216 Parachute Signals Squadron Guestbook |
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216 Parachute Signal Squadron Old Comrades Association |
| Guest Book |
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| Jimmy Campbell | jjc216~AT~talk21~DOT~com |
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Hi alI, Hope you’re keeping safe and well. Zara Hatchman would like to have a memorial service for Paul on 22nd August. Can you help push this out to the Airborne Signals family. Details are 2pm on Sunday 22nd August. The address is St John's Walton, Walton Back Lane, Chesterfield S42 7LT Derbyshire. Please let me know if you are planning to attend in order that we can manage the numbers.
Wednesday 28 July2021 - Burton on Trent
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| Tom whting |
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Hi, does anyone have any news about This year's Caythorpe.
Saturday 17 July2021 - Croydon
Webmaster comments Hi Tom, I have emailed Margaret Watson for an update. |
| John Thompson | john~AT~airborneit~DOT~co~DOT~uk |
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Hi to all, Having a catch up with what is happening in the world of Parachute Signals. Sad to see more friends and colleagues have passed away over the last year my thoughts go out to all of their family and friends. Good to hear that the Sqn is still active and getting about the world. Off on a tour of Scotland in a Camper van this year so no quarantine hopefully. Has anyone heard from Eddie Newton in recent times, its been a while since I heard from or about him. I Think it was Scotch Corner Last time we had a pint together.
Thursday 1 July2021 - Catterick Village
Webmaster comments Good to hear from you John and I hope Eddie will read your message. Enjoy the trip |
| Alan Hogg | alan~DOT~hogg2~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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Hi Terry, yes still there, was looking at the Whitley Bay webcam the other day, you are a lucky boy! Had to make do with a quick trip to Saltburn, early morning, nobody around - great
Saturday 29 May2021 - Pateley Bridge
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| Larry Cardwell | David Cardwell399~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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So sorry to hear that Ray (paddy) O Donoghue has passed on. Sincere condolences to his family and R.I.P. Ray.
Friday 28 May2021 - Longside
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| Terry Brown | terryvivbrown~AT~virginmedia~DOT~com |
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Is there anybody out there? Hope everybody are ok and looking forward to a good summer.
Wednesday 26 May2021 - Whitley Bay
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| Dave Finer | davefiner216~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Just saw on facebook that Ray O'Donahue has passed away.Gutted! Remember going up the smoke with him to get a passport.Also jungle warfare training in Malaya with 16 Bde HQ and D Coy 3 Para.Rest in peace Ray.Teaching the Angels Iriwh jigs!Saki
Wednesday 26 May2021 - Hart Village Hartlepool
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| Keith Weller | keith~AT~keithweller~DOT~plus~DOT~com |
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Caythorpe Reunion/Message from Major T S Harrison - OC 216 (Parachute) Signals Squadron Dear Airborne Signallers, AIRBORNE SIGNALS REUNION: 4/5 SEPTEMBER 2021 I am delighted to be writing to you in the increasing hope that our Caythorpe aspirations may survive the frustrations of COVID. The interval since we last shared company has been difficult for all and I hope you and your families are well. Sadly, the intervening period has been punctuated by the loss of too many of our brethren and I welcome the opportunity to properly mark the passing of Lol Martin, John Jefferies, Jim Coffey, Wille Granitza, Ray Duffy, Ceth Williams, Ron Hart, Norman Horton and Paul Hatchman. Each and every one an emperor in their own right. Whilst the year past has certainly changed how 16 Air Assault Brigade has gone about its business, it has given no quarter in the operational and training demands upon the Squadron. We have deployed soldiers and officers under silk canopies to Ukraine, supported the validation of the Brigade HQ, 2 and 3 PARA and, as I write, we are planning a full-scale overseas training exercise in Cyprus. Our soldiers continue to impress across technical, military and physical pursuits, bringing a formidable balance of professional competence and good humour. As always, Caythorpe seeks to be a celebration our heritage and shared ethos. The village fete will run throughout Saturday with the Airborne Signals Reunion Dinner at Caythorpe Court that evening. The following day the serving Squadron will march through Caythorpe, hopefully joined as ever by our veterans, as a pre-cursor to our remembrance service. On a personal note, the writing of this letter represents a bitter-sweet duty as I prepare to relinquish command of 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron in July to Major Liam Crane. Commanding our Squadron has been the greatest priviledge of my career and something I have aspired towards since I first stepped foot in Merville Barracks. I have loved every minute of it, and am forever grateful for the unwavering support of the veteran community as I move to the back benches and join you in supporting my successor as he takes the Squadron forward at pace. Please mark the Caythorpe dates (3-5th September) indelibly in your diary and let’s imbue this year with all the mounting anticipation since we last met. As ever, Margaret will keep us all on the straight and narrow with the detail accompanying this letter. Go to it…. Monday 10 May2021 - Worcestershire
Webmaster comments More details in Newsletters - to follow |
| Chris WHITE | Chris~DOT~debs~AT~hotmail~DOT~co~DOT~uk |
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Wo1 Andy DUUN posted on the Squadron Facebook page yesterday that he had spent the afternoon ringing around and that Caythorpe Weekend is on this year. Weekend of 3rd September. Let’s all support this great weekend.
