Read more about the 74 Squadron:

www.74squadron.org.uk/History.htm

www.the-battle-of-britain.co.uk/squadrons/74sqn.htm

The first mention of black drummers in history is in 1759, when 8 or 10 boys taken at the surrender of Guadeloupe were presented by Admiral Boscawen to his brother who was commanding the 29th at that time.

However, it appears that even if these drummers arrived as slaves, they enjoyed a respectable standing within the regiment and retired as free men.

Further reading can be found at:

http://www.worcestershireregiment.com/black_drummers.php

Empire Day was first introduced in Canadian schools in 1898 and celebrated on the last school day before 24th May, Queen Victoria's birthday.

Empire Day was adopted by the UK in 1904 and extended throughout the countries of the Commonwealth.

In 1958 Empire Day was renamed Commonwealth Day, in accordance with the new post-colonial relationship with the nations of the former Empire.

The Commonwealth of Nations consists of 54 countries across all six inhabited continents.

International Women's Day - 8th March has been observed since the early 1900's, and is now a global celebration with many countries marking the occasion with a national holiday.

There is at least one inspirational woman in every family. A Grandmother, Mother, Sister or Daughter. Sadly, all too often their contributions to life outside of family matters are either deemed unimportant or under-estimated.

"There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer"

A family that sticks together no-one will ever quell.

The Defence of Fiji, World War II

www.interneg.com/fortress_fiji.htm

Vinaka Fiji

Jamaican Scientist Dr Lawrence Williams is being celebrated on the international stage for finding an effective treatment for some types of cancer. Following more than 13 years of study the Jamaican's discovery has the potential to fight various kinds of cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, and breast cancer.

Read more at http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20101202/lead/lead4.html

With effect from 30 November 1966, the Barbados Independence Act 1966 (c. 37) was an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom that granted independence to Barbados.

...Barbados still remains loyal to the United Kingdom.

More details about the history of Barbados can be viewed HERE.

Lieutenant-General Sir Thomas Maitland (1759 - 1824) was the Commander-in-Chief of the British expeditionary force to Saint-Domingue and a Colonel of the British 10th West India Regiment (1798 – 1802). "He was an able if unscrupulous man, an experienced and crafty soldier who later became Governor of Malta."

P.S. ...and the West Indians!

Click the above image for more figures.