The Royal Hospital Chelsea’s Founder's Day, also known as Oak Apple Day, is always held on a date close to 29th May – the birthday of Charles II and the date of his restoration as King in 1660. In 2023, Founders day took place on Thursday 8th June. Founder's Day is the highlight of the Royal Hospital Chelsea’s calendar, an event attended by all Chelsea Pensioners, which celebrates the founding of the Royal Hospital by King Charles II.
This year Maj R Moffat Deputy Commandant MCTC and WO1 RSM D Batterham attend to celebrate this occasion with are very own In pensioners Wally Swan and Dave Williams.
The Parade started with the RHC RSM R Martin giving the order for all Pensioners to " Get On Parade " this was fantastic to see, but sadly not all were able to to stand and required to remain in there seats. The Parade then continued with the handing over of command to Lt Col N Motts MBE. The Sovereign's Mace was then marched on to parade and was received with a General salute. Which was returned with a Royal salute from his Majesty the King of the Belgians as reviewing officer for the day.
His Majesty the King of the Belgians spoke how the British people are linked to the Belgians and explained how we supported his Nation, when the Nazi's tried to march through Belgium to invade France. He spoke about are respect for tradition and how we hold all that serve dear in our hearts, especially those at the RHC.
However, the highlight of the day was when the Deputy Commandant and the RSM got to meet the MPSC in Pensioner Wally Swan. Unfortunately, they were unable to locate Dave Williams prior to having to leave. Both pensioners will be invited to a Regimental dinner Gasia night later in the year.
Overall a fantastic day, which all really enjoyed.