There have been a succession of major military anniversaries in recent years, including Falklands 40, Battle of the Atlantic 80 and D-Day 80, all of them enthusiastically supported by members of the Royal Naval Association.
But this year also marks a significant anniversary for the RNA itself. The Association is celebrating its 75th anniversary and the RNA75 theme will run through both regular gatherings and involve some very special events.
The first of the five major dates is the Conference of Naval Associations (CONA) gathering at the Princess Royal Gallery in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on Friday 28 March.
CONA is a forum in which Naval associations both large and small can discuss matters of common concern, share comradeship, encourage participation in commemorative events and promote co-operation.
There are around 100 active Naval associations, of which the RNA is the largest, acting as the elected leader and executive for the CONA group. Although not a membership organisation, a list of participating organisations is kept by Malcolm Little at the RNA – contact him on dcos@rnassoc.org if you would like your association to be part of CONA.
This event is followed on Saturday 3 May by the annual iconic Army v Navy rugby clash at Twickenham, for which the RNA has been chosen as the official charity of the day. Discounted tickets for access to the RNA section of the stadium and private bar, are available here. Rugby is the sport of beauty and courage, and the RNA will be inviting WWII veterans, celebrities and, of course, all its members to join in the excitement of the day.
Following the National Conference, the fourth major event is the Biennial Parade of Naval Associations in London, organised by the RNA, which will see Naval veterans parade down Whitehall to the Cenotaph on Sunday 14 September to pay their respects to those who serve and have served, and to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
This occasion is open to all Naval associations, and usually features serving Naval personnel as well as overseas organisations such as Belgian and Irish veterans.
The final set-piece of RNA75 will be a charity fundraising concert at the Guildhall in Portsmouth featuring Fisherman’s Friends, which will also include a Royal Marines Band and the newly formed RNA Choir.
RNA CEO, Bill Oliphant said:
“The RNA’s 75th anniversary year is going to be one to remember. Particular high points for me are the Army v Navy Rugby match at Twickenham in May, and the Charity Concert featuring The Fisherman’s Friends in Portsmouth in October.
“We are looking forward to another great year of growth for the Association, especially hoping to recruit members from the serving community and veterans of working age.”
Details for each event will be publicised closer to the time – keep an eye on Navy News, and RNA newsletters and social media.