We are delighted to announce two new reciprocal partnerships between the Victory Services Club and the Army and Navy Club of Washington DC, as well as the Union League Club of Chicago. These collaborations provide our members with access to the outstanding facilities of two of the United States’ most distinguished private clubs.

THE ARMY AND NAVY CLUB, WASHINGTON

The Army and Navy Club is one of Washington DC’s most renowned private clubs. Founded in 1885, it has long served as a prestigious home away from home for generations of military officers and national leaders. Overlooking historic Farragut Square and dedicated by three U.S. Presidents across its successive clubhouses, the Club is steeped in tradition and recognised for its Five Star Platinum status, placing it among the leading city clubs in the United States.

When visiting Washington DC, members may enjoy access to the Club’s facilities, including refined dining, comfortable guest accommodations, and a remarkable military library and art collection. Its prime location—just steps from the White House and major Metro stations—makes it an ideal base for both business and leisure travel in the U.S. capital.

UNION LEAGUE CLUB OF CHICAGO

Founded in 1879, the Union League Club of Chicago is a distinguished private club in the heart of downtown, known for elevating the everyday through exceptional service, historic architecture, and one of the largest private art collections in the city. The Club offers members an inspiring setting that blends comfort, culture, and tradition.

Rooted in a legacy that began during the Civil War, the Union League Club has long stood for civic responsibility, integrity in government, and support for our nation’s military. Located steps from Chicago’s cultural and business centres, the Club provides refined dining, welcoming accommodations, and an atmosphere shaped by generations of leaders who helped build Chicago into a world-class city—making it an ideal home away from home for members visiting the United States.

HOW TO OBTAIN A LETTER OF INTRODUCTION

To access any of the VSC’s reciprocal clubs, members are required to obtain a ‘Letter of Introduction’ in advance of their visit. This can be generated directly through the Members’ Portal by selecting Reciprocal Clubs in the Payment & Manage Account area of the portal. Please select the relevant club and provide the dates you plan to visit. A letter of introduction will be emailed to the selected reciprocal club, together with a copy to you as the Member.

If you require any assistance with this process, please contact the VSC Membership Department at mem@vsc.co.uk, and they will be happy to help.

We are pleased to offer our members the opportunity to experience the hospitality and heritage of these iconic military clubs around the world.

A remarkable chapter of Malaysian military history has been beautifully preserved in The Malaysian Wish Stream: An Illustrated History of Malaysian Cadets at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. This richly illustrated publication has been gifted to the Victory Services Club by its author, Lt Gen Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng.

On 22nd December 2025, this book was accepted on behalf of the VSC by General Manager, Mark Field, photographed below with Lt Gen Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng.

More than a book, The Malaysian Wish Stream is a tribute to generations of Malaysian cadets whose formative years were shaped at one of the world’s most prestigious military institutions.

About the Author

Born on 16th January 1966 in Malacca, Lt Gen Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng received his early education at St Francis Institution before enrolling at the Royal Military College, Sungei Besi, in 1984 as part of Regular Intake 25. His military promise soon earned him selection for further training at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1985, where he was assigned to Salerno Company.

Graduating in December 1986, he was commissioned into the Royal Ranger Regiment, marking the start of a distinguished career that would span decades of service, leadership, and scholarship. Lt Gen Datuk Johnny Lim’s professional development extended well beyond Sandhurst. He attended advanced courses both locally and overseas, including the New Zealand Grade Two Staff and Tactics course in 1998 and the Australian Army Command and Staff College at Fort Queenscliff from 1999 to 2000.

At Fort Queenscliff, he achieved exceptional distinction—winning the Strategic Prize as the best overall student in the Strategic Studies module—and was awarded a Master’s Degree in Defence Studies by the University of Canberra. He later served as the Officer Commanding of the Senior Tactics Wing at PULADA.

Married to Gloria, they have one son, Neville.

