COLD BUT PURE

It is minus 25 but the air is clean and pure. Keeping warm in this is quite a challenge. Layers of clothes and good boots essential. The onion domes of Russian Orthodox churches are beautifully decorated in gold leaf and are fascinating to see. Russia is a changing place but many think it is for the worse.

GRAND METRO

On an outing out of Moscow experienced Russian transport systems. Traffic is a nightmare and you need a strong nerve or half a bottle of vodka. The metro is very efficient, bigger and cleaner than the underground. Stalin had magnificent metro stations built in the 50s and this picture is of such a Metro station decorated with mosaics depicting the glories of the Soviet Union and Lenin. Trains not so impressive, wider than ours but very basic, wooden benches etc no refreshments.

KREMLIN DRILL

Spent most of day in the Kremlin which is an amazing place of interest and sheer wealth of silver and gold objects including beautiful Faberge eggs. Spent time on Red Square and learnt that its name predates Communism. Visited the tomb of the unknown soldier and the eternal flame where I spotted some very smart Russian soldiers not unlike these depicted on the Kremlin wall.

COMRADE GENERAL

Have come to Moscow to see if we can set up a ABF Committee here. Its minus 20 and wearing a hat like this is essential. Fascinating place which has changed greatly in last five years.

BRAVE MEN SUCCEED WITH HONOURS

We were all absolutely delighted by the safe arrival on Wednesday of the Row to recovery team in Barbados.  They had had a very trying time but they persevered with the lack of water, broken rudder and just coping with the added challenges of doing this with those so severely injured, but what courage and determination which makes us all feel so humble and feeble.  here is part of Rory's last blog, it is moving stuff. We in ABF the Soldiers' charity are so grateful to them for what they have done our behalf.  Many soldiers will be helped.

We pulled together and found solutions because that is what we do. As soldiers, you find answers, and we managed that throughout this row.

It’s going to be so amazing to see all our friends and family when we get alongside in Port St Charles, as well as all the other crews who have completed this incredible challenge of physical and mental endurance.

The next few days are going to be an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to everyone who has supported us and made this row possible.

Hopefully it will also be a chance to hit our target of £1million for service charities.

We have all be on an amazing journey that will stay with us forever. Just like the physical injuries that, in some people’s eyes, define who we are.

But mind will always win over matter, and we have shown that where there is a will to succeed, there is a way.

People have asked me what I have left to achieve. What more can I do after achieving this? The answer? Get married and start a family. I can’t imagine anything could possibly top that.

But right now, five years after my lowest point, it is time to enjoy the moment. Right now, without any shadow of a doubt, it is time for a beer. I think we’ve earned it.

Much love, Rory.

WORKING TOGETHER

Once more the three heads of the three Single Service charities met to confer but this time we had my successor, Major General Martin Rutledge, to see how we operate. Before you ask, I have no idea if he will have a blog! But also we had the Minister, Andrew Robatham who briefed us on areas of joint interest. A most worthwhile gathering which is increasingly leading to better cooperation. Disclaimer The information contained in this communication is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for use by the intended recipient and others authorised to receive it. If you are not the intended recipient you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in reliance of the information herein is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful.

BACK AT WATERLOO

The good news is that we are back at Waterloo station with this enormous poster in the old Euro Star terminal.  This is all part of the build up with the Soldier Challenge on 19th May.  Its great to have this sort of publicity for virtually nothing as the terminal will be used as the start and finish points for the Challenge when up to 2000 will go carreering around London.