News

July 1st 2013

For many years Derbyshire and District Ex-Servicemen’s Association (DDExSA) have been hosting a coffee morning and lunch on 28 June in support of Veterans’ Day. In 2009 Veterans’ Day was changed to Armed Forces Day and the lunch carries on to this day.

The event, that this year took place at the Spot in Derby city centre, is well supported by Veterans from various associations, including the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), the Royal British Legion, the Royal Air Force Association and the Royal Naval Association, to name but a few.

Refreshments took place in the morning, with a chance for Veterans and friends to get together for a chat and to chance their luck in the raffle and this was then followed by a three course lunch.

Wing Commander (Retired) Phil Giles OBE DL, who is also the East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association County Chairman for Derbyshire said: “I have been attending these events for many years and believe it is a good opportunity for those who have served in the Armed Forces as either a regular or reservist to come together to remember others we have worked with over the years and those we have lost. Friday’s event (28 June) was a great success and I’m already looking forward to next year’s meeting”.

The lunch has been supported by Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire Willie Tucker in the past and this year the guest of honour was the Mayor of Derby, Fareed Hussain.