A Special Visit & Warm Wishes From King Alfred

24th April saw one of K.A brothers, Richard Tams being installed at St Patrick’s Lodge.
Brethren from K.A and the Somerset Military Lodge crossed over the border into Wiltshire to
witness a well drilled ceremony.

The proceedings started with the officers being piped in which in its-self was wonderful, visitors
were greeted in a way I’ve never seen before. The 8th May is VE Day so a minutes silence was well
observed with background music, then the pipes started playing again, a wonderful way to
remember those who lost their lives.

The secretary, WBro J Torley then read the history of the traveling lodge which dates back to 1785, a
lovely story and the way the warrant is kept by the WM and how the furniture is stored in three
cases, a tradition that is still observed today. Then onto the colourful aprons brethren were wearing
from Scotland, Ireland and of course England. Regimental dress was also worn by different
regiments and not forgetting the Chelsea Pensioners whose red coats stood out. The ceremony took
place and nothing like emulation but was fascinating to watch.

If you haven’t been it’s well worth the drive across the border. Thank you so much for your hospitality
we shall pop over again.

Report by: Chris M Whitehead LCO & Membership Officer, King Alfred Lodge