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| NOTICEBOARD
ARCHIVE APRIL - JUNE '03 | JULY - DEC '03 | 2004 |
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Regularly updated with all the latest news and information September 2007 Poppy Scotland (Earl Haig Fund) Appeal for help Isla Campbell-Lumpton - National Convenor is looking for Area Convenors to arrange this year's collections in the following areas: Ayrshire, Airdrie and Bearsden & Milngavie. If you're able to help please contact Isla directly on 0141 221 8141. August 2007 Charity Registration Accepted - 29th August 2007 We're delighted to announce that our Charity application has been accepted! Support Our Soldiers is now a registered Charity, number 1120684. This really is a wonderful result and will make a big difference to us. The site will be updated over the coming weeks to ensure it's fully compliant, so please do bear with us should you encounter any unexpected downtime. On behalf of Agnes and myself I'd like to express our sincere thanks to Laurence Halliwell and all at the Charity Commission who have given invaluable help and advice during the application period. Bingley Show 12th August 2007 Despite heavy showers the crowds still flocked to the annual Bingley Show and the Support Our Soldiers stand attracted lots of visitors. We're delighted to report that a total of £199.21 was raised on the day! Many thanks to Kat, Becky and Chris for all their help on the day.
Hand made cards and ATCs Patricia Hurst has been in touch to let us know that she currently has 1,800 cards ready for the Xmas Parcels and hopes to reach 2,500 before the deadline. This is an absolutely tremendous result and we are very grateul indeed to Patsi and all members of the DoCrafts group who have obviously worked so very hard these past few months. The link to the site is www.docrafts.co.uk and as well as details about the project you'll also find an interview with Patsi herself! Support Our Troops Wristbands
At Stamford School in Lincolnshire, many of the pupils are from forces backgrounds. They are encouraged to fund raise for various charities and this coming academic year have selected forces charities due to their strong connections and also due to the fact that they have one of the largest voluntary Combined Cadet Force units in the country. Many of the students join up when they leave school and six of the staff are ex-forces. The students have designed charity wristbands with the title "Proud to support our troops" and set up a website www.supportingourtroops.co.uk. They intend to raise money for Combat Stress, SSAFA and the Army Benevolent Fund. The campaign was launched by the England Cricket Captain Michael Vaughan at the 1st Test at Lord's where players wore the wristbands. This is a long term project intended to raise money and the profile amongst the public of the tremendous work our armed forces are doing overseas. For more details on how to order please contact Richard who is a teacher at Stamford School and spearheading the campaign July 2007 Thanks from Afghanistan Helen has received a lovely letter from Afghanistan thanking her and the children for the fantastic banner that they made, and huge thanks are also extended to everyone who sent items out!
'Hello Helen, May I first take this opportunity to thank you for all the stuff you have New Area Co-Ordinator - Chichester We're delighted to welcome on board our new A/C Hilary covering the Chichester area. Hilary's details can be found on the Contact Us page. Please do get in touch with her if you live in or near to Chichester. she'd be delighted to hear from you! Xmas Parcel Appeal 2007 Although it's a little while yet until we officially launch the Xmas Parcel Appeal 2007, we have for the past few months been writing to companies to ask for their help. We've had some wonderful donations and pledges of goods which are detailed below. On behalf of everyone here at Support Our Soldiers I'd like to express our very, very sincere thanks to everyone who has so kindly given their support.
Initial s upply of 100 shoe boxes to Lynsey, our Taunton a/c, plus promise of more as and when required!
Pledge of selection of natural colours and flavours confectionery
300 bars of Silvatec Antimicrobial Cleansing Bar
Three boxes with at least 2,000 sample bags of jelly beans delivered to Lynsey
2,500 packs of deluxe baby wipes, very kindly delivered in two batches to myself in West Yorkshire and Agnes in Ayr. 920 toiletry items suitable for both men and women including soap, body wash, facial wash, hand cream, shaving cream, shampoo and shower scrubs
£250 of gift vouchers
Two boxes of toothbrushes
Sara Lee Household & Body Care 1,008 bottles of Radox shower gel
5 bags of toiletries including sunscreen, plasters, razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shower gel, shampoo, mouthwash and tissues
Pledge of traditional sweets
Pledge of shoeboxes
Pledge of products from the Black Kite range
Pledge of toiletry items
Domation of pens & mints via Sarah
864 miniature jars of assorted jams and marmalades
Ayr branch - £20 in vouchers
Pledge of 144 assorted mini jars of jams and marmalades
Pledge of 2,500 packets of crisps
T S & M E Darlington & Daughters Donation of £50
Pledge of tea/coffee/chocolate sachets
Pledge of selection of snacks or nuts
Pledge of 200 mini jars of jam
Pledge of 480 packs of shortbread fingers
£9 in vouchers
Pledge of selection of products
Pledge of 20 boxes of Hula Hoops
Pledge of 2,500 packets of biscuits So an absolutely tremendous response as you've seen. Just need now to think about Xmas cakes, Santa hats, selection boxes and socks - if anyone can help! Helping Raise Morale in Afghanistan Parcel from Helen I've also received the most wonderful banner made by Helen and her children Katy and Hamish. The pictures really do not do this justice so to describe it a little more - the banner has been made from a large sheet and has the Union Jack flag and SOS logo in the middle. Beneath is written a quote attributed to the Duke of Wellington speaking about his soldiers - 'I don't know what effect these men will have on the enemy but by God, they frighten me'
At each side is a greeting from the children - 'Soldiers are cool. If Doctor Who couldn't come they would fight the Cybermen' by Hamish aged 6 and 'I would like to say thank you to the soldiers for keeping me safe' by Katy aged 10
This really is fantastic Helen, thank you so much. I'm sure it will take pride of place in the Welfare Hut! Parcel from Aby I received today a package from Aby containing lots of packs of sweets and some wonderful pictures painted by her two sons, Callum age 3 and Joe age 5. These are going off to Afghanistan to help kit out one of the MRW huts. Callum and Joe, thank you so much, I'm sure the soldiers will be delighted with your paintings!!
