SECOND world war veterans with wives and friends of members of the Okehampton branch of the Royal British Legion travelled to Crownhill Fort in Plymouth on Sunday week to attend the Devon rally of the county standards. The rally is an annual event held at various venues throughout Devon since 1936. This year?s rally was held primarily to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the end of the second world war. The full day?s activities included a gun demonstration by the volunteers of the fort?s own re-enactment group, a drill demonstration by Royal Marine cadets, the youngest only ten years old, and a gymnastic display by sea cadets from Plymouth. The highlight of the day was the parade of a large contingent of branch standards from all over Devon, including that of Okehampton carried by standard bearer James Stacey. James, representing Devon, will be among a select group of Royal British Legion standard bearers parading this weekend in the Mall, London to mark the national day to commemorate the 60th anniversary of VE/VJ Days. The inspection, carried out by Brigadier J G Rose, commander of 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines, was followed by a short commemorative service to give thanks for the sacrifices of the second world war and to remember all those who have served their country in the armed forces. The ?beating retreat? ceremony by the TA Band of the Devonshire and Dorset Regiment brought the day to a close with the poignant sunset ceremony. Visitors departed to the sound of a lone bagpiper playing from the fort?s ramparts.