Legion holds collection to mark Armed Forces Day

THE Henley branch of the Royal British Legion raised £338 to mark Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

Volunteers collected donations to support those in the Armed Forces community, including current servicemen and women and their families.

Among them was branch president John Green, former Coldstream Guard Walter Goode, former Henley mayor Martin Akehurst, the branch’s membership secretary Mollie Jeffrey, Poppy Appeal collector Angelina Jones and supporter Tim Caine. Mr Green said the people of Henley donated generously and many took the opportunity to share own stories of family members who had served in the forces.

He said: “This is what it’s all about — paying respects and continuing the memory.”

Mr Green wore the badges of his late father, Lieutenant William Leslie Green, who had received several awards in the First World War, including the Military Cross and Military Medal awarded for gallantry and devotion to duty.

The 89-year-old veteran said that beyond fundraising, one of the main purposes of the legion is to create a thread of community among veterans, and to help maintain awareness of their service.

Mr Green said: “Of course, the main purpose of the Royal British Legion is remembrance, but there are many people serving now who need support.

“There are so many people who have got issues and problems far worse than any other people.”

He added: “If you are doing something for someone else, you feel it’s more than worthwhile.

“There is always something to be done.”