Submariners extend tradition with Memorial Dinner
By Lee Chambers
GOSPORT SUBMARINERS ASSOCIATION extended a proud tradition as they held their annual Memorial Dinner at The Duke of Connaught Club in Fareham; which saw fifty members come together for excellent food and company alongside wives and invited guests recently.
Steve Thorpe opened the evening as Chairman by welcoming members and honoured guests; which included Her Worship the Mayor of Gosport, Councillor Kirsten Bradley, and her Consort, Mr Jonathon Bradley. He expressed gratitude to the social secretary team for their outstanding work in organising the event, with a special mention to ‘Pinky’ Floyd for a remarkable achievement in raising over £1,666 for homeless veterans during his “Big Sleep Out” at Stonehenge the previous evening.
The formal proceedings began with the Marching in of the Standard that was carried by branch member Colin Mould. This was followed by the poignant honouring of absent friends and the lighting of the symbolic candle, which was undertaken by US Navy Submarine veteran Jon Schultz. Between the three courses of dinner, branch members read aloud the names of all UK submarines lost, paying tribute to those on eternal patrol.
Following the loyal toast to the King, our President, Chris Groves, introduced the Guest Speaker, Commander Bob Laverty RN. He delivered an engaging address on “Life After Perisher” that reflected on his distinguished career following the receipt of the dreaded bottle of Single Malt from Teacher. His speech was met with enthusiastic appreciation from members and guests alike.
The Chairman closed the evening by thanking everyone for attending and inviting us to show huge appreciation to the catering staff, whose fine food and friendly service contributed greatly to the success of the event. It was a memorable occasion, and thoughts are already turning to next year’s special Memorial Dinner, which will commemorate the 125th anniversary of submarines.
PICTURED BY GOSPORT SUBMARINERS ASSOCIATION: Members, wives and invited guests join together at The Duke of Connaught Club for the branch’s annual Memorial Dinner recently.
