Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland are calling on communities, families and friends to help spread the message to D-Day veterans who are eligible for a fully-funded trip to this year’s 75th anniversary commemorations in the UK and Normandy…
The two Scottish charities, together with The Royal British Legion, plan to take up to 300 Normandy veterans to France on a specially chartered ship to mark 75 years since the D-Day landings. 175 veterans who helped liberate France during WW2 have already signed up to travel on the MV Boudicca, but there is still the opportunity for more to join them, with the deadline for applications extended until 4th March.
Dr Claire Armstrong, the Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “We believe it’s important that all veterans who contributed to the liberation of France who want to attend the commemorations for the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Portsmouth and Normandy are able to do so.
“We are delighted at the response but we still have space for more veterans to join their comrades who shared in those challenging wartime experiences in 1944. Most importantly at this stage, we don’t want anyone who wishes to take part to be left behind. If you have a friend or family member who is a D-Day veteran – or if you are one yourself – please get in touch and find out how to be a part of this historic trip.”
With the majority of available accommodation in Normandy already booked, the voyage will provide a comfortable and fully supported travel package for those veterans who haven’t made plans. The MV Boudicca will depart from Dover on June 2nd, taking in events in Poole and Portsmouth, before crossing the Channel to attend the commemorations taking place in Normandy on 6th June.
One of those already confirmed to be taking part in this historic journey is D-Day veteran Denis Gregson, 93, from North Lanarkshire, who said: “I’m so proud to be going on the voyage with all my fellow veterans. Last year, I went to Normandy with The Royal British legion and it gave me a new lease of life. I think the 75th anniversary of D-Day will be a special occasion.”
Veterans interested in travelling on the ship are invited to contact The Royal British Legion for an application form, which can also be downloaded from the Legion’s website at www.britishlegion.org.uk/community/d-day-75/. This can now be returned by the new deadline of Monday, 4th March. Each veteran will be entitled to door-to-door travel for themselves and one guest or carer, at no cost.
The journey is being funded by The Royal British Legion’s LIBOR grant, in conjunction with the Ministry of Defence and Arena travel.
