What inspired the ‘Sandwich Salutes the 40s event?

The P22 Trust approached the Sandwich Rotary Club with the idea of bringing the 40s to Sandwich; Rotary Vice President Andy Dale warmly embraced the idea and in turn met with Steve Laslett, Chair of Sandwich Community Events Association.  A committee was formed and planning commenced.

The last time a historical vessel visited Sandwich was when the medieval replica of the Matthew came to Town and attracted large crowds.  It seems that the water and related activities are always popular.

The P22 is of course of a completely different era to the Matthew.

USN P22 is a United States Navy Gun Boat which was built by a German shipbuilders shortly after WWII for the American military to patrol the river Rhine during the “Cold War” era. The gun boat is the only one afloat out of a fleet of 23 of this model.

After being decommissioned by the American military, it was handed back to the reformed German Navy to continue Rhine patrol. After a number of years it was then decommissioned and bought by a Scottish-based private company where it fell into disrepair and partially sank, only to be saved by a private individual for its posterity and historic value.

It was recently used in a forthcoming blockbuster war film in Dunkirk and is now permanently moored in Ramsgate, Kent where it is used for promotional events and nostalgic trips for veterans.

Sandwich Salutes the 40s is made possible by most of the re-enactors and the crew of the P22 giving their time voluntarily.  However, there are other costs involved such as the free park and ride service made possible by Discovery Park kindly opening their car parks to the event.  A grand draw with a first prize of £1000 is taking place.   There is also a prize for a party of 8 to enjoy a trip on the P22 and see it very close up and personal.  Tickets will be on sale very soon.