22nd June 2013 marked the 65th Anniversary of the arrival of the SS EmpireWindrush. Yet in truth until 6 years ago I had no knowledge or understanding as to what Windrush was or meant. Thankfully that changed because of one person who has worked tirelessly uncovering England's Hidden History, educating a nation and teaching us all the true meaning of kinship.
Standards Paraded included:
- 4th WIR 1795 under the Crown of King George 3rd
- 1st WIR 1878 & 2nd WIR1877 under the Crown of Queen Victoria
- 1st WIR 1913 under the Crown of King George V - World War One
- BWIR 1915 under the Crown of King George V - World War One
- Trinidad Royal Naval Volunteer Reserves - World War Two
- The Strand of Colours of the Reformed WIR 1958 - 1962 under the Crown of Queen Elizabeth 2nd. These Colours were commissioned but never produced - until now.
The Standards were blessed by Rev'd Canon Eve of Holy Trinity Church and a wreath was laid in honour of those who brought Hope, Help and Friendship and as a reminder that strength lies in the ties that bind, rather than the differences our cultures bring.
The Standards were carried by both veterans and those currenly serving; representing the Army, Navy and RAF.
There are no words to express my feelings that day, however one thought crossed my mind; "If one person can achieve so much, working together what could all of our communities achieve?"
