Scottish National War Memorial - An Evening Meeting

www.snwm.org

The Club had one of its occasional evening meetings this week, attended by 23 members and 6 guests. Ann Mitchell announced an invitation from St Andrews' High School for Rotarians to attend  one or more Silver Surfers sessions at the school in term time on Wednesdays from 1.30 to 2.30pm. starting on 18 November and ending about March next year. Here clued up youngsters will be on hand to help older people cope with this world of  smartphones, ipads, laptops etc.  Continuing with the silveryish theme President John handed a cheque to Mary Wells in support of the Grey Panthers group of active Senior Citizens, which she leads. More information is on their website.. President John then invited our guest speaker for the evening, Lieut-Colonel Roger Binks (rtd), Keeper of the Rolls at the Scottish National War Memorial to tell us about this building and its contents. He first explained the composition of the group of Trustees overseeing the Memorial. This is by no means dominated by the military but includes also, among other civilians, the Secretary of the Scottish Trade Unions.  The Memorial itself was designed by Sir Robert Lorimer and is built on the highest point of the land within Edinburgh Castle. It was opened on 14 July 1927 by King George V and Queen Mary. Inside there is a treasure trove of carving, plaques and stained glass windows with always something new to discover.  The Rolls of which Colonel Binks is Keeper originally referred only to the books recording the dead of WWI, ut including those who also died later of their wounds, but further books and records have been produced for subsequent conflicts  and the updating continues as new facts come to light. The web these days helps track down some details but a personal visit is much recommended.  It is free to enter the Memorial which is open 9.30am until 4.30pm every day except Christmas Day and Boxing day unless ceremonies are being held.  Alice Soper led the vote of thanks for a well-presented and illuminating talk.