930s the workforce Most of us know the history of t ofwith 117 were making the bulk of poppies that Scotland required.

Over the decades since, which had two petals and a leaf, a di erence which remains for a peaceful future,today. and the p many changes have taken place, not least rising to the challenges of WWII to producing in uenced Lord aig in 1921. T gas mask holders, blackout blinds and other practical handicrafts. By 1945 there were The rst premises were in the grounds of Whitefoord Edinburgh sR England toouse raiseonfunds for disab still 100 staff including a growing number of WWII casualties.

rom a very humble start, production soon expanded 1930s the w Scotlandand andby in the 1926 ountess

Today the factory, now part of the Royal British Legion group of charities, employs 11 were making the bulk of poppies that Scotland required. verfor the deca poppies cally Scotlan around 30 disabled and vulnerable ex-service men and women andspeci has found its home changes have taken place, rising challenges ofare WWII t make poppies, and interest inmany Warriston Road, Edinburgh since 2021. not Manyleast schools visitto thethe factory and there

gas mask holders, blackout blinds and other poppy practical handicrafts. with four petals By and194 no l - 22 still 100 sta including a growing number of WWII casualties. with which had two petals and

in Warriston Road, Edinburgh since 2021. Many s some excellent materials on display there and on some excellent materials on display there and also on their website.

Stock ready to roll

Stock ready to roll

Stock ready toctive roll as ever, The factory continues to be as produ st equipment including a machine form 1926 used to c factor contin uesother to beite as wreaths, making 40,00The 0 wreat hsyand many equip ment includ ing a mach factor y now hastoequip Stock ready roll ment installed to produced mi wreatghs, makin g tant 40,00 0 wrea the next few years in makin that impor transi tio factor y now has The factory continues to be as productive as ever, still using much of the original equip ment in The factory continues to be as productive as ever equipment including a machine from 1926 used to cut silk petals for the handmade the next few years in makin g equipment including a machine form 1926 usedtt wreaths, making 40,000 wreaths and many other items. Things are moving on, and wreaths, the factorymaking now has 40,000 wreaths and many other equipment installed to producedfactory more sustainable now has equipment installed to produced poppies and over the next few years in making that in making that important trans the next few years important transition to plastic-free poppies.

Product examples

Product examples Product examples Plastic free poppies

Product examples

Plastic free poppies

Plastic Sue and I learnt a great dealSue and and thoroughly enjoyed our tour. You can bookes a tour if free poppi I learnt a great deal and thorou ghly enjoyed o you are in Edinburgh, or visit the online Poppyscotland shop through the website www. are in Edinburgh, or visit the online Poppyscotland sh poppyscotland.org.uk Sue a great deal an www.poppyscotland.org .ukand I learntKate Thomas are in

Edinburgh, or visit the on Plastic free poppies www. poppy scotland.org.uk - 23 -

owing the dedication of our new Standards in September, we held a the Guards Chapel in service in the Congreg Londo ational Church, Dundee September to lay up the rd on a Sa d old Scottish tt turd n ta , originall ishndSard to welcome the new on for the Sco Sta y purchased th by Dundee e e. ic rv Se don on th Laying-Up apel in Lon Rev Bob Wightman co ards in the Guards Ch rday nd d ucted a very rc eerdon Satu dda nse tan u S D w bers, and , mo e h vin n an g St u mesmop h rvi r h Lo ce u tis rd C , oost of Dundic ee wa wh l ot Sc ofov ndich onea Du rltith ain ened with a fo y g ationPr e b L ee ic re , d Bil a d g rv e e Ca n y s Se d o mp a p C h e be -U ll, e rc th g u o was accompanied th yi -riUgpinS pwh th La FoLa e in ally dy icng ll Pr ollowing rv ov o os e e w s t. o by Ou r , his a in v r Sta rd on lovely wife ic ld a g nd on e esifCh the cdoettdish Standard Bearer, AC rd Lond in ve oBa r ap er, we hSethe trrie heelS th icaour S. (In se pptethm GuainAb eptembFollowing rvi ld rne e ce o ti ss th c e Se o in o a s n Ca t the dedication of 2 new Standards the Guards Chapel in London on e y rd b de t ay da o u is ts)th e rd an , pla f y tu r m , wr e hne our ne Sa h Sata w St fro er todeladi ibdu Seca trn mbth eld , Dundee on nnbeof. ou teng ch tioom ate de pwte w Sur elopwi ith mon an rrs Ch a , l w d na e September, d s be tio e ta e n em ga e 6th we held a service in the Congregational Church, Dundee Saturday r n re e p v e ng d ee o n r ic th nd Co a s , to in e in the e, wpu rw dsa

by Du e thehe laythuep th seind th om rvice to ld rchha elcbe ife Yvonne wealcse icC optwem alolynghric in rvStandard, Gvuealy ean r, weSeptember seig , or omto lo g rd ooda ld 14th lay up the old Scottish Dundee le in engoriginally vin rdw ed th ya hisepurchased St b S m h s a d tis c ti ry ot Cyhby e ie e o o Sc v tt a n n a ol p eadpeal kineyL ro is e e d m thconducte w one. l Chaudrects hcScta o nd ),Dpla r toiglahytmup as a w n ondon o o h C a h ptembe a , members, and to welcome the new one. a w r e d S ll, , u e nd e on m essoriginally b WtheRne e.e, Bill Campb Bom on e vwu evlco Rwe Bn odbe e st oe Satuth arrie (Invern puwircthhaastrie bute fro B i W b D A f ig rday C ed h A en tm r, o v op e re s L ro a a d wa e P o n B b r ich rd d Rev Bob Wightman conducted a very moving service, which was opened with a tribute c y o wh rd e L o duov Du,nth rota onne vonsdtao indgaservice, rS dee me cte OuP rynm t.ad aunve osLthe his lovely wifebyYvhis lovely rovig vseac by accompanied uctef dDof yP nied ry co pa dee, Bwh yLord le in m m Provost Dundee, Bill Campbell, who was LadBo man m ro Pco y o ke rond W e.ht a v b from wa v ed in o il o ay ev g sserSe sBi ell, l Campb t.llOCa pb dets), pl m Ca ic t th a v u rv ic r , e seov ee e S es e e nd rn s , ta ll ve th e Du w , wife Yvonne, the Lady Provost.

Our Standard Bearer, AC Abi Barrie (Inverness Sea (In n of r h vice. dardAb rrie w i Ba ord Pr os Be arer, AC arer, AC ho was accom ich was opened rd Be Standa panied Cadets), a key role in the service. ost. Ourplayed Abi Bar with a tr ady Prov by rie (Inve ibut rness S his lovely wife he service. ea Cad Y von ets), pla yed a k

Laying-Up Service for the Scottish Standard

Mary Wightman and Lt Gen Sir Alistair Irwin KC B CBE (Honorary Pres Combined Ex-Service ident of the D s Association) read the lessons.

the Dundee resident of P ry ra o n o KCB CBE (H listair Irwin A ir S n e sons.

