The Old Contemptible – No. 369, October 1964
BELFAST We celebrated our Golden Jubilee Year Parade on Saturday, 15th August, visiting Chums included Lt. Col. A. D. C. McAlister, O.B.E., and 14 Chums with Standard from Dublin; Major J. F. Hagerty, M.C., Edmonton Branch (now resident in N.I.); Captain F. G. L. Barnes, Epsom Branch and 7 Chums from Londonderry, making a grand total of 72 on parade.
His Excellency the Lord Wakehurst, Governor of N.I. took the Salute at the March Past and afterwards inspected the parade conversing with many Chums. Wreaths were laid on the Cenotaph by Chum Doak, Belfast, and Chum Ellis, Chairman, Dublin Branch. Last Post and Reveille was sounded by 8 Trumpeters of the North Irish Horse. The Ormeau Military Band led the parade throughout to the tunes of Tipperary and other 1914 well known music.
After the Ceremony, the Lord Mayor, Coun. William Jenkins, invited the Chums, members of the Band and Trumpeters into the City Hall for refreshments to celebrate our 50th anniversary.
Visiting Chums were entertained to Lunch and after the parade to High Tea at which they were joined by Chums, wives and widows of the Belfast Branch. The total of 83 included six ladies who travelled with the Dublin Chums. Unfortunately the Derry Chums were unable to stay for High Tea on account of other arrangements made for the return journey.
The following Monday evening at the invitation of the Belfast B.B.C. Controller, six Chums were “On the Air” in the N.I. News programme. Subject “Who are the Old Contemptibles and how did they derive their name.” The spokesman of the party, the Hon. Sec. knew all the answers. This was indeed a very happy ending and one that will be long remembered on our 50th anniversary.
J. KELLY.
Old Contemptibles' Association Scrap Book 