The Royal "Fortyseveners" reunion

It was such a privilege to witness a school class reunion last Saturday, February 17 in the gracious setting of the Palm Lounge at the Galle Face Hotel, when boys from the 1947 class at Royal College were welcomed back from near and afar, for their 60th Anniversary.

A wonder evening unfolded. Often with hands on hearts the old schoolboys became young again. There were recollections of good friends, tales of masters and school boy mischief.

Then pausing in silence, to mark the passing of 33 of their dear school friends, with invited relatives and widows in attendance. Monies were contributed generously to a Benevolent Fund for the needs of some of the less fortunate "Fortyseveners".

The "Fortyseveners" together with the two guests of honour lined up for the 60th anniversary group photograph. The evening included the presentation of special individual awards as well as commemorative awards to all in the Group, in the form of a beautifully crafted and engraved timepieces - may be to remind them of the next get-together! It was momentous to think that all these classmates were born around 1935, when Royal College was celebrating its centenary (1835 - 1935). The college motto - "Disce aut Discede" (Learn or Depart) signified this very special reunion evening. Perhaps the "47 Group" motto in reply would be - "We did and came back"!! - because of the great affection for their old school - Royal.