Page 141 - Chronicle Vol 17

In June, we launched our Dealing with Disaster exhibition, which highlights the British Army’s role in natural disaster relief and explores how the Army works internationally to help rebuild communities most affected by extreme weather events and natural disasters.
In October, Bodmin Keep hosted the rededication of the US 29th Infantry Division memorial plaque with a service of remembrance for the 3,533 soldiers from The 29th killed in battle between 6 June 1944-8 May 1945, the Allied victory in Europe. Funds to replace the memorial were provided by The 29th Division Association, and Association member, Susan Kearney, travelled from the United States to be a part of the ceremony.
Also in October, the Bodmin Keep team had the privilege of attending the annual Lucknow Dinner at the Kilbirnie Hotel, Newquay, organised by the DCLI, SCLI, LI and Rifles Association Cornwall.
Finally, this autumn staff, trustees and volunteers at Bodmin Keep have been working on an interpretation strategy with Consultant, Ben Gammon, as part of a large-scale redevelopment programme to improve the visitor experience and ensure a sustainable long-term future for the museum. Bledhen nowydh da! to readers of The Chronicle from all at Bodmin Keep.
If you’d like to learn more about our oral history project contact: helen.bishopste- phens@bodminkeep.org.uk
DEVON & SOMERSET – FREEDOM OF EXETER & WELLINGTON (CONCENTRATING ON THE NEW FREEDOM OF WELLINGTON)
On Saturday the 17th June 2023 The Rifles reaffirmed their Freedom of Exeter as well as took part in Exeter’s Armed Forces Day. This was followed by parade to receive the Freedom of Wellington in Somerset. The Exeter parade stepped off at 1100 hrs and was joined by many other marching contingents from across the Exeter community. The Rifles Freedom Parade was made up of 5 & 6 RIFLES as well as the Devon ACF and members of The Devonshire and Dorset Association. Making up the remaining part of the Armed Forces Parade were The Royal Marines, The Royal British Legion and Sea Cadets to name but few.
The Colonel Commandant of The Rifles, Lt General TR Copinger-Symes CBE along with the Lord Mayor of Exeter, Councillor Kevin Mitchell and Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Sir Andrew Peter Ridgway KBE, CB, KStJ, DL took the salute and carried out inspections of the marching contingents.
After beers & pasties there was a quick dash up the M5 to Wellington where the regiment received the Freedom of the town, stepping off at 1400 hrs with the
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