G e lesKCB d Lt ) read th Wightman Sir Alistair Irwin CBE (Honorary President of the MM ightman anandsLtAsGen arMary tion ia c o ayryWW s igh e tm edrvicEx-Services Association) read the lessons.y President of the Dundee axn-S E CoCmDundee a d Combined n e in b L b t en S ined Ex om (Honorar -Service G irAlAist rirIrwin KCB CBE ai li s r ta Si en G s Lt able Irw Assoto man an was tod be little bit ssons.the history of the Association and leabout ightproud ciatalk eK thin C tion) MaryI W na ) re read Associatio ad the le B CBE (Honora es vic er -S Ex d ne ry Presid ssons.

Combi ent of th e Dund ee

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e to talk a little bit about the history of the Association and what we do now. ation were surprised at how much goes on behind the scenes and that we what we do now. Many in the congregation were surprised at how much goes on behind the scenes and that we are all volunteers!

We were delighted to have with us distinguished guests (L to R) Rear Admiral (Retd) Mark Beverstock, President of RBLS and Poppy Scotland; LT Gen Sir Alistair Irwin; David Boe, Chairman of RBLS; Bill Campbell, Lord Provost of Dundee; Susan Flintoff, CEO and Keeper of the Rolls at the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle, and Yvonne Campbell, The Lady Provost.

Amongst the congregation were Gordon Michie, Head of Fundraising for Poppy Scotland; PO Barry Ross (CO) and his cadets from TS Duncan in Dundee; Patricia of Commonwealth Graves; Sheila We were delighted Keppie, to have formerly with us distinguished guestsWar (L to R) Rear Admiral (R Elrick, Chair of the RBLS Women’s Section, as well Beverstock, President of RBLS and Poppy Scotland; LT Gen Sir Alistairas Irwin; Da and members from the Combined Ex-Services Chairman of RBLS;veterans Bill Campbell, Lord Provost of Dundee; Susan Flintoff, CEO Association inWar Dundee – thank you so much to all ofYvonne the Rolls at the Scottish National Memorial in Edinburgh Castle, and them for giving up their time to join us.

The Lady Provost.

AC Abi Barrie did us proud, o have with us distinguished guests (L to R) Rear Admiral (Retd) Mark as always, and presented nt of RBLS Scotland; the and old Poppy Standard to RevLT Gen Sir Alistair Irwin; David Boe, Bill Campbell, Lord Provost of Dundee; Susan Flintoff, CEO and Keeper of Bob, who then laid it ish National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle, and Yvonne Campbell, to ‘Rest for Evermore in Glory’. She proudly paraded the new one with the other Associations Standard Bearers – we are so grateful for their support and attendance.

Sincere thanks must also go to Sharon and David Barrie, who support Abi in all the events she attends for us. Abi is a credit to herself, her parents and the Sea Cadets.

Rev Bob ended the service with the Act of Remembrance for the Fallen, followed by Amongst the congregation were Gordon Michie, Head of Fundraising for Poppy S the National Anthem.

Barry Ross (CO) and his cadets from TS Duncan in Dundee; Patricia Keppie, for Afterwards, we enjoyed light refreshments in the Church Hall,ofprovided with generous Commonwealth War Graves; Sheila Elrick, Chair the RBLS Women’s Section, support from Dundee Council.

It was good to beEx-Services able to chatAssociation with each other veterans andCity members from the Combined in Dundee – informallymuch and relax a sandwich andup a cuppa!

The to sausage to allover of them for giving their time join us.rolls flew off the plates!

My sincere thanks to all involved in helping me to organise the event, especially Rev AC Abi Barrie did of usFundraising proud, as always, andScotland; presentedPO the old Standard to Rev B gation were Michie, Head for absolute Poppy Bob, Gordon Mary and the church officers – you were stars! laid it to ‘Rest for Evermore in Glory’.

She proudly paraded the new one with the d his cadets from TS Duncan in Dundee; Patricia Keppie, formerly of Sueand Rawattenda Associations Standard Bearers – we are so grateful for their support Graves; Sheila Elrick, Chair of the RBLS Women’s Section, as well as ers from the Combined Ex-Services Association in Dundee – thank you so or giving up their time to join us.

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In Memory...

Mrs Sheila Bracey Mrs Kathleen Burr Mrs Margaret Calladene Mrs Barbara Clark Mrs Olive Cummins Mrs Grace Day Mr Bill Kerr Mrs Sylvia Kershaw Mrs Ellen McKinney Mrs Doreen Moon Mrs Eileen Morris Mr Walter Tarry Mrs Margaret Twynham Mrs Mary Elizabeth Stannard Mrs Beryl Mackinder Mrs Elsie Miles

The War Widows’ Association extends condolences to family and friends of all those members who have sadly passed away.

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Crantock WI Crantock WI held a D-Day cream tea and sent a donation of £340 for the War Widows Association. A big thank you to Lynne Wilson, their Treasurer and all those who attended.

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WAR WIDOWS CONNECTED - PROJECT UPDATE WAR WIDOWS CONNECTED - PROJECT UPDATE Twitter: @WarWidows_WWit | Website: warwidows.org.uk/war-widows-connected Twitter: @WarWidows_WWit | Website: warwidows.org.uk/war-widows-connected

Rem

This project follows from success War Widows InTouch (WW.it) project during pandemic, This project follows onon from thethe success of of thethe War Widows InTouch (WW.it) project wewe ranran during thethe pandemic, in which 37 members received iPads and training.

This project follows on from thetraining. success of the War Widows InTouch (WW.it) project we in which 37 members received iPads and

WAR WIDOWS CONNECTED - PROJECT UPDATE ran during the pandemic, in which 37 members received iPads and training.

This most recent Veterans’ Foundation grant allowed provide a further 9 iPads members along with This most recent Veterans’ Foundation grant hashas allowed us us to to provide a further 9 iPads to to members along with some training in how to use it and get online safely.

Some members are being able to access the internet from This most recent Veterans’ Foundation grant has allowed us to provide a further 9 Twitter: @WarWidows_WWit | Website: warwidows.org.uk/war-widows-connecte some training in how to use it and get online safely. Some members are being able to access the internet from their homes for first time their lives – this is amazing! iPads tofor members along with some in how to use it and get online safely. their homes thethe first time in in their lives – this istraining amazing!

WAR WIDOWS CONNECTED PROJECT UPDATE This project follows on from the success of the War Widows InTouch (WW.it) project ran during Some members are being able to access the internet from their homes for thewe first Training is still taking place a regular basis many participants – some only needed a couple sessions Training is still taking place onon areceived regular basis forfor many of of ourour participants – some only needed a couple of of sessions in which 37 members th thiPads and training. time in their lives –their this isand amazing! whilst others are onto sessions.

There is no limit how much training you – we just want th whilst others are onto their 9th9and 1010 sessions.

There iswarwidows.org.uk/war-widows-connected no limit to to how much training you getget – we just want Twitter: @WarWidows_WWit | Website: members to be confident and comfortable using their devices and it’s wonderful to see more members embracing members to be and comfortable their devices and wonderful to see more members embracing Training isconfident still taking place on using a at regular basis forait’ssupported many our participants –iPads someto memb This most recent Veterans’ Foundation grant hasInTouch allowed usof toenvironment. provide further this technology and learning how to it their own pace This project follows on from the success the War Widows (WW.it) project wearan during9the pandemic, this technology and learning how to useuse it of at their own pace in in a supported environment. only needed a couple of sessions whilst others are onto their 9th and 10th sessions. some37training inreceived how toiPads use itand and get online safely. Some members are being able to access the in which members training. behalf of WWA, I would like Veteran’s for funding this project and I am delighted There is no limit how much training you –Foundation justfor want members to be confident their forto first time inthank their lives –get this iswe amazing!

