A Basingstoke veteran received the royal treatment during a visit to Germany.
Ian Williams, secretary of the Basingstoke Veterans Club, along with his wife Cathy, were invited to the city of Euskirchen for its Veterans Day.
The invitation was extended through Hampshire County Council, strengthening the bond between the twin towns.
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Basingstoke Veterans Club expanding international ties with trip to Germany
The event, held on Saturday, June 13, was marked by a street renaming ceremony honouring Staff Sergeant Stefan Kamins, followed by a formal reception.
A highlight of the day was when the Mayor of Euskirchen presented Ian with a special medallion, symbolising the connection between the two towns.
In return, Ian presented a Basingstoke Veterans Club shield and mug to Jürgen, who initiated the email that started the journey.
The Basingstoke Veterans Club hopes this gesture will foster a lasting friendship, with plans to reciprocate the hospitality by welcoming German veterans to Basingstoke.
Reflecting on the trip, a spokesperson for the club expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and pride in representing Basingstoke.
The club continues to support local ex-service personnel, with weekly coffee mornings every Monday from 9.30am to 11.30am at Carnival Hall, and a monthly breakfast club on the third Sunday of the month, with a new venue to be confirmed soon.
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