RMC Coin Tradition

Geoff Bennett, Class of 1971 would like your feedback on the following:

In recent years a new “tradition” has appeared at RMC. After the Recruit Obstacle Course members of the Old Brigade present RMC coins to all recruits. The cost of the coins is approximately $3,200 and is paid for by the Class entering the Old Brigade. I’m not sure how the tradition began but it may have been an initiative of the Class of 1966 with support from Al Roberts (former OB Adjutant) and Gerry Stowe (current OB Adjutant). Note that the Class of 1966 has donated more money to the Foundation than any other.

When Ray Hook, our Class Secretary, and I asked Gerry Stowe if the Class of 1971 could opt out of the coin tradition, he said that the coins would still be distributed but that the cost would have to come out of the OB account, the balance of which would be cut in half.

We asked one of our classmates to do a random sample of cadets to find out if this tradition is meaningful to them. Surprisingly, about 75% of first year cadets appreciated the coin and did not view it as a mere souvenir. Older cadets and recent Ex-Cadets also value the coins and often bring them to Mess functions along with other regimental coins.

In my opinion our class money would be better spent on donations to the Foundation or other worthwhile projects. We are currently planning to contribute to the Danny McLeod Athletic Endowment Fund when our class enters the OB in 2016. Most of our classmates are unaware of the coin tradition and may not be too happy about another request for money.

According to “a reliable source” at RMC, the Class of 1969 was reluctant to continue this tradition but in the end they decided to go along with it.

So Ray and I are in a bit of a quandary. We are not happy that another class has instigated this rather expensive tradition, thus committing all younger classes without consulting them.  We thought that it might be a good idea to canvass your opinions to see if there is a united feeling one way or the other.

Accordingly, could I ask you for a Yes or No response plus any comments you might have. Kindly reply to me and I’ll summarize the results for everyone’s benefit later.

TDV,
Geoff

PS This coin tradition is not to be confused with the badging ceremony after the Saturday parade, which is paid by Her Majesty.

Send and email to Geoff