Funeral of Don Walker - May 2025

Don Walker had been in the Royal Navy for 15 years, before joining the RBL in Old Basing.  He also joined the RBL band taking part in many events and parades of the years.  With this in mind, Don's daughter Alison asked the RBL Hampshire Parade Marshall if any Standard Bearers would be available.

Old Basing's own Standard Bearer was unfortunately not available in this capacity on the day, so neighbouring branches; Sutton Scotney and Sutton Scotney Women's Section were invited to parade instead.  Karen Ralph and I were honoured to put our names forward.  

It was a beautiful sunny day at Basingstoke Crematorium.  Karen and I escorted the Hearse at the slow march up to the Chapel door, before taking up position on the inside ready to escort the coffin up to the catafalque.  We took up station at the front of chapel on either side for the duration of the service.  We dipped our standards as an act of homage during the committal and then again during the sounding of the Last Post.  Having been a member of the RBL band, 4 of his fellow buglers attended in full dress uniform to sound the Last Post.

As always, it was an honour and a privilege for Karen and I to parade for Don; one of our own.

Benn Hitchen

Sutton Scotney & District Branch Standard Bearer