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IPA News

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.

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: www.ipa-uk.org/International-Youth-Gathering-IYG or go to the Notice board on the website for the criteria and application form. 2018 IYG is being hosted by the UK Section.

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

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