“I am still ‘buzzing’ from the overall experience, the trip was such a tonic to all. A cross section of ages, experience and personal problems which all in all blended superbly by ‘Corps Spirit’.”
“What a fantastic start to the year. The gathering of guys, legends from all eras and parts of the world, to sit and spin dits, share experiences in a normal relaxed environment was priceless.”
These are just two of the many messages of thanks received by RMA – The Royal Marines Charity from some of the veteran Royal Marines who, with various injuries and other health issues, took part in this year’s Chamonix ski trip, now in its third season.
Thirty two former RM’s joined the trip, including instructors and support team members, some of whom now live in the French Alps and who gave up their time for free to ensure everyone got the most out of their time on the slopes. The group was split into two so each could enjoy a week-long session over the last fortnight of January.
As on previous visits, former RM Ian Bishop surpassed all expectations in organising everything down to the last possible detail as well as being chief kit man, driver, cook and base CSM, ninja skier and, all in all, the person who makes these trips work so well for everyone.
The group again stayed in a beautiful barn conversion which dates back to Napoleonic times and still has artefacts from the time when Napoleon’s army marched past! It’s owned by former paratrooper Dan White who very generously makes it available for free to accommodate the groups.
RMA – The Royal Marines Charity Jim Morris, Transition Support Officer South (and Wales) and Paul ‘Baz’ Barrett, Transition Support Officer North (and Scotland, Northern Ireland) who also accompanied the groups, said: “To date, everyone that has been to Chamonix and skied the many runs in the valley have all gained a huge amount from the experience; not only on the slopes but living in the barn conversion with fellow Royal Marines, ranging in age from those in their 20’s to those in their 60’s all having one thing in common – all being Bootnecks and cooking, eating, drinking and most of all chatting with people they totally trust and respect about all aspects of their lives -its priceless.’’
