Gibraltar Trip

The RAFA organised visit to Royal Air Force Gibraltar on 21st May was very successful and enjoyed by all so much that it is hoped to make it an annual event.

Our party of 39 started with a bus ride to Gibraltar where we were met by the Gibraltar RAFA representatives. After a short break we were welcomed by the Station Commander who interrupted a very busy schedule to speak to us. This was followed by a demonstration by the RAF Bomb Disposal Unit which was extremely eye opening and informative. Lunch was then taken in the WO´s and Sgt´s mess after which we were treated to a visit round the Police Dog Section and then an entertaining demonstration of the dog´s capabilities. As if that were not enough, there followed a visit to the WW2 Tunnels after which everyone fell into the bus for the return to Benalmádena.

We cannot thank RAF Gibraltar and all concerned enough for being so accommodating, efficient and helpful in making this a memorable visit.

Summer Ball

The Summer Ball this year was held at Restaurant Valparaiso, Mijas, on Friday 26th June. We were graced with the presence of the new British Consul, Steve Jones, and his Vice-Consul, Rosslyn Crotty as our Guests of Honour.

All seats were taken although with earlier booking by members we could have accommodated more.

The evening went extremely well with good food, music and dancing 'til late.

The meal was served on the Terrace where we aere also entertained by a classical tenor singing popular arias. To be repeated soon we hope.

The Band of the RAF Regiment, Gibraltar

Following a very successful Wings Social on the Saturday (19th Sept) evening at the Galaxy (maybe someone has some pictures and more detail), we set off to Gibraltar on Sunday (20th Sept) evening for a Concert in the lovely setting of the Alameda Gardens performed by The Band of The RAF Regiment, hosted by RAF Gibraltar and the Gibraltar RAFA Branch.

44 of us crossed the border in the bus (Cedric went independently) where we were met by 2 smaller coaches which ferried us to the beautiful setting of the Alameda Gardens.

It is quite a difficult walk for the last part of the journey to get to the gardens but well worth the effort.

The concert itself was of the usual high standard and the programme was very varied to suit all tastes.

Reg and RAFA Gibraltar are to be congratulated for arranging this very pleasant end to Wings Week.

Rememberance Sunday

Sunday 11th November saw St Georges Chapel in Malaga the scene of focus for this year's Remembrance Day parade. For the 5th year Benalmadena Branch of The Royal Air Forces Association organised the event were joined again by the Royal British Legion (Torremolinos Branch) & the Royal Naval Association.

As the exact time of midday silence fell over this small part of Malaga and the bugler from the contingent from RAF Gibraltar sounded out the Last Post. This was mysteriously echoed seconds later by another albeit unknown bugler somewhere in the area also sounded the same notes. We would love to discover who else is partaking in the remembrance of those who have fallen whilst serving their country.

This year saw the Chairman, Mr Fred Briggs and the Hon Treasurer, Mr Reg Haywood laying the wreaths on behalf of the branch. Mrs Corinne Mudie read the RAFA citation. The branch standard was carried by Mr Pedro Groves who organised the first 3 parades starting back in the year 2000.

After the service it was discovered that with the RBL contingent there was one 85 year old gentleman who had joined up with one of those who is buried in one of the war graves here in Malaga, a truly personnel act of remembrance.

Around 100 people attended the service and were treated to wine & tapas provided by the Branch with monies raised going into the church funds and towards the upkeep of the English Cemetery.

Among those attending was a young lad of around 14yrs of age who has been attending the service at St George's with his father for the past few years. Talking with his father ("Pompey Gary" on REM radio) after the service he told me he had been to other services over the years but felt that our one in Malaga was by far the best and he made sure he attended each year and he bought his son so that he realised that after us "oldies" were no longer around there would still be people prepared to pay hom,age to those who gave so much and asked for so little.

One of the branch members asked me whether I realised that he had forgone watching the service from Whitehall to join us in Malaga. I replied I think the 4 lads buried here are grateful. He then discovered that there are 4 War Graves here in Malaga, a fact he was unaware of prior to attending. Me thinks that from now Whitehall will be recorded for watching later.

It would be nice to think that next year we could be joined by more and more ex service associations and their members to show to ALL those who are lucky enough to live out here in Spain that we fully understand the sacrifices so many people made and are STILL making so that we are able to live in a free world.

Mr Steve Mullis
Hon. Branch Secretary
RAFA Benalmadena Branch 1357