Page 47 - The Gazette Autumn 2023

Sunlight illuminated the beautiful stained glass windows
Sunday 26 March 2023 saw the celebration of QARANC Day at St Columb’s Garrison Church, Theipval Barracks, Lisburn. Presiding over the Service were Padre Mervyn Jamison (253 Med Reg), and Padre Ian Gamble (204 (NI) Field Hosp).
After the Welcome and Opening Prayer, the Corps Hymn was sung. Verse two:
“The days of old have dowered us with gifts beyond all praise, Our father make us faithful, to serving the coming days.”
This reminded us of the ethos of the core to be strong and work to alleviate suffering of others, and to be men and women who feel called to serve in the ministry of healing with the Forces of the Crown.
The church was bathed in warm sunlight, illuminating several windows through the beautiful stain glass, as we made our way to the hall to enjoy our afternoon tea.
QARANC past and present members took the opportunity to reminisce, remembering old friends who had passed or were unable to attend.
During afternoon tea, members and relatives watched a picture slide show highlighting achievements and photos of events organised by the Northern Ireland QARANC Committee and both medical units in Northern Ireland .
Old members continued
to entertain us as we left with stories of previous events
The youngest children had their own little party table, they too enjoyed sweets and mini trifles whilst the grown-ups had a high afternoon tea, with beautiful music accompanying. Much praise was given to the three support members who served the tea and coffee and treats.
Old members continued to entertain us as we left with stories of previous events and services, whilst new members listened and agreed to help with upcoming projects.
After a very successful and very enjoyable afternoon, suddenly it was all over and plans were made for the next adventure.
LCpl Christine McCormick, 204 (NI) Field Hospital, Belfast
The Gazette QARANC Association 47
‘An Army must play to win’
The CGS Army Sports Awards celebrating sporting achievements in the Army was held in November last year at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
General Patrick Sanders highlighted that: “Sport is essential to the British Army; it develops fitness, instils cohesion, and fosters pride and team spirit in our soldiers. It sharpens the competitive edge that allows us to meet our core purpose, to protect the nation by being ready to fight and win wars on land. An Army must play to win.”
Four members of 204 Field Hospital, Lt Col Clark, Pte Katie Walker, Cpl McDougall and Major Tams Gregg were named Reserve Unit of the Year for a second consecutive year. The wide variety of sports ranged from orienteering, shooting, running, fishing, swimming, Bismarck Challenge and powerlifting.
Those taking part in the events, all earned points for attendance and involvement, agreeing that it truly does develop fitness, cohesion, pride, and team spirit.
Maj Tams Gregg
204 (NI) Field Hospital, Northern Ireland