RMA POOLE VISIT TO CTCRM

In the searing heat of a May morning, eight intrepid warriors – and Commando Teddy – from RMA Poole set forth from Dorset bound for the “Bootnecks” Holy Grail – the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM)

Following an impressive fund raising in 2025 by members of RMA Poole Branch, £7648 was raised for the Royal Marines Charity. In recognition of this effort, The Charity invited the Branch to CTCRM to make a formal cheque presentation as part of a King Squad and reunions celebration day.

Branch member Simmo presents a cheque to Caroline Casey, Fundraising & Comms Director TRMC

From banter in the grand stand ahead of the excellent King Squad drill demonstration, a fish and chips Friday lunch in the Sergeants Mess and swinging the lamp in Moody Brook bar it was a memorable return to CTCRM with lots of dits! For Wally Noble it had been over 20 years! Brian was able to catch up with a Royal Marines officer he had worked with during his time in the Corps.

A big thank you goes out to our team and for their support on the day. Former MTO, Ian Brown was Transport Manager and led the advance party with Pete Jones, Simmo and Brian Burgess on board. Proving the worth of electric cars he set off 10 minutes after me and arrived 5 minutes ahead of me! My clapped out Corsa managed to get Dinger, Commando ted and Wally Noble to CTCRM just in time! Not forgetting Ray Gunning who walked to CTCRM...... from Lympstone Commando!

I think TRMC’s social media post reflected the sense of occasion and appreciation of RMA Poole’s contribution.

Today, RMA – The Royal Marines Charity had the privilege of welcoming 848 Squad (1966), 520 Troop (1986) and Poole RMA to attend the Kings Squad Pass Out for 389 Troop Royal Marines. It was a truly special day bringing together generations of Marines to celebrate the dedication, resilience and achievements of our newest trained Commandos, while honouring the commitment and service of those who have gone before them. Thank you to RMA Poole for their fantastic donation to the Charity.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable day and fulfils RMA Poole objective 2.1 of promoting the efficiency of the Corps Family including; ethos, traditions and esprit de Corps amongst former members of the Corps.

P Jobling – RMA Poole