Area Co-Ordinator for Taunton We're delighted to welcome on board Lynsey who will be covering the Taunton area. Lynsey's married to a serving Marine attached to 40 Commando so knows only too well what it's like to be apart from a loved one for long lengths of time. If you're in the Taunton area please do drop her a line using the following link Lynsey June 2007 Bad News on the Free Postage Front I'm sorry to report that the voucher system proposed to Adam Ingram has been knocked back. I've received a letter via Philip Davies MP which reads as follows: 'Dear Phillip, On 21 May I wrote to you detailing my initial findings on Agnes Hunter and Karen Webster's proposals for a BFPO voucher system and stated that I would write to you again once I had examined the funding issues. I would be grateful if you could pass this letter on to Agnes and Karen. Unfortunately, whilst the Department is able to absorb the £100,000 cost of implementing the £5.31 Parcelforce rate from the Autumn for parcels between 1.5kgs and 2kgs I have been unable to identify alternative sources of funding for the £2million per annum cost of implementing a BFPO voucher system. I realise this will be a disappointment to Agnes and Karen. However I am grateful for their well thought-out proposal and it is one that I will keep in mind when considering future deployment welfare provision for our personnel. I hope this is helpful.' The Rt Hon Adam Ingram MP I can however report that the MOD is prepared to support other causes..... £30,000 Sex Change
A BURLY Army sergeant is having a £30,000 sex change — paid for by the Ministry of Defence. Rugby-playing former commando David Penny, 40, has changed his name to Deborah and wears false boobs under his uniform. Off duty, the Royal Green Jackets bomb disposal unit veteran is allowed to totter around the mess in stilettos, a skirt and tight-fitting tops as he awaits his op. And we can reveal his comrades are outraged — not so much by Penny's sex swap, but by the fact the ARMY is shelling out for it. One told the News of the World: "It's nothing short of a scandal that thousands of pounds is being used this way when soldiers are dying in Afghanistan and Iraq because the MoD cannot afford the right kit for them. "A few of the lads have joked that Penny wouldn't be able to go into battle without his weapon. But when you sit back and think about what's going on, it's much more serious than that."
At the beginning of June, Lance Corporal Oliver Ruecker showed outstanding courage during a battle with the Taliban when he braved a hail of bullets and rockets to save a severely injured colleague, Cpl Dean Bailey, from a blazing armoured vehicle. The incident happened after soldiers from the1st Battalion the Royal Anglian Regiment came under attack whilst on patrol near their base close to Sangin in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. Oliver, from Norfolk, could now be in line for the military's highest honour, the Victoria Cross. The full, and very moving story can be viewed here The good news is that Dean is now recovering from his injuries and Oliver, home on leave, has been to visit his friend who he describes as 'the same old Dean'! I think everyone will agree that the bravery and courage shown here goes well beyond the call of duty and Oliver, we salute you! 23rd & 24th June 2007 Loughton RBL Veteran's Day Weekend To celebrate Veteran's Day, Loughton Branch RBL organised an event over the weekend of the 23rd and 24th June to which SOS were invited. Sadly the weather was not good to say the least, and what should have been a great event was more or less washed out. The sun did shine for a little while as you can see from the pictures below and a grand total of £40.76 was raised for SOS funds.
Hannah's Letter to Uncle Paul Lance Corporal Paul Muirhead of the 1st Royal Irish Regiment sadly lost his life in Afghanistan on the 6th September 2006. Paul's death has devasted all his family but his young niece Hannah has found it particularly difficult to understand his death. Paul's mum, Hannah's grandma has requested that a letter written by her to Paul a few months ago be published. This is the letter, as written by Hannah, aged nine years old.