OnOn behalf ofhomes thethe WWA, Ithe would like to to thank thethe Veteran’s Foundation funding this project and I am delighted to announce that they have agreed to continue to fund us to the end of September 2025, with our new War This most recent Veterans’ Foundation grant has allowed us to provide a further 9 iPads to members along with and comfortable using their devices and it’s wonderful to see more members to announce that they have agreed to continue to fund us to the end of September 2025, with our new War Widows Online project, to able continue this work, build online members continue and Training isthis taking on regular basis for our participants some only needed a cou some training instill how to use it be and get online safely.

Some members are being able to–area access the internet from embracing technology and learning how tomany use itofour atonline their own pace in aand supported Widows GetGet Online project, toplace be able toato continue this work, build our members area and continue to to and th th help even more of you lovely members. their homes for the first time in their lives – this is amazing! whilst others onto their 9 and 10 sessions. There is no limit to how much training you get help even more of youare lovely members. environment.

members to be confident and comfortable using their devices and it’s wonderful to see more memb

Training is stilloftaking place on regular basis fordistribution many ofthe ourand participants – some onlyout needed a couple of sessions application form the next round of iPad training sent to you next couple On behalf the WWA, Iaround would thank Foundation funding this AnAn application form forfor the next ofthlike iPad distribution andVeteran’s training willwill bebe out to for you in in thethe next couple this technology and learning how toto use it at their asent supported environment. whilst others are onto their 9thto and 10 sessions.

There iswebsite. noown limit pace to howinmuch training you get – we just want of weeks.

You will also be able access the form on our of project weeks. You willIalso able to access the form on our and ambe delighted to announce thatwebsite. they have agreed to continue to fund us members to be confident and comfortable using their devices and it’s wonderful to see more members embracing to the end of September 2025, with our new War Get Online project, toWidows be If you have any questions about this current project, would express interest in applying ‘War Widowsand thisOn technology and learning to uselike itproject, atto their ownthe pace into a Widows supported environment. behalf of the WWA, I would thank Veteran’s Foundation for funding this project If you have any questions abouthow this current would likelike to express interest in applying forfor ourour ‘War Get Online’ project or would just like some IT/online safety training for yourself, please do not hesitate to able to continue this work, build our online members area and continue to and help to announce that they have agreed to continue to fund us to the end of September 2025, with Get Online’ project or would just like some IT/online safety training for yourself, please do not hesitate to getget in in touch with for a wee chat.

On behalf ofme the WWA, Iawould like to theto Veteran’s Foundation for build funding thisonline projectmembers and I am delighted even more ofdirectly you lovely members. touch with me directly for wee chat.

Widows Get Online project, tothank be able continue this work, our area and c to announce that they have agreed to continue to fund us to the end of September 2025, with our new War evenfestive more of you members.

Have a lovely season Jlovelynext Anahelp application form for round of training be sentto and Have lovely J Widows Getfestive Onlineseason project, to the be able to continue thisiPad work,distribution build our onlineand members area will and continue out even to you in of the next couple of weeks. You will also be able to access the form on our help more you lovely members.

An application form for the next round of iPad distribution and training will be sent out to you in t website.

C

of weeks.

You will also be able to access the formand ontraining our website.

An application form for the next round of iPad distribution will be sent out to you in the next couple Helen Raw | Project Manager | 07775 592604 Helen Raw |You Project Manager | 07775 592604 If you have anyalso questions thisform current of weeks. will be able toabout access the on ourproject, website. would like to express interest in

If you have aboutGet this Online’ current project, like tojust express in applying for ou applying for any ourquestions ‘War Widows projectwould or would like interest some IT/online

If you have any questions about this current project, would like to express interest infor applying for our ‘War Widows Get Online’ or would just like IT/online safety training yourself, please do not he safety trainingproject for yourself, please dosome not hesitate to get in touch with me directly for Get Online’ project or would just like some IT/online safety training for yourself, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly for a wee chat. a weewith chat. touch me directly for a wee chat.

Have lovely festive season J Have a lovely festive season Have aa lovely festive season J

Helen RawRaw | Project Manager | 07775|592604 Helen | Project Manager 07775 592604

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Notice board

membe

E ring WcoEmLeCouOr M d hope new members an

wel We would like to your magazine. you enjoy reading the events ons about any of ti es qu y an ve ha ork of Should you more about the w t ou d fin to e lik ur Trustees, listed or would contact one of yo se ea pl n io at ci ver. the Asso the inside front co contact details on

Courage artic les

We do hope you enjoy reading these articles. If you have an unusual hobby or have been somewhere special lately, we’d welcome an article or some photos from you. Just send it in to courage@warwidows.org.uk We look forward to hearing from you.

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g n i n g i Mem be rshi p Ca rd s ampa

FULL members of the Wa r Widows’ Association are afforded the privilege of Temporary Ho norary Membership of the Un ion Jack Club (UJC), Sandell Street, Lon don SE1 8UJ; this privile ge enables Full members to access to the club’s facilities upon presen tation of a War Widows’ Association Me mbership Card. To obtai n a Membership Card Full members should send their full contact de tails, full name and address including postcode (BLOCK CAPIT ALS), telephone number, together with a copy of your awards notifi cation to confirm your entitlement under the War Pension Scheme or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, you should also include a Pa ssport size photo and also enclose a stamped addressed en vel op e; please send to the Membership Secretary, War Widows’ Association, c/o 199 Borough High Street , London, SE1 1AA. It ma y take a number of weeks for your applicat ion to be processed as the Association is managed totally by volun teers and does not have any paid staff or permanent offices.

Caring

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Notice

Perm issio n For Courage Phot ogra phs!

If you are attending any event organised by the Association Photographs/videos will be taken. By allowing your photograph to be taken you are agreeing to it being used by the Association in any of the Associations publications, whether print, online or in any promotional materials. If you do not wish your photograph to be used in this manner you need to ensure that you do not put yourself in a position where you will be included in the photograph. It is not always feasible for the photographer to ask permission each time, especially where there is a large group or we are in a public place.

Remem

b

ng Vetera ns-UK Con tacetridet ails

Free Helpline 0808 1914 2 18 (UK Only)/+44 1253 866043 (Overseas) Via email to: veterans-uk@mod.uk Website:- www.gov.uk/veterans-uk Via Letter to: Ministry of Defence, Norcross, Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire, FY5 3WP Please include:- Full Name, Address, Postcode , Country (if overseas), daytime telephone num ber with dialling code the best time to contact you by telephone during the daytime, the time difference to GMT (if overseas). If your query relates to a pension issue include your National Insurance Number and reference number.

Caring

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board

Changes of Details

It is important for members to make sure the information that the Association holds on you in its database is current and accurate; if your details are not up to date you could be missing out on important information.

Therefore, if you change your address or wish to inform us of any other change to your membership please email database@warwidows.org.uk as soon as possible; or write to War Widows’ Association, PO Box 29265, DUNFERMLINE, KY12 2FH. Please Note: You need to ensure that it is the War Widows’ Association that you have informed of any change to your details as other agencies are not permitted to pass on information to a third party due to Data Protection.

