In a beautiful setting on Persimmon Tree Farm in Middleburg, Virginia, on Saturday
evening, August 26, 2023, the Allied Veterans Heritage Foundation, led by Legionnaire
Steven Carney of the Middleburg American Legion Post 295, hosted the Royal British
Legion and Post 295. This commemorative event aimed to officially recognize the bond
created between these two esteemed organizations.
This inaugural action between military veterans cemented the latest partnership and
union between our two great countries, further solidifying the Anglo-American
relationship that dates back over 150 years to the post-American Civil War era. This special
arrangement, is the first of its kind in America. The event marked the establishment of the
Royal British Legion, Washington DC Branch, which will share the use of the Post 295
Patriot’s Hall and will be commemorated with the construction of an Anglo-American
Military Memorial in the coming years.
John P. Molière, District 16 Vice Commander and a nineteen-year Past Commander of
Post 295, opened the ceremony by recognizing the extreme veteran suicide rate and
paying homage to our POWs and MIAs. The national anthems of both the United States
and the United Kingdom were rendered, fostering a sense of unity and respect.
Brigadier (Retired) James Learmont CBE, Chairman of the Royal British Legion, Washington
DC Branch, greeted everyone and shared the story of the Alabama Claim—a poignant
negotiation between the United States and Great Britain following the Civil War. This
historical reference highlighted the deep and enduring ties between the two nations.
The new colors of the Royal British Legion, flown via British Airways directly from the UK
that afternoon, were presented to General Learmont by Steven Carney after being
honored and blessed by Chaplain Michael Husfelt. The colors were then placed into
service, symbolizing the official start of this unique partnership.
Post 295 Commander Gary Nickelson welcomed everyone and provided a brief history of
the recent renovations to Patriot’s Hall in advance of our 75th Anniversary celebrated on
March 26, 2022. He also discussed the various potential uses of the parcel directly behind
Patriots Hall, culminating in the decision to work with the Town of Middleburg and the
Allied Veterans Heritage Foundation to establish an Anglo-American Museum. This
museum will be dedicated to British, Welsh, Irish, Scottish, Australian, Indian, Canadian,
and American veterans who served shoulder to shoulder in battle.
The night concluded with an inspiring speech by guest speaker USAF Major General Jim
“Rev” Jones. Drawing on the insights and experiences shared by previous speakers, he
emphasized the unity between the three organizations, leaving the audience with a
profound sense of connection and shared purpose.