On 22 May, members of the Ruislip & Northwood Royal British Legion gathered at the Ruislip War Memorial to mark the 15th anniversary of the conclusion of Operation TELIC, the United Kingdom’s military campaign in Iraq.
The commemoration was organised by the local Royal British Legion branch, whose Chairman is W. Bro. David Durn of Ickenham St. Giles Lodge No. 6028. Representing the Province of Middlesex was W. Bro. Warren Gell, Assistant Provincial Grand Master, demonstrating the Province’s continued commitment to supporting remembrance and community events.
The ceremony was attended by a number of distinguished guests, including the newly elected Mayor of Hillingdon, Councillor Reeta Chamdal, the Rt Hon David Simmonds MP, local councillors, and the Station Commander of RAF Northolt, Group Captain Lew Wales.
The event provided an opportunity to remember those who served during the Iraq conflict and to reflect upon the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces. It also highlighted the enduring relationship between Freemasonry and the Armed Forces community, both of which are founded upon shared values of service, integrity, support and remembrance.
United Grand Lodge of England’s commitment to the Armed Forces community has been recognised through the award of the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award. Across England and Wales, Lodges and Chapters continue to support the Royal British Legion and the wider Armed Forces family through charitable giving, volunteering, participation in remembrance activities and engagement within their local communities.
Community engagement remains a key part of Freemasonry’s strategic vision, strengthening our connections with the communities we serve while demonstrating the positive contribution that Freemasons make to society. Events such as this provide an important opportunity to honour those who have served and to reinforce the values that unite both Freemasonry and the Armed Forces community.
