The Royal British Legion Benidorm branch held a special "Act of Remembrance" at Cuidad Patricia today - Sunday 10th November 2013.
The 2 minutes silence, observed after the Last Post was played, coincided with that held at the Cenotaph in London - and was officiated by John Derrick - Chairman of the Benidorm branch and assisted by Pamela Dawson Tasker, branch secretary.
Standard Bearer Roy Downing |
David Mills |
As well as Brits there was also a representation from the Dutch Veterans - Max was one of 40 members on the Costa Blanca who belonged to their association. On 21st March each year they observe the Dutch Veterans Day here which is attended by the Dutch Consul. Similar to the RBL, they hold a monthly meeting, on the 1st Thursday of every month (4pm) at "Something Else" - a popular restaurant in Albir.
However, those in attendance weren´t all of a certain age - the youngest had to be Paul Howden, who at the age of 40 had retired just over a year ago having served 22 years in the army. He was a front Line Medic (CMT) serving in the Royal Medical Core and also joined the forces at 16. He told me that there weren´t many career option in his home town of Grimsby and having lost both of his parents at a young age wanted to accomplish something in the caring profession. His first tour was to the Gulf in 1991 and last to Afghanistan, after which he retired as a WO2 Sergeant Major. He belonged to the RBL in the UK and this was his first but certainly not last involvement with the Benidorm branch.
It was certainly a very moving and thought provoking time for all those that attended, particularly when both John and Pamela, followed by 2 attendees - Sam Sampson and Lesley Taylor spoke to those gathered. For me personally it was an honour to be among them.