Sunday 25 April2021 - Bournemouth
Webmaster comments Thanks for the input Chris, we will be contacting Andy for further details - watch this space. |
| Tom Whiting |
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Hi All, Looking at the Fort Paull website for an update on what had happened to their Beverley I was please to find out that it has been saved by an anonymous benefactor and Martyn Wiseman Managing Director of Condor Aviation. Somewhere I have some photos of myself, Ron Hart, Bob Taylor, Tom Moorehouse and Mick Watkiss amongst others, formed up in a mock stick in the boom which I'll send to the webmaster when I locate them. Sorry to hear Caythorpe has been cancelled again. May be see you all there next year. Regards Tom Saturday 24 April2021
Webmaster comments Good news Tom - must Google Fort Paull https://www.blackburnbeverley.co.uk/the-project |
| Terry Brown | terryvivbrown~AT~virginmedia~DOT~com |
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Happy St George's Day everyone.
Friday 23 April2021 - Whitley Bay
Webmaster comments Likewise Terry - Take Care |
| Dave parker | watcot~AT~aim~DOT~com |
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Now Barnsey has been postponed hope to see a big turnout at Caythorpe fingers crossed. apart from usual aches an pain and a small dose of prostate cancer I'm looking forward to seeing you all.
Tuesday 20 April2021 - Halifax
Webmaster comments Good to hear from you Dave. We are not sure if Caythorpes will happen this year but will follow it up in the next few weeks. |
| alan Hogg | alan~DOT~hogg2~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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Hi Chris, You will have to use your left hand for the usual essentials Thursday 1 April2021 - Pateley Bridge
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| Chris WHITE | chris~DOT~debs~AT~hotmail~DOT~co~DOT~uk |
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Move to back Bournemouth went well. Two flies in the ointment. One Sky won’t fit my broadband or wi fi until the 9th so no comms on hardline or on line. No TV until the 19th. Sky have been aa real pain in the butt. Secondly I slipped on my driveway in Wales a couple of days before the move. I landed on my right shoulder which I injured while walking with the lads in the Lakes some years ago. As soon as I arrived in Bournemouth Christina and family said,DOCTORS. As a result of hospital visit the Doctor said one word. Surgery. No movement above right elbow. No golf which is a pain Stay Well All Chris Wednesday 31 March2021 - Bournemouth
Webmaster comments Good to hear from you Chris but sorry to hear about your little problems. |
| Vic Kelly | jokelly015~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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For Chris White - Hi, I see you have moved to Bournemouth - I live in Verwood nearby. Maybe we could have a chat sometime?
Friday 19 March2021 - Verwood, Dorset
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| Gary Denham | garydenham1949~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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Totally echo Saki's appreciation for Stan's (and Deanne's) efforts administering the reunion's. Great job both of you which I'm sure is much appreciated by everyone.
Friday 5 March2021 - Exeter, Devon
Webmaster comments Good to hear from you Gary |
| Alex Wilson | agw216~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Yes Keith, Dave K was out there with us, as far as l can remember so was Mick Killick, John Bailey, Tom Speakman, DK Jimmy Campbell, Mick Nash, John Tovey Maxi Williams, Jimmy Dillon and myself. As for when Tom left the Squadron no idea. Stay safe keep well and hope to see everyone at the new amended dates at Barnsley. Just to reiterate what Saki said "thanks again Stan."
