Sunday 30th November 2025
For some time now, it has been clear that that a unified view of the purposes and practices of the present organisation does not exist.
The reasons for this state of affairs are complex, though fundamentally result from the Constitution not having been updated for a number of years. As a consequence of this omission, in its present form, the Constitution is no longer fit for purpose.
The absence of such a current, guiding ‘road-map’ has inevitably led to the emergence of differing views of the the unit’s existence, its budgeted-for activities, the optimum means of engaging all members its members and even its potential life-span.
Sadly, a schism has emerged, that is now so deep, that it is difficult to conceive of a way to reconcile the two parties.
This divergence of opinion even extends to differing views to the name of the unit.
One group favours the nomenclature “Organisation’; the other, of which I am part, prefers ‘Association.’
It would be facile to dismiss this difference as a matter of semantics. In my view, it is much more than this.
I never served, but my late father was in the 7th Territorial Battalion in WW2. Conscripted as Rifleman in 1940, he ended his service with the rank of Acting Captain.
Like many of his generation, he spoke little of his War and, although he survived he was blighted with what we would now label PTSD.
Is it little wonder that I prefer the word ‘Association?’.
Whatever I have achieved for the last three years as Secretary of the unit, (and before), has always been out of respect and gratitude for my father and his comrades.
I am proud to be able to associate even vicariously with the proud history and heritage of the Cameronians!
I will continue to do all in my power to preserve the Regiment’s heritage.
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Monday 1st December 2025
Has the time come for the formation of a New Association?
Given the divergence of views alluded to in the article posted on 30th November (What’s in a Name?),has the time come for the creation of a new Association?
The overt purpose of such a body would be to preserve the Regiment’s unique history and heritage.
A suitable name might be The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) Heritage Association
Its establishment would signal the intention to preserve, research, and promote the rich history and traditions of the now disbanded Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) Regiment, and its antecedents. The Association would serve as the definitive digital and historical resource for all interested members of the public, veterans, and military historians worldwide.
It would provide an important corner-stone towards the assurance of a transparent and focused approach to safeguarding the Regiment’s legacy.
The Association would be open to all individuals over the age of 18, regardless of domicile, who support our purpose.
The New Association’s Mission and Management
The Association’s activities would be overseen by a dedicated Co-ordinating Committee, which would l focus on:
- Research & Documentation: Systematically documenting the Regiment’s origins and history.
- Digital Presence: Maintaining a comprehensive website, newsletters, and social media to disseminate historical content.
- Educational Outreach: Engaging schools and younger audiences through the dedicated School Liaison Officer.
- Museum Collaboration: Working closely with institutions holding Cameronians artefacts, guided by the Museum Liaison Officer.
The Association would be committed to financial transparency and democratic decision-making, with all major votes conducted via a secure digital plebiscite.
The legacy of The Cameronians is one of fierce loyalty and a unique historical standing. The new Association wil provide a formal structure to honour that legacy, ensuring that the stories, deeds, and traditions of the Regiment are preserved for future generations.
We look forward to welcoming enthusiasts,
Veterans, historians and enthuisiasts from across the globe will be welcome in this new digital home.
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