Events & Traditions

This page provides information about future Commando Veterans events, and yearly traditions.

June - Commando Summer Service at the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas

Our summer pilgrimage to our very own Commando Memorial at Alrewas, unveiled in July 2007 by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. A gathering on the Saturday followed by a Sunday service by the memorial and an afternoon to explore the Arboretum, which includes the new Armed Forces Memorial.

This year, 2010, will include the celebration of the '70th Anniversary of the Forming of the Commandos' and will take place over the weekend 26/27 June. The Saturday (1000-1600hrs) will include the Arboretum Armed Forces Day events with our own Commando static displays, followed by an evening of entertainment at the Ramada Hotel , Appleby Magna (1900hrs onwards). We will then have our Commando Summer Service the following morning (1000hrs) by the Commando Memorial. Please contact the Secretary for more details.

November - Fort William & Spean Bridge Remembrance Parades

Each year over the weekend of remembrance Sunday the WW2, post War and present day Commandos and their families and friends gather at Spean Bridge’s famous Commando Memorial to remember their passed comrades.

Former and serving Commando’s travel from across the globe to attend this now world famous event.

Both Army and Royal Marine Commandos and special units from all forces are represented and many former comrades are re-united for the first time at this emotional service.

The 2010 Remembrance celebrations will take place over the weekend of 13/14 November. Please contact the Secretary for more details.

January 31st, Elmwood Junior School

Each year representatives of the CVA attend a presentation ceremony at Elmwood Junior School Croydon to present two selected pupils with the George Knowland Certificate.

The certificate which is awarded for Selflessness and Community Spirit commemorates Lt George Knowland VC No1 Army Commando who was a former pupil at Elmwood. Next visit will be January 2011.

April - St George's Day Celebrations

Our annual visit to the Royal Hospital Chelsea to celebrate St George's Day. We have a small parade with the In-Pensioners and Commando Veterans, followed by a service in the Hospital Chapel, followed by refreshments and a buffet lunch. A great family day out. The National Army Museum is just next door also - free admission. The date for our 2011 visit is to be confirmed. Please contact the Secretary for more details.