The letter is also published along side Paul's photo on the In Memoriam page Message of Support for our Troops The following message was written by Rebecca and originally posted on the Forum section of the site. However we were all so moved by Rebecca's words that we felt the message should be reproduced here for all to view. 'Guys, this is from someone who has no real link to the forces, so I have no need to be supporting the troops as your families do. Still, I support you all 100%, and here's why. 9th June 2007 Lance Corporal Craig Lundberg Feature - Daily Mirror As our regular visitors know, Lance Corporal Craig Lundberg was very seriously injured in Basra in March of this year. Craig was taken to Selly Oak Hospital, where he underwent many operations and began the slow road to recovery, but this week surgeons broke the news that he will never see again. During his time at Selly Oak Craig set up a blog 'Craig's Blog' which tells his story and shows just what a brave and courageous person not only he is, but his parents, Steve and Debbie too. Today the Daily Mirror have run a feature on Craig which you can view here You will see that despite his own suffering, Craig is still thinking of others and has asked that Support Our Soldiers be detailed in the article. We are truly at a loss for words, and when we say to Craig, to Steve and to Debbie, thank you, this is meant from the very bottom of our hearts. You are wonderful, brave people and we truly do salute you. 6th June 2007 2 Rifles Medal Ceremony The Medal Ceremony took place on the 6th June, presided over by Prince Edward. Agnes went along and met up with Nicola, Bretts mum and Shelley, Joe O'Reilley's mum. By all accounts a great day was had by all, and full report and pictures will be added soon. 2nd June 2007 Terry Walker Gulf War Veteran 1990-91 conflict - Rest in Peace Charity Application The time has come for us to register as a Charity, and as such the forms and relevant documents have just about been completed and our application will be sent to the Charity Commission next week. We will of course keep you posted as to the progress, but for the moment fingers crossed please everyone that it's accepted! New Additions to the SOS Merchandise Range Slowly but surely we're building up the range of SOS Merchandise and as well as our keyrings and magnets which have sold extremely well we now have window stickers, an SOS teddy, t-shirts (both adults & childrens), mug, baseball cap and mini t! Some of the items can be personalised too! You can see the latest additions on the Web Shop page. And remember 100% of the profit from the sale of these items goes towards helping our Service men and women
New Area Co-Ordinators - East Anglia & Wirral We're delighted to welcome on board our new A/Cs - Carole covering the East Anglia area and Michelle covering Wirral. Their details can be found on the Contact Us page. Please do get in touch with them if you live in either of these areas, they'd be delighted to help out in any way they can! Sammi Shepherd - Come Home (Safe & Sound) Sammi has written a song dedicated to our Armed Services. She wrote when her beloved went to the Middle East, thankfully he is now home. The song is dedicated to members of the British Armed Services - Past, Present & Future. The song can be heard on her website - Sammi Shepherd May 2007 !!! Great News on the Free Postage Front !!! We're delighted to report a very positive step forward on the Free Postage front. As you know, Agnes and I met with the Rt Hon Adam Ingram at the beginning of the month, and at the meeting Mr Ingram promised to look into our proposal of a voucher scheme for Forces families. I have this week received a letter from Philip Davies MP with the response from the Ministry of Defence -. 'I agreed to explore Agnes and Karen's proposals for a BFPO voucher scheme and to write to you with my initial findings. Our initial discussions with Royal Mail Group and our analysis of potential mail volumes going to Iraq and Afghanistan have concluded that it is technically and logistically feasible to operate such a system. This initial finding is subject to further detailed work being carried out. Based on an assumption of current deployed personnel strengths, the implementation of the £5.31 Parcelforce rate; and the use of 2 vouchers per month per family the estimated cost to the Department to refund RMG charges arising from such a scheme is £2m per annum. The Permanent Joint Head Quarters and the three Services remain of the view that a 'free' postal service should not be funded at the expense of anything else in the Operational Welfare Package. My staff are therefore seeking to identify any alternative sources of funding. I will write to you again once this has been completed.' In addition, one of our mums has been told by her son serving in the Gulf that he's been asked to nominate a person to receive the vouchers! So fantastic news! Not confirmed obviously but it does look as though the voucher scheme will go ahead! After three years, and more in Agnes' case, of campaigning we sincerely hope that it will finally happen, and we'll obviously pass on any updates as soon as they're received! Staffordshire Regiment Wristbands Mick Davies who works in the welfare office of the Staffordshire Regiment has been in touch to let us know about wrist bands that they are selling.
forward with the motto 'Vis unita fortior - United strength is stronger'
Aid Our Troops Petition Franziska Stovell, the sister of a Royal Marine who has just returned from a 7 month tour of duty in Afghanistan has asked us to publish details of the following petition set up by her father, David Stovell - 'Our soldiers and marines in Afghanistan are lamentably underequipped for the job they are being asked to carry out. Additionally they are not getting the necessary help when returning after service to enable them to cope with the traumatic experiences they have undergone. The fact that the vehicles they are using are often inferior to those used by our allies is a national disgrace. These brave men and women deserve much better.' The petition can be viewed at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Aidourtroops/ Please do take a moment to sign, and to pass the details on. Area Co-Ordinator for South Wales We're delighted to welcome on board Sarah who will be covering the South Wales area. Sarah's been a member of the site since her son was despatched to Iraq on Op Telic 9 and has already proved a huge boost to the team. If you're in the South Wales area and would like to help out in any way please do drop her a line using the following link Sarah Danny arrives home!! Delighted to report that our Cap'n Joolz son Danny Boy arrived home from his tour of Iraq last weekend. I think the pictures say it all, but just want to add, Danny we're all very proud of you indeed!
