Royal Marine veteran turns recovery into landmark charity fundraiser

An aircraft hangar at Aberdeen International Airport will be transformed into a spectacular black-tie venue this winter, as one UK veteran turns his own recovery into a mission to support others.

The Royal Marines Association Grampian Branch will welcome 400 guests to the hangar ball on Saturday 28 November. Bringing together the military, aviation and civilian communities, the event will raise vital funds for RMA – The Royal Marines Charity.

The evening has particular meaning for Aberdeenshire veteran Paul Basford. After being made redundant during the pandemic, Paul invested his pension and borrowed heavily to build a shooting range on his property. The project was progressing well until a sudden illness left him bedbound, causing him to lose 50lbs in just six weeks.

As Paul began the long road back to health, the charity provided training equipment he could use at home. Over the following year, he gradually rebuilt not only his physical strength, but the confidence needed to complete the range and establish a successful business.

“The idea of the ball in the hangar is my way of paying back the charity’s kindness,” he said. “Sometimes that support is for injuries everyone can see; sometimes it is for the battles people are fighting quietly.”

For one night only, Offshore Helicopter Services will open its operational aircraft hangar for the event. Guests can expect aircraft displays, military ceremony and live entertainment in a setting unlike any conventional ballroom.

The Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland has also confirmed that it will perform. Renowned for its musicianship, precision and ceremonial presence, the band took part in the funeral procession of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III.

RMA – The Royal Marines Charity supports serving and former Royal Marines and their families with physical and mental health needs, financial pressures, employment, education and the transition to civilian life.

For Royal Marines veterans across Grampian and beyond, the ball promises far more than an impressive night out. It is an opportunity to reconnect with the Corps family, stand alongside fellow veterans and help ensure that support is there whenever one of their own needs it.

Find out more at rmaball.co.uk.