A new start

I've taken the decision to carry on with this blog which I had abandoned in 2010, it was at the time I had lost hope of this branch ever surviving, and the reason I'm doing it is that by giving my accounts of what's happening it may help either myself or others when reviewing this.

December the 19th 2014 was the last mess meeting of the branch year, it was a big success as at last we had attracted 4 new members in 2 months.  I count everything to do with the RMA in months as that is the time between mess meets.  One guy got in touch via linkedin, two from an event raising funds for the RMA at a supermarket and 1 from a chance encounter at the Remembrance Parade in Wolverhampton.  Although I said it was a success it all seemed purely by chance, and I am thinking already whether luck will stay with me.

One other surprising thing that has made me a little subdued is how do I hang on to these people.  Recruit and retain is top priority for the branch but I have no committee to carry the load and I'm feeling the weight of responsibility.  Wish me luck as the next mess gathering is the 16th January.  Will they turn up, I hope so.  Fail to plan, plan to fail,

Fund Raising

I've now done two events to raise funds for the RMA and also get people to notice us with a view to joining.  It was a lot of effort for little return especially the Wolverhampton Show, I think most charities there had a moan and quite right too. 

The council organisers need to understand that fundraising for the community needs, helps tremendously, please don't abandon us to an area far removed from the public.  I'm sure the money raised by the business stalls helped some way to filling the much impoverished council coffers but give us a chance next year and integrate us a bit more.

Exe Estuary Run

Had a great weekend last week, the weather was hot and great for camping which we hadn't done for a couple of years.  Met up with some guys from the Stourbridge Branch RMA and did the first fundraising run with them along the new path from Exmouth railway station to the Commando Training Centre.  Most had a guided tour of the camp after but I had to run back because the car was on a limited time ticket.

We are still collecting cash from sponsors and all money will go to helping our wounded.

During the weekend I tracked down and met an old oppo and needless to say the beer flowed as much as the catching up.  It's amazing how much the memory fades but the stories flooded back.  So all in all, great weather a great run and smashing to meet up with Scouse again even though he has lost his accent and gain some sort of janner/scouse speak.

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Finding old mates

I know I have had some strange looks about introducing social networking to the members but I am really pleased that two old mates from our RM days have contacted me via our website.  the last time I saw them was 32 years ago, and it was fantastic to chat with them.  Both will be at the Reunion, CTCRM and that event should be attended by every former Royal.

Chris Townsend

http://rmawolverhampton.blogspot.com
 

www.rmawton.org.uk 

 

www.royalmarinesassociation.org.uk

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Royal Marines sacked over wellie beating

A Captain and Sergeant of marines were sacked after hitting a captured Afghan who may have been part of a team planting an IED. Strangley enough when turned over to the Afghan Police the alledged bomber disappeared.

Is anyone as confused and incenced as me?

Two exceptional soldiers are now on the scrapheap with very fragile futures, is this right?

Do you want know where your nearest RMA Branch is?

If you want to know more about the RMA take a look at www.royalmarinesassociation.co.uk all the regions, branches and contact details are there.

If you want to look at our website it is www.rmawton.org.uk