Friday 5 March2021 - Lesta
Webmaster comments Yes Stan, I think we all appreciate yours efforts in these difficult times. |
| Dave Finer | davefiner216~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Cheers for the info Stan. We all understand what a proverbial pain in the bum these things are and we all appreciate all the work that you are doing behind the scenes on our behalf.Onwards and upwards Matey!! Saki
Thursday 4 March2021 - Hart Village Hartlepool
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| Keith Weller | keith~AT~keithweller~DOT~plus~DOT~com |
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2022 Reunion Date Change Dear Comrades AIRBORNE SIGNALS OLD COMRADES ASSOCIATION REUNION 2022 – HOLIDAY INN, BARNSLEY FRIDAY 20th MAY TO SUNDAY 22nd MAY 2022 The dates for the 2022 Reunion have unfortunately had to be changed once again. It was only on Tuesday that I was informed that the hotel had double booked for the 3/4th June and we would not be able to have all the facilities or rooms in the hotel which is totally unacceptable. The management were extremely apologetic but under the circumstances it was better to look at a new date. However, I have managed to secure the weekend of 20/22 May 2022 and can confirm that everything with regards to rooms, meals etc will all remain the same. If anyone is unable to attend on 20/22 May 2022 who has already booked accommodation at the Holiday Inn please do not cancel via the hotel. I would be grateful if you could let me know so that it can be reallocated to someone else who might be waiting for a room. Also, if you have already paid for your meal and require a refund because you are unable to attend on these dates please let me know and I will organise this for you. I will need your bank account details, Name of Bank, Account Number and Sort Code. If there is anyone who wishes to attend in 2022 that hasn’t already come forward please contact me on 01432 850045 or email to stan216@btinternet.com and I will send the necessary information to them. Regards Stan Thursday 4 March2021 - Worcestershire
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| Brian Earl | earlbrian933~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Does anyone have any up to date info on how Jack Turner is these days. Is he older than Tom Moorhouse?
Wednesday 3 March2021 - Ryton Tyne & Wear
Webmaster comments Jack does read the Guestbook from time to time. So Jack are you around and how old are you. |
| Alex wilson | agw216~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Re Tom Speakman was in Aden with us, the squadron det was split between 3 1 Para Companies (HQ Coy, C Coy, D Coy) all living on Radfan Camp but I think Tom was detached somewhere up towards the High Commissioners headquarters as we never saw him whilst out there. The only PFA lad I knew out there was Stumpy Walker.
Wednesday 3 March2021 - Lesta
Webmaster comments Nice to hear from you Alex, I recall you guys going to Aden, you took over from Bob Griff and Me who had been detached to D Coy for over a year. Was DK the Det Commander. So we are no nearer to finding Tom Speakman - when did he leave the Squadron. |
| Dave Finer | davefiner216~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Keith, sorry I don't recall the PFA guy.Only went to PFA for a very short time prior to transferring to RAMC and a nursing course.Saki
Sunday 28 February2021 - Hart Village Hartlepool
Webmaster comments Roger on that Saki - Take Care Mate |
| Dave Finer | davefiner216~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Correct about Tom Speakman Alan. Wasn't he commissioned into an infantry Regt. ? Saki
Saturday 27 February2021 - Hart Village Hartlepool
Webmaster comments Hi Saki, Do you happen to know he PFA man. Apparently Stan has no details for Tom. |
| peter pritchard | pritch087~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Ref your idea regarding a meet for us old codgers I am all for it Brian.
Saturday 27 February2021 - dewsbury
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| Alan Hogg | alan~DOT~hogg2~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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Hi Keith, wasn't Tom Speakman at the last reunion or the one before that? if so then maybe Stan has some contact details
Friday 26 February2021 - Pateley Bridge
Webmaster comments Thanks Alan, you may well be right. I'll have a word with Stan. Update, not on Stan's DB. |
| Robert Law | bob07971314267~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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I'm ex-23 PFA - 65/75, I'm looking for a Tom Speakman, who served in Aden 1967 with 1 Para. He was in the same tent as me - he spent hours and hours making two paper mache clown heads for his kids. They were immaculate. Love to i hear from him
Thursday 25 February2021
Webmaster comments Good to hear from you Robert, we won't hold it against you being 23 PFA !!! I remember Tom well from those days but I think I'm right in saying we haven't heard from him in recent years. so Tom if you are out there please get in touch. |
| Brian Earl | earlbrian933~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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I wonder how many of us will still be around next June.I will be trying to arrange a meet up for a few of us sometime after all the country is vaccinated.
