Provincial Grand Master Signs the Armed Forces Covenant

The leader of Berkshire Freemasonry, Anthony Howlett-Bolton OBE has signed the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of the Province.

Over 140 Freemasons, their partners, and families gathered at the Masonic Centre in Sindlesham on Sunday the 7^th of November for a Service of Remembrance. Given the nature of the event the Provincial Grand Master felt it was a fitting opportunity to sign the Covenant.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

Anthony Howlett-Bolton, said “There has always been a special relationship between the Armed Services and Freemasonry, as both institutions value the same principles of Integrity, Respect and Friendship.  With so much conflict existing in the world and with the evidence of selfless commitment shown on a daily basis by men and women of the Armed Services, it is only right that Freemasons publicly support and uphold the Armed Services Covenant and so it has given me great pleasure to sign it on behalf of The Province of Berkshire.”

The Covenant was jointly signed by Brigadier John Kendall (SERFCA Berkshire Chairman), on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. Also in attendance was the High Sheriff for the Royal County Berkshire Willie Hartley Russell, who witnessed the signing.

The event was staged as a military themed Drumhead service, and marked the 100^th anniversary of the Royal British Legion. All of the usual ingredients of remembrance where included, including the playing of the Last Post, and a poppy fall. The service was led by the Rev. David Joynes.