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g n i n g i ampa

COPY FOR TH E

REM EM BE R - TH E DEADLINE FOR 2025 NEXT COURAG E IS 1st Ap ril

is made to include all PLEASE NOTE: While every effort en this is not always contributions there are times wh received after the deadline possible; if your contribution is no guarantee it will be date we regret that there can be included in the magazine. the Courage email address.

Please send all contributions to

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Rem

Some options to help with travelling around

The HM Forces Railcard Operated by the Royal British Legion The HM Forces railcard available through the Royal British legion (this card is not currently accepted in Northern Ireland). To be eligible you must be in receipt of a Forces Family Pension from the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) 1975 or AFPS 2005 AND a War Widows / War Widowers Pension OR An Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 2005 Survivors Guaranteed Income Payment (SGIP) For more information visit the www.britishlegion.org.uk or telephone Edd Robinson, Grants manager on 0808 802 8080 or email centralgrantsteam@britishlegion.org.uk. or write to The Pensions Officer (Railcards) The Royal British Legion, 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA War Widows Association Senior Railcard - operated by the War Widows’ Association A small number of war widow/ers may not be eligible to apply for the HM Forces War Widow/ers Railcard; if this is the case you may apply for a War Widows’ Association Senior Railcard. You must be over 60 years of age, a Full member of the War Widows’ Association and in receipt of a War Widow/ers Pension.

The application form is available to download from our website www.warwidows.org.uk or by emailing the Secretary at secretary.warwidows.org.uk or by writing to: The Secretary, The War Widows’ Association of GB c/o 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA Veterans Concessionary Travel Scheme (VCTS) Operated by Transport for London.

War Widows/ers, AFCS War Widows and recognised partners of any age, in receipt of ongoing payments from the War Pension Scheme or the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme may apply for a VCTS Oyster Photo Card which entitles the bearer to free travel at any time in London on the bus, tube, Docklands Light Railway and London Overground Services. There are some concessions on travel on mainline rail services just outside the Greater London Zone.

For more information and details on how to apply please visit http://www. tfl.gov.uk/fares-and-payments/adult-discounts-and-concessions/veteransoyster-photocard?intcmp=10819 or call 0343 222 1234 - 32 -

C

to

Ooh La La!

Ooh La La !

function for lots of people travelling from free day to hand, and with Remembrance a group of us decided we would pack our cre

to Par

Ooh La La !

I am suresure you you can all appreciate how stressful I am can all appreciate how stressful it can be organising a large ing a large it can be organising a large function lots organis befrom can for it l stressfu howof people travelling appreciate u can allfunction for lots all over the UK. With that in mind, a of people travelling from all over the UK. With that in mind, a the UK. Witharrangements over allwith ng from travelli ots of people freeinday to hand, all taken care of, a small that mind, a freeand day to Remembrance hand, and with care of, a small taken allour ments brance arrange Remem with nd, andRemembrance group of us decided we would pack credit cards and treat ourselves to a trip arrangements all taken care trip a to es ourselv treat and cards credit our pack would we ecided of, a small group of us decided we would to Paris on Eurostar. r.

Eurosta ontreat to Paris pack our credit cards and ourselves to It was a very early start as we had to be at a trip to Paris on Eurostar. as we had to be at

membe

ring

It was a very early start St Pancras for 06.30hrs.

It was a very earlyStstart as swe to bers.at St 06.30h forhad Pancra Pancras for 06.30hrs.

The journey was remarkably smooth and

smooth and The journey was remarkably over two hours from the centre The journey was remarkably smoothtook anda littlethe centre from to the over two hours little a took of London centre of Paris. Gare du took a little over two hours from the centre du Gare Paris. of centre the to London of of London to the centre of Paris. Gare du was much larger than I expected but Nord I expected but than largerwe Nord was Nord was much larger thanmuch I expected but managed to navigate our way out. we managed to navigate ouredway out. e our way out. to navigat we manag We walked the We walked the streets for a the short We walked streets for a while, and only occasionally got lost. streets for a short while, and Thank goodness for Google maps! short while, and only occasionally Eventually we found a delightful nally only occasio got lost. Thank restaurant called Les Escargots got lost. Thank goodness for for lunch. It was a great day and a for ss goodne Google maps! lovely meal with friends.

Google maps!

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g n i n g i ampa

It was St Pan

The jo took a of Lon Nord w we ma

We wa streets short w only oc got los goodne Google

Eventu found deligh restau It was friends

Eventually we Eventually we How sa found a found a criticis delightful delightful work h restaurant called Les Escargots for lunch. lunch. for ts Escargo Les called restaurant and all It was a great day and a lovely meal with that we have been criticised How sadmeal thenwith a lovely It was a great day andfriends. earned for taking this trip. After all, we work hard friends. well-de Associations for our respective How sad then that we have been and all our members; surely we had earned the right to have been How sad then that we criticised for taking this trip. After all, we make the most a well-deserved day off.

After all,ofwe trip. criticised for taking this work hard for our respective Associations Chris ive Associations work hard for our respect and all our members; surely we had we had surely the and all our members;earned right to make the most of a most of a the make to earned the right well-deserved day off. well-deserved day off.

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Chris

Chris

Christmas Quiz 1

When do the 12 Days of Christmas start?

2

Which country annually sends a Christmas tree to be erected in London’s Trafalgar Square?

3

Which monarch delivered the first Royal Christmas Day Message?

4

Which ocean can Christmas Island be found in?

5

What is your star sign if you are born on Christmas Day?

6

How many ghosts appear in A Christmas Carol?

7

When was Love Actually released?

8

Which city is Die Hard set in?

9

Where are the McCallisters going on vacation when they leave Kevin behind in Home Alone?

10 In which country is it now traditional to eat a KFC for Christmas dinner?

11 Who proposes to who in the 2008 Gavin And Stacey Christmas special?

12 In which children’s classic is it ‘always winter but never Christmas’?

13 What’s the name of the giant snow monster that guards Elsa’s palace in Frozen?

14 What does Harry receive from Dumbledore during his first Christmas at Hogwarts?

15 How many of Rudolph’s fellow reindeers’ names start with ‘D’?

16 What colour are mistletoe berries?

17 In Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” what was Mr. Scrooge’s first name?

18 What was the name of the little boy in The Snowman?

19 Who stole Christmas?

20 How many points does a snowflake have?

21 In what town was Jesus born?

22 In what year was the Christmas card invented? a) 1834

b) 1852

c) 1901

23 Why is Boxing Day called Boxing Day? - 34 -

24 What date does the Twelfth Night tradition state you should have your Christmas decorations down by?

25 In the 12 Days of Christmas song, how many pipers are piping?

26 When do Harrods typically open their Christmas department each year?

27 In a traditional British pantomime, where is ‘it’?

28 In the Arnold Schwarzenegger film Jingle All The Way, what was the name of the highly sought-after action figure?

29 Which cartoon character beat Westlife to the UK Christmas number one spot in 2000?

30 In which year was the first Christmas card sent? a) 1843 b) 1762 c) 1899 d) 1945 Answers on page 59

Veterans Unclaimed Armed Forces Pensions At least 14,800 unclaimed Armed Forces pension benefits*

A CALL TO ACTION!

