THIS year’s Poppy Appeal in Salisbury will host WWII veterans as the guests of honour – the eldest of which will be celebrating his 103rd birthday.
The launch of the Poppy Appeal will take place on October 26 at 9.45am at the Salisbury Guildhall square.
People across Salisbury are being invited to see the presentation of poppies to selected members of the armed forces community from the city, with the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Sir Andrew Gregory, John Glen MP and Salisbury Mayor Sven Hocking in attendance.
A spokesperson for the Salisbury branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) said: “The launch will also commemorate the 10th anniversary of the withdrawal from Camp Bastion and the end of Op Herrick (combat operations in Afghanistan).
“Another operation that has impacted on a younger generation with all the repercussions of armed conflict.
“Herrick veterans are especially welcome to come along to join us to commemorate the campaign during the service and afterwards to enjoy a breakfast bap a brew and some banter in the veterans village afterwards.”
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As the UK’s biggest armed forces charity, the RBL continues to distribute the proceeds of the Poppy Appeal to current and former service personnel who are in need.
Bob Barwick, vice president of the Salisbury Branch of the RBL, said: “Our appeal is launched in a year that has seen the nation reflect on events 80 years ago on D-Day in June 1944.
“The 10th anniversary of the end of Op Herrick is another poignant reminder that ongoing support continues to be required for individuals across all the generations.
“We hope that the people of Salisbury can support us by wearing a poppy and sparing a moment to reflect on all the sacrifices our armed services have made for this country.”
The Poppy Appeal will take place from October 26 to November 9.
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