It is with much sadness that we inform of the passing of a dear friend and avid supporter of the Commando fraternity, John Whyte. John passed away peacefully at his home in Glenfinnan on Saturday 13 April, surrounded by his family.
Over many decades, John provided much sterling support, particularly in the provision of music, to the Commando Association during our annual visits to Fort William each November. You may have seen John at many CA events, particularly 'on the hill' at Spean Bridge for our annual service, where he lead the Lochaber community wind and pipe band, and also during our annual visits to the Lochaber High School for their music festival. He also gave sterling support to the CA committee in many other ways, always in the background, utilising his contacts and knowledge of the Lochaber area to make the organising of local events and the actual Remembrance weekends a success. His friendship and support was always immensely appreciated and we always managed to enjoy a 'wee dram' as a reward at the end of the day. John was an absolute gentleman and typified the words within the Commando Prayer - 'to give and not to count the cost'. He will always be remembered with much love and respect and will be sorely missed by both the Commando and Lochaber community. Rest in peace John.

Once again I will be walking in memory of Operation Chariot, the Commando Raid on the docks at Saint Nazaire in 1942. 

The Raid took place on 28 March 1942 and although the cost in lives on all sides was high the main dock was inoperable for use by the major German battleships and the action which may well have shortened the war. It is considered to be the 'Greatest Raid of All'.

The commemorative walk is endorsed by the Saint Nazaire Society whose aim is to keep alive the memory of the incredible bravery and sacrifice of those who took part. The walk precedes the 82nd anniversary and the route will be from the Commando Memorial at Saint Nazaire to Place du Murier at Batz Sur Mer via the Commonwealth War Grave at La Baule, where many of the fallen lie, and the Grand Blockhaus Museum, where many relics of the Raid are displayed...including a newly discovered door which will be unveiled on the anniversary of the Raid on 28th March this year.

The aim of the walk is to raise awareness and funds specifically for PTSD Resolution in the United Kingdom and the UNC in France which assists former servicemen and women in all matters. Any donations will make a huge difference to people's lives but our aim is to make £1,942.

From PTSD Resolution: "Thank you! You are helping us to resolve the trauma that too often blights the lives of Forces' Veterans, to enable them to return to a normal work and family life. We make every £ donated really count - we own no assets, pay no salaries."

Matt's Walk for PTSD Resolution - JustGiving https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/operation-chariot-walk-2024

The walk is open to anyone although there is no support for administration.  All walkers must be self sufficent.  If you would like further details, please let me know.