Page 71 - Bugle Autumn 2024

AARP
GALA DINNER
In early May, at the Silverstone racetrack, the second Always A Rifleman Programme (AARP) Family Gala Dinner, which is part
of The Rifleman’s Association, was held to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the people who make the programme the success it is. Already in its third year the programme has conducted 44 interventions for members of our regimental family who have been in a severe crisis.
The evening was a spectacular success and held in the presence of the Colonel Commandant and compered by TV personality Paul Ross, with performances throughout the night from Gary Driscoll, the RIFLES Fijian Choir, the Dirty Half
One Hundred band and a DJ set
from Paul Ross himself, to wrap the
night up.
The AARP delivers support in
the first few hours of an emerging
crisis and paves the way to
wellness. It is proven to save lives. During the most challenging real-life problems, it provides face-to-face coaching, mentoring and mental health support. For veterans and their dependants of The Rifles or antecedent regiments, this is a dedicated service available 24/7.
The regiment would like to thank the leadership team, and everyone involved for the huge effort made in helping others. Prizes were presented by Lt Gen Tom Copinger- Symes after the programme lead, Lt Col (Retd) Baz Melia gave a moving speech
and introduction to each of the main award winners.
ROCKS SILVER STONE!
Endurance Award....................................................... Luke Nevin Outstanding Support Award................. Simon Booth-Mason Chen-See Award........................................................... Navanieli ‘B’ Bale Resilience Award........................................................Johanna Hrycak Overwatch Award....................................................... Kev Diggle
RIFLES The Bugle 71