Helen and I represented The Association at the Consecration of the new 208 Squadron Standard at Valley on Thursday. The ceremony was held outdoors in very strong winds and the members on parade, particularly the Standard Bearer, did a very good job in such difficult circumstances. Although the 208 event was clearly an add on to the previously organised 19 Sqn into 4 Sqn event, we were very well looked after. We enjoyed a buffet lunch in the new Moran Building and met up with the 208 contingent. From the Association, Phil Pinney and his wife, Harry Patrick and his partner, Al Beaton, Doug Simmons and his wife, and Helen and I were there. Also, Sir Rob's representative from the Benevolent fund was there. During the "chat" with CAS, we plugged the fact that 208 had been threatened with disbandment before but the decision had been reversed - it should happen again. Whether he was on "receive" or not I could not tell, but my guess is, "not!" I did pass on greetings to him from Sir Michael and Sir Rob. OC 208 was on good form and hosted us admirably as did Tom Sawle and the other members of 208 on call. As rep for The Association, I was delighted to be seated in the front row of spectators with OC 208 and Helen. (OC 208 was a spectator until the particular part of the ceremony involving the 208 Standard.)
After the ceremony, during which CAS said a lot about 19 Sqn but not a lot about 208, we repaired not back to the Moran Bdg but straight to 208 Crew room for more chat and reminiscing without the 19/4 Sqn types. OC 208 and I chatted about the future, in particular the need for a Laying up Ceremony for the Current/Old Standard which incidentally was not on parade that day. More thought required eventually for a final destination.
And photographs there were several photographers active throughout the day and I asked that we might have copies of some of their work - also that some copies should find their way to the Newsletter and to the Web Site.
Overall, we all felt so glad to have been there and to have supported the Squadron in such an important event. OC 208 very graciously acknowledged our presence and expressed grateful thanks to us all for going.
With good wishes to you all,
