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A strong family bond has kept a group of former Navy officers together for more than six decades.
Spalding’s branch of the Royal Naval Association celebrated its 60th anniversary in February. Those who serve at sea are automatically enrolled as members, and they are provided with friendships and support long after they come back ashore.
The group gathered at the town’s Royal Mail Cart to mark the occasion. They were joined by the likes of Rodney Grocock, who served in the Navy before his time as a district councillor, and guest of honour Keith Ridley – chair of the Royal Naval Association’s regulating committee.
Everyone enjoyed dinner, a drink, a good chat and a special service. Spalding’s branch president Terrance Carter said reaching the 60-year milestone is a testament to the strong bond the group has.
“I’m quite pleased. It’s a good sign that it’s a thriving branch,” he said.
For Mr Carter, born in Spalding, it has been a long time since he first started his career at sea. He wanted to join the Navy when he left school, and to speed up the process he joined the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve – where he spent six months.
That fast-tracked his journey, and he went on to serve from 1956 until 1965.
“I travelled the world,” he says.
“I did a commission in the Mediterranean and two commissions in the Far East. The last one was on HMS Lincoln, would you believe.”
Having spent a large chunk of his life with the Naval Association, Mr Carter has been left in no doubt as to what makes them such a close unit.
They had, and still have, a trust like no other. They relied on each other while they served, and the Association still supports them now.
Many ex-Navy crews struggle after life at sea. Lots turn to drugs and alcohol, and can suffer with mental health problems. They need all the help they can get.
Spalding’s branch is well equipped to deal with such issues, and they often source organisations which can provide specialist help. However, simply meeting up and having a chat can go a long way as well.
“Everybody on a ship is on the same boat. I know that’s a stupid remark, and it’s a thing that people on the shore say,” Mr Carter adds.
“But you are on the same boat. If it’s rough for the most junior seaman, it’s just as rough for a commanding officer. There are no special privileges when you’re at sea as far as the action of the ship goes.
“You can usually trust another matelot.
“You could have a big argument and go to opposite ends of the ship while you cooled down, but if you were in trouble he would be one of the first to weigh in. That’s the sort of people you’re with.”
The bond Mr Carter built with his crew mates has stood the test of time. While the Naval Association has modernised through the years, with donations now replacing subscriptions when it comes to raising funds, its members are the same as ever – and that’s just the way they like it.
“The on-board banter is still there. What normal people would probably consider insulting, to us is a damn good laugh. As matelots we have a different outlook on life,” Mr Carter says.
“Anybody can join. They don’t have to have been in the Navy, but we expect them to go along with our ethos.
“If you’re easily offended, it’s best to stay away! Normal civilian terminology which would be considered as insulting is endearing to us.”
Spalding’s Royal Naval Association branch meets at the town’s Services and Social Club on the second Tuesday of every month at 8pm.
- If you are interested in joining or learning more about the group, you can contact Mr Carter at 01775 768816
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