Reginald East Branch President 1927-2021
It is with great sadness that Harwell Branch announces that Branch President Reginald East has passed away at the age of 94.
Reg joined the Royal British Legion in 1952 and has given nearly 70 years of service to the Harwell Branch and Club, the Vale of the White Horse Group, and Berkshire County, a service impossible to sum up in a few words. He has held numerous offices at Branch, Group and County level including County Vice Chairman. He also served on the Club Committee from the 1970s until the 1990s including terms as Club Vice Chairman and Chairman.
Reg was elected to the Branch Committee in 1969 and served continuously since, including terms as Secretary, Standard Bearer, and Vice President from 1991 to 1993 then President from 1993 until his passing.
Reg also worked tirelessly on the Legion Welfare Committee and the Poppy Appeal – distributing the Poppy boxes and tins to the local shops and pubs, helping count the donations. Reg gave talks to Harwell, Chilton and other local schools to educate the younger generation about the meaning of the Poppy, and why we hold a Remembrance Service.
In recognition of his work, Reg was awarded the Branch Certificate of Appreciation in 1976, County Certificate of appreciation in 1980, the National Gold Badge in 1993, culminating in the award of National Life Membership in 2016.
The good name the Legion has locally is testament to Reg’s commitment, tact and desire to build relationships within the Legion, external organisations and the Veterans community.
He always led by example and will be sadly missed.