On Friday 28 June 2024 MCVC welcomed three visitors from Riesa East Germany. This was a reciprocal visit building on the relationship established by 146 Workshop Company, 102 Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers (REME). At the invite of the German Reserve Forces a contingent of 30 soldiers moved to Riesa by road and air to partake in their Armed Forces Weekend. An opportunity to foster relations with our allies, their culture and historical sites of importance, Berlin’s Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Colditz Castle and parade through Riesa.
Our three veteran visitors saw service with the German Army and Airforce, Captain Partik George, Pilot Officer Andreas Hohmann, Warrant Class 2 Florian Winkler. Andreas now manages a company in Buckinghamshire, while Partik and Florian flew in from Berlin to Stansted (whistle stop tour) then faced the Friday drive north.




On Friday evening, the Mayor of Rotherham, Councillor Shellia Cowen, graciously invited the visitors to Rotherham Town Hall. Alongside members of MCVC, the visitors were treated to a history lesson about the Town Hall, its Mace, Chains, and historic paintings, thanks to the knowledgeable town hall staff. A special mention was made of the painting of Sgt Ian McKay VC. The evening included a poignant tribute to the fallen with the laying of a wreath at Rotherham’s War Memorial.
The evening rounded off with a dinner and banter. Regardless of language barriers, the spirit of friendship and mutual respect was evident, with sandbags drawn and lanterns swung in traditional military fashion.






Saturday saw the visitors traveling to Doncaster for Armed Forces Day as guests of Doncaster’s Civic and elected Mayors. The day began with a visit to Doncaster’s Mansion House, where they gained insight into the Mansion House and witnessed a Civic Wedding. The visitors then took to the Mansion House steps to take the salute as the parade passed by.
Upon arrival at Elmfield Park, the cadets played an active role in entertaining the public, alongside the fun of the fair. Partik seized the opportunity to win presents for his children, adding a personal touch to the day’s festivities. The long, hot day concluded with the exchange of small gifts
The visitors returned to Germany on Sunday, carrying with them lasting memories of new friendships and strengthened relationships. Looking ahead, there is great anticipation for the upcoming visit to Riesa on April 25, where we will join our German friends in celebrating and commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Stalag 4B and Colditz Castle.
