THE BRANCH
Our Branch was formed in 1948 in order to continue the comradeship formed during the War Years.
Its original title was “The Dover Sub Branch”, but we were re-titled as the East Kent Branch in 1969. Following the closure of the West Kent Branch (approx. 2015/16) and the closure of the Medway Branch (early 2023), we were left as the only remaining Branch in Kent. On 18 October 2023, the Regimental Council agreed to our Branch being re-titled as the Kent Branch.
Between 1948 and 1977 the Branch was financed by the Regiment, but since 1977 the Branch has been financially independent and holds charitable status. The Grenadier Guards Association is registered under the Charities Act, 2022 – No. 287265.
The Branch was the inspiration of Mr Arthur J Pullen who was a member of the “Old Kent Branch” which met in Maidstone. He was our first Branch Secretary and Treasurer – a post he held for 25 years. He was superseded as Secretary by Bill Brown who held the post for a further 25 years. Harry West then held the post for 11 years. Robert (Bob) Goodson assumed the role on 19 March 2009, and is our current Hon. Secretary.

Our first Chairman was Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Salwey Hanning OBE (commissioned number 391), who was awarded the OBE on 24th January 1946. Our current President and Chairman is Major Dennis Bradley BEM DL who was elected Branch President in May 2003 (assuming the role from Ernie Couchman) and was elected Branch Chairman (assuming the role from Ray Colley) on 15 March 2009.
Through regular meetings, social events, newsletters, other interactions and welfare support, the Kent Branch continues to keep alive the comradeship formed in military service. Through the Association, we can provide welfare for our old and needy ex-servicemen and widows.
We are governed by the Regimental Association and follow their Association Rules and By-Laws for Branches.
We extend a warm welcome to all former Grenadiers who have passed through training at Caterham, Pirbright, Windsor, Catterick or other Guards Training establishments and who live or work in Kent.
We also welcome membership applications from all former Troopers and Guardsmen of other Regiments of the Household Division.
Please send the Membership Secretary your contact details and detail of your Regimental history