I WOULD be most grateful for your help in making a 'call to arms' to all veterans of the Glosters who served in Korea (1950-1953).
On Saturday, April 7, in Gloucester, the Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regiment (RGBW) is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Imjin River; members of 29 Brigade and the 1st Battalion of the Gloucestershire Regiment fought in heroic defensive and rearguard action over four days (April 22 to 25, 1951) against an overwhelming force of Chinese.
The programme will include a service in Gloucester Cathedral, where the cross that the commanding officer of the 1st Battalion, Colonel Carne VC, carved in captivity, is on display, together with the Colours of the Glosters. The new Regiment will exercise its Freedom Rights by marching through the city with the mayor of Gloucester, accompanied by the Colonel in Chief, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, and the Deputy Colonel in Chief, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, taking the salute. We are keen to see many former members of the Regiment who served in Korea – not just Imjin veterans – with us.
The event on April 7 is very much a celebration for the Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regiment. It will also mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Copenhagen were the 49th Foot (later to form part of the Royal Berkshire Regiment) fought so gallantly, and the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Alexandria; in Egypt on March 21, 1801, when the 28th (North Gloucestershire) earned the right to wear the Back Badge – a unique honour which is carried forward by Cadets, Territorials, Regulars and Association members of today's Regiment.
You will appreciate that Saturday, April 7, is going to be a very special day. Any Korean veterans who would like to join us should contact – RHQ RGBW (Salisbury), The Wardrobe, 58 The Close, Salisbury SP1 2EX (01722 414536) or [email protected]">[email protected]