The Meaning Behind the “Wish Stream”

Sandhurst’s connection with Malaysia runs deep. Renowned as the oldest and most prestigious military academy of its kind, its traditions have shaped Commonwealth armies worldwide, including Malaysia’s.

For Sandhurst graduates, the “Wish Stream” is far more than a poetic phrase. It is a place etched into memory—where cadets endured gruelling physical training, shedding sweat, determination, and sometimes tears. It is also the name of Sandhurst’s famed “journal of wisdom,” symbolising reflection and growth.

A Tribute to Service and Shared Legacy

Dedicated to all Malaysian Sandhurst graduates, The Malaysian Wish Stream aims to rekindle memories of camaraderie, discipline, and pride forged at RMA Sandhurst. The first Malaysian cadets—Abdul Manan Abbas and Shukor Chik—enrolled at Sandhurst in 1950. Among its distinguished alumni is Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Al-Marhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail, highlighting the Academy’s role in shaping both military and national leadership.

In preserving these stories, Lt Gen Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng has given the VSC, and Malaysia, more than a history book—he has provided a lasting record of service, commitment, and shared heritage.

Members are advised that two planned general power shutdowns will take place at the Victory Services Club on Monday, 12th January and Monday, 19th January, between 11:00-13:00.

These temporary shutdowns are required to allow essential electrical maintenance to be carried out. Full details of the affected areas and impacts are outlined below so members can plan accordingly.

Please note that the VSC Grill restaurant will also be closed for lunch on Monday, 19th January 2026.

Why is this Shutdown necessary?

From time to time, a complete power interruption is required to allow qualified technicians to safely inspect, test, and maintain key electrical systems. This work cannot be carried out while systems remain live.

These shutdowns form part of our ongoing commitment to keeping the Club safe, reliable, and well maintained. Proactive maintenance helps prevent unexpected outages, supports compliance with safety standards, and protects our facilities for the long term.

We understand that power interruptions can be inconvenient and sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding. Every effort will be made to complete the works efficiently and restore power as quickly as possible. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact the Club management.

Thank you for your continued support of the Club.

Monday, 12th January | 11:00-13:00

Area affected: Memorial Wing

Impact:

• All Memorial Wing bedrooms, the boiler room, and the Memorial Wing lift will be without power
• Heating and hot water will be disrupted throughout the building
• The Memorial Wing lift will be out of service
• Corridors will operate on emergency lighting only

Monday, 19th January | 11:00-13:00

Area affected: Centenary Wing

Impact:

• All Centenary Wing bedrooms, communications room, Restaurant, Reception, kitchens, and service/passenger lifts will be without power
• All areas will operate on emergency lighting only
• The online Members’ Portal will not be accessible during this period
• The Restaurant will be closed for lunch

Important reminders (from 10:50):

• Please save all work and power down computers
• Use the Carisbrooke Hall entrance for access, as the main doors will remain closed

⛳️💚 The VSC are delighted to share that the Royal Marines Golf Association has been awarded Royal Marines Team of the Year!⛳️💚

As proud sponsors of the RMGA in 2025, we are pleased to see their hard work, dedication, and teamwork recognised in such a prestigious way. This remarkable achievement is the result of unwavering commitment, consistency, and a shared drive to excel — values we are honoured to support.

We’d also like to send our warmest congratulations to Rob Urmann, awarded Sports Secretary of the Year — a well-deserved accolade! 👏

To mark the achievement, the RMGA shared on Instagram a message of appreciation for everyone who continues to support and champion their success:

“A massive thank you to everyone involved — @royalmarines @thermcharity @victory_services_club for your continued support.
None of this would be possible without you.”

With the 50th Anniversary of the RMGA approaching next season, the team is in a fantastic position to build on this success and celebrate an important milestone with another standout year. ⛳️

Per Mare, Per Terram 💚

THE VSC PROUD SPONSOR OF THE ROYAL MARINES GOLF ASSOCIATION IN 2025

VSC is proud to announce that it is renewing sponsorship of the Royal Marines Golf Association (RMGA) team for the 2025 season. This partnership will once again see the VSC logo featured on the team’s official polo shirts — and now, for the first time, proudly displayed on their new outer golfing jackets.

