Christine and I had a delightful time celebrating Trafalgar Day with lunch at the Baytree Garden Centre. We were warmly welcomed alongside shipmates, their wives, and partners from the RNA Association Spalding Branch by Keith Crawford MBE Chairman, as well as other association members. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up with familiar faces, swap naval ditties, and share a few sea stories.
For those unfamiliar, Trafalgar Day, celebrated on October 21st, marks one of the most significant events in British naval history – the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. This famous battle took place off the coast of Cape Trafalgar near Cadiz, Spain, where Britain’s fleet, led by the legendary Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, triumphed over the combined forces of Spain and France. It was a time when the Navy’s mighty ships were made of wood, powered by sails, and lined with cannons. Nelson’s brilliant leadership secured a decisive victory, solidifying his place as one of Britain’s most famous war heroes.
As is customary, after the Chairman’s speech given here today by Keith Crawford MBE a tot of rum was offered to shipmates by Shipmate Terry Carter affectionately known as ‘Stokes’.
The atmosphere at Baytree Garden Centre was warm and lively, and we’re grateful to the staff for looking after us all so well. The camaraderie was as strong as ever, and it’s moments like these that remind me of the unique bond we share as former Navy personnel. There’s nothing quite like reliving those memories and celebrating the rich history of the Royal Navy together.
In my position as the Public Relations and Recruitment person for the Spalding Branch of the RNA, I am pleased to report that our membership figures are growing and the local branch is getting stronger and stronger each day. Once again, if there are any military personnel wanting to become a full member or an associated member of the RNA Spalding Branch, please contact me.
Until next year’s Trafalgar Day!
Rodney Grocock
rodney@rodneygrocock.co.uk