They are offering free funded tours of remembrance for veterans to go back to where they served between 1939-45 to pay their respects to their fallen comrades. The tours are being funded by LIBOR fines from the UK Treasury.
Nichola Rowlands, the Legion’s head of travel, said: “We have organised tours for hundreds of D Day veterans, a family member and carer, and it has proven a very moving experience for all. We have been campaigning to widen the tours for all WWII veterans, as so many gave so much, and we feel that they all deserve a final tour back to lay old ghosts to rest. We’re delighted that the Treasury has made this possible.”
The tours will take place from spring to autumn and will give WWII veterans – now mostly in their 90s – the chance to meet up with fellow veterans, visit significant battlefield sites, cemeteries and memorials. A medic and a guide from the Royal British Legion will accompany all trips.
However, Nichola is calling for help to spread the message. And she said: “We need you! We know how great the British public can be, and we’re relying on everyone to help us spread the word to find every single living WWII veteran. There’s no database, so if you’re a grandchild, neighbour or carer and know someone who fought in WWII please tell them about these amazing tours.”
Meanwhile, The Rt. Hon, The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Phillip Hammond, said: “I’m delighted that we can continue to support those who want to return with the Royal British Legion to the countries where they served. “We have committed over £5 million of Libor funds to help those who fought for our freedom, to return to pay their respects and safeguard the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
For more information, call Arena Travel on 01473 660800, or visit www.arenatravel.com/our-holidays/remembrance-travel
