The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity is proud to have supported the 50th-anniversary reunion of the 45 Commando Group Royal Marines, held in August 2024 at 45 Commando, RM Condor, Arbroath.
The event commemorated the unit's operational tour of South Armagh, Northern Ireland, in 1974 during Operation Banner, bringing together veterans, their families, and the families of fallen comrades for a meaningful weekend of remembrance, reflection, and reconnection.
This reunion gave 45 Commando Veterans an opportunity to honour the memory of comrades who died, such as Corporal Dennis Leach, Marine Michael Southern, Marine Neil Bewley (1977) and Sergeant William Corbett (1981), as well as an opportunity to reconnect with their past and gain a renewed sense of belonging.
For some, it was the first time they had set foot on the 45 Commando site in decades, and the experience was made truly special by the red-carpet treatment they received from the serving Royal Marines. For many, walking into the mess and being welcomed so warmly reminded them that they are still very much part of the Royal Marines family.
The reunion also offered practical and emotional support. Many of the veterans, who had not previously engaged with welfare services, were shown that it’s never too late to seek assistance. A dedicated presentation was held to highlight the range of support available to them and their families through various military and veteran organisations. The event helped to bridge the gap between those who had long felt disconnected from formal support systems and the modern welfare landscape.
Someone who attended said:
It’s never too late to access support
The RNRMC’s grant, supported by Greenwich Hospital, helped cover essential costs such as catering, ensuring that financial concerns did not overshadow the purpose of the reunion.
By supporting events like these, RNRMC and Greenwich Hospital continue to demonstrate their commitment to the welfare of the Naval family, particularly those who may not have known support was available to them.
