2010
and here we are - in Adelaide once again
Enjoying our reunion - the friendship's just the same
It really is a pleasure - to be here, all as one
Despite the miles of travel - everyone wants to come
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We have some senior members - we have others not so old
They wore the same uniform - that glittered, just like gold
It never mattered, where you served - your rank was yours alone
As long as you could give respect - to King or Queen on Throne
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I often wondered, what it was like - to be in charge of me
When turning up at four oclock - and the concert was at three
But alas dear friends I'm not alone - as everyone here can state
Sometimes the concert started - and half the band was late
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Those days we all remember - with tongue in cheek and smile
Oh! to be a Bandmaster - and have the burden for awhile
I really wonder, what I would do - as I handled all the flack
Perhaps I'd turn a blind eye as well - as the hair stood on
my back
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It did no happen at every gig - but like stepping on a mine
It was'nt really funny - when your job was on the line
Our training always took us through - Thank God it was the best
We always played what we could see - busking through the rest
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Those days we still remember - with pride and joy as well
The Beat Retreats and Concerts - and the many Gigs from Hell
But let's not forget our leaders - and the job they had to do
Despite out little mishaps - they always seen us through
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I cannot mention everyone - it's too difficult to do
So I hope you will forgive me - If I mention just a few
To Capt. Tom and Bandie Mick - we're glad to see you here
To Col. Jim and my friend Ray - we hold you all so dear
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To Bob and Eric who work so hard - in planning this each year
We really are so grateful - its time you had a cheer
To Maxie Beare, who had a scare - but made it just the same
To Joe Simms, we send our thoughts - and wish him well again
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The Band Service is a credit - to all who served therein
I was proud to be a member - please forgive my every sin
I now look back with pride and joy - it really was a treat
Playing in many a Concert - more often a Beat Retreat
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Not many have the priviledge - of belonging to something grand
Especially when the name of it - is The Royal Marines Band
No matter where you go in life - no matter what you do
You have been a member - and I have been one too
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Let's not forget our absent friends - who are sadly missed today
We really cherish times gone by - the memories always stay
Now is time, to think of them - and raise our glasses too
As we remember many things - but especially we remember you
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Safe travels home, the best of health - to everyone here today
I really have enjoyed myself - in closing, I will say
Take care dear friends, I wish you well - do not hurry up to
heaven
You still have another place to go - to Adelaide in 2000 &
eleven
'Paddy'
Semple