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| EJ, Allen and members of the Royal Navy staff at the recent clay pigeon shoot. |
WHAT a team they are turning out to be and so early on in their young partnership! Gulf war veteran Allen Parton and EJ (Endal Junior) have thrown themselves into raising funds and awareness for one of the many services charities very close to Allen's heart - on this occasion it was to aid the Royal Naval Benevolent fund (RNBT).
"In those very early days when I was not long out of hospital" said Allen "and then having only just met Endal ... it was only through RNBT supplying me with my very first power chair that it was agreed I could have Endal."
So it was incredibly poignant for Allen to have been asked to be the keynote speaker at this years prestigious RNBT annual clay pigeon shoot held in Haslemere, Surrey.
"To be able to share with the guests how RNBT had helped not only me but most importantly my family as well in our greatest hour of need," Allen explained, "was a privilege that enabled me to explain in detail to the guests where the funds go and what an incredible difference it makes and why more funds are needed to meet an ever-increasing demand.
"Every day in the newspapers we read of the fatalities of war - sadly today's news, tomorrow's fish and chips paper. We hear though so very little of the casulties or families left to struggle on. When the guns on the battle field fall silent the battle with disabilty, trauma and bereavement goes on until one draws the last breath.
"The RNBT looks after the welfare and needs of both serving and retired sailors, royal marines and their dependents. Sadly only last week it was reported a royal marine was killed in action. Ironically many folk do not fully appreciate the role the Royal navy plays in current operations - personnel from fleet air arm, Royal Marines, RN medical teams, all playing a major roll in the theatre of war.
"To feel EJ and I can play some small part in helping to raise desperately needed funds to support the serving and those that have served queen and country in their hour of need is an absolute honour."
EJ is slowly clocking up a string of appearances and has risen to every challenge with an astounding professionalism far beyond that expected of such a young dog. "He is still delightfully mischievous and keeps me on my toes," said Allen, "but when the chips are really down and the need is there his focus and maturity come to the fore!"
