The 109th Anniversary of the 1st Battle of the Marne Association event was the best ever and we have been going for 20 years! Due in great part to having serving Fusiliers with us. The interaction between them and the veterans was heartening and enjoyable to be part of. The weather was also brilliant and almost too warm with temperatures in the high 30’s.

 

Departing from Balham on 8 Sept we travelled to Epernay in France and there was the usual mix between the moving ceremonies where we commemorated the BEF and our French allies success in defeating the invading German armies, and of course remembering the fallen, and the very happy social comradeship element of the event. We dined - and drank - splendidly together.

 

The latter doubtless due partly to the hot weather!

Ceremonies at La Ferte sous Jouarre, Sezanne and the main one at Mondement were attended. All were splendid. Again it was confirmed by our French hosts that no other regiments attend like we do. A great tribute to the regiment. Driving in our coach to ceremonies is always a pleasure due to the lovely Marne Region countryside proliferated with champagne vineyards.

 

A tired but happy party returned home on 11 Sept after a brilliant long weekend.

 

Next year’s dates are 5-9 September. While assembling the 2024 party will start early next year in earnest, expressions of interest are welcomed now when questions can be answered.

 

Wives/partners welcome and the cost is not dear. The costs of the trip are rising like all others these days and receipt of grants to offset them help enormously. RHQ are most generous as the event meets their objectives and we were very grateful to also receive a £1000 grant from the Branch this year. It is hoped that on the strength of the event’s ever ongoing success reported above that this will be repeated.

 

Richard Adams

07961 452182

mondement1@gmail.com