9th May 2007 Meeting with Rt Hon Adam Ingram MP re: Free Postage Petition As many of you will remember, Agnes and I met with Des Browne MP, Secretary of State for Defense back in February of this year. We were told at that meeting that whilst Free Postage would not be re-introduced across the board, some provisions would be put in place and to expect an announcement shortly. Perhaps as expected, we heard nothing from this but, following a number of further letters to various parties, we were officially invited to meet with The Rt Hon Adam Ingram MP, Minister of State for the Armed Forces.
So on the 9th May Agnes and I headed down to London for the meeting at the Ministry of Defense. We spent an hour with Mr Ingram and his team, discussing not only the matter of Free Postage but also various others issues relating to troop welfare that had been brought to our attention. The outcome of the meeting was that the MOD will not reinstate free postage on a blanket basis, but they have promised to consider the logistics of introducing a voucher scheme. This was our suggestion to them, and would mean that families of Service Personnel would be issued with a set number of vouchers which could be redeemed for free postage on parcels to personnel serving overseas. The MOD are currently investigating the costs and other implications of such a scheme and will report the findings to us shortly. So fingers crossed that we hear back, with a positive response, very soon. Our new Area Co-Ordinator for Shrewsbury We're delighted to welcome Fran as our latest area co-ordinator covering the Shrewsbury area. Fran's son is currently serving in Iraq and she has been a huge support already to other families missing their loved ones. Please feel free to email Fran using the following link Fran or see details on the Contact Us page. Get Crafty to help our Troops Hobby craftswoman Helen Kirby from Ulverston recently began sending home-made cards to servicemen and women in Iraq and Afghanistan for them to send to their loved ones back at home.
Hobby craftswoman Helen Kirby from Ulverston recently began sending home-made cards to servicemen and women in Iraq and Afghanistan for them to send to their loved ones back at home. Now Mrs Kirby, 34, is appealing for other card makers to get involved. She said "I'm a member of a large stamp group in America and I heard that girls out there were making cards for the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. I send the cards to Agnes Hunter who makes the parcels up and they are then sent to Iraq and Afghanistan. One of the Sergeant Majors sent them to soldiers in one of the worst regions and they were so pleased as they could send cards back to their loved ones. They can't just pop down to the corner shop to get a birthday card and so on so its a nice way for them to let people at home know they are thinking of them. Any cards are welcome e.g. birthday, wedding, anniversary, christening, birth, love or just blank for a message". Helen is currently making around 25 to 30 cards a month to send out to the troops. Joyce Cowin, owner of EJ Crafts on Market Street, Ulverston, is supporting the appeal. Craftspeople can drop their completed cards in at the shop and they will then be distributed to troops abroad via 'Support our Soldiers'. April 2007 27th to 30th April 2007 Support Our Soldiers Weekend - Craig Tara Ayr The first SOS meet up took place last weekend and really was a huge success. To follow are a few words about the weekend, together with the first pictures to come in, but lots more will be added soon! The morning of Friday 27th April dawned bright and clear as the 'Shipmates' made their way to sunny Ayr. Some came by train, some by car and some by plane but the long journeys were immediately forgotten as we all arrived at Craig Tara and met one another. Little Sophie, Lindsay's daughter made the welcome even more special by presenting us with a beautiful bunch of yellow roses which brought on the tears. Thank you Sophie, they were beautiful! Agnes had organised everything down to a tee, and the wonderful welcome packs she'd provided very aptly included bottles of bubbly which were soon popped open as hugs, stories and pictures were exchanged. The long day eventually took it's toll and some of the shipmates headed to their beds, whilst the diehards (no names mentioned!) headed off to the Clubhouse for a few more drinks and some dancing, still sporting the now infamous fellowship t-shirts!. On Saturday morning we all re-assembled to meet Winifred Sloan, Provost of Ayr, who very kindly came along to say hello and to present everyone with a momento of their stay in Ayr. The children received badges, mugs and calculators whilst the adults received beautiful crytal glass and whiskey sets.
Most moving of all, Agnes had made the most wonderful cakes for Joolz, who celebrated her birthday on the Thursday, for Sarah's son Lloyd, and for Fran's son Dan, both sharing their birthdays on the Sunday. And not forgetting Lindsay, there was also a special cake for absent friends! Many tears were shed at this point but I know everyone will join me in saying a great big thank you to Agnes for her thoughtfulness in doing these. Fran, Terri and Sadie with the cake for Dan
Joolz and Ingrid with the Captains cake!
