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From Norwich to the Chelsea Hospital

Posted 19/07/17

Norwich Branch has sadly had to say goodbye to one of their staunchest members and supporters, Colin Thackery, as he departed to London to become an In-Pensioner at The Royal Hospital, Chelsea.

Colin, a Korean veteran, who left the Royal Artillery as an AIG (Instructor in Gunnery) made the decision to apply to the RHC, following the passing of his dear wife Joan, last December and after going through the process of application, was accepted there and moved into his new Berth on July 3rd.

A leaving party was arranged for him by some of his fellow thespians, as Colin was a keen member of an acting/singing group and has performed for many years in various plays and musicals, even appearing as a pantomime Dame, on occasion.  He is also a great raconteur.

A Certificate of Appreciation from the Royal Artillery Association, Norwich Branch, was presented to Colin for all his hard work and contribution to the Branch over the last 46 years.  Unfortunately, the Chairman was unable to attend this event and in his absence, the award was presented by the Branch Secretary, Herbie Slaughter.

Colin was very active in the Royal Artillery Association, regularly attending the Remembrance Day Parade at the Cenotaph in London and also Gunner Sunday at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in his role as Standard Bearer. 

He will be sorely missed at Norwich as he was always willing to help and support wherever and whenever he could.  Apart from his role within the Branch, he assisted with collections for the RACF, often standing for hours at a time, despite being in his 80’s. Colin was also an active member of SSAFA and worked tirelessly within the organisation as a fundraiser. Many of the Junior Leaders from Bramcote will remember his outstanding contribution to the Gunnery Wing there and his name is often mentioned at reunions.

Colin is a real gentleman, who will fit in extremely well at Chelsea. He remarked that, when he went there for his 4 day stay, prior to being accepted, within minutes he felt he had never been away from military life; the rapport and the comradeship were instant.

We all wish him a wonderful and happy new chapter in his life.  From Norwich Branch it is merely ‘au revoir’ as we hope Colin will be attending our functions as he remains a member and we shall look forward to hearing about his new home.

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