Page 57 - 1RHA 2023

1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery
Families Day 2023 WO2 Kavwenje O (HQ) Bty
On the afternoon of July 1, 2023, as the sky turned gold from the summer sun, the Tombs Road Pitches in Larkhill, exploded with music, laughter, friendship, and the spirit
of celebration, as the 1RHA Regimental Families Day had finally arrived, bringing together the families of the regiment to socialise together and to mark the coronation of HM The King in style.
The festivities began promptly at 1100 hours with bunting and Union Jacks emblazoned everywhere setting the mood for a great day. There can be no party without a delicious spread of food, friends and relatives gathered to feast on a variety of inter- national dishes prepared and cooked by soldiers of the Regiment and their families. Caribbean and Fijian cuisines added an exotic flavour, but pizzas and burgers satisfied everyone’s craving for comfort food and a hearty meal. The BFBS ice cream van cer- tainly kept the children happy too.
A live band played contemporary hits and some old favourites and there was a noticeable increase in energy as magician Ozzie
Wizzpop took the stage, especially among the younger audience members. The air rang with the sounds of children’s laughter, and limitless energy as they participated in a variety of fun activities and bounced endlessly on the bouncy castles.
The 1 RHA’s Family Day succeeded in its goals as the day faded and the golden hour cast a warm glow over the event. Free to all, funded by the Regiment and charities it is always important for the Regimental family to be included in our celebrations, not least with soldiers deployed oversees and others soon to follow. The most pleasing aspect was the obvious family’s aspect to the day with children in many ways the focus of the entertainment, with many running around with their faces painted as butterflies or lions, leaving the parents to enjoy themselves too. My personal highlight was the appearance of the MTWO and RFM in head-to- toe Union Jack 3 piece suits with matching top hats.
Our thanks go to The First Trust and the Royal Artillery Associa- tion for their generous contributions to the day.
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