Sarah, June, Joe, Rory and Frankie with the cake for Lloyd And Lindsay, Linda, Kaitlyn, Lewis, Sophie and Arran with the cake for Mach and all 'absent friends' After coffee and of course cake, Agnes and I headed into Ayr where we did a mammoth shop for the barbecue that evening. Years of experience of parcel shopping came into play as the trolley was piled with precision! At teatime everyone assembled and Agnes and I were taken completely off guard as huge bunches of flowers were presented to us. These were absolutely beautiful, yellow roses, white daisies and my favourite, beautifully scented lilies. A huge thank you for these girls, I can't tell you how much they were appreciated. Once everyone had eaten and drunk to their hearts content and the evening chilled, we moved inside and again shared treasured thoughts and memories late into the night. On Sunday we woke to another sunny day. We headed off to the beach to build sandcastles and catch crabs whilst others took the more energetic pursuit of go-karting, girls vs the boys! Still not quite sure who came out on top...! Sadly we learnt late in the afternoon of the death of Rifleman Paul Donnachie, 2 Rifles. A more sombre mood spread around the fellowship as all thoughts and prayers were directed to those involved. On Sunday evening everyone gathered to watch the passing out parade dvds. Scott had set up a 'proper' tv so that we could get a closer view and Ingrid was so delighted and excited when she saw her Dan, it was a real joy to see. Another very moving moment was when Sarah and Rory performed the song that they'd composed and written together. Both the music and lyrics are so beautiful and a huge thank you to you both for sharing these with us. With such an eventful day most people headed off to their beds reasonably early. I was however 'persuaded' to venture up to the clubhouse where several beverages were consumed. My final memory of the evening was telling Scott that Debs and I would be heading over to Bergen and would match him and his friends drink for drink. Let's just hope he's forgotten this challenge!! Monday morning came around all too soon, and facing long journeys home we said our goodbyes. As if the genorosity of everyone towards Agnes and myself hadn't already been enough, Julie gave us parting gifts of a musical box and porcelain angel which were absolutely beautiful and will be treasured forever. So a wonderful weekend which we'll always remember. It truly was a priviledge to meet you all and to share your love and pride. Let's hope it's not too long before we can all be together again. Please do email all your photos so that these can be added too!
More Pictures in Ayr!
Joe our Paolo Nutini lookalike Cap'n Jools, First-Mate Rees and Motley imbibing at the BBQ
Girls from Spar with some of the goodies donated for welcome boxes Scott tries to make his escape from Lewis and his 'mighty sword'.
After BBQ drinks inside First Mate Rees' cabin! 25th April 2007 Great News - 1st Battalion The Staffordshire Regiment return home!! Soldiers from 1st Battalion The Staffordshire Regiment have arrived back in the UK after their six month tour of Iraq. Pictures and full story 23rd April 2007 Kingsman Alan Joseph Jones killed in Iraq The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of Kingsman Alan Joseph Jones, aged 20, of the 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, in Basra on 23 April 2007. Kingsman Jones was a Minimi Gunner conducting 'top-cover' from a Warrior Armoured Fighting Vehicle when his Platoon came under small-arms fire in the Al Ashar District of Central Basra City. He was injured during the incident and despite his colleagues' best efforts to save his life, he sadly died of his injuries. Full story 20th April 2007 Passing Out Parade A very proud day indeed for our Belfast Area Co-Ordinator, Andrea, whose son Dean Passed Out from Catterick. Many congratulations to Dean, and to all the lads from
4 Platoon The Royal Regiment of Scotland Company, 1 Platoon The Queen's Division and 1 Platoon The Rifles, including 1st Royal Irish Regiment. God bless you all.
