The Pembroke/Petawawa branch Reunion

Reports and Photos

I have just returned from an absolutely first class family weekend in Petawawa. The Pembroke/Petawawa branch has to be congratulated for taking us all back over the years with the theme, "Memories of Germany" ..."Fort York Germany, 2nd Bn: 57 - 59 and 1st Bn 59 - 62". From the bratwurst at the meet and greet, the Black Forest dancing and entertainment group on Saturday afternoon, the outstanding roast beef dinner all with Regimental accoutrements, to the German orchestra that played everything from Oompa Pa to the beetles, we were absolutely impressed. The short Cenotaph service at the the Guards Memorial, at the site of the old mess and band room was conducted with some solemnity, but also with great spirit and drill, and was the final event of a great three days. George Hickey got 14 "extras" for being 30 seconds late for parade. Oh well, what else is new!

Well done to Ambrose and his committee. Obviously I will miss some names but Junior and Karen Warrington led the committee and I know that the Campbell's, Henry and Jean, were very much part of things. I am sure that Junior will identify his entire team when he submits his report.

 While the theme was great, and took us all back, it was the absolute warmth of everyone as we met, shook hands and indeed on a number of occasions hugged, that impressed most. In addressing the approximately 240 at dinner I rather emotionally made the point on how the family while ageing, and suffering through a longer SOS list every year, was still positively enjoying life. If I once more can be allowed a personal example of emotion, I would like to recount my discussion with Carl Beaton. He reminded Joan and I that he had driven the Commanding Officer's staff car, which had been loaned to us for our wedding some 50 years ago, and how he had conspired with my friends of the RCD band to "ambush" us with their Calypso Group on the way to the mess. That particular act of friendship epitomized the family feeling that was engendered by the Guards family as the band had become surrogate Guardsmen. It gave us both a lump in our throats.

 To all involved well done, I am sure that wherever they are JJT, Silver Lee, RW, Strome, Roger, Stu Grahem, Ron Cheriton and even that wild Newfoundlander Bernie Skehen who left us last week, and many, many others, were watching and approving of how the family continues to manifest all that is good with soldiers and soldiering, particularly in the structure that is the Guards Family. Cheers and

 A MARI USQUE AD MARE

 Ian Douglas, President

For more of Buck Buchanan's Photos please click here