An unusual night for some of the brethren of Pro Patria Lodge No 9952, the Province of West Lancashire’s military lodge based in the North Fylde Group, as they mustered together on a Saturday evening. Not for a practice or even a lodge meeting, this rag-tagged group of the finest military leaders, or in its essence the founders of Pro Patria Lodge, met at the Palace in St Annes to enjoy an evening of comradeship and remembrance that hadn’t been accomplished since before its foundation.
This night of merriment was achieved by the hard work of the secretary, Bob Wareham and other gallant brethren and on this particular evening it was defended by 23 of the original 28 founders, and with the presence of special guest Philip Gunning, Past Deputy Provincial Grand Master, who was one of the original consecrating officers and the installing master when the lodge was founded at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom on 9 February 2018.
As in all good military style, the evening started off in the Mess, otherwise known as the bar, and joyful interaction then ensued with the brethren catching up on the latest news. Unfortunately, due to illness, John Nichols the Palace’s well known hardworking barman was unable to attend, so that intrepid ex-paratrooper and former WM Juan Topping stepped up to the platter and administered the required intoxicants. The ‘Slop Jockey’ (caterer) for the evening was the infamous Lee Monroe, who as normal presented a phenomenal four course meal worthy of King and Country. Whilst the camaraderie kicked into high gear along with the typical banter of those worthy of being ex-military, the joyous exhilaration of those present could be felt all around.
The return thanks were given and was swiftly followed by the toasts, luckily not the normal lengthy list, just three.
Firstly, the Loyal Toast to the King supported by the obligatory drink of port, then Philip Gunning toasted the lodge, complimenting on the success of the lodge and how well the lodge has supported different military ventures over the last seven years. The last and most important toast to all military personal (and all brethren) was that to absent brethren, which was expertly given by the SW and master elect, Peter Baldwin.
The End Ex (end of the exercise) was given and with the normal due hast of those who were expecting to be sent out on active duty in a moment’s notice promptly removed themselves to the bar, thus the high spirits, banter, beer and fun of the evening continued to flow for a while to come and a good time was had by all.
Article by Terry Stevens-Lewing.