19th April 2007 Two British Personnel killed in Iraq The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the deaths of Corporal Ben Leaning, aged 24, and Trooper Kristen Turton, aged 27, of The Queen's Royal Lancers Battle Group, in Maysan Province, Southern Iraq, on Thursday 19 April 2007 Corporal Leaning was commanding and Trooper Turton was driving a Scimitar Armoured Reconnaissance vehicle which was providing protection for a convoy. Penpals for the Guys in Afghan Dear Agnes and the SOS team, A few of the guys have been asking if there are any people of any age who If anyone would like to become a penpal please email Agnes who will give you all the information 15th April 2007 Two British Personnel killed in Iraq The Ministry of Defence confirmed the deaths of Colour Sergeant M L Powell, of the Parachute Regiment, and Sergeant Mark J McLaren, RAF, who were killed when two Puma helicopters crashed in Iraq on Sunday 15 April 2007 . Both of the Puma helicopters involved in the incident were from RAF Benson, Oxfordshire. Of the two individuals killed in the incident, one was from the Royal Air Force, a member of the crew - a loadmaster, and the other from the Army. Full Story 15th April 2007 Private Chris Gray killed in Afghanistan The Ministry of Defence confirmed the death of Private Chris Gray in Afghanistan on Friday 13 April 2007.Private Chris Gray, aged 19, from 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, was killed in action whilst fighting the Taliban in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.He was a member of A Company Group, 1 Royal Anglian Battlegroup, conducting a clearance patrol in the town of Now Zad in support of the Government of Afghanistan. The patrol was attacked by the Taliban; employing small arms, heavy machine guns, rocket propelled grenades, mortars and rockets. Full Story 11th April 2007 Repatriation Ceremony On Wednesday 11 April 2007, British troops serving in Southern Iraq held a sunset repatriation ceremony at the Contingency Operating Base in Basra for Second Lieutenant Joanna Yorke Dyer, Corporal Kris O'Neill, Private Eleanor Dlugosz and Kingsman Adam James Smith
Friends and colleagues provided the bearer parties and troops from the 2nd Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, the Intelligence Corps and the UK Medical Group formed the principal mourning parties. Full Story MOD 5th April 2007 Four British Personnel killed in Iraq The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the names of four British personnel killed following a roadside bomb attack against a Warrior Armoured Vehicle patrol west of Basra City in the early hours of the morning, Thursday, 5 April 2007. They are Second Lieutenant Joanna Yorke Dyer, Corporal Kris O’Neill, Private Eleanor Dlugosz and Kingsman Adam James Smith. The four soldiers, along with a local civilian interpreter, were killed when the Improvised Explosive Device exploded underneath the vehicle they were travelling in. Full story MOD 5th April 2007 15 Royal Navy and Royal Marines Return Home The 15 Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel detained in Iran since the 23rd March arrived at Heathrow Airport in London at noon on Thursday 5 April 2007. The personnel, eight from the Royal Navy and seven from the Royal Marines were then taken by two Royal Navy Sea King helicopters to a Royal Marine base Chivenor in Devon, where they were reunited with their families. Full story MOD Save the Red Arrows - A Result At the end of Feb Ian Wilson asked us to post the petition to Save the Red Arrows and yesterday the PM emailed all signatories to say that the Red Arrows would not be disbanded. So a great result and well done to everyone instrumental in organising the petition. Area Co-ordinators Part 2 Also delighted to welcome since the last update Andrea covering the Belfast area and Joe covering York. Big thanks to both Andrea and Joe and welcome on board the good ship SOS! SOS Card Design Tracy from Harrogate has been busy over the last few weeks making Support Our Soldiers greetings cards. These are brilliant Tracy, wish we all had such talent - and patience! If anyone would like a few of these, or indeed instructions on how to make them please email Agnes
Area Co-ordinators We're delighted to welcome to the SOS team Marie covering the Chester area, Nikki covering the Blackpool and Preston areas and Emma covering Newcastle at the moment. Details of how to get in touch with them can be found on the contact us page. Thanks so much girls for offering your help, we hope you find it as rewarding as we have! Paperback Books Many thanks to Myrtle and to Helen in Oban for sending some wonderful books through for the Paperback Appeal. We've received a second parcel from Helen this week which is wonderful. We've also received a big box of books through from a person in London who didn't include their name, but again, thank you very much, these are greatly appreciated. New standard for the King's Regiment 1685 - 2006 Ian Simmons has very kindly sent through a picture of the new Association Standard
Easter Parcels - Hand Made Easter Cards
Many thanks to Patricia Hurst who sent nearly 350 artist trading cards all in the Easter theme. These are absolutely beautiful and the thought and work that has gone into them just amazing. They're now on their way to Iraq and Afghanistan along with some little Easter eggs (carefully wrapped of course). Once again Patsi please pass on our sincere thanks to everyone who helped out with these. Parcels to Afghanistan Julie, Danny Boy's mum, from Warrington, organised a collection amongst the mums at her daughters school and filled six boxes which are now winging their way to Afghanistan. Well Done Joolz, you've done a fantastic job and I'm sure the parcels will be much appreciated. Keep up the good work... A very sad start to the month - from the Ministry of Defence site It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of a British soldier in Iraq on Monday 2 April 2007 It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Kingsman Danny John Wilson in Iraq on Sunday 1 April 2007. Kingsman Wilson, aged 28, of the 2nd Battalion, The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, died as a result of injuries sustained during a patrol in Basra City on 1 April 2007 Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and colleagues of the brave soldiers lost. March 2007 Tribute to Ryan Submitted by Elaine Summers-Kemp Our son Ryan was tragically killed last September at the age of 18, whilst returning to his ship. We, as a family have had to regain a focus to try and get us through this awful loss. We were united in the fact that we felt we needed to give something back. It was decided that this would be done via the RNBT who we found out not only benefited naval families but those of all currently serving and x armed forces personnel. Please take a look at the website www.ryankempfundraising.webeden.co.uk I have attached the newspaper story run by the local press and attached my own update on the fundraising that we intend to do.