In a heartfelt note of appreciation, the RMGA expressed their gratitude for the continued VSC support:

“We’ve received the VSC jackets, and I wanted to say a massive thank you from all of us. They look absolutely fantastic and have already made a strong impression on the team. We’re incredibly grateful for your continued support — it means a great deal to the RMGA. Looking ahead, our first competitive fixture is next week! Thank you once again for your generous support; we’re proud to represent VSC and excited for what’s to come.”

The VSC is delighted by the positive reception and looks forward to following the team’s progress closely. Regular updates on their performance in upcoming competitive matches will be shared throughout the season.

18th June 2025 | The RMGA has already made a strong start to the season, delivering standout performances at the RN Championships 2025 held at Saunton Golf Club. Against tough competition and in challenging conditions, the team secured 2nd place in Match Play, along with 3rd place finishes in both Team Stroke Play and Team Nett Play. Four Royals placed in the Top 20 out of 96 players, with a special highlight going to Freddie Lomas, who achieved an incredible hole-in-one. VSC is proud to see the team already making an impact and looks forward to celebrating more milestones with them in the months ahead.

11th September 2025 | The RMGA Autumn Meet took place at China Fleet GCC, with 48 players participating. The weather provided a mixed challenge, with heavy rain in the morning followed by sunshine in the afternoon. The course was in excellent condition throughout. Results as follows: Corps Open Stableford Cup: Liam Hill (35 points) | Retired Stableford Cup: Dan Welch (36 points) |Texas Scramble Champions: Chris Smith, Olly Bryant & Dan Welch (17 under par). The next RMGA fixture is scheduled against RMAGS.

15th October 2025 | As the 2025 season draws to a close, the RMGA has rounded off another fantastic year of competitive golf — finishing on a high with a thrilling victory at the Falklands Cup. After a challenging start that saw the team trail 3–1 after the opening fourballs, the Royals rallied in the singles matches, displaying remarkable consistency and determination. Their composure under pressure paid off, securing a 6.5–5.5 win and bringing the Falklands Cup home once again. 🏆⛳️

It’s been a superb season for the RMGA, filled with standout performances, strong teamwork, and moments of sporting excellence — from an impressive start at the RN Championships to another successful Autumn Meet.

The Victory Services Club has supported the team throughout the 2025 season, with our VSC logo proudly displayed on their golf shirts and jackets. We wish the team continued success!

Dear Member,

CHRISTMAS DONATIONS TO THE CLUB’S STAFF FUND

Fresh from delivering another impeccable Remembrance Weekend, I wanted to write to you about the fantastic team we have at the Victory Services Club. They have, once again this year, delivered a consummate, professional performance, further improving on the already exceptional standards of service we have become accustomed to. In support of our charitable aims they have delivered nearly three hundred welfare/recognition breaks and generated the environment for the development of the unique culture that membership from the UK Armed Forces, NATO and the Commonwealth generates. They have also managed an additional 30 member events, all to a very exacting standard, taking the overall total of events well past 500 for the year. They have delivered more bedroom bookings than ever before and catered for record numbers in the Club restaurant. Activity has therefore clearly recovered to pre-COVID times, yet standards continue to rise; this is testament to our exceptional team.

I am grateful to many of you who have reached out to thank our wonderful team personally and that you recognise that they go that extra mile to provide an ever-improving level of service. Their energy, professionalism and commitment remain as the cornerstone of the Club. They have once again been recognised across the industry with the award from Hospitality Assured of ‘World Class Status’ for the third year in a row, and success at a range of National hospitality awards ceremonies.

