He ain't so bad old GW, nice thought on his behalf and a nice letter.
This article is going in next months Royal Navy newspaper. Southend-on-Sea is @ 40 miles east of London.
ANdy
Call it a salute from the White House. United States president George Bush has sent a personal letter to the Southend-on-Sea Branch, thanking members for commemorating the annual anniversary of Pearl Harbor, for the past number of years.
What inspired the branch to do so in the first place was a visit to Pearl Harbor by a member of the branch over 25 years ago and the forging of friendship between the two communities.
The President’s letter was read out by Captain Stephen Matts, of the US Navy at the branch’s Pearl Harbor remembrance service, held on December 4 in St Mary’s Church, Southend and conducted by Canon Roger Mason.
The church attendance included President of the RNA, Vice Admiral John McAnally, Sir Teddy Taylor, Southend MPs James Duddridge and David Amess, the Mayor, Councillor Chris Dandridge, members of the US Navy and Air Force, representatives of many RNA branches and ex-service associations and Sea and Air Cadets.
After the service, 400 veterans, under the direction of Parade Commander John Jones RM, proudly paraded through the town displaying 43 standards, to music by the band of the Royal Marines Portsmouth.
"I send greetings to those gathered for the 25th anniversary remembrance service of Pearl Harbor Day, sponsored by the Southend-on-Sea branch of the RNA.
Throughout our history, brave individuals have assumed the duty of military life and built a tradition of courageous and honourable service.
Sixty years ago many heroic Americans and Britons upheld this tradition as they advanced the cause of liberty and helped defeat tyranny during World War 2.
This remembrance service honours the more than 2,400 killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7 1941. On that day life changed in America, and of course of history was altered forever. Today, we honour those who fought and died at Pearl Harbor, and we pay special tribute to the veterans of World War 2.
These heroes hold a cherished place in the history of the United States and Great Britain as we continue to work together to promote peace and fight terror around the world. The proud legacy of our World War 2 veterans inspires new generations.
I appreciate all those involved in making this special event possible.
Your recognition of our military heroes demonstrates your patriotism and the enduring ties of friendship between our two countries.
On behalf of the American people, Laura and I send our best wishes.
George Bush"