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Royal British Legion Paderborn Branch 20^th Anniversary

By Robert Millar

The Royal British Legion Paderborn Branch was formed in February 1986 and was originally located in the Superintendents’ Mess, Horrocks Barracks.  The Branch celebrated its 20^th Anniversary with a BBQ in its present home, Dempsey Barracks on Sunday, September 3. 

A magic show was laid on for the Children by the guest magician, Stefan Kluwe who was only too happy to demonstrate his talent for such a worthy cause.  

The official guests were Robert Lacey, Royal British Legion District of Germany Chairman and his Wife Jenny.  Robert presented some well deserved awards to the following members for their devotion to the Poppy Appeal for the last 20 years:   Ex Blues and Royals soldier Edward Isaacs who was Treasurer of the Branch for 18 years after serving as the Secretary for a short period; Larry Ardis, Ex Royal Irish Rangers, former Standard Escort; Helga Griffiths who is very active within the Branch and continuously supports the Chairman who just happens to be her husband; Brigitte Davis, former Branch Secretary and present Welfare Secretary.   The awards consisted of a Branch Poppy Appreciation Certificate and Poppy Appeal Brooch for 20 years service.

Jim Griffiths MBE, Branch Chairman also received the same awards.  In his introduction the Branch Secretary, Robert Millar said that it was important to stay focused and remember the Legion’s Mission.  The British Legion was formed in 1921.  The Poppy which was the only flower to bloom and survive the devastation of the Flanders Battlefield in WW1 became a symbol of hope and was adopted by many countries throughout the World as a symbol of remembrance.  In the Paderborn area there are many ex-service personnel and dependants that need help.  All personnel that received the awards deserved full recognition and praise for their efforts.  However, there is a driving force behind the Branch in the shape of Jim Griffiths.  Jim has been the Branch’s Chairman, Welfare coordinator and Poppy Appeal Organiser for the last 20 years and has received many awards for his services to the Legion; including, a Regional Committee Germany Poppy Appeal Certificate, a Certificate and Brooch from the Royal British Legion National Council, a District of Germany Certificate, GOC 1(UK) Armd Div Commendation, and an MBE.

The District Chairman, Robert Lacey presented the Branch with the Noel Rogers Trophy.  This award is given to the Branch outside the UK that raises the most money for the Poppy Appeal.  Paderborn Branch has won this award for the third year in a row.  Robert said that being a member contributes towards helping those in need and urged those present to continue their invaluable support.  The Branch has raised approximate ₤210,000 in its 20 years service.  Jim Griffiths said that he would like to thank all those that had supported the Branch including; Punchlines, Sixth-Sense, BFBS, and members of Paderborn Garrison.  It is their support that has helped to make the Branch so successful.

Photo by Simon Hogben

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