Watch Your Audience Grow

Story about David Billet, Dagenham, who served on HMS Diamond and HMS Diadem.
Local serving and ex-service members of Britain’s naval forces have met, every week, since 1936.

On Saturday 19 February 2011, members of Dagenham’s Royal Naval Association (RNA) branch are set to enjoy to a night of festivities at their headquarters – Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club – as they look back at 75 years of their organisation.

For secretary David Billet, the anniversary is an important moment in his life – and that of friends from the branch.
Dagenham resident David, 75 himself, served on both HMS Diamond and HMS Diadem.

He said: “We have around 80 members now and we’re all looking forward to celebrating the association’s birthday this month, along with other distinguished guests. It’s going to be an evening of nostalgia.

“Our youngest member is in his 20s and the oldest is in his 80s, so the association encompasses all age groups. Sadly, we’ve lost many members along the way, but they’ll all be remembered.”

The RNA started life in the UK in late 1935 as the Royal Naval Old Comrades Association.

It was set up for ex service members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.
http://www.lbbd.gov.uk/thenews/Articles/Pages/Shipmates.aspx