March 31st 2021 marks 50 years since 59th Field Squadron Royal Engineers changed into 59 Independent Commando Squadron Royal Engineers. The Squadron has a rich history and its identity remains strong in those who have served, both young and old.

To celebrate and mark this occasion, 59 Cdo Sqn are yomping 59 miles from Great Links Tor on Dartmoor, to RMB Chivenor.

The Squadron hopes to raise money for the Commando Branch of the Royal Engineers Association (REA), a brilliant charity that supports serving personnel and their families within the Corps.

59 miles in 16-17hrs is going to hurt. Any donations will be greatly appreciated!

The Royal Engineers Association

The original REA was founded in 1912 under the name of The Royal Engineers Old Comrades Association. Its name was changed to the Royal Engineers Association in 1952.

The Aim of the Association is to promote and support the Corps of Royal Engineers among members of the Association by fostering esprit de corps and a spirit of comradeship and service, and by maintaining an awareness of Corps traditions. The Association also acts as a link between serving and retired members of the Corps and it provides financial and other assistance to serving and former members of the Corps, their spouses, widows and dependents who are in need. Grants, within Association Guidelines, are made to the Army Benevolent Fund and to other charities that further the objectives of the Association.

The REA Commando Branch

Formed in 2009 The REA Commando Branch is one of the largest branches in the REA. It seeks to maintain an esprit de corps and foster the commando spirit amongst serving and non-serving commando engineer.

The Cdo Branch is an exclusive organisation that delivers much needed support to serving and ex-serving commando sappers and their families. All members are the ‘eyes and ears’ of the wider REA and are used to signpost those in need of support who otherwise find it difficult to ask.  The support that can be offered can make a huge difference to an individual’s well-being and their family.

It is also a network that provides a structure for serving and non-serving personnel to keep in touch through social media and social gatherings. 

"Being a Royal Engineer is special, being a Commando Sapper is a brotherhood!”