The Annual AGM and Autumn Lunch remain two of the Gallipoli Association’s most core fixtures, bringing members together in fellowship, remembrance and shared historical interest.

The AGM

This year’s AGM, attended by 36 members, was held once again at the prestigious Cavalry and Guards Club in Piccadilly, London. The Association, founded by Gallipoli veteran Major Edgar Banner in 1969, continues to keep alive the memory of the campaign through education, public awareness and the encouragement of study.

Brigadier James Stopford, Captain Christopher Fagan and Stephen Chambers (Photos: Tom Iredale)

Once the formal business of the AGM had been concluded, (the minutes will be circulated in The Gallipolian), GA President Captain Christopher Fagan, MBE DL, thanked Brigadier James Stopford, CBE as he stepped down after ten years as Chairman and warmly welcomed Stephen Chambers as his successor.

Autumn Lunch

Following on from the AGM, the drinks reception gave everyone the opportunity to converse with friends before being called in to dine.

Autumn Lunch Attendees (Photos: Tom Iredale & Hester Huttenbach)

The Autumn Lunch was greatly enjoyed by 52 members and their guest, with the steak and oxtail pie proving especially popular and offering a welcome change from the more familiar guinea fowl or chicken.

James Stopford Introducing Brigadier Justin Maciejewski (Photo: Hester Huttenbach)

James Stopford introduced the after-lunch speaker, Brigadier Justin Maciejewski, DSO MBE, Director of the National Army Museum. After a distinguished Army career, Brigadier Maciejewski held a visiting fellowship at Oxford in 2012 as part of the Changing Character of War Programme under Professor Sir Hew Strachan.

Brigadier Justin Maciejewski’s After-Lunch Speech (Photo: Tom Iredale)

His address reflected the Association’s continuing commitment to serious historical enquiry and public understanding. Speaking on the changing nature of warfare, from the trenches of Gallipoli and the Western Front to the use of drones in Ukraine, Brigadier Maciejewski drew out lessons that remain vital for the leaders of tomorrow.

Stephen Chambers and Brigadier Justin Maciejewski (Photo: Tom Iredale)

After dealing with many questions, Chairman Stephen Chambers thanked Brigadier Justin Maciejewski and presented him with the Association’s wall plaque and silk tie.

More Autumn Lunch Attendees (Photos: Tom Iredale & Hester Huttenbach)