Royal British Legion

BYFIELD AND DISTRICT BRANCH

‘ABOUT THE BRITISH LEGION’

Millions of people wear a poppy in November, and many watch the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance on television, see the Legion Standards at the at the Cenotaph or at their local War Memorial, at services in honour of the fallen. But the Legion is about much more than that. Let me explain.

About the Legion
The Legion exists to help all those who served in the Armed Forces – and their dependants. Membership is drawn from all three services – the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force. Members may be ex-Regulars, National Servicemen or Volunteer Reserves (e.g. T.A.) or they may still be serving in today’s Armed Forces. There are also associate members – those who are not service or ex-service themselves but who support the Legions activities.

Members and Associate members
Are men and women from all walks of life, and owe no allegiance to any political party or organisation and simply share in the comradeship of The Royal British Legion.

The Branches of the Legion are its roots.

It is a focal point in the country for the ex-servicemen and women in the area and their families. Whilst it’s main purpose is to help those of the ex-service community and their dependants in need, members also keep in touch through monthly meetings and social activities.

The Legion cares.

The Legion care about those who have suffered illness or injury arising from military service. Every year, nationally, many thousands of people are helped to pursue claims and the Legion are acknowledged experts in the War Disablement Pension field. The Benevolent work starts at Branch level. If the Branch cannot provide all the help themselves they call upon other Legion resources, financial assistance perhaps or convalescent facilities for the sick, or a residential home for those who are elderly and unable to look after themselves. The Legion cares for the disabled. At the Royal British Legion Village near Maidstone the Legion provides employment, housing and medical support. The Legion assists in finding work for others in local firms and helps those living at home to make and market small articles for income. The Legion recognises that for those service men and women, returning to civilian life can be a difficult process for them and their family, and the Legion offers help in their two Training Centres which run skill courses and maintain links with a wide range of would be employers.