Bob Bacon
02-12-2024, 22:01
Last Post: Colonel (Retd) Michael John Down MBE (Late RWF)
It is with sadness that we announce Colonel Michael (Mike) John Down MBE has passed away on 29th November 2024 at Bronllys Hospital after a prolonged battle with Parkinson's disease. A former member of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, Mike's military career was marked by many significant achievements.
Mike’s military career began in 1951 at the Welsh Brigade Training Centre before joining the RWF in Wrexham in 1952. Mike’s time with the RWF included tours to Dortmund/Berlin, Hong Kong, Londonderry and Lemgo. Mike's military journey also included memorable moments such as being present at Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation in 1953 and serving as a young Sergeant Instructor at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was later commissioned as a Quartermaster in 1974 and following his retirement from the Regular Army in 1986, he went on to become a Colonel command the Clwyd Army Cadet Force. In recognition of his exceptional service, he was honoured as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
He is survived by his two sons, Nick and Hugh. Mike's legacy of service and commitment will be remembered by his family, military colleagues, and friends who knew and respected him.
Funeral details will be announced when known.
RHQ The Royal Welsh
It is with sadness that we announce Colonel Michael (Mike) John Down MBE has passed away on 29th November 2024 at Bronllys Hospital after a prolonged battle with Parkinson's disease. A former member of the Royal Welch Fusiliers, Mike's military career was marked by many significant achievements.
Mike’s military career began in 1951 at the Welsh Brigade Training Centre before joining the RWF in Wrexham in 1952. Mike’s time with the RWF included tours to Dortmund/Berlin, Hong Kong, Londonderry and Lemgo. Mike's military journey also included memorable moments such as being present at Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation in 1953 and serving as a young Sergeant Instructor at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was later commissioned as a Quartermaster in 1974 and following his retirement from the Regular Army in 1986, he went on to become a Colonel command the Clwyd Army Cadet Force. In recognition of his exceptional service, he was honoured as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
He is survived by his two sons, Nick and Hugh. Mike's legacy of service and commitment will be remembered by his family, military colleagues, and friends who knew and respected him.
Funeral details will be announced when known.
RHQ The Royal Welsh