Over 100 veterans came together for the first time since 2019 in Carlisle.
Former soldiers with the the Border Regiment, King’s Own Royal Border Regiment, and currently the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment met with colleagues from regimental veterans from across the UK for the Fontemoy weekend.
This year, veterans were back on parade forming up at Carlisle Castle, their ancestral home, and marching through to the Cathedral for a service of thanksgiving.
This was followed by a formal inspection back at the castle by the Deputy Colonel of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, Colonel Andrew Kennedy.
On Sunday, a new memorial was commissioned by a former soldier from the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment David Israel, on behalf of the local Regimental Association.
The plaque is dedicated to all those who served in the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment including the 1st and 4th battalions, the Army Cadet Force and other parts of the Army attached to the Regiment such as the REME, Army Pay Corps, Army Catering Corps and Adjutant General’s Corps, plus the civilian support staff and the ever-present and supportive families who played a vital part within the regimental family.
Dave said: “It is fitting that we have this memorial to remember all those who served and were connected to the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment. This is for the men, women, and families of all ranks who made an enormous contribution to our country. Sadly, some paid the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving with the regiment.’
The plaque has been installed in Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life, based in Alma Block within Carlisle Castle, alongside other regimental memorials.
Jules Wooding, museum manager, added: “We are delighted that the association has commissioned this wonderful memorial to the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment and that it has been placed alongside other historical memorials providing a focal point for people for many years.”
The memorial was made by Sam Tait, of Complete Engineering Services based in Crosby-on-Eden, who worked with Dave to design the plaque. Sam spent many hours of painstaking work to ensure the memorial was of a high standard.
Dave added: “It was a privilege to undertake this task for and on behalf of the Carlisle branch of the Regimental Association. Sam has done a first-rate task of taking our idea and making it a reality. We cannot thank him enough.”