As you may know, the hospitality sector continues to face many staffing challenges, and we (the Board and Senior Management Team) are constantly working to retain our excellent staff, who like everyone are facing higher costs of living, which is compounded by our location and the extremely high accommodation charges in London. Retention of our high-quality staff is therefore the highest priority; it ensures we meet everyone’s expectations in terms of quality of service. Whilst the Board always looks to improve the staff’s remuneration and the associated benefits we can financially afford to offer, we all recognise that the economic conditions are still challenging. You may therefore be willing to recognise the staff’s amazing work by making a donation to the Staff Fund at Christmas.

Whatever you can donate, all of it will go equally to every staff member, excluding the Senior Management Team. You can donate to the Staff Fund by going onto the Member Login page on the Club Website (www.vsc.co.uk) and follow the instructions on that page. You can leave cash, or a cheque, made payable to ‘Victory Services Club’ in the Staff Fund box located on the Club’s Reception Desk, or you can post a cheque to the Club, marked on the reverse with your Membership Number and the words “Staff Fund”. Alternatively, please use the Donation Station in Reception.

Thank you for your much appreciated support for the staff, who are vital for the VSC. I look forward to seeing you in the Club soon and in 2026.

Yours sincerely,

Major General Jeff Mason MBE RM

21st November 2025

🎄🎅Christmas🎅🎄has officially arrived at the VSC, and the Club is looking as festive as ever. Festive decorations now fill our rooms and public spaces, creating the perfect backdrop as we unveil our seasonal menus and begin the countdown to the holidays.

To help members keep track of everything happening during this busy and joyful time, we’ve created this dedicated Christmas Page—your go-to hub for all things festive at the VSC. From details on what’s happening right now to a full list of what’s coming up in the weeks ahead, everything is in one place. It’s the best place to keep in the loop.

We warmly encourage as many members as possible to join us throughout the run-up to Christmas. If you’re in London—perhaps shopping along Oxford Street or taking in the city’s famous lights—why not drop into the Club for a leisurely lunch, a warming drink, or a well-earned coffee break? Our team would be delighted to welcome you.

And don’t forget to follow the VSC on social media this season. We’ll be sharing updates on upcoming Club events, gift ideas for friends and family, and plenty of festive inspiration. Keep an eye out for our cheerful #VSCElf, who will be making a daily appearance up to Christmas Eve, spreading Christmas fun, and keeping our members informed.

Here’s to a joyous, sparkling season at the VSC—see you soon! 🎄✨

CHRISTMAS MENUS

• Christmas Day Lunch in the Carisbrooke Hall
• Christmas Day Menu in the Grill
• Boxing Day Menu in the Grill (with special £19.07 ‘Roast’ main course promotion)
• New Year’s Eve in the Grill
• Large Party – set menu

DATES FOR THE DIARY

• 9th December – Connaught House School Choir (in the Navy Lounge at 13:15)
• 11th December – Christmas Jumper Day (in aid of Save the Children UK)

NEW YEAR’S BREAKFAST SERVICE UPDATE

Please see our breakfast times over New Year and the following days below:

• 📅 Wednesday 31st (New Year’s Eve): 07:00 – 10:00
• 🎉 Thursday 1st (New Year’s Day): 07:30 – 10:30
• 📆 Friday 2nd: 07:00 – 10:00
• 📆 Saturday & Sunday: Normal weekend hours, 07:30 – 10:30

At the Victory Services Club, our staff are at the heart of everything we do. As part of our long-term commitment to learning and development, the VSC is proud to support a growing cohort of staff, who are enhancing their skills through two apprenticeship schemes.

Why Apprenticeships Matter at VSC

Across the UK, apprenticeships have become a powerful development tool—boosting productivity and strengthening capabilities. At the VSC, we recognise the impact these programmes have on improving the quality of service we offer to our members. Each apprenticeship runs for 12–14 months, combining online and practical learning, plus ongoing support from our training providers MetaGedu and Umbrella Training.

Currently, we have nine colleagues undertaking apprenticeships across multiple departments—an exciting step in strengthening our internal talent and empowering our teams to grow with us.

