In my office as Chairman of our local Parish Council, I was invited to witness the reading of the Proclamation of the Accession. Serving in Her Majesty’s Government, even at the lowest level of Local Government, the Parish Council, I feel is a tremendous honour.
It also gave me the opportunity to wear my NaCTSO cufflinks, (see below), bearing the Royal Crown; one of the few times when doing so has seemed appropriate. I must stress, I never served in NaCTSO but am proud to have worked with NaCTSO as a supplier of digital services. Indeed, aside from a short dalliance with the Royal Navy Reserve many years ago, this is the closest to Her Majesty’s Forces that I have been privileged to serve. One year at NaCTSO’s Christmas party I was struck by the ferocious patriotism and loyalty to the Crown. It was palpable. You could touch it in the air. It was incredible.
As I struggle with my own emotions of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, I wish yet to celebrate the beginning of the reign of King Charles III. I can only reflect that their patriotism and loyalty will continue, I am sure, unerring with the new Monarch.
For me, in my own small way, I will continue to serve. With pride.
Proud to Serve.
Stewart Bailey
Chairman