Having been a member of the Association for around 3 years. I have slowly been taking part in a few of the events that have taken place.

We missed last year’s “Operation Market Garden battlefield tour in 2023, We were keen to take part in the next tour. Once the tour was announced “Battle of the Bulge WWII”, and finally put our names down, all seats were sold. However, someone had dropped out, so we were more than happy to go.

The build up to going was slight apprehension for Jackie feeling that she wouldn’t know anyone. Well, what a surprise this was, as we arrived at Stafford, she was greeted by old friends from our time in the RAF. Plus as the trip went on it was great to feel how welcoming & friendly everyone was. New friends were gained from which Jackie has been in contact with. It goes without saying – It was like being back with old mates in the extended family we left so many years ago. Many laughs were had and many memories shared.

This trip was our first tour, and it goes without saying that we fully enjoyed the places we went to. So much more was seen and learnt. We can add that, if we had not  taken part in this trip and went on our own, we would not have seen and listened to stories of so many events that took place in the area during WWII.

We have already signed up for next year’s Mini-Cruise on the Queen Mary 2 and aim to attend other upcoming events that are planned.

It was extremely well organised, the coach & hotel were very good. So well done to those organisers.

Thank you and see you all soon.

Dave & Jackie Flaherty