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Friendship Forged at
International Youth
Gathering (IYG) 2014
Harvey Whittam is a member of 7 Region, Thames Valley
branch. He writes about his daughter Grace who attended
the International Youth Gathering (IYG) in 2014.
Youthful friendships across the pond are still going strong.
My daughter - Grace went on the 2014 International Youth
Gathering (IYG) in France where she made so many friends.
Whilst on a 3 week tour of Western USA this month she
took time out one afternoon to catch up with Kalie Dayne
Carroll, who also went to the same IYG.
If you have daughters or sons who want to make friends
for life click:
or go to the Notice board on the website for the
criteria and application form.
2018 IYG is being hosted by the UK Section.
Meeting the Mounties
David Rendall Devon and Cornwall
In September 2017 two retired Police Sergeants from Devon and Cornwall Police,
together with their partners, visited Vancouver to start a journey through the Rockies,
visiting Victoria, Whistler, Lake Louise and Banff.
They were met in Vancouver by retired Sergeant Larry YIP, Ambassador for IPA Canada
Region 9 who gave them the grand tour of the City followed by lunch at the Granville
Island Hotel. Here they met several other IPA members and there was much discussion
over a hearty meal. It was revealed that Larry was the lead singer for a local band and
was well known for his Elvis tribute talents.
In the afternoon a visit was arranged to the Royal Mounted Police Branch at Stanley Park
which was another highlight of the day.
A full and great day was had by all before the party started their drive to Vancouver Island,
then north through the Rockies. Other highlights were the wonderful waterfalls en route,
bear watching, snow-capped mountains and of course the fine wines.
Our thanks to Larry and the IPA for a memorable holiday.
By Royal
Appointment
PC Jason Spittle and PC Matthew Fitzgerald helped
represent the West Midlands Police and are members
of the International Police Association in honouring
former military heroes at the National Service of
Remembrance in London which is attended by the
Queen.
The Birmingham bobbies wore their full WMP uniform
and attached the medals which were awarded to their
grandfathers.
Jason’s grandfather Stanley was with the Royal Tank
Regiment, stationed in France, Italy, North Africa and
Germany during WWII and was part of the famous
Operation Plunder across the Rhine.
Matthew’s Granddad was involved in the Atlantic
crossing and received the Atlantic star for his service and
bravery.
Both officers were invited by the Royal British Legion.
Jason said: “It is a real honour to be part of such a
symbolic event and pay our respects to those who were
prepared to sacrifice themselves for their country.
“The National Service of Remembrance is attended by
people from across the UK and it was a proud moment to
represent the West Midlands.
“Our grandfathers served during the Second World War
and it was very emotional to wear their medals and
remember what they, and everyone else, went through
during the war years.
“Remembrance Sunday gives us chance to reflect on the
sacrifices currently being made by those in our armed
forces now to keep us safe.”
Both officers found this an honour and a privilege. It was
a real humbling experience and we’re overwhelmed by
the amount of ‘old soldiers’ who said to us on the day:
‘Thank you both for your service and everything you do
for the country’
POLICE WORLD Vol 63 No. 1, 2018 20
IPA News