Page 24 - Flaming Cauldron – Issue 60

ACC ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER

Airborne Chefs Association

By Chip Walker

Following the sad passing of both our Association President Col Wally
Torrington and our Associate Member Maj Dougie Dau our fledgling
association faltered. Our heart had been ripped from us and those of us on
the managing committee who remained, struggled to find the positivity and
commitment to keep going.
As the years passed, it was evident spent time searching for the best Our next event was a get-together
that our approximately 160 members way to re-launch the Airborne Chefs on 19th November in Aldershot for
still needed us. Unlike a fully formed Association. A new constitution is being the British Airborne Forces Club 10
Regimental or Corps Association we written and those members already on miler across the military training areas
were initially formed as not much more our lists were contacted and asked if and following the old route used in the
than a social group, a forum for like- anyone would like to put their names P-Company selection. Both Tommy
minded individuals to get together and forward for election to the committee. Onions and Chip Walker entered and
talk shop to people who shared similar That work is ongoing, and nominations completed the course, finishing at the
experiences, to fit back into the fold and are still open. Military Cemetary in Aldershot where
feel comfortable amongst old comrades. Our first get together for more than respects were paid to our fellow Corps
Subsequently, we were accepted as an two years, albeit rather informal, was members who are laid to rest there.
official branch of the ACC Association. Remembrance Sunday with the Corps The photo above shows Tommy and
That said, our events were evidently Association at the London Cenotaph. Chip at the start of the tab.
important to our members as more Altogether we numbered around 11 Another airborne reunion for the
than just a social get-together. Instead, parading with 6 of us sporting maroon ACA is planned for late spring 2023,
they became a cathartic release, and berets. details to be confirmed. All those who
the committee did occasionally find The photo below shows a few have passed selection and are parachute
themselves responding to calls for help. members grabbing the limelight in trained (BPC) as well as all those army
Consequently, we stumbled into becom- a brief pause of the parade. Left to chefs who served with Airborne Forces
ing more than a social group. Right standing: Tommy Onions, Spike are welcome to attend.
In recent months, the existing Reigate, Paul Roberts, Phil Howard, We look forward to meeting new
Chairman and the Secretary (Chip George Cummings, Chip Walker and members.
Walker and Tommy Onions) have seated: Dinger Bell. Ad Unum Omnes

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