2006 Reunion Darlington

Well, yet another successful Reunion in 2006 at Darlington, firstly I would like to thank John Wilson for all his hard work in making our reunion a success, the venue, food and reception was second to none, so once more John, a big thanks to you and your staff from all those who attended, for all your hard work in making our event a success. I hope you personally enjoyed the evening. Secondly I would like to thank our guest speaker Darren Whellan, his knowledge of events in Afghanistan was excellent although for some a bit over the top others did appreciate his efforts and took part and enjoy the briefing, thank you again to Noel.

Numbers attending this years reunion was again over 100, which was an excellent turnout for a holiday period. It was regretful that we could no get the Red Devils to drop due to the weather, however I did hear the initial free bar went down well.

From the AGM Major General (Rtd) Peter Chiswell was voted in and accepted the position as our new Club President it is an honour to have such a senior Ex member and past CO of our Battalion as President. As discussed at the meeting no other nominations were put forward for any other positions. I was asked by the membership attending to remain as Chairman for a further year, it was my intention to retire as Chair this year. As I stated, I would be happy to continue as Club Chairman for a further year, however this is my last year as the Chair and if no nominations were forthcoming for the position next year, I will hand the position and Chair to the current Vice Chairman Mr Terry Carroll in 2007.

We would hope to get the news letter out early in the new year. I would ask where possible for more input from our members in producing this newsletter please contact Gary Teale with your contributions. As requested at the AGM our new President has written to the CO 3 Para and I have posted our letter of support to 3 Para on our website.

Please click HERE for a copy of the Letter.

Photo's from this years reunion will be posted shortly. should you have any photo's you wish to input please contact Bernie McClory, his contact details are on the site. Bernie thanks again from all, for your hard work and time in setting up this excellent site for the reunion club.

Finally we are looking if possible to return to Colchester for our next reunion in 2007 to possibly coincide with the 25th Anniversary of the Falklands conflict, I would hope more information would be available by the time the newsletter goes to print, so presently wait out for now.

CONDOLENCE

We would like to offer our support and condolences to the families and serving members of the 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment concerning your regrettable loss of life sustained by the Battalion, whilst on active service in Afghanistan. We wish you all best speed for a save return to your families soon. We are proud of you all, for the job you do in such strenuous and difficult conditions. We all mourn your losses with you. God speed also for a speedy recovery of our casualties, who have been wounded in action during this conflict. God Bless you all, our thoughts are with you all.


George D Duffus
Chairman
3 Para Reunion Club