A.G.M. Thursday 29th April 2004
Chairman's Report.
Captain John Hart RN
Here is my first statement to you and my first attempt to follow the high standards that Lt.Cdr. George Drake set in his 3 years in the office. I had become accustomed to setting standards for my team but now it is me who must be on my best efforts to keep the quality up. But speaking of quality we have had a very good year with a full programme of lectures, a very successful Stag Lunch, a Golf Competition and above all a most impressive Trafalgar celebration. All this shows great promise for the future and by way of presentation I would like to set down a few words highlighting the high points and recognising any lows.
Turning first to the lecture programme. The subjects have all been appropriate to our objectives. All have had a maritime and South West flavour. Particularly I remember the detailed description of the plans for the new Type 45 Frigate given to us by Cecilia Landsdowne-Trist of BAE Systems. It certainly seems a most capable ship, perhaps not quite what we would expect of a frigate but certainly a master of its trade. Some critics might even say a jack of all trades but this will depend on the strategy of the MOD and the tactics of those lucky enough to get to drive one. We must remember that times and tasks have changed since we fought our wars either actively or passively as a balance of deterrence. Yes we still have a Submarine Service and Lt.Cdr. Aves returned to give us an update on how the refuelling and refitting facilities are progressing in Devonport. It must be a nightmare handling these advanced technical and highly dangerous activities so near to the heart of Plymouth. I am sure we wish them all well for as long as the Trafalgar Class boats serve.
Moving on to the Stag Lunch - a major success enjoyed by all those who attended and beautifully prepared and presented by the mess and its caterers. This is an ideal point for me to commend the mess and all the staff for their support of our flotilla, without this base and the superb service we would soon wither and slip into extinction. But we will not let that happen as long as we have an active membership and a welcoming home.
As to sport, many of us are past it, but Surgeon Commodore Robert Harland is there in 2 capacities - to care for our old bones and organise the Golf Competition. He managed very well in both roles this year and in spite of falling numbers of players the competition still goes on.
Finally I come to the rose in our crown the Trafalgar Day Service and Reception. This year Lt.Cdr. Gerald Newton worked tirelessly to get everyone in place on time and the balance was perfect. Unfortunately some discussion with the Precentor followed and we trust resolved difficulties between the participation of the choir and the Royal Marine Band. This resolution bodes well for this year, with a strong Roman Catholic presence and promises a great celebration of the bicentenary in 2005.
Three remaining matters. First it is our aim to make all functions self supporting in the firm hope that as many members as possible will participate and not be seen to be a burden on those who unfortunately cannot attend as often as they might wish. To enhance the attraction of functions like the Ladies Guest Night we would wish to follow the traditional pattern. However, on some occasions circumstances indicate minor modification and I am happy to discuss these in order to keep interest alive and give the maximum pleasure to the greatest numbers. The Summer Party is a case in point and I would urge you to plan your participation on 23 July.
Second none of us are getting any younger and it will fall to us all to slip off the perch at some stage. It is important that we remember friends at such a time and my feeling is that we should do this as soon after the event as possible. The alternative is to wait until the AGM, but then it may be long past event and who wants to be remembered as a member of a bus outing to the pearly gates, it is personal.
Just as an afterthought, I remember the visit of the retired Naval Officers
from Rennes and I still have in my mind a return visit perhaps with a maritime
theme. The thought was that we should challenge them to a sailing race - a Brixham
Trawler against a Breton Sloop circa 1870.
Finally I would like to turn to what was probably the most significant event
of the year - the RNVR/RNR Centenary Luncheon held in September. Regrettably
my own availability was only confirmed at the last moment, so Admiral Sir Ronnie
Forrest took the chair and entertained the principal guests, Commodore Ian Pemberton
RD** and Mr Eric Dancer, Lord Lieutenant of Devon. It was an excellent lunch,
in grand surroundings, with a particularly good turnout. Once again, my thanks
to all the staff in the mess.
That, gentlemen, concludes my report.