Received his first piping lessons from a member of the Scots Kirk in Amsterdam

During a visit of the Hawick Boys Brigade Pipe Band to Amsterdam, in 1960, he met the late P/M Bob Short, MBE, who became his tutor and mentor, till his death in 1987. There is still close contact with his son and daughter in law, making visits to Hawick on regular occasions.

In the period of 1968 - 1974, he organised tours in the Netherlands for the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

During 1975 when Amsterdam was holding it's Festivities to celebrate 700 years he organised a Pipe Band competition which is now a yearly contest called The Continental Pipeband Championships.

He is a Founder member of the YMCA Pipe Band (1958), The Netherlands Pipe Band Assocîation (1969) of which he is now Honorary President.

His connection with Pipe Bands continues as an Ex liaison officer Royal Air Forces Association Amsterdam Branch Pipe Band and Honorary member of Hawick Pipe Band.

In addition he is an Honorary Member of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

Gerard is well qualified to be our Chieftaìn today and we are sure he will take away happy memories of his time with us and look forward to further visits in the future.