The Remembrance Service on 11th November at Portland Cenotaph saw the largest attendance in many years, despite the very blustery conditions at the exposed location. More than 40 Members of Portland Branch were present including S/M Charles H Thompson BEM MSM who carried out the duties of Parade Commander. The Branch Standard was paraded, as always, together with Standards of many other Associations and Groups. A wreath was laid by S/M Nige Rimell on behalf of the Portland Branch.
Following the Service the Revd Tim Gomm , Team Rector of Portland and President of Portland Royal British Legion Branch said that, after 22 years of stalwart service, S/M Charles H had announced that he was standing down from Ceremonial duties. This was greeted with dismay by everyone present, but was then followed with three cheers and a long round of applause.
Branch Members then retired to the Conservative Club where a warming tot was dispensed by ‘Rum Bosun’ S/M Alf Larkin. Thanks were expressed to all those who had attended the Service.
S/M Alex Oswald
Chairman