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A brief report about the day of the Speed March

Saturday, 7th November 2009, the day of the event was a beautiful day, we were very lucky as it was a clear slot in the weather between two weather fronts.

London was in its full glory, the parks were bathed in sun shine and the trees still retained some of their glory with leaves of various hues of the Autumn tints.

The crowds were plentiful, receptive and supportive of what the lads were undertaking.

At the reception area in The Mall a marquee had been set up, around which the participants and supporters gathered. As one would imagine ‘Marine humour’ was much in evidence.

I am told that 96 former 'Green Berets' took part, amongst the 96 participants (now all serving police officers) there were a few non-Royal Marine cap badges, from those that had, during their time served with 3 Commando Brigade. The marchers were supported by a group of serving Physical Training Instructors (PTIs), amongst which was a member of the United States Marine Corps on attachment.

We are pleased to report that 96 started and 96 finished. What else would you expect! A PTI told me that they accomplished the 13 miles at an average rate of 6 miles per hour. No mean achievement as I was also told that the oldest man taking part had left the Corps thirty years ago.

The Royal Marines Cadets and Royal Marines Association members attempted to leapfrog the marchers around the route with yellow collecting buckets and were marginally successful unfortunately getting bogged down in the traffic congestion left in the wake of Royal and friends 'Yomping' through central London.

Wherever they went the marchers were met with applause, cheering and honking of horns from passing, or stationary stranded motorists. Those I spoke to told me that the reception as they made their way along Oxford Street was especially loud and spontaneous.

Prior to the march kicking off, they formed up in Downing Street where they were met by two Cabinet Ministers. In all the whole project was very successful and to date has raised £127,857 to which has to be added to any gift aid.

A photographic slide show of the event can be found here:

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/antpix/up_pictures/CommandoCopsC.mov

And finally, thanks to all of you out there who did so many things to raise the sponsorship and donations to this very worthwhile charity event.

Regards,

Derek 'Blondie' Boorn | Royal Marines Association | Poole | Dorset | United Kingdom