RMA Normandy Trip June 2005

Here is a write-up from Mike Russell on the Normandy trip.

Other branch members who also went were:

Sylvia Andonopoulos

John Allingham

Lou Sartorel

Paddy O’Connell

Day One: Wednesday, 5th June, two coaches of Former Bootnecks, Wrens, their Partners, and Friends departed CTCRM at 02:30 hours to drive to Whale Island, where they joined a large number of other participants ready to board. ( Yes, it’s not a typo, they departed at 02:30 hrs. )

08:00hrs Depart Portsmouth for Port en Basin, onboard Brittany Ferries, a six-hour crossing followed by a 90-minute coach trip. Once arrived, we were allocated to our specific cute little holiday apartments, accommodating 2-3 people. Small but adequate with self-catering facilities and a delightful view of the golf course.

Day Two: Several of the group had elected the 12-mile yomp following the steps of 47 cdo. Those of us not quite so fit linked up with the yompers at Bar de la Criee, Port en Basin, after a day touring some of the sites.

Day Three: A more formal day. In Rig, we paraded at the Western Feature, having until now mostly avoided the odd showers. The 47 cdo Standard was replaced and dedicated with the new 47 cdo Standard. The Standard Bearer of the New Standard was our own City of London Lou.

After the ceremony, and of course the obligatory Fots, we attended the Mayor's Reception held within the “Salle de Fetes” Port en Basin.

Next on the agenda was to get changed out of Rig and head for the Bar de la Criee. ( Adopted H Q for Bootnecks ). For some, it’s almost a requirement to ensure that alcohol levels are maintained.

Day Four: Battlefield Tour Day. Courseulles - Sur - Mer, Juno Beach -46 & 48 cdo. Douvers Radar Station - 41 cdo & ASG. Sword Beach - piper 41 - 45 cdo. Pegaus Bridge - 45 cdo. Rots - 46 cdo.

Final Gathering - Bar de la Criee. Semi Formal Dinner, Plus Auction & Wet's. It was a great privilege to have the two Normandy Veterans with us.

Day Five: Pack Kit, ensure accommodation is left in pusser’s impeccable condition of cleanliness. Board the coach to Caen, the ferry to Portsmouth or CTCRM and on.

A great trip, well organised, great company to be with. Until the next time.

Mike Russell. (Yes, I did maintain my alcohol levels)