The one that is in the focus is the sponsored 3 Peak challenge in June, Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mount Snowdon, we have persons walking who are in the paramedics, thames valley police, strathclyde police, x-army serviceman,East Lothian police, Naval mess crew of our son and friends and family. It will be a big event and we are looking for corporate sponsorship. We have set a target of raising £50,000 this year. Ryan is sorely missed, and as parents, we could not be more proud of what he achieved in his short 18yrs. Regards Elaine Summers-Kemp Easter Cards for the Troops We've had two fantastic offers recently of very special Easter cards to send out to the lads and lassies in Iraq and Afghanistan:. Ani in Devon has very kindly offered the services of her group to supply FAPs. Fabric Art Postcards are made from stiffened fabric, the same size as ordinary postcards.
They can be very simple (like the one in the pic) or intricate and artsy. These are already really popular in the States where they are sent out to cheer up and support US units. You can see more on this if you check out the website http://www.fabric-postcards.com:80/troops.shtml Ani thought this would be a great idea to start over here and so she and her team are busily working away making these. Again you can see how things are progressing at http://www.anicatt.co.uk/FAPs.htm . This is a great idea Ani, and thanks so much for organising things! Patsi has also very kindly offered the services of her craft group to make ATCs -Artist Trading Cards. We've already seen some examples of these and they are absolutely beautiful, with so much work going into them. Patsi comes from a forces background with herself and all her family having been in the forces at one time or another. She sadly lost her dad in N Ireland many years ago so this is something that is very important to her. So thanks very much Patsi, and members of your group, we look forward to receiving the ATCs through soon and I'm sure they will be much appreciated by the recipients. 7th March 2007 St George's Day Petition Jan has asked us to bring the following petition to people's attention. Please do take a moment to sign, and pass on! 'We have a real chance to make April 23rd, St George's Day, a bank holiday. 3rd March 2007 Crew of HMS Blyth say hello! Pictures just in from HMS Blyth to keep in touch and say a big hello to everyone.
2nd March 2007 British Soldier fights for life A British Soldier was fighting for his life today as crack sniper teams emerged as a new threat in Iraq. Full Report The Sun 1st March 2007 Pay Rise for British Forces - And about time too! The British Armed Forces are to receive the highest pay increase in the public sector with the lowest-paid getting 9.2%. A further 6,000 will get 6.2% with all other ranks, officers, regulars and reserves receiving 3.3%. Full report at Sky News February 2007 27th February 2007 Save the Red Arrows Ian Wilson has asked us to bring the following petition to people's attention. Please do take a moment to sign, and pass on! http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/SaveTheReds/ Should the British Troops Leave Iraq? IHave your say on Roy Haggerty's Blog - link as follows 21st February 2007 Funeral of Private Luke Daniel Simpson The funeral took place today of Private Luke Simpson who was killed in Iraq on the 9th February 2007. Agnes and I attended the service at Howden Minster which was very moving indeed, particularly the tribute to Luke from his six year old sister Hannah. Over 600 people attended the service which was followed by internment to a three gun salute. Once again our thoughts are with Luke's family, friends and colleagues. Luke, we salute you, rest in peace.
http://www.army.mod.uk/yorkshire_regiment/news/index.htm Paperback Book Appeal In each parcel sent out to Iraq and Afghanistan we try to include a paperback book which we source from carboot sales, charity shops, etc, etc. As the number of parcels sent is continually increasing, finding books in the right condition at the right price grows more and more difficult. If anyone has any good, clean paperbacks that they'd be prepared to donate they would be most gratefully received. We're looking predominantly for male titles, fiction or non-fiction although some female titles would also be appreciated. All must be in excellent, clean condition. Unfortunately hard backs are no good as they weigh too heavy in the boxes. Donations can be sent to the following address: SOS Paperback Appeal P O Box 70 Shipley West Yorkshire BD18 1YE UK postage will unfortunately apply. If you have a large volume of books then delivery/collection can be arranged, please email me for full postal address and details. Many thanks Karen January 2007 The Royal Hospital Chelsea We've been contacted by Garry Martin on behalf of the Royal Hospital Chelsea who are looking to raise essential funds. Two posters are shown below. If you would like copies of these or collection boxes then please contact Garry Martin who will send you all the relevant information.