Thursday 25 February2021 - Ryton. Tyne&Wear
Webmaster comments That's a nice idea Brian but I'm sure we all expect to see you next June. |
| Keith Weller | keith~AT~keithweller~DOT~plus~DOT~com |
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Message from Stan - 2022 Reunion Dear Comrades AIRBORNE SIGNALS OLD COMRADES ASSOCIATION REUNION 2022 – HOLIDAY INN, BARNSLEY FRIDAY 3/4th JUNE TO SUNDAY 5TH JUNE 2022 Due to the recent coronavirus update from the government it has been decided that the Reunion will once again not be taking place this year. The health and safety of our members and guests is a priority. Even this year it would not be possible for 100 plus people to sit for dinner, mingle in the bar or even share rooms with anyone other than direct family. I have managed to secure the weekend of 3/4th June 2022. The hotel has very kindly agreed to give us the same prices for the meal (same menu) and hotel rooms. If you have already sent in your choices of menu and paid that will be carried over to next year. Obviously, you will have forgotten what you have chosen but do not worry this will be listed on your table. For everyone who has booked rooms at the hotel these will be carried over to 2022 and as you are aware you will not be charged for your room until you leave on the Sunday 5th. Unfortunately, all the rooms are now taken at the Holiday Inn. Anyone who does not have a room booked at the hotel will have to book into alternative accommodation at the IBIS Styles Barnsley Hotel, telephone number 01226 729930 which is just up the road. I suggest you do this sooner rather than later because a lot of the hotels will be booked up quite quickly with wedding guests etc. that have had their functions postponed until 2022. If anyone is unable to attend on the 3/4th June 2022 that has already booked a room at the Holiday Inn please do not cancel your room I would be grateful if you could let me know so that it can be reallocated to someone else. If anyone is unable to attend and have already paid for their meal and require a refund, please let me know and I will organise this for you. I will need your bank account details: - • Name of Bank • Account Number • Sort Code I am emailing this to all of you who have already paid for their meals and booked rooms and it will also be on the website. For those who do not have an email address I will put in the post. If there is anyone who wishes to attend in 2022 that has not already come forward, please contact me on 01432 850045 or email to stan216@btinternet.com and I will send the necessary information to them. If anyone has recently changed their address, email or telephone number can they please let me know to keep the database up to date. Just all keep safe and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Regards Stan Wednesday 24 February2021 - Worcestershire
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| Brian Earl | earlbrian933~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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I was wondering how we stand for the reunion in June has anyone got any info?
Tuesday 23 February2021 - Ryton. Tyne&Wear
Webmaster comments I am checking with Stan - Standby |
| Phil Kirk | philkirk~AT~me~DOT~com |
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Does anyone remember a BOB HOOPER. Ex Sqn and 264. He is believed to be living in Newton Abbot (Being an ex boy) A mate of mine from 264 is looking to catch up with him
Saturday 20 February2021
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| Alan Hogg | alan~DOT~hogg2~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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You've had a tough few years Chris and a good deal of unhappiness, hope all goes well in Bournmouth, I believe its known as the retirement capital of the UK
Friday 19 February2021 - Pateley Bridge
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| Chris White | chris~DOT~debs~AT~hotmail~DOT~co~DOT~uk |
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Just a quick one to let you all know that I moved back to Bournemouth a couple of days ago. I have sold my house in Wales and just finishing off the purchase of a nice Town House within walking distance of the beach on the Westcliff. I had Tom down to my home in Wales for a couple of days before I left where we had a few drinks and a laugh or two. I read to him all of your messages both on this website and on the Sqn. FB page. Dave Catchpole who lives in Hereford and Ex SQN. is going to keep an eye on Tom and visit him on both a welfare and social basis. Tom send his thanks and best regards to all. Yr's Aye Chris Friday 19 February2021 - Homeless in Bournemouth
Webmaster comments Good news Chris, I hope you will be very happy in your new home. When are you taking holiday bookings!! |
| Gus Emery | kenemery~AT~btopenworld~DOT~com |
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Happy birthday Tom, I hope you had a good day and ended up singing The Spinning Wheel. Kept us entertained on many occasion
Thursday 18 February2021 - Hampshire
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| Noddy | tonymidge~AT~yahoo~DOT~com |
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Tom doesn't have access to guestbook but I am sure Chris will convey all your wishes.
Saturday 13 February2021 - Southport
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| Peter Whitehead | peterwhitehead403~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Well done Tom on reaching this milestone. If you recall you spent a little of the time asleep in my car! Peter
Friday 12 February2021 - Bredon, Worcestershire
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| Jake Wade | robertwade16~AT~yahoo~DOT~com |
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Congratulations Tom Hope we will still be around for your Centenary Stay Safe
Thursday 11 February2021 - The Black Country
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| Peter bibby | Peter-pambibby~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Congratulations Tom Moorhouse on reaching your 90th year.where have all the years gone.Pete Bibby
Wednesday 10 February2021 - Essex
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| Bernie McDonough | bbgonebiking~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Congratulations Tom Moorhouse 90 not out a impressive knock!
