Cheryl’s husband is in the Army. Their two children are autistic with significant speech and language delays. The average wait for an autism diagnosis is now three to four years, leaving many military families stuck without support as they regularly move. (1/2)

On Christmas Day 1942, Anne Eddleston received a letter notifying her that she was being called up to serve. She spent six months training as a Wireless Operator, having joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force, before being sent abroad to Egypt. (1/3)

As part of her role, Anne took down messages for the Air Force, sending them to be decoded. “It made me feel quite important; I was doing something worthwhile.” (2/3)

When she returned home, she recalls feeling like a changed person. “It was hard to settle back into civilian life.” See Anne’s story in our ‘Through their Eyes Exhibition’ online ⬇️ spklr.io/6016BTCDM (3/3)

We’re thrilled to share the news that 100-year-old D-Day veteran John Fiddler has received France’s highest honour, the Legion d’Honneur, for his role in the liberation of France in 1944. John served on a tank landing ship during D-Day, transporting supplies to Normandy. (1/2)

Supported by RBL, he recently attended our VE Day 80 commemorations at the National Memorial Arboretum. He received his medal at HMS Cambria: “I’m absolutely delighted. It’s a great honour indeed!” Join us in congratulating John on this well-deserved achievement. (2/2)

If you know someone who’s having a hard time coping with grief, now might be a good time to check in. We’re here to help in any way we can, as you deal with the impact of losing someone – reach out to us on 0808 802 8080, 8am-8pm seven days a week.

At the age of 16, Ernest Gaskell joined the Royal Navy during WWII – lying about his age to do so. During his service, he survived mine explosions, sinking ships and periods of intense combat while helping to liberate Greece and aiding prisoners of war in Yugoslavia. (1/3)

Ernest remembers hearing the VE Day announcement. But his personal Remembrance Day is 14 December, 1944, when he lost his friends Joe Mulcahy and Harry McShane, on HMS Aldenham. After hitting a mine the ship sank, leading to the loss of 126 crewmen. (2/3)

Ernest loved being at sea so much that after the war he joined the Merchant Navy for 15 years. “They were the best years of my life.” This year, 80 years since the end of WWII, we remember the service and sacrifices of people like Ernest. (3/3)

Anglo German Carole Service, Hannover, Germany

Autumn edition of Legion magazine facebook.com/share/p/1BjZB4…

If money worries feel overwhelming this time of year, you’re not alone. Our Benefits, Debt and Money Advice Team are here to help. Call us for free on 0808 802 8080, 8am–8pm (lines re-open tomorrow). Find out more ➡️ spklr.io/6016BI9D0 #RoyalBritishLegion #ArmedForces

Thanks to everyone who came along to the Loeseke Community Centre for the Boxing Day Café, bringing company, conversation, and a warm welcome to anyone feeling alone over Christmas. A big shout-out to Sandra James for the cakes, biscuits, drinks, and the friendly vibe.

Royal British Legion Paderborn Christingle Carole Service

We’re saddened to share that WW2 veteran Barbara Hurman has passed away at 100. Serving in the Auxiliary Territorial Service from 1943–47, she volunteered aged 17½ and was passionate about recognising the vital role women played in WW2. Our condolences to her family & friends.

Paderborn Royal British Legion social dinner.

A proud moment for two British Army 🇬🇧 chaplains who have just graduated at St Padarn’s Institute following completion of an MA in Chaplaincy Studies.🎓 Revd Smith, Assistant Chaplain General, joined them for the graduation ceremony. Congratulations to you both.👏