On Sunday the 5th October the band of 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron Air Training Corps had the honour of leading the procession as the Bedworth Branch of the Royal British Legion paraded their old standard through the streets of their home town for the last time.

The Air Cadet Band led the parade of Standard bearers and ex-service veterans from across the county as they made their way from the Bedworth Ex-Serviceman's club to All Saints Church for the Dedication service of a new Bedworth Branch Standard.

During the service the Bedworth Branch of the RBL proudly handed over their old Standard to the Rector for safe keeping in the Church. The New Standard was then unfurled and placed on the altar for the Service of Dedication. As the congregation stood in silence, bugler Amiee Easterlow of the Air Cadet band played the Last Post as the standards were dipped in salute to fallen comrades. The Silence was broken as Amiee sounded the Reveille after which the new branch standard received the final blessing before it was presented to the branch Standard Bearer.

Following the service the band of 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron led the way as the Bedworth Branch of the Royal British Legion proudly paraded their new Standard through the streets of Bedworth for the first time.

Flt Lt Ian Crewe Officer Commanding 121 Squadron said, "We are always glad to be able to take part in these events especially those of the Royal British Legion with whom we are affiliated. It's important that we involve our young people in the work of the British Legion so they can continue to pass on the message to others. The Band put on an outstanding performance which was even more impressive when you consider how nasty the weather was on Sunday. Thankfully the rain held off on the way to the church and the sun even put in an appearance when we paraded the new Standard through the streets after the service."

The Royal British Legion was created to preserve the spirit of fellowship and service to others formed by all ranks and to maintain, in a strong, stimulating, united comradeship, all those who have served in H.M. Forces, or Auxiliary Forces or who are still serving so that neither their efforts nor their interests shall be forgotten; and that their welfare and that of the dependants of those who died in the service of their country may be safeguarded; and that just and equitable treatment shall be secured to them in respect of the difficulties caused in their lives as a result of their service.

121 Squadron ATC is affiliated to the Nuneaton & Stockingford branch of the Royal British Legion.

Article Submitted by:-
Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAFVR(T) 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron
06 Oct 08