THE LORD Mayor of Coventry, Coun Ann Lucas, wished the Royal British Legion a very happy 100th birthday.
The Legion was founded on May 15, 1921, when four men representing different ex-service organisations laid a wreath at the Cenotaph War Memorial in London. Its aim was to support those who fought for their country and their families and remember all those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
A century later, the Legion is still fulfilling that mission, with approximately 2,500 branches in the UK and overseas.
The Legion recreated that moment 100 years ago and laid wreaths at the Cenotaph and there was also a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, which flew over the Legion’s Warwickshire care home, Galanos House. People were able to watch from home on the Legion’s Facebook page.
Coun Lucas, said: “The Royal British Legion has done incredible work over the past 100 years and helped so many, including those from our city.
“In Coventry, we are fortunate to have a wonderful branch that works very hard throughout the year, and the people of Coventry have always given very generously and helped us to show our gratitude for the work of the Armed Forces and the sacrifice that our service personnel and their families have made.
“Now this centenary gives us all another opportunity to say thank-you, by joining the celebrations online, sending our messages of support and maybe making a small donation to help it continue its work.”
Una Cleminson, the Royal British Legion’s national chairman, said: “I am extremely proud that members today continue in the footsteps of the men and women who founded the British Legion and the Women’s Section and do incredible work to support the Armed Forces community, from raising vital funds and remembering those who served and sacrificed to looking after local serving and ex-serving personnel and their families.
“The RBL’s work is as important now as it was 100 years ago and as long as there are members of the Armed Forces community who need our help, we’ll always be here to extend a hand to lift them up.”
The Royal British Legion has suggested some ideas on its website for celebrating and home and safely in the community, with bunting and posters to download and colour in, as well as details on how to watch the live stream or find out more about how to donate.