Historically, around 2,000 preserved Armed Forces pensions go unclaimed each year Anyone serving after April 1975 now aged 60 or over could have an Armed Forces pension if they served for 2 years or more The pension is NOT paid automatically – Veterans must apply to Veterans UK using AFPS Form 8 or can call 0800 085 3600 for further information *Source: MoD APFS Annual Report July 2024

FIND OUT MORE Dated 24/07/2024

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Remembering Private James Fraser More than 100 years after Private James Fraser died in action, I stood in front of his grave at the Faubourg-d’Amiens Cemetry and laid a cross on behalf of his sweetheart, who was my grandmother.

My grandmother came to live with us when I was just two years old after separating from my grandfather. Throughout my childhood she spoke with love of James who she always called Jimmy.

Jimmy ran a wine import business in Manchester with his brother Sandy and this is where my grandmother worked.

When my grandmother died in the late 80s, I found a treasure trove of letters which Jimmy had written to her from the Western front. The letters along with photographs of my grandmother and Jimmy form part of a collection stored in the Imperial War Museum.

His first letter is full of optimism as they set out from Dunfermline with the whole town turning out to wave them off. When they arrive in France the soldiers struggle to understand the ‘Frenchies’ and he jokes that he will be a great linguist by the time he returns. He describes them as being a happy lot and that they are ‘A1’ and that you would never believe that they are getting ready for ‘dirty work’. But they are very soon faced with thunder, lightning and torrential rain running like rivers through the camp. The mud was caked on them, and he witnessed many casualties. Weeks in the trenches are interspersed with brief periods in local barns. By the final letter, the writing is almost illegible because of the cold and the frost. He is writing it whilst being constantly shelled by ‘Fritz’.

He is so grateful for the constant stream of letters and photographs from my grandmother.

His brother, Sandy also enlists and so my grandmother is put in charge of the wine import business. Jimmy explains that he will have to write to her in an official capacity at the office to provide advice and she mustn’t laugh at the formal style of the letter when she receives it. Despite the horrendous conditions that he is enduring, Jimmy is full of concern that my grandmother is working too hard and always entreats her to ensure that she has the right people in place to help her.

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He is looking forward to taking her to the ‘Palace’ in Manchester and working with her in the busy run up to Christmas the following year. That was not to be. On 16 March 1917, 7 months after the first letter, Jimmy was killed in action. He had listed his widowed mother, Margaret Fairgrieve as his dependent and the records show that she was paid a pension of seven shillings a week following his death. Margaret received his medals, the Victory Medal and the British WW1 War Medal. She also received a World War 1 Memorial Plaque which was made of bronze and which was commonly known by the troops as the ‘Dead Man’s Penny’.

The fact that my grandmother kept Jimmy’s letters and photographs for over seventy years demonstrates how much he meant to her. She hadn’t been able to visit his grave and because I had been so close to my grandmother I felt privileged to lay a cross with her name on his grave.

Jeanette

Dates for the diary 2025 War Widows Association AGM, Hotel Mercure, Winchester Friday 11th, Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April 2025 A Time to Reflect, National Memorial Arboretum Saturday 17th May 2025

Riddle “I am tall when I am young and short when I am old” What am I? Answer of page 59 - 37 -

Poppy Appeal Launch by Jenny Green OBE Continuing a tradition going back for over 25 years, the Association was once more involved in the Poppy Appeal launch by the Royal British Legion in Lincolnshire. The magnificent ceremony is held in a huge hanger at the famous East Kirkby Aviation Heritage Centre in the Lincolnshire fens. Originally an RAF wartime station then an American air base, the centre was opened by the Panton Brothers as a tribute to their older sibling who died whilst serving in Bomber Command, WWII. It houses a unique collection of RAF planes, vehicles, equipment and memorabilia attracting visitors from around the world and is, of course, home to the Lancaster bomber ‘Just Jane’.

The War Widows have always been given pride of place, indeed past national Chair, Gill Grigg MBE, hosted the launch some years ago.

This time, however, was extra special as our Standard was carried so proudly and superbly

by Flt Sgt Cadet Sydney Walker (a young lady) of the Horncastle ATC after the other 34 Standards were paraded and after a march-past of over 60 cadets (army, navy and air force). Sydney was given a huge ovation. This was our new National Standard dedicated at the recent Founders’ Day ceremony in the Guards Chapel of the Wellington Barracks). Jenny Green then gave an emotional, professional and ‘spot on’ speech and received a standing ovation from Association members led by RO Margaret Lee – well done Jenny!

After the launch over 400 of us went out onto the runway (in warm and sunny weather) and held a photo session under the 100 ft wing span of ‘Just Jane’. A happy and most enjoyable gathering. Jenny, quite rightly, emphasised the long-time connections between the Association and RBL. Next stop for our national Standard will be our own unique and moving ceremony at the Centotaph.

David Mitchell - Lincolnshire Helper since 1977 - 38 -

- 39 -

The weather was kind to us for Remembrance weekend this year. It was chilly, but it remained dry for our event Remem s. brance 2024

nd this year. It was chilly, brance Remem us forng kind Si memb r wased ers attend weathe The thetoopeni Remembrance 2024 of the Field weeke of Remembrance in the grounds events. ourplante ed dry .for remainAbbey but it inster of Westm We d poppy sticks this year. ess but Fooke s The weather was kind to us for Remembrance weekend this year. It Baron was chilly, sit ground the in brance stoodSiremained Remem of inmemb Field fronters the of of g our plot openin the to ed greet attend the uches s of Gloucester, who inspected all dry for our events. sticks this year. Baroness Fookes poppy d the plots plante . Weuches Abbey this year. inster The Westm of s was ngRemembrance in for the in ueen who ofwas Six members attended the opening of thestandi Field of the grounds ster, who inspected all Glouce ofthis uchess the greet to plotplanted of ourinfect in front sufferstood ing from a chest Westminster Abbey.

We 49 poppy sticks year.

Baroness Fookes stood ion. was ueenallwho for the g in who wasofstandin uchess The the in front our plot Duchess Gloucester, inspected the plots year.to greet plotsof this the this year.

The Duchess was standing in for the Queen who was suffering from a n. a chest infectio ng from sufferi chest infection.

On Saturday

th November we met in

1 Whitehall for coffee before our own

On Saturday th November weatmet we were since 1 White is a few for years ph. It hall coffee Cenota before our last own Service of Remembrance the in ervice of Reme t hasn g buildin mbran the sly ce at Obviou the t.

Cenot shmen aph. refurbi It for is a few closed years been since we were last there as it has upgraded. s have here aschange facilitie it hasd but been very smart for refurb now looking ishmeand it isclosed nt. the Obvio usly the been building hasn t hanged but it is now looking very smartlibrary a and has y library es have is a militar . Itfaciliti been upgra ded.