Wednesday December 8th 2005 Just a quick reminder that the Free Postage concession ends on the 15th December, just one week away. Whilst it seemed great news at the time that the postage was to be free in the run up to Christmas, it's going to be another bitter blow when it's withdrawn again. I know we ask time and time again but please do sign our petition to make this a permanent arrangement, and please pass on to all your friends and colleagues. Also if you've any opinions to express on the subject please do email us, these will be passed on with the signaturres. I know many of you feel very strongly, so please let's hear about it! Monday November 29th Congratulations !!!! We're delighted to hear that our lovely patron Nell McAndrew and Paul Hardcastle were married last Thursday in Huddersfield. Congratulations Nell and Paul from all the SOS team, we wish you lots of love, health and happiness! There's a full report at http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,5-2004551259,00.html. In The News - TWO top English regiments are locked in a battle to the death — with one set to be axed in a fortnight - Full report at http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2004552291,00.html US Army top brass today hailed the brave Black Watch troops working in Iraq as "awesome". Full report at http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2004552382,00.html Tuesday November 16th This email was sent to me at work. With so much negative media coverage it's really nice to see things from a different angle. Many thanks to the person who composed it and hope you don't mind me posting the content on the site! Why don't these pictures make the news? 'Please pass them on. Sometimes in our everyday lives we tend to forget what's going on elsewhere in the world and that the brave men and women of the service are just like you and I. They have family and friends back home who love them very much and are praying for their safe return. When you read this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for the people in Afghanistan, Kuwait, Iraq, and all around the world'
Thursday November 11th - Remembrance Day Today we remember the sacrifice made by others for our freedom, past or present. For all our servicemen and women who have given their lives in the course of duty, may they never be forgotten Lest We Forget They shall not grow old, as we who are left grow old; We will remember them The Poppy Appeal
'On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 the guns of Europe fell silent. After four years of the most bitter and devastating fighting, The Great War was finally over. The Armistice was signed at 5am in a railway carriage in the Forest of Compiegne, France on November 11, 1918. Six hours later, at 11am, the war ended. http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/remembrance/history/silence_history.shtml Wednesday November 10th Website Updates - We're delighted that a new way has been found to update the website on a regular basis without troubling our already overworked webmaster. I'd like to say a personal thank you to Chris for all that he's done over the past eighteen months, it really has been appreciated. Now however you can expect updates on a weekly, even daily basis so please do get in touch if you have anything that you would like included - news items, messages, forthcoming events - we can now promise instant addition! Freepost Campaign Update - The great news for the moment is Tony Blair's recent announcement that postage for parcels to British Troops on overseas operations will be free from now until Christmas. This is a fantastic result and goes to show that with a combined effort we can make a difference. More details will shortly be available on the SOS - Scotland page. Again our thanks go to Agnes who has led the Campaign, and kept her determination against all the odds and when many of us felt the battle was lost. She really does deserve full marks and more for this onel! However, we started the campaign not only to re-instate free postage to the Gulf but also to all other BFPO addresses on a permanent basis, and therefore the fight is not over yet. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to sign the online petition or even better, print out the form below and circulate to your friends and colleagues. As we've already shown, every signature will make a difference.
Previous notices below - please scroll down to view ... August
June Forces Reunited Ltd. is proud to support SSAFA Forces Help, the national charity helping serving and ex-Service men, women and their families in need. Forces Reunited Ltd. is sponsoring the training of 5 SSAFA caseworkers and is raising awareness of SSAFA's vital role. June
The Magazine Officerlife has undergone a change for the next edition, so look out for an exciting new format! We have also adopted the new abbreviated name of OLife, as this had become the unofficial name used by most people we had talked to about the magazine.
Junes issue features... • Leg amputee Chris Moon, who is overcoming
the odds by trekking the length of Britain in just 25 days. You can subscribe to Officerlife online by clicking here, or by ringing (01604) 495495.
Monday May 17th The Forces Helpline is an independent service provided by ex-forces personnel, is non profit making and relies solely on donations to provide its services. If you need advice, information or just want to air your views about anything, we’re here to listen and help if we can. Never feel as if you’re on your own or there's no one to turn to we're only a click away! Anything you tell us is in the strictest confidence. Visit at www.forces-helpline.com
MOTHER OF ALL BATTLES The Mother Of All Battles by Terry Walker is due for release in December. Terry has worked very hard for us with sales of the calendar and we hope you'll all join with us in wishing him every success with this venture. Here's a little more about Terry and the book. Your members can order the book from dreamstarbooks.com ISBN No. 1904166-10-5 ABOUT THE AUTHOR I was born in the small town of Brampton, near Carlisle in the North of England. I was the only boy of four children. As part of a military family, I travelled the world extensively with much time spent in Germany. In December 1977 I followed in my father's footsteps by going into the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. I was stationed in England, Germany, Northern Ireland and also the Falkland Islands, where I was involved with Air Defence duties during "Operation Corporate", and served as a number two operator with the Bomb Disposal in mainland UK. My final active service role was with the 4th Armoured Brigade on "Operation Granby" during the 1991 War with Iraq. SYNOPSIS It was the worst and most environmentally toxic war of the 20th century. In 1990/1991 Britain sent 53,000 men and women to war, the largest contingent for almost 50 years. Following the invasion of Kuwait in 1990, Saddam Hussein promised the “Mother of all Battles”; few in the West believed him. Yet, for ordinary Iraqis the conflict was catastrophic. The conscripted farmers, bank managers and teachers that comprised the Iraqi army were undernourished, poorly paid and inadequately trained. As Iraq was repeatedly subjected to heavy bombardment from the air, coalition ground forces faced a significantly diminished Iraqi army and Republican Guard. Some offered minor or token resistance, but most surrendered with dignity. It took the allied forces less than two months to eject the Iraqi military from Kuwait, but for many veterans the consequences of the Gulf War lasted much longer. This is his story. |
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