The Rifles, Light Infantry, and Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Regimental Memorial Service was held on Saturday 3 October 2020.
The annual service and lunch, which is attended by Riflemen, families of the fallen, members of the Forming and Antecedent Regiments, Cadets, and civic dignitaries from our Freedom towns, is usually held in the Regimental Chapel in York Minster and followed by lunch at York Racecourse. This year due to Covid-19 restrictions the event went ahead albeit virtually streamed on Zoom from Doncaster Minister.
Padre Rev Andrew Martlew conducted the service with just the Rifles Regional Secretary Capt (Retd) Bob Roberts, and Bugler Peter Bates present in the Minster. Readings, via Zoom, were given by Col (Retd) Joe Charlesworth KOYLI, and Capt Ben Clare OC Y Coy 8Rifles.
Guests which included Andrew Coombe the Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, Mayors from each of the Freedom towns of Doncaster, Leeds, Kirklees, and Wakefield, and Cadets from Yorkshire N&W ACF, joined past and serving members of The Rifles, and Association members.
We were pleased that Fred Adamson, who will be 101 years old in November, was able to join the service and was given a special mention by General Charlie Collins.
After the service General Collins gave an update on everything Rifles.
The video from the service can be view here.
Following the service the following congratulatery messages were received:
From Andrew Coombe - Lord Lieutenant South Yorkshire
Thank you for inviting me to be part of this special Memorial Service. It is always a pleasure to have the opportunity to commemorate all those who fought for our Country and those who made the ultimate scarifice. I trust you all stay safe and well.
From Brig (Retd) Jim Parker Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry and LI
Hello Bob, I’ve tried to include those whom I know had a hand in making such a success of the online Memorial Service and Lunch plan that you circulated – I apologise to others I have omitted. This is a short note of thanks to you all for putting on a poignant yet friendly virtual substitute for the annual Minster service and lunch. It meant a lot to those who tuned in to enjoy and participate. And needless to say, it was straight out of the regimental drawer by yielding to none in times of real adversity. Very many thanks to all involved. Best wishes, Jim Parker.
From Stephen Earl - Judge and Trustee
Graham, Andrew, and Colin - many thanks
From Ian Sawers - Retired Light Infantry Officer
Excellent comms and thank you Graham
From WO1 RSM Austin Butler - Yorkshire N&W ACF
Thank you for allowing me to attend - it has been an absolute privilege.