Toast: John Monks asked us to raise our glasses for Freedom, something we value since the advent of Covid 19
Guests included members of the Rotary Club of Mermaid Beach and our Guest Speaker Dr/Colonel Robert Likeman. President Peter welcomed all to the meeting.
Notices:
Neil encouraged members to contribute $US100 to the Rotary Foundation.
Also, that Rotary cakes and puddings to be paid as per invoices. There are still more cakes and puddings available.
Christmas Party: Members can register & pay $30 pp online
Neil Jones conducted a lucrative Fine Session. The Raffle was won by Harold, and the Heads & Tails by guest, Jan Westerveld.
Graham Werrell introduced Colonel Likemen who gave an extremely interesting talk on the history of Afghanistan. This encompassed from the First Afghan War of 1839 to 1842, which resulted in the 16 500 British casualties, with only one Britisher surviving.
The Second Afghan War (1878 – 1880) cost the lives of 3000 of the 40 000 British soldiers.
The Third Afghan War (1919) resulted in 1751 deaths.
The Fourth Afghan War (1979 – 1989) involved the Russian Invasion. The Russians withdrew with 14 452 killed and 53 753 wounded.
The Fifth Afghan War between the Taliban and American forces and their allies cost the lives of 2352 soldiers and 20 000 wounded.
Colonel Robert explained the strategic significance of Afghanistan, the mix of ethic tribes, and the political significance of the various combatants and the part Islam plays in the everyday life of the inhabitants.
The speech was very informative and enjoyed by most.
Grahame Werrell moved a Vote of Thanks to Col Robert and he and President Peter presented him with two whisky glasses ( one from the time before when he spoke previously).
President Peter thanked all for their attendance and closed the meeting.