Our Current Apprentices:

• Aleksandra (F&B)– Hospitality Manager, Level 4
• Daisy (Events) – Team Leader, Level 3
• Ivelina (F&B) – Team Leader, Level 3
• Lolita (Housekeeping) – Team Leader, Level 3
• Rachel (Membership) – Business Administrator, Level 3
• Sofia (Kitchen) – Team Leader, Level 3
• Latoya (FOH) – Luxury Leaders, Level 4
• Lukasz (FOH) – Team Leader, Level 3
• Karolis (Kitchen) – Team Leader, Level 3

This structured development equips staff with skills in hospitality, leadership, administration and people management—ensuring we continue to deliver service excellence across the Club.

Looking Ahead

On completing their course, all apprentices will celebrate their graduation ceremony. We look forward to sharing these achievements from their ceremonies as they occur.

The VSC continues to champion learning and development, ensuring our staff receive every opportunity to grow, excel and shape their futures within the VSC. Together, we are building a workplace where every individual can thrive, develop and take pride in progressing within a supportive and forward-thinking organisation.

This year’s Remembrance weekend at the Victory Services Club was filled with moments of heartfelt reflection, joyful reunions, and a profound sense of gratitude for those who have served—and continue to serve—our country. Across the Club, members, guests, and veterans gathered to commemorate the occasion with warmth, dignity, and community spirit.

A Very Special Visitor

The weekend began with the honour of welcoming a remarkable guest: 105-year-old WRNS veteran, Christian Lamb. On her way to the Royal British Legion’s Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, Wren Lamb stopped by the Club and was warmly greeted by Club Secretary and CEO, Colin Francis CBE. Her presence was inspirational and the VSC were delighted to welcome someone whose service and life story embody extraordinary resilience and dedication.

WRNS Veteran, Christian Lamb 

Christian volunteered for the WRNS in 1939 and served for nearly five years. She began as a rating at Wren HQ during the ‘phoney war’ and the London Blitz, later becoming Leading Wren at Coal House Fort in Tilbury, where she managed the degaussing range—critical work that protected ships from magnetic mines.

In 1941, she undertook officer training at Greenwich Naval College, passing out as Third Officer before being posted to Plymouth to oversee the plotting and operations room during the Battle of the Atlantic. By 1943, she had moved to Belfast Castle to run the operations room there, where she met Lt. JB Lamb, DSC. They became engaged just ten days later. During this time, Christian plotted convoy ONS5, in which Lt. Lamb’s ship, HMS Oribi, took part in one of the most significant battles of the Atlantic. She remained at her post long after her shift, anxiously tracking the convoy’s progress until Oribi’s safe return.

Christian and Lt. Lamb married in December 1943. The following month, she joined Combined Operations HQ at Richmond Terrace, where she secretly plotted the landing craft maps vital to the D-Day landings. Her final day as a Wren came with the announcement that the landings had begun. Across the war, Christian served as a rating, a leading Wren, an officer, a wife, and a mother. By October 1944, she had welcomed her daughter Felicity. She later documented her extraordinary experiences in Beyond the Sea: A Wren at War.

In recognition of her contribution, she was awarded the Légion d’Honneur by President Macron at the 80th anniversary of D-Day in June 2024.

A Weekend Alive With Camaraderie

Throughout Saturday, the Club was a vibrant hub of activity, alive with conversation, reunions, and shared memories. At lunchtime, the VSC were honoured to host the King’s Own Scottish Borderers in the Trafalgar Room, where the regimental members enjoyed time together in an atmosphere filled with warmth and laughter.

In the evening, the Club welcomed Blind Veterans UK to a special Curry Buffet in Carisbrooke Hall. The room buzzed with animated chatter as friends, families, and veterans reconnected and shared stories.

Meanwhile, in the Navy Lounge Bar, members enjoyed a lively performance from Adam Christopher-Rhys and guest singer. With a repertoire full of wartime classics, they encouraged everyone to join in, filling the evening with music, nostalgia, and community spirit. It was a terrific night, enthusiastically enjoyed by all who attended.

