This year we had an excellent turn out with 70 people attending the service. Fortunately, we had booked the chapel as the weather was very much like April – sun one minute and showers the next. After the service, between showers, we were able to take wreaths to the Greek Grove and lay them at our altar.

Father John and Father Theodoros conducted the service, accompanied by three other members of their church. All very moving as usual, and beautifully sung. We were delighted to once again to welcome representatives from the Australian, Greek and New Zealand Defence staff: Major David Rocco, Australian Army; Major Kostas Farmakis, Greek Army and Commander David Crossman, New Zealand Navy.

Our party included two 98 year old veterans – Frank Gill, our President, and Joe Burke. Jock Watt had planned to attend but, unfortunately, due to ill-health, was unable to join us. We were also very pleased to welcome a very sprightly 102 year old Mrs Dora Cooper, widow of L/Cpl Francis Cooper, of the 4th Q.O. Hussars, PoW, Stalag 18A.

Standards were carried by Alec Hamilton, Thomas Morgan, Colin Pleavin and David Sanderson. In addition to the wreaths laid by our special guests (see above) poppy tributes were also laid by Elizabeth Matthews, – Widows; Joe Burke – Prisoners of War; Frank Gill – Fallen Comrades; Geoff Swinnerton – Deceased Members and Mark Buttery on behalf of the Brotherhood. Geoff Swinnerton gave the oration. Len Cook, the bugler, played last post and reveille and Barry Parkin acted as Parade Marshall. Many thanks to all for their contribution.