Permission to use the above photo given via http://travel.domnik.net/img-en/07dm-dominica/13/18.shtml

We all have commitments of one sort or another, often leaving us with limited time to do the things we really want to do. However where there is a will there is always a way and over the last few weeks we have utilized our time combining business with pleasure, attending 'Meaningful Meetings' and Networking with Colleagues'.

On Sun 7 Aug 2011, a Service of Praise and Thanksgiving on the Occasion of The 49th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence was held at the New Testament Church of God, Lozells, Birmingham UK.

It was a privilege to meet a few of the boys currently serving in the British Army standing alongside a veteran who served in the Warwickshire’s. 

The old and the young united in a common goal; to serve and protect the ‘Mother Country’ - men from Jamaica, Ghana and Zimbabwe.

Another successful day sharing stories and new ideas. Picture shows Alisha Evans, Councillor Peter Douglas Osborn, Debbie Gooding and John Evans - The Royal British Legion, and holding the Colours the son of a Windrush Pioneer.

Alisha and John revealed their Commonwealth family connection and have promised to share their historic links to Britain following their planned trip back to Fiji later this month.

Sometimes pictures speak louder than words.

The Royal British Legion, Perry Common No 1 Branch.

Photo's courtesy of Dave Gooding, Birmingham County Chairman.

Details of forthcoming events to follow, including launch of Poppy appeal, 29th October 2011.

[See Gallery for more photos]

http://www.barbados.org/garrison.htm

The Caribbean is steeped in British History and Barbados is no exception. During the 17th & 18th Centuries Barbados was an important military base which the British used to protect their interests in the southern Caribbean.

Barbados has the world's rearest collection of 17th Century English iron cannon.

Despite information being easily accessible through media coverage and the internet, the reason why Britain has such a diverse cultural population is still widely unknown.

For many years contributions and support given to Britain by West Indians and other Nations of the former Empire has been overlooked and kept out of the public domain. But not any longer!

The WAWI project was founded in 2009 with the publication of our book ' Why are West Indians in this Country?' Unlike many publications of this type it does not mark the end of our research but the beginning.

Horace receiving his Award for contributions to his local area and the wider community - presented by the Lord Mayor

17th July 2011.

Rev'd David Senior explains...

Horace was involved in speaking at his Uncle's funeral and remarked on his journey on the "Empire Windrush" in 1948. He reflected on the question "Why are West Indians in this Country?" and why there is little evidence and celebration of their contribution to Great Britians welfare and survival.

Thursday 7th July 2011, H and myself were invited to attend St Alban's Academy, Birmingham.

We addressed parents from Yemen and Somalia communities on the subject of Why West Indians are in this Country and to encourage them to consider how they themselves fit into British Society.

It was an informative and enlightening session as stories were exchanged with all those present. 

Why are West Indians in this country?

Britian called and they answered

Why are West Indians in this country?

England called and they answered

Why are West Indians in this country?

Mother Called and her Children Answered!