November Newsletter 2025 Part One

1. Welcome to November’s newsletter. It’s that time of year we particularly remember those fallen in their defence of their country. This year also marks eighty-five years since the Battle of Britain 10th July – 31st October 1940. Winston Churchill summed up the battle with the now famous words “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few”. Pilots who fought in the battle have been known as ‘The Few’ ever since, specially commemorated on 15th September, “Battle of Britain Day” On this day in 1940, the Luftwaffe embarked on their largest bombing attack yet, forcing the engagement of the entirety of the RAF in defence of London and the South East, which resulted in a decisive British victory that proved to mark a turning point in Britain’s favour. Sadly, few of ‘The Few’ are left now, but their contribution along with all those servicemen and civilians who provided the protection of our country will continue to be remembered by wearing our poppy with pride.

2. From 22nd October to 25th January Fort Nelson is hosting ‘For Your Tomorrow – The People’s Tribute’ an installation of 1,457 life-sized silhouettes, created by charity ‘Standing with Giants’ in tribute to the serviceman under British Command and fifty French Resistance Fighters who lost their lives on D-Day. This event may be of interest to members.

3. As November races in towards the end of the year, thoughts turn to the WMS Christmas Lunch. 12thDecember at the Cowplain Activity Centre. 1200 for 1230. There will be a bar available. The menu is now displayed on the galley noticeboard so please place your names down and your choice of menu. Christmas Lunch financial arrangements. It was agreed at the 2024 AGM that for future lunches the membership criteria for WMS funded lunch would be those who are fully paid-up members as at 1st October of each year plus partners. Those members paying any later and new members joining would still be able to attend but at their own cost for them and their partners. We will also be having a raffle so please consider donating something for prizes. We are pleased that Jacqui Benham from ASDA has accepted an invitation again this year to conduct the raffle for us. There will be a box in the galley for you to place your donation. Thank you in anticipation. The annual Christmas jumper photo will be taken again so dust of your Christmas apparel and come along. Don’t be shy, the tackier the better!!! Please note the list closes on Friday 21st November

3. It has been proposed that after the Kings Theatre Then & Now talk recently, a tour could be organised for members and guests. Dave Allport has contacted his line manager at Kings and now has a series of possible dates in Jan/Feb/Mar 2026 If there is enough interest he will go forward and arrange. Further details for you we can go firm on a date.