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46 members of Staffordshire Moorlands Group
4 Royal British Legion branches travelled to Ostend in May for their
annual trip to celebrate the Victory in Europe with the people of the
city.
On Saturday they took part in two ceremonies. The first was with the
Ostend Branch of The Legion when a window was dedicated in the English
Church. At the same time other members joined with VOSVAMA and the
Burgermeister at the main cemetery in Ostend. This was a service to
commemorate the British graves in the Cemetery. Four Standard Bearers
took part in each event. Mr. Bill Vaughan of Rudyard and Horton Branch
played the Last Post in the Church while Mr. Ken Pointon, No.4 Group
Chairman spoke the homage at the cemetery.
Mrs. Nora Clarke Group leader read the poem 'In Flanders Fields' and
laid a wreath on behalf of everyone. The evening ended with a social
evening at the Legion Club.
On Sunday everyone attended the Service of Thanksgiving at St. Petrus
and St. Paulus Church in Ostend. The ceremony of the flags took place
and all eight Standard Bearers took part. Mr. George Hough, County Vice
Chairman was invited to lay a Wreath on behalf of the North Staffs
County. A reception was given by the Civic authorities to follow the
ceremony. In the afternoon the group joined all the ex-service
organisations for a banquet.
 Gifts
were presented to Mr. Pointon and Mrs. Clarke by members of VOSVAMA. A
plaque was presented to Mrs. Clarke by the Burgermeister. This has now
been handed over to the Chairman of Staffordshire Moorlands district
Council on behalf of the people of Ostend.
On Monday the group was entertained by the Belgian Navy. They were taken
round the Naval Base at Zeebrugge. This was most interesting and
included much information about mine-sweeping which is something the
Belgian Navy is expert at.
On Tuesday a visit was made to Talbot House, the original TocH. It was
then on to Ypres for a visit and to take part in the ceremony f the Last
Post at the Menin Gate. Again the Standards took part. Wreaths were laid
and Mr.Hough was honoured to say the homage.
On Wednesday a visit was made to Diksmuide and the Trenches of Death.
This was the scene of bitter battles between the Belgian and German
troops. After this visit a tour of the Ypres area was made.
On Thursday a visit was made to the Dutch town of Sluis. It was lovely
with the sun shining. In the evening we were entertained by the Navy at
the Marine Club.
We returned home after thoroughly enjoying our trip. We felt it helped
to further cement relations between our local Branches and the Ostend
Legion. We also further strengthened our links with the Civic people and
with VOSVAMA. |
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