A Morning of Reflection

Remembrance Sunday is, quite rightly, a quieter and more solemn occasion. As the morning unfolded, the distinctive Black “Poppy” Cabs arrived at the Club to transport veterans to the Cenotaph. Their return later in the day marked the beginning of another important gathering, as lunch was served to members and guests in the Grill Restaurant. Over the weekend, the VSC Grill restaurant in total served almost 1,000 guests, with additional events catered for in the Club’s event rooms.

Music, Memories, and Meaning

Later in the afternoon, guests were entertained by Tom Carradine, whose familiar songs and spirited sing-along style helped bring warmth and companionship to the day. His performance created an atmosphere that was both reflective and uplifting, ensuring the weekend concluded on a memorable note.

Throughout the entire Remembrance weekend, it was heartening to see so many families, friends, veterans, and serving personnel come together to honour those who have sacrificed so much. The staff of the Victory Services Club are genuinely privileged to serve and support all who visited, contributing in our own way to a weekend of remembrance, gratitude, and community.

A full gallery of all the published photographs appears below – please enjoy!

REMEMBRANCE WEEKEND 2025 

‘A Palace for Veterans’ Launch Night

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✨ On Monday, 15th September 2025 ✨ the VSC will mark this special Battle of Britain 85th anniversary with a commemorative set menu (see below) in the VSC Grill restaurant for just £19.40.  Bookings can be made through the Members Portal or directly with our Food & Beverage team by telephone: 0207 616 8351 or by email: catering@vsc.co.uk.

BATTLE OF BRITAIN SET MENU
Monday, 15th September 2025

Starter

Tomato Soup with Croutons

Main Course

Roast Chicken

Buttered New Potatoes, Coleslaw, Chicken Gravy

Dessert

Classic Sherry Trifle with Strawberries

✨Each September, the Royal Air Force holds an annual Battle of Britain Memorial Thanksgiving Service✨at Westminster Abbey. This year, the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, Service of Thanksgiving and Rededication will be held at 11:00 on Sunday, 21st September 2025.

If you are planning to attend this Service of Thanksgiving, why not make a day of it and enjoy Sunday Lunch at the VSC afterwards? Again, restaurant bookings can be made online or via the Food & Beverage team.

June 2025 | We are delighted to share that the Victory Services Club Whisky has been awarded a Bronze Medal at the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC)—widely regarded as the most respected awards body in the global drinks industry. The IWSC is backed by expert judges, top-rated producers, and industry leaders from around the world who state that an IWSC medal is a true mark of quality.

One of the IWSC judges praised our single malt’s floral and fruity profile, highlighting notes of sweet spices, melon, and sage, with a hint of youthful oak in the background. Scoring 87/100 is an incredible achievement for a whisky launched just last year! Clean, fruity, and wonderfully moreish, it’s a whisky that’s made to be savoured. We couldn’t be more proud to see our VSC whisky recognised once again, on the world stage.

April 2025 | We are thrilled to announce that the VSC Whisky has been awarded the Bronze Award at the prestigious World Whisky Awards in the Best English Single Malt category! The World Whisky Awards are a global benchmark for excellence, celebrating the finest whiskies from around the world. Launched just last year, we are so proud to see our VSC Whisky recognised among the very best!

The VSC Whisky is an exceptional liquid offering a truly delightful experience, beginning with a delicate blend of bourbon and brown sugar notes, leading into a rich palette of tobacco and sticky date. The finish is beautifully smooth with soft aromas of toffee apple and malted biscuits. The result? A clean, fruity, and irresistibly moreish taste that will leave you coming back for more!

🥃 Available NOW in the Navy Lounge Bar – Enjoy a 25ml serving for just £5.00!

💥 Take a bottle home – Available in the Club Shop in two sizes:

70cl bottle: £37.50

5cl miniature: £5.50

Don’t miss out on the chance to taste this multi-award-winning whisky at your next visit!

To learn more about the distillers, head to hawkridgedistillers.com.