Spring Newsletter

Got home from the National Memorial Arboretum and discovered that a pack of the Spring Newsletters had arrived which means that the mailing has taken place but most will not now arrive until after the Bank Holiday Weekend. That means we are a month late so sorry folks - I had mentioned the Protector Event on my page in the Newsletter but sadly too late. We must make an effort to get the October issue out on time. That said I think it is a good issue with a wide range of articles. Unfortunately Lisa had to cut our report on the AGM and Battle Day down to get everything in however, if you are reading this you will be able to go to the FIA website and read the report there also see the pictures of the Battle Day Ceremony in London. The wreaths that were laid on that occasion remained on The Cenotaph up until early April although I noticed whilst watching the Royal Wedding on Friday that they had all been cleared away.

HMS Protector Association at the National Memorial Arboretum

Visited the National Memorial Aboretum at Alrewas in Staffordshire today. Always a special place but today I met up with the HMS Protector Association who were holding a Memorial Service as part of their Annual Reunion.

The Guard of Honour and Colour Party was formed by Sea Cadets from TS Indomitable, Long Eaton and at 11.30am we gathered at the Oak Tree and Bench dedicated to HMS Protector where a brief service of Remembrance was led by the Chaplain, Revd Dr James Izzard. Bugle Major Adrian Harper RM played Last Post and Reveille. Bill Bartlett laid the wreath

Members of the Association then formed up and marched past the saluting dias where Admiral Sir James Perowne took the salute. The parade was led by the sea cadets followed by the Association Standard and members of the Association.

Members then moved to marquee for the Service of Remembrance led by Rev Izzard, the lesson was read by Charles Bergfeld. Following the service Sir James Perowne addressed the assembled company before refreshments were taken. Members then had time to explore the memorial site before returning to Coventry for the Reunion.

A splendid day in good company with lovely weather.

The HMS Protector Oak tree and Memorial Bench