Coffee was served upstairs in the and the

developing our knowledge of conflict, war and to library dedica ant section signific offee was served upstai rs inted the . It is a military library and ohna blehas be joined by the Right Honora to ate fortun were We g. thinkin y militar gnificant section dedicated to developing our knowledge of conflict, war and , Secretary of State for efence. Mr Healey chatted to many of our Healeyng. military thinki We were fortunate to be joined by the Right Honorable ohn ers before and after the parade. ealey, memb Secretary of State for efence. Mr Healey chatted to many of our members before and after the parade. - 40 -

On Saturday 9th November we met in 61 Whitehall for coffee before our own Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph. It is a few years since we were last there as it has been closed for refurbishment. Obviously the building hasn’t changed but it is now looking very smart and the facilities have been upgraded.

Coffee was served upstairs in the library. It is a military library and has a significant section dedicated to developing our knowledge of conflict, war and military thinking. We were fortunate to be joined by the Right Honorable This year saw a large turnout of members, w John Healey, Secretary of State for Defence. Mr to lunch. down Healey chatted to many of our members before and after parade. members, withtheover 1 0 on parade and are, as ever, grateful to the Southern H

We sitting

This year saw a large turnout of members, RAF Halton volunteer band, while the Cadet his year saw a large with over 170 on parade and 95 sitting down turnou t of members, with 1 ls0were on parad e and sitting helped culate and imma Schoo Wells over to lunch. own torn lunch. outhe

Highlanders Pipes and rums and the

We are, as ever, grateful to the Southern Service was taken by the Association p The e the s from City of Londo n and Tunb We are,Cadet as ever, gratef ul to the South Highlanders Pipes and Drums and RAF ridge erntheHighla nders Pipes rumsAssoc and iation the w laid the ey and Crawl ess Baron and Halton band, while the Cadets from helpe d volunteer keep the parad AF Halton e on volunt track. eer band, while the Cadets from City of London and Tunbr . omoney read a piece from Isaiahidge City of London and Tunbridge Wells Schools Wells Schoo ls were imma culate and helpe d keep the parad e on track. were padre immaculate and Comm helped keep the parade sociation , Wing ander Ian Brown. on track.

he Servic was taken theCeno ociati Assoctaph on ewreat iationand padre,avid h at bythe Wing Commander Ian Brown.

The Service was taken by the arone Crawley laid the Commander Association wreath at the Cenotaph and avid h. ss Association padre, Wing

omoney a piece from Isaiah Ianread Brown.

Baroness Crawley laid . the

This year saw a large turnout of members, down to lunch.

Association wreath at the Cenotaph and David Domoney read a piece from Isaiah.

We are, as ever, grateful to the Southern RAF Halton volunteer band, while the Cad Wells Schools were immaculate and help

The Service was taken by the Association Baroness Crawley laid the Association omoney read a piece from Isaiah.

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Remembrance 2024 cont...

- 42 -

On Saturday Saturday evening, evening, seven seven War WarWidows Widowswho whohadn’t hadn tattended attended theRoyal Royal On the British Legion Festival of Remembrance previously, occupied the War Widows loggia.

The British Legion Festival of Remembrance previously, occupied the War Widows Festival is always a spectacular event and ends in the most moving of displays as one loggia. The Festival is always a spectacular event and ends in the most moving million tissue petals fall gently frompetals the ceiling. of displays aspoppy one million tissue poppy fall gently from the ceiling.

Sunday morning and we were all up bright and early and gathered on Horse Guards Parade by 0 .1 hrs.

Our Association proudly led the first column into Whitehall and were the first to form up outside the MO offices.

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Remembrance 2024 cont...

Sunday morning and we were all up bright and early and gathered on Horse Guards Parade by 09.15hrs.

Our Association proudly led the first column into Whitehall and were the first to form up outside the MOD offices.

Unfortunately this meant that we were the last to leave Whitehall! It was a long time standing and waiting, but the crowd kept us going. There was a big screen close by so we could see the dignitaries laying their wreaths, and we even managed an impromptu sing-song when the band played Tipperary.

Sun we ear Hor 0 .

Our led Wh first the

- 44 -

Eventually we marched off, past the Cenotaph and towards Horse Guards Parade.

Prince William took the salute and we were dismissed. All we wanted after 3 hours on parade was a nice warm cup of tea!

Unfortunately this meant that we were the last to leave Whitehall! It was a long time standing and waiting, but the crowd kept us going. There was a big screen close by so we could see the dignitaries laying their wreaths, and we even managed an impromptu sing-song when the band played Tipperary.

Eventually we marched off, past the Cenotaph and towards Horse Guards Parade. Prince William took the salute and we were dismissed. All we wanted after 3 hours on parade was a nice warm cup of tea!

On Monday 11th November at 11.00 hrs I joined a group of RAF Widows at the Bomber Command Memorial, located inatLondon’s Green Park.

The Memorial was builtatinthe On Monday 11th November 11.00 hrs I joined a group of RAF Widows Portland Stone and is both modern and classical in design.

Bomber Command Memorial, located in London's Green Park. The Memorial was built in Portland Stone and is both modern and classical in design. Chris

- 45 -

Remembrance in Bawtry, South Yorkshire Christina Claypole lays the cross in Bawtry, South Yorkshire

Remembrance in Taunton Gillian Birbeck laying our wreath in Taunton.

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Remembrance in Plymouth The clouds cleared and the sun came out on Plymouth Hoe just as the City paid its tribute to those who gave their lives for their country. My niece Jennifer accompanied me in laying the War Widows Cross at the service at the Civilian Memorial.

Irene Wills

Remembrance at Larkhall Memorial My son, Mark Thomas, laid the WWA wreath and the rest of my family accompanied him. The second photo was beforehand in our house with my Mum (the Landgirl).

Kate Thomas

- 47 -

Remembrance in Ayscoughfee Gardens The memorial in Ayscoughfee Gardens in Spalding Lincolnshire.

I marched on Sunday from the town and laid the wreath, I’ve not been able to upload this to the facebook page. There are links to Ayscoughfee Gardens on facebook which have more pictures of the event.

Thank you for your help and I will be laying one next year.

Mrs Diana Walker

Remembrance at Newport Cenatoph

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Remembrance in Dennistoun A Remembrance event, organised by Callum Robson, took place at Dennistoun Memorial on 3rd November. A wreath was laid by Kate Thomas, one of our members, his stepmum and a QARANC veteran. At the event she met up with the Chair and Secretary of the QARANC Scottish Branch. We will remember them.

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ROL Report & R O Reports REGIONAL ORGANISER LIAISON RAMBLINGS Contact details - Email: rol@warwidows.org.uk As you will see from the reports, four long standing ROs have decided to stand down. We will miss them, but thank you to Irene Wills, Gill Grigg, Ros Campbell and Diana Knight for all your service and time given to the members in your regions, enjoy your retirement.

We are now down to only 9 ROs throughout the whole UK! We are going to have to have a drastic rethink about how to organise the system so that all members benefit equally from their membership.

To comply with all the various GDPR regulations each RO has now been given a WWA email address which will refer to their region rather than any name. This also will mean that it can be passed on if the RO retires, or monitored by the ROL if the RO is unable to carry on their role for a while. The new addresses should all be included in this edition of Courage if you want to write to your RO but do keep an eye on your junk box if you’re expecting to hear from them, just in case.

Our first attempt at a ZOOM meeting wasn’t very well attended so we’ve put them on hold while we sort out other means of communicating. One lady had tried to join in but couldn’t work out how to do so. However, after a couple of sessions with admin assistant Helen she is now a pro so, if that is something that you think she could help with do get in touch with her.

