After a good few hours research at the Libary and other places I have compiled a brief bit about the event:
Southend and The Pearl Harbour Salute
The Southend branch of The Royal Naval Association (SRNA) has conducted a march past & memorial service dedicated to the Japanese attack on pearl harbour on December 7th 1942 ever since 1981, this service continued every year until 2005 when rising cost forced the SRNA to make that years the last one.
The event in Southend was the only one of its type to be held in the United Kingdom and was attended regularly by serving US Navy personnel.
The event came into being after a visit by a retired naval officer from Southend to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour, during the visit the keepers of the memorial were presented with the SRNA plaque.
In return for this sign of friendship the SRNA were presented with the American Flag that was flying over the memorial at that time a very rare gesture along with this was presented the state flag of Hawaii.
Following the visit and exchange of gifts the SRNA began organising a memorial service to the people who were lost in the attack on Pearl Harbour, the first proved so popular that it was decided to hold the service annually
The event became well respected in the United States with the SRNA service receiving a Citation of Merit from the Secretary of the U.S. Navy in 1987 whilst further recognition was given in 1995 when the SRNA received a personal letter from President William J. Clinton thanking them for remembering the US’ fallen veterans.
Ever since the first March and service the US Navy have sent a small contingent of personnel as have the Royal Navy and RAF with a number of British Veterans also taking part.
The final mach took place on Sunday 4th December 2005 marching from the Magistrates Court in Victoria Avenue down to St Mary’s Church also in Victoria Avenue.
Attending the last mach was: The commanding officer of US forces in the UK Captain Stephen Matts, along with representatives from the US Navy and Air Force.
The Mayor, Councillor Chris Dandridge, representatives from the Royal Naval Association, .detachments from the Air Cadets and Sea Cadets will also be present, The March was led by The Band of HM Royal Marine Band Portsmouth.
The 25th Anniversary marked the end of the march this saw a personal letter sent by the President of the United States George Bush read out thanking the SRNA for the past 25 years of remberance.
I can post up a copy of the letter if you want to read it.
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