Amalgamation of Armourers and Gun Fitters to a new Career Employment Group (CEG) as
“Weapons Mechanic”
Some of you may not be aware that in 2000, The Soldier Manpower Committee took the decision to amalgamate the Armourers and Gun Fitters and call the new trade “Weapons Mechanic”. At the time this was greeted with some dismay, and the Association decided that it was time to make our voice heard. Below are a number of letters and responses discussing the issue, and it should be noted that our then then President, Eric Stratford and Secretary, Chris Dennis took a leading role in helping to retain the name “Armourer”.
26 May 2000
Peter Gunn, Course Designer (Weapons) at SEME started the ball rolling with a letter to Maj. Gen. Judd
September 2000
Eric Stratford wrote to H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh our Colonel-In-Chief
06 September 2000
Chris Dennis wrote to Brig R.J. Croucher ADC DEME (A)
20 September 2000
The temporary Equerry to H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh responded to Eric Stratford
25 October 2000
Brig R. J. Croucher ADC DEME (A) responded to Chris Dennis
03 November 2000
The Private Secretary to H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh responded to Eric Stratford
So, a successful campaign by our President and Secretary, achieving the goal of retaining the historical name