The Newport branch of the Royal Naval Association (RNA) Laid Up its old Standard and Dedicated its new Standard.
The old RNA Newport branch standard was put out of commission after 24 years of service, being dedicated when the branch was established 24 years ago. The new standard bears the bilingual (Welsh and English) inscription of ‘Dinas Casnewydd /City of Newport’ on the flag.
The Reverend Dr William Ingle-Gillis conducted the service which took place at St John’s Church, Maindee on Wednesday 29 March. The Old Standard was laid up and the new bilingual standard was dedicated and will be paraded with pride at the RNA’s National, Area and local events.
Those in attendance to witness and be involved in the parade where; The Newport Mayor, Cllr Martyn Kellaway, Cdr Steve Henaghen, the Deputy Naval Regional Commander. Cllr Mark Spencer, the Armed Forces & Veterans Champion and PO Lisa Summerhayes Newport Sea Cadet (TS Resolute) OIC. Also attended where the Standards of the RNA, Wrens, Newport SCC, RAF and Merchant Navy Associations.
Ken Lowe, Branch Chair of RNA Newport said:
“This is a momentous occasion for the Royal Naval Association’s Newport Branch and demonstrates how vital the Welsh contribution to the Royal Navy has, is and always will be.
“To dedicate a new standard 24 years after the original shows our branch is going from strength to strength, and we look forward to the next 24 years and beyond celebrating, supporting and commemorating the Royal Navy.”
The First National event for the New Newport RNA Standard will be with other Military Standards at the Wales National Armed Forces Parade in Newport, on Saturday 24 June 2023.