Tuesday 9 February2021 - Horsham West Sussex
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| Terry Brown | terryvivbrown~AT~virginmedia~DOT~com |
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Chris, please give Tom my good wishes and wish him a happy 90th birthday from me. Thanks.
Friday 5 February2021 - Whitley Bay
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| Alan Hogg | alan~DOT~hogg2~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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Well done Chris, wish Tom all the best from me
Friday 5 February2021 - Pateley Bridge
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| Chris White | chris~DOT~debs~AT~hotmail~DOT~co~DOT~uk |
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Hi Guys,s Just a quick heads up. It will be Tom Moorhouses 90th birthday on the 9th Feb. I have through a Hereford connection arranged for him to be visited and presented with one or two bottles of something he likes. Plus a birthdayCard from us all. Chris Thursday 4 February2021 - Llanelly Hill
Webmaster comments Well done Chris, give him my Best Wishes |
| Noddy | tonymidge~AT~yahoo~DOT~com |
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Hello everyone, had my second jab on 8th Jan and same as flu jab no ill effects"yet" don't expect any. Stay well everyone and don't refuse the vaccine.
Tuesday 19 January2021 - southport
Webmaster comments I guess age has some advantages !!! Stay well. |
| Terry Brown | terryvivbrown~AT~virginmedia~DOT~com |
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Whitley Bay still on the map. Got my letter today for jab.Hope everybody is surviving this damned time. Being sheltered Viv and I have managed some small walks. Stay safe.
Tuesday 19 January2021 - Whitley Bay
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| Brian Earl | earlbrian933~AT~gmail~DOT~com |
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Alex you need more than practice far better take up knitting. All well up here in Gods country hope to see you all at Barnsley. Tuesday 19 January2021 - Ryton. Tyne&Wear
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| Alex wilson | agw216~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Letting you all know that I'm still around and keeping well apart from being bored,here in Leicester we've been stuck with 2xlock downs and tiers 3.and 4 for most of the year.getting out for a few walks unfortunately without my golf clubs. Hope you're all keeping safe and well.looking forward to seeing you all at the reunion.take care. Geordie.
Monday 18 January2021 - Leicester
Webmaster comments Good to hear from you Alex, sorry to hear about your lack of golf I guess you need the practice!!! Take Care |
| Paul Richardson | francolab~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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I remember Maj Benjamin, Captain 2 i/c the squadron in 59 when first I saw him. Quite a character, small man with a large moustache. Another airborne warrior left the parade. RIP Maj Benjamin.
Saturday 2 January2021 - North York Moors
Webmaster comments I was still at school in 59 !!! |
| Keith Weller | keith~AT~keithweller~DOT~plus~DOT~com |
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Major J.E. Benjamin R. Signals - It is with deep regret we announced the death of John Benjamin who was 2IC of 16 Indep Para Bde Sig Sqn from 1958 -60, died on 8 December 2020 age 87; the funeral has already taken place. Thursday 31 December2020 - Worcestershire
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| Alan Hogg | alan~DOT~hogg2~AT~btinternet~DOT~com |
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Good to know that Squadron spirit has helped Gus, your loss makes Boris, Brexit, and Corvid seem so insignificant.
Saturday 26 December2020
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| Gus Emery | kenemery~AT~btopenworld~DOT~com |
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Hello all, we held Liz's funeral a week ago and I would now like to thank everyone who left such kind messages and also those who telephoned me. I really cannot say how much they were appreciated both by myself and the Children. The Squadron was represented by Rex and Ann couch at the Service and by Pete and Pam Bibby together many others by Zoom. As an 18 yr old when I completed my Pre Para and as an 80 yr old now I cannot explain how the Airborne Sprit first attracted me and now still sustains me all these years later. On behalf of myself and my children Thankyou and have yourself a Merry Christmas and a much improved 2021
Saturday 26 December2020 - Hampshire
Webmaster comments Take Care Gus and lets hope for a better 2021. |
| Bob O'Hara | bobnmau~AT~hotmail~DOT~com |
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Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hoping to see many of you this year. Bob & Maureen
Friday 25 December2020 - North Hykeham
Webmaster comments Thank you Bob +Take Care |
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