D-Day

We hoped the Parade would be returning in its usual format in 2021 following the cancelled event in 2020 due to the Covid-19 Pandemic and the virtual event in its place. Although Government restrictions have been lifting in March, April and May, there remains a maximum gathering size of 30 by Saturday 5th June.

With such a limited on the numbers available to invite, the Branch have decided to hold a much smaller event with ~12 persons as an agree “minimum” to offer suitable respect to the event. These persons have been invited and will be meeting for a smaller event on Saturday evening however those wishing to attend can do so via a planned live stream a link of which will be shared once made available.

Any persons or organisations who wish to pay their respects are asked to do so after 1800hrs on Saturday 5th June, wreaths are available directly from the RBL via https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/wreaths

It is regrettable, if predictable that Harwell RBL Branch have called off the annual D-Day Commemoration Service for 2020 in light of the Covid-19 outbreak. The mass gathering of 100+ member of the public, invited guests and dignitaries, and representatives from a variety of veterans groups and onsite businesses all travel from numerous and variety of locations which has the potential to spread the virus. As such in line with Government advise the event will not be held to avoid this risk.

We hope the Parade will return in 2021, the date for which will be Saturday 5th June.

Peter Davies
Ceremonial Officer
Harwell Branch RBL
harwell.committee1@rbl.community

The annual D-Day Service held at the Harwell Stone was this year recognising the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. A significant milestone. The DDay75 Campaign, which was well publicised in the national press with the National activities centred on Portsmouth on 6th June.

Harwell Branch reached out to the local military establishments and were successful in confirming attendance from Vauxhall and Dennison Army Barracks, RAF Benson.

The aircraft taking off from Harwell, destined for Europe, were of 38 Group RAF and we were honoured to have Wing Commander Blacklock attend to represent the modern day 38 Group. Wing Commander Blacklock was also our Guest of Honour and took the lead in the laying of wreaths.

These Senior Military representatives were also joined by local dignitaries, veterans and veteran associations, local youth groups and Harwell Campus Management and Businesses in laying wreaths.

The whole event was again organised by the Harwell Branch of the Royal British Legion, with the support of the Harwell Campus Management and of Harwell and Chilton Churches.

A Guard of Honour was formed by Wantage and Didcot Squadrons of the Air Training Corps with the pupils from Chilton School also taking part in proceedings by laying poppies and wooden crosses. A flypast by Historical Army Aircraft Flight was organised, but due to the high winds was unable to take place.

The Service was conducted by Rev. Jonathan Mobey. The Last Post was performed by Dr Tony Hughes with Mr John McFarlane-Horgan accompanying the Parade’s proceedings on the bagpipes.

A collection was made for the Poppy Appeal which totalled £183.62

Thanks are also due to Harwell Campus Management Team for the site preparation and management, printing a significant number of service sheets and granting permission and access to hold the event.

Peter Davies
Ceremonial Officer Harwell Branch RBL