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H.M.S. President
Old Hands Association
Events and Activities
November Ceremonies
Each year, Old Hands gather at Trinity Square Gardens to attend commemorative ceremonies honouring those who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars. Following the ceremonies, a toast is made to the fallen in the Liberty Bell. HMS President is also represented at the Chatham Lines Naval Memorial, where several of our shipmates are remembered.
HMS Fittleton
Every September, Old Hands are joined by serving members of HMS President's ship's company in a moving ceremony to remember the twelve shipmates and friends who, on the 20th September 1976, lost their lives aboard HMS Fittleton.
Meetings
The Association meets regularly at HMS President for informal gatherings, providing members and former shipmates with an opportunity to meet, reminisce, and “swing the lamp”. In addition to these social meetings, Annual General Meetings (AGMs) and luncheons are also held at HMS President. Dates and full details of all events are circulated to members through the OHA newsletter.
Informal meet-ups also occur, where old shipmates who have reconnected get together outside the Association. These gatherings provide an opportunity to renew friendships, share memories and experiences, and strengthen the bonds formed during service. They also help maintain a sense of camaraderie and belonging, ensuring that former shipmates remain connected and supported long after they have retired.
Special Interest Groups
Walking Groups
We have a very active walking group, in recent years there have been members taking part in; The Waendle Walk, Iepers 100KM, Airborne March (Arnhem), Falklands March (UK) March in March (Combat Stress), Malvern Challenge, Blankenberge ( Belgium) and Boras (Sweden). Plus others. Interested? The blog will have details of any events that members are attending, However, the facebook page promotes a far broader range of events.
History Group
Do you have an interest in the unit’s history? If so, follow the Face to a Name Facebook page, where research is actively taking place to preserve and explore the unit’s heritage. Current research is focused on the shipmates who lost their lives during the Great War, seeking to uncover their stories, service, and sacrifice. By putting a face to a name, these projects help ensure that their memories and contributions are not forgotten and that future generations can better understand the lives of those who served before us.
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