This year the District of Germany Awards Committee made submissions to the RBL National Board for inclusion in their deliberations of worthy Branches with respect to Awards. Amongst numerous submissions was one for the Jellicoe Cup. The Cup is awarded to a Branch in recognition of its sterling efforts, enthusiasm and determination to further the aims of the RBL by increasing the visibility of the services and actively supporting our Beneficiaries under the Branch Community Support scheme.
The Citation was as follows:
The Rheindahlen Branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to furthering the aims of the RBL, despite the challenges posed by its geographical location and relatively small membership. With just 122 Branch members, the Rheindahlen Branch covers the largest area of any Branch in Germany, stretching from the Rhine to the Swiss border in the south and the Netherlands to the north and west. This vast area makes cohesive working a considerable challenge, yet the Branch has successfully met this challenge through its unwavering enthusiasm and determination.
One of the key achievements of the Rheindahlen Branch has been its active contribution and participation in various high-profile events, which have significantly increased the visibility of the RBL and raised its profile and values. The Branch has played a crucial role in the annual Maasbracht Liberation commemorations at the LCpl Eric Harden VC Memorial. This event is highly significant, attended by the daughter and family of LCpl Harden, the Prime Minister of Limberg Province, and other dignitaries. LCpl Harden was the only winner of the Victoria Cross (VC) in the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) during World War II, and the RBL's involvement in this event honours his sacrifice and highlights the Branch's commitment to remembering and honouring the fallen.
In addition to the Maasbracht Liberation commemorations, the Rheindahlen Branch has been actively involved in the annual memorial service for the Halifax Bomber crew members who were shot down near Jalhay, Belgium. The Branch's participation in the International Veterans’ Day in Brunssum, attended by a large NATO contingent, further underscores its dedication to supporting veterans and promoting the values of the RBL.
The Branch also organizes the annual remembrance service in Roermond to commemorate fallen aircrew and Dutch Resistance fighters, as well as remembrance services at the Reichswald and Cologne Commonwealth War Graves (CWG) Cemeteries.
One of the most remarkable events organized by the Rheindahlen Branch is the annual remembrance service at the Rheinberg CWG Cemetery. This event is attended by the British, Canadian, and Polish Consul Generals, many German VIPs, and a large congregation with 18 organizations in attendance and laying wreaths. The Branch's efforts in organizing this event have significantly raised the profile of the RBL and demonstrated its commitment to honouring the fallen.
The Rheindahlen Branch has also been involved in commemorating the Cossacks handed over to the Russians at the end of World War II in Lienz, Austria. Additionally, the Branch has assisted with the delivery and organization of memorial services with the College Band of the Royal Air Force (RAF) to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the traffic accident where 21 members of the RAF Germany Band and others died. The Branch's participation in memorial events held in Nederweert and at the Mohne Dam to commemorate the famous Dam Busters raid further highlights its dedication to remembering and honouring those who have served.
The Branch Standard Bearer is very active and attends all these ceremonies and parades despite having a full time job. He also actively attends District events and although this is his first year was joint first in the District Standard bearers’ competition.
In addition to Branch Community Support the Branch has trained caseworkers actively carrying out casework. Welfare is the core business if the Royal British Legion. The Royal British Legion in Germany relies on trained volunteers to deliver welfare services which would normally be carried out by support staff in the UK.
Despite its relatively small numbers, the Rheindahlen Branch has managed to raise the third-largest sum of money in Germany for the poppy appeal through its numerous events and activities. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the Branch's dedication, enthusiasm, and determination to support the RBL's mission and values. The Rheindahlen Branch's sterling efforts in increasing the visibility of the RBL and actively supporting its beneficiaries under the Branch Community Support scheme make it a deserving candidate for the Jellicoe Cup.
Sandra James from the Paderborn Branch accepted the award on our behalf. It will be collected/passed to our Branch at a suitable time in the future.
