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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Stuart Gillespie

Special ceremony marks Armed Forces Day at Castle Douglas British Legion

A special ceremony took place at Castle Douglas Legion to mark Armed Forces Day.

It saw the dedication of the new Legion Standard, carried by Betti Ginnelly, and the blessing of two plaques.

Situated on the benches, they are in memory of Flight Lieutenant Mary Waugh and Sergeant David Willison. This part of the service was carried out by Rev David McHale.

There were then a series of presentations, led by Legion president Ian Mather who read out “thank yous” and the achievements of the retiring officers of the branch.

The first presentation was to Barbara Murray for all her hard work in different roles, including secretary, and her tireless work with the SSAFA charity.

Standard bearer Betti Ginnelly (John Scott Photography)

Former branch chairman Ian Munro was also honoured for his contribution as was Eric Montgomery, who was commander of Castle Douglas Armistice Day parade for more than 30 years.

And there was also recognition for Lt Col Alan Murray for his efforts as president, which included overseeing the refurbishment of the club and taking on many SSAFA cases. In recognition for all his hard work, he was given honorary presidency of the club.

The region’s Armed Forces champion Archie Dryburgh also made presented of a military coin to the council’s communities director, Derek Crichton, for all his help supporting Archie with his work
with the military.

Ian Munro is presented with his honour by The Lord Sinclair (John Scott Photography)

The branch was honoured to have Lord Lieutenant of the Stewartry, The Lord Sinclair, in attendance to help with the presentations.

Thanks also go to Rev David McHale, Betti Ginnelly, Col Sweeney, Daisy Coventry, Jason Hunter, Lorraine Widdowson and the committee, as well as Steven Dill for his help with the organisation and Amanda Burney for the food for the afternoon tea.

Mr Mather said: “I would like to extend my gratitude to each and every person who came and supported us on this important occasion at Castle Douglas Legion, my humble thanks to you all once again for your continued support.”

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