I am here to support the ROs to support their members but as we have so few, I can also support members directly to arrange funded events, get in touch with each other etc. As always, my contact details are in the front of Courage.

Best wishes §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Liz Carter

BEDFORDSHIRE, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE AND CAMBRIDGESHIRE ____________________________ Area 1

Contact details - Gill Grigg 01296 482393

Email: robedsbuckscambs@warwidows.org.uk

What a wet and cold start to Autumn I am sure it is going to be a long dark Winter. I had been hoping for an Indian Summer to cheer us all up before the clocks change.

Over the last few weeks I have been thinking about my position as the Regional Organiser for Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Cambridgeshire and have finally reached the conclusion that I should retire.

- 50 -

For the past 12 months I have been unable to carry out my duties properly and have not been in a position to hold any meetings since Autumn 2023. Following my Hip replacement operation, I am driving again but only locally. As you are aware I cover a large area and have held meetings at different locations to offer contact and social interaction with as many members as possible.

This year I have failed to do that and feel that I am letting you all down. I have carried out this role since 2002 and suggest that it is time for someone younger to take over this position. It may be better if the Region was split into the 3 counties with an RO appointed to cover each area with a smaller number of members to contact and support.

I am hoping to organise a final Funded Lunch in the South of Buckinghamshire and Bedford areas but think that the journey to Cambridge would be too far.

Over the years I have enjoyed wonderful friendship with so many of you and am sad to not be able to carry on but I feel the time is right for me to step down.

I therefore will be contacting the Chairman and offering my resignation from 31 December 2024.

With good wishes to you all, sincerely §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Gill

CORNWALL __________________________________ Area 4

Contact details - Susan Williams 0845 2412189 Email: rocornwall@warwidows.org.uk

I hope everyone has enjoyed the summer that we were granted this year. Here in Cornwall we enjoyed very hit and miss day’s of good weather and here on the farm firstly we struggled to get our crops of potatoes and cabbages planted because it was so wet then we had to set up an irrigation system across the fields because we hit a very dry time and now at the beginning of October it is so wet again and although the

- 51 -

supermarkets have had the cabbages we cannot get the tractors into the fields to lift the potatoes!! We are praying for another dry spell.

Early September Rosemary, Frances, Becky and myself visited the Alverton Manor Hotel for our Association funded event and as you can see from the photo we thoroughly enjoyed one another’s company as well as the delicious afternoon tea. As some of you will be aware I had a hip replacement five years ago, unfortunately it did not go well and I have been in pain ever since, now with more advanced technology and my X-Rays being sent to Australia it turns out that I require a different type of hip replacement and have to go through the operation again sometime next year. This new technology also showed up spondylosis in my spine and so by the time you read this I should have had injections in my back to try and give me some pain relief from that problem. On a more cheerful note I am looking forwards to seeing as many members as possible attend our Christmas funded lunch which will be held in Manning’s restaurant in Truro, I shall be in contact with more details shortly. I hope members visiting London and local remembrance services had a very pleasant time and enjoyed good weather. It is now time to start thinking about buying Christmas presents, sherry, mince pies and sending cards of good wishes to all, which I send to all my friends and hope you enjoy lovely times with your families.

Very best wishes §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Susan

DORSET____________________________________ Area 10 Contact details - Ros Dillon-Lee 01202 301929 Email: rodorset@warwidows.org.uk

Well it’s time again for an update on our summer, what a disappointment that was just a few days of sun and so much rain which is still continuing. We have been very lucky on the south coast in that there has been no flooding here. In June we were able to

- 52 -

meet up for a sponsored lunch at Cote Bournemouth it’s very convenient as it’s in the centre of Bournemouth and is easily accessible by bus. We had a very pleasant meal and were able to catch up on all our news we will go to the same venue in October. I am not sure if I will attend the Remembrance Service In Bournemouthas it does involve quite a bit of standing which I still find difficult.

I see that the AGM is in Winchester so I will be able to attend as it is a short train journey, if any members from Dorset would like to attend as well do let me know. I haven’t been to an AGM for quite some time so it will be good to meet up again.

Best wishes, stay well. §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Ros

DEVON______________________________________ Area 9 Contact details - Irene Wills 01752 509917 Email: rodevon@warwidows.org.uk Dear members this report should be read in conjunction with the report from Plymouth. Where you will see that I am now ‘retiring’ as regional organiser .It has been a privilege to see some the Devon ladies meeting together though it had not been as successful as I would have wished, with very few members able to come to the events organised.

If there is a member who would like to take over please do get in touch with the Regional Liaison Officer at rol@warwidows.org.uk.

Very best wishes to you all, §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Irene

DUNDEE AND CENTRAL SCOTLAND______________ Area 59 Contact details - Sue Raw 07500 060518

Email: Scotland rodundeecentralscotland@warwidows.org.uk

We had our Summer Lunch at Beefeater at Discovery Quay in Dundee on Tuesday 11th June. As usual, a good turnout with some witty banter and great food. The afternoon flew by, and we were all so engrossed in chat that we forgot to take any photos! We’ll try to remember at Christmas!

Monthly meetings take place on the second Tuesday of the month at 10.30 in the DCA (next door to the Queen’s Hotel) for Dundee members, but all are welcome if you’re in the area! Christmas lunch will be on the second Tuesday in December – 10th – and will be at the Beefeater at Discovery Quay at 12 noon. All are welcome – but please let me know for numbers!

Sue - 53 -

EDINBURGH & SE SCOTLAND __________________ Area 12 Contact details - Jean Sime 07909 104798

Email: roedinburghsescotland@warwidows.org.uk Hi Everyone, The summer is over now and we are into autumn and then we will have the remembrance weekend and then Christmas doesn’t time fly.

I hope everyone is well there has been a lot of Covid around so make sure you have your vaccination to keep yourself safe.

Some of the ladies in the Fife area has been meeting up in Kinross and Dunfermline for coffee on the first Tuesday of the month, I would like to start one up in Edinburgh for the ladies and gentlemen from the Edinburgh area on the third Tuesday in the month we would have it in the Mercury Hotel in Princes Street, if anyone would like to join us please let know by email or by phone it will be so nice to meet everyone and we have 2 new members so please join us we are a happy bunch.

There will be a funded Christmas lunch in December in both area’s so if you would like to attend the lunch please contact me as soon as you can so that I can book it as early as possible.

Take care §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Jean

HAMPSHIRE ________________________________ Area 16 Contact details - Madlaine Dunn 07879 640253 Email: rohampshire@warwidows.org.uk

Hi everybody, I hope you are keeping well?

I am still holding the monthly meeting in the mess of H.M.S. Nelson every second Tuesday of the month at 11.00 am, followed by lunch. You are most welcome to join me. If you do I need all your particulars, i.e. name, address, date of birth, and if you wish to use your car, your car reg. no. It’s needed as it’s a military establishment and we have to sign in.

I also hold lunches on the third Sunday of each month at the Queens Hotel Southsea at 12.30pm. Anybody who wishes to join us is more than welcome but I need to know at least four days beforehand as management need to know numbers.

