Huntingdon RNA: Garden Party at Buckingham Palace
On Thursday 7th June 2018, seven shipmates from Huntingdon Branch attended a Royal Garden Party hosted by HRH The Princess Royal, Patron of the Not Forgotten Association. In April, S/M Martin Girvan had asked members of the branch if they would like to attend a garden party for the Not Forgotten Association if invited, all those expressing a desire to attend were delighted to receive informal (and subsequent formal) invitations.
Making our own way to the palace, shipmates met up in the garden at Buckingham Palace and awaited the arrival HRH Princess Anne. The playing of the National Anthem announced the arrival of the Princess Royal; many veterans (approximately 200) were lined up and were introduced to the Princess, who spoke at length to every one of them.
Whilst the princess was talking to the veterans, Huntingdon shipmates could enjoy sandwiches and light refreshments, the wives and partners were delighted to see that not only was Princess Anne at the Garden Party, but also a few celebrities had also been invited.
The band of HM Royal Marines were also present and gave a display of music and marching before a Beating the Retreat ceremony to close the afternoon.
With the formal part over, shipmates headed into town to enjoy a few alcoholic beverages before heading home or to their hotel. An excellent afternoon at the palace, shipmates thanked Martin Girvan for arranging this as a member of the Not Forgotten Association, everyone agreed it was an experience nobody will forget.
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To view more photos from the Royal Garden Party, click on the first (or any) image and use the scroll bars to view:
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