tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4146836.post-1102239158089806122004-12-05T09:30:00.000Z2004-12-05T09:33:54.726ZDid you know there's <a href="http://www.cnauk.navy.mil/News%20Page.htm">an annual event in Southend-On-Sea to commemorate Pearl Harbour</a>? Until today, I didn't.<blockquote>The Royal Naval Association (RNA) Southend-On-Sea conducts the yearly event because back in 1981, a "shipmate" had visited the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor and while there, he presented the Memorial authorities with a branch plaque. In return, the RNA Southend branch was presented with a U.S. flag that had been flown over the Memorial at the time of his visit, together with the state flag of Hawaii. <br /> <br />Following this exchange, the RNA Southend chapter decided to organize an annual event to commemorate the December 7th attacks and honor those who lost their lives. <br /> <br />Since the beginning of this memorial, the association has received a Citation of Merit from the Secretary of the U.S. Navy in 1987, and a personal letter from President William J. Clinton in 1995, thanking the UK citizens for remembering the US’ fallen veterans. <br /> <br />Each year, Sailors of Commander, U.S. Naval Activities, head down to Southend to take part in the parade march from the RNA club to St. Mary’s church where a memorial service is held. This year’s ceremony is to take place with approximately 35 Sailors along with a color guard detail to parade the national ensigns of the United Kingdom and United States while in route from the club to the church and back.</blockquote>Nickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17482365633543675966noreply@blogger.com