I shall be holding a Xmas lunch for the association at the Queens Hotel Southsea on the 8th of December 2024 at 12.30pm. The Association will pay the first £15.00. Once again I need to know at least four days before so as to know numbers for seating. There is a car park, but it depends how busy they are. Otherwise you can get a number 23 - 54 -

bus from the Hard,which stops right out side the hotel.

Ladies of the I.O.W. I hope you are keeping well. You know you are most welcome to join us in what ever I arrange, you just have to let me know. If you need help or just would like to talk, I am here.

Take care Madlaine §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

MANCHESTER_______________________________ Area 30 Contact details - Margaret Crerar 0161 789 5334 Email: romanchester@warwidows.org.uk

Hello, from Manchester.

First of all just to give you a quick update about myself, I have now returned to work! In other news we had a summer meet up in August in Manchester City Centre with myself and a few of the Manchester members. I’ve recently had to replace the ribbons on some family members’ medals, for anyone who is looking to do the same, I used a company recommended to me last year; the company is called Award Medals and I’ve added their contact information at the bottom of this update. For those of you attending London in November, myself, Mary and Susan will see you there.

Company Details - Award Medals https://www.awardmedals.com telephone number 01952 510053) Margaret §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

NORTH WILTSHIRE ___________________________ Area 53 Contact details - Liz Carter 01249 890219 Email: ronorthwiltshire@warwidows.org.uk

A faithful little band has continued to meet bi-monthly at Crowns café where we ‘put the world to rights’, share stories and news and have a good laugh. There is always room for more so, if you’ve been unsure, do come along, it’s very informal.

For our summer funded event, we went back to Dobbies Garden Centre near Cirencester for another delicious afternoon tea. As always, there was too much to eat so we all left with a doggy bag for later. There was again much chatting going on, though it did have to stop whilst we were deafened by a huge rain shower beating on the restaurant roof, fortunately by the time we left it had stopped, though there were some rather large puddles in the carpark to negotiate.

If anybody else from a neighbouring region would like to join us, do contact me and I can give you details and directions - 55 -

At the November coffee morning we will have decided on a date for our Christmas meal at the Pheasant in Chippenham so, if you don’t hear from me and would like to come along, please get in touch (note the new email address).

It seems a bit premature writing this in September but, I wish you all a peaceful Christmas and happy New Year.

Diary Dates

Coffee mornings; 8th Jan, 12th March, 14th May 10-12 noon.

Crown’s café REME Museum SN15 4XX Contact Liz Carter on 01249 890219 ronothwiltshire@warwidows.org.uk §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Liz Carter

PLYMOUTH _________________________________ Area 38 Contact details - Irene Wills 01752 509917 Email: roplymouth@warwidows.org.uk

I have been RO for Plymouth since the birth of this new century.

These years have been full of fun, discovery and just a few disappointments.

We had regular meetings in various halls and venues in the city centre, where ‘potluck’ lunches were the order of the day followed by inspiring speakers, quizzes or bingo. We ventured to try different restaurants and beauty spots further afield, for lunches and afternoon teas. We were invited by many Lord Mayors to tea at the mayoral residence on Plymouth Hoe. A group of once flew to London (in the days when you could fly direct from Plymouth) and spent the day with Baroness Fookes our President - and former MP of Plymouth - at the House of Lords.

After much campaigning and networking and persuasion we are now an important part of the Serving Armed Forces and Veteran Community of Plymouth and take part - 56 -

of many the City of Plymouth ceremonial occasions including Remembrance events, Armed Forces Day and Lord Mayor Making.

I have been privileged to meet some super people, many of them members and their families and some of the great and good of our fair city.

Now it is time to call it a day and pass on the ‘baton’ to anyone out there who wants to take over as regional organiser for Plymouth and Devon. Thank you to all who supported me and the War Widows Association over the years and I hope to meet some of you at events or just enjoying our wonderful outdoor and scenic places we are so lucky to have around Plymouth.

OUR PATHS MAY CHANGE BUT THE MEMORIES WE SHARE WILL REMAIN IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER. §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Irene Wills

SOUTH WILTSHIRE ___________________________ Area 34 Contact details - Diana Knight Email: rosouthwiltshire@warwidows.org.uk The days go by so quickly and I always have to have my memory jogged regarding my letter for Courage. I don’t know about all of my members but it doesn’t seem long since we were preparing for last years Remembrance and now here we are again.

I hope you all managed to have a holiday of some description I decided to go to Sorrento and so did about a million others, the weather was so hot I was quite happy to get back to our rather depressing summer. I think I’ll choose somewhere less popular next year, the Dogger Bank perhaps. As you may know I belong to a choir, I recommend it to everyone whether you can sing or not it’s so much fun and it’s good for you. This year we all went off to Brittany to take part in a local festival, while we did very well and the French people seemed to appreciate our efforts I was quite disappointed to find the weather was as disappointing as ours.

Now I must tell you that this will be my last letter to you as I have decided after 15 years to call it a day as your R O . I’ve enjoyed meeting you the faithful members who always supported me in my efforts to bring us all together twice a year. Is there anyone out there who would like to take up the post?

I shall especially miss our Christmas lunches which I know you all looked forward to.

I’d like to wish you health and happiness and please try to join us at our next AGM it’s the best time to get together. Good luck.

Diana §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ - 57 -

STAFFORDSHIRE ____________________________ Area 45 Contact details - Gill Gibson 01782 611569 or 07954 696573 Email: Staffordshire rostaffordshire@warwidows.org.uk

Autumn already! Where does the time go. Note my contact details have changed, listed above.

Other events have taken up my time this year, leaving no chance to meet up as a group.

However, it is on my to do list to make the necessary arrangements and by the time this magazine ‘hits the doormat’, we should have had a meeting, or two!!

The 22nd of September 2024 marked the 30 year anniversary of the helicopter crash which killed my late husband Aircraft Commander Les Berrisford and Pilot Andy Beck, near to the village of Welling in Southern Germany.

Going through the logistics of making the journey with our dog Miya, travelling and accommodation, we made the trip across.

Ed and I, alongside members of Andy’s family, Veterans of 652 Squadron Army Air Corps, serving members, the Mayor of Welling and several villagers gathered at the memorial, which has a plaque in English and another in German, on the hill a short walk from the village.

WO2 SSM Tom Ingleman read out a message from OC 652 SQN AAC Major Chris Wright who was attending Arnhem to mark the 80th Anniversary. Tributes were laid and a few minutes of silent reflection took place. After which anyone present who wished to say a few words did so. We took our time before returning, a short walk down to the village hotel for a meal and to exchange stories.

Regards §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ - 58 -

Gill

Christmas Quiz Answers 1 Christmas Day 2 Norway 3 King George V 4 Indian Ocean 5 Capricorn 6 Four 7 2003 8 Los Angeles 9 Paris 10 Japan 11 Dave proposes to Nessa 12 CS Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe 13 Marshmallow 14 Cloak of Invisibility 15 Three - Dancer, Dasher, Donner 16 White 17 Ebenezer 18 James 19 The Grinch 20 Six 21 Bethlehem 22 a 23 Because of all the money collected in church alms-boxes for the poor 24 6th January 25 11 26 July 27 Behind you 28 Turbo Man 29 Bob the Builder 30 a

Riddle Answer A Candle - 59 -

“We live not as we wish to But as we can” Menander 300

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