Branch History
The regional branch of SAMA (82) Wales was founded in September 2003.
The seeds were sown on the Pilgrimage in 2002, and during the SAMA (82) AGM in Twickenham in 2003 it was decided to try and get about 20 people to attend a Branch Inaugural meeting in Cardiff in August 2003. Hard work paid off and to everyones surprise over 100 people attended its launch. A Branch Reunion now takes place annually in September.
Because of the topography of the area covered by the branch, it was decided early on that this would take a team effort comprising of the founding Chairman Stephen Hopkins (Hoppy), Sec/Tres Andy Jones (Curly), Fundraiser Chris Duggan (Blanche) with Denzil Connick stepping in as area Welfare Advisor. We created an infrastructure with our own database of all members names and addresses. A bank account was opened and we immediately set about recruiting new members to SAMA (82). Some excellent local media coverage from TV, radio and various newspaper articles aided this.
One of our first jobs was to assist two members to return to the Falklands. Since then SAMA Wales have sent back many Veterans from all units that served down south in 82 - and from all areas of Wales.
We refer needy veterans to Combat Stress, the ex services mental welfare society, where expert help is at hand for PTSD and other mental disorders. A very good working relationship is now enjoyed with Combat Stress and other ex-service charities. We publish a branch newsletter twice yearly with a view to communicating with the members of the Branch as much as possible. This publication usually includes articles relevant to the Falkland Islands and also Veterans needs. If any SAMA (82) member outside Wales wishes to receive copies please contact us and ask to be added to the mailing list.
In 2004 SAMA Wales paraded for the first time at the cenotaph in Cardiff on Remembrance Day. This very important occasion for Veterans heralded a dedicated detachment of Falklands Veterans that now march every year to pay their respects to those who paid the ultimate price in restoring freedom and democracy to the Falkland Islands and its people. During 2004 SAMA Wales also received support from His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales and the First Minister for Wales the Right Honorable Rhodri Morgan AM.
Throughout our history SAMA Wales have also been a source of media advice and we've had some excellent coverage on a wide variety of projects.
In May 2005 SAMA Wales was awarded Charity Status, a much needed recognition for our hard work and professionalism.
Finally - we exist as a regional branch to support SAMA (82) and its members, we will recruit new members and endeavor to maintain the high degree of professionalism set to us by SAMA (82).