The Royal British Legion is deeply saddened to announce the death of our National President, Sir Clive Johnstone (rtd) KBE, CB.
Sir Clive died on Sunday 12th May, shortly after the end of the RBL’s Annual Conference that had been taking place in Newport, Wales.
An extraordinary military leader and person of great integrity and intellect, Sir Clive was extremely honoured to be National President for the Royal British Legion. Only a day before his passing, Sir Clive shared his passion for the charity in an address to RBL Members at the Annual Conference, describing the Legion as ‘the best and most amazing charity’.
Sir Clive Johnstone assumed his role as the National President of the Royal British Legion in May 2023, taking over from Lieutenant General James Bashall CB, CBE. He came from a family who served in the Royal Navy and British Army over many generations and served in the Royal Navy from 1985 to 2019.
Across his career, Sir Clive was deployed to most points on the compass and had served on ships ranging from minesweepers to aircraft carriers. Onshore, he operated in staff roles focussed on procurement, people, policy, and operations. Sir Clive was knighted in the 2019 New Year’s Honours.
In his short time as RBL National President, Sir Clive made a huge impact, and his loss will be felt across the charity and the Armed Forces community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Alison, and their two daughters, Phoebe and Emily.
RBL have opened a joint Book of Condolence with BMT. Contributions are welcomed from all – find out more here.
