Dunkirk Little Ships Annual Veterans Cruise
13 September 2009
The Association of Dunkirk Little Ships (ADLS) is searching for World War 2 Veterans, and particularly those from the Dunkirk and D-Day landing operations, to join them for their annual Veterans Cruise on the River Thames, which takes place this year on Sunday 13 September.
The ADLS is an association formed from current owners of Little Ships that were involved in the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk in May 1940, their object being to keep afloat for as long as possible as many as possible of the original Little Ships; to secure for them the honour to which they are entitled; and thereby to preserve "The Spirit of Dunkirk".
The Veterans Cruise takes place in Surrey between Kingston-on-Thames and Weybridge and departs at approximately 10.00 am from Horse Fair Quay, Kingston Bridge. After transit of Molesey and Sunbury locks along the route, it will arrive at Weybridge Mariners Club around 1.00 pm, where veterans are hosted for lunch before returning to Kingston in authentic World War 2 vehicles.
The ADLS Ships are supported by the Royal Navy who provide Officers and Ratings to help with manning of the participating Little Ships (RN crews helped man the Little Ships at Dunkirk), and local SCC Units whose Officers and Cadets assist with berthing of the ships in the locks and provide an escort vessel for the initial leg of the journey.
Mr Ian Gilbert, Event Co-ordinator for ADLS, said 'There is no doubt that the annual Veterans Cruise is a unique event. The combination of the Veterans, the Little Ships, Civic Leaders, serving RN Personnel, Cadets, Re-enactors, classic military vehicles and an enthusiastic public response makes for a unique and emotive spectacle'.
Applications for attendance at the 2009 Veterans Cruise are welcomed from all World War 2 Veterans and should be made to Mr Ian Gilbert, who can be reached on 07515 026970, or via e-mail papillon1930@yahoo.com. Dress for the day for attending veterans is blazer and medals.
Well-wishers are most welcome to line the route during the day and cheer on the ships and their embarked veterans, and are ensured a hearty response.
Further information can be obtained from Mr Ian Gilbert as above in the first instance, or from Warrant Officer1 Mick Gentry Royal Navy on 07977 982110 or e-mail nr-ee-arm2@rncareers.mod.uk.
