Op Crown Salisbury Reunion 2009

Saturday began with an early breakfast as the planned meeting with the Lord Mayor of Salisbury had to be brought forward by one hour. The Mayor had to attend a “Freedom of Shaftesbury” parade by the Devon & Dorset Light Infantry. Shaftesbury is some 20 miles from Salisbury consequently the Mayor had to leave early. In spite of the early start everyone was ready by 8.45am. The 'Vets'wearing their Blazers and Medals with pride set off with their partners for the short walk to the Guildhall. Our honoured guests Derek Yates his wife Gill and Sarah Williams were in the party for what was the special event of the reunion. On arrival at the Guildhall a climb up a flight of stairs led to the Grand Jury Room as the Mayor waited on the landing to greet each member of the party. Once all had been welcomed and led into the Grand Jury Room, wine and light refreshments were served. The Mayor noted that Tony Cliffe could not climb the stairs and was unable to enjoy the festivities with his wife Lorraine. The Mayor and her Console went down the stairs and spent several minutes chatting and having photos taken with Tony and Lorraine. On her return to the Grand Jury Room “Buck” started proceedings by on behalf of the veterans and their wives thanking the Mayor for the honour of receiving them and pointing out that this was a first for Salisbury, being the first reunion of Operation Crown Veterans. He continued by saying that the Mayor was the 749th of Salisbury and as the Mayor added, she is the only person to be elected twice. Buck concluded by agreeing it was indeed another first for Salisbury and made way for the Mayor to speak. The Mayor started by welcoming all and with Salisbury being a military city she very much appreciated the contribution that our armed forces made. She continued by saying that she had done some research and discovered that the men of Salisbury who had sacrificed their lives in war were buried in 25 different countries. The Mayor then continued by saying that after she and her husband retired they went to Thailand including a visit to the “Bridge on the River Kwai” and that even now she felt the emotion of that experience. The Mayor concluded by thanking everyone for choosing Salisbury for their reunion as she was aware that some had travelled long distances to get there. The Mayor then mingled and spoke to the assembly as individuals. The whole event was all too brief with everyone enjoying the occasion. The photographer captured the moment as the pictures show and the memories for all concerned that I’m sure will last them for many years to come. Click on the Auto/Start button to run the slideshow of pictures for The Lord Mayors recption. All pictures of the reunion are copyright to this site. Permission must be obtained before downloading these images.