The King of Jordan and the soldiers from Amble

Posted on 22nd August 2014 | in Community , Heritage & Tourism

Ruth and Peter Proctor Cannon (centre) at the Dorchester with other guests of King Abdullah II of Jordan. Photo by Chris Jelf

Ruth and I travelled to London to take part in the 90th Annual Cavalry Memorial Parade in Hyde Park. Approximately 2,000 cavalry veterans and the serving regiments took part. The salute was taken by HRH the King of Jordan. Taking part in this parade was an experience and an honour.

After the parade and service Ruth, I and a small group of veterans and their ladies from the Light Dragoons Association were invited for drinks at the Dorchester Hotel to meet His Royal Highness King Abdullah II of Jordan, the Colonel in Chief of The Light Dragoons. The King had served as a Lieutenant in the 13/18th Hussars.

We were served drinks in groups of six and were presented to His Royal Highness for a short informal chat. A very enjoyable, memorable and once in a lifetime experience for Ruth and me. It was an honour to meet such an approachable and friendly gentleman, who made us all feel at ease – a veteran amongst veterans.
Peter Proctor Cannon

Honouring Lt Lawson-Smith

Above: A memorial wreath was laid during the WW1 commemoration event by Bruce Farmer 13/18th Hussars on behalf of The Colonel of the Regiment, King Abdullah II of Jordan. The inscription reads:

“In memory of
Lieutenant TE Lawson-Smith
13th Hussars
who was Killed in Action
on 1st November 1914 from
The Colonel of the Regiment
The Serving Regiment and all members of The Light Dragoons Regimental Association
VIRET IN ÆTERNUM/MEREBIMUR”