Government to Support Second World War Veterans Overseas
The Government announced support for Second World War veterans to travel abroad to commemorative events, helping them “remember, reconnect and pay their respects.” This was revealed on Remembrance Sunday by the Ministry of Defence, which highlighted the “profound importance” of enabling veterans to visit battle sites and honour fallen comrades.
Upcoming Veterans Strategy Announcement
The announcement precedes the Government’s Veterans Strategy release on Monday, outlining plans to celebrate veterans and acknowledge them as a strategic national asset.
Veteran’s Perspective
Jack Mortimer, a 102-year-old Leeds native and former corporal with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps who landed on Sword Beach on D-Day in 1944, expressed his gratitude for the support. He said:
“Going back to Normandy means everything to those of us who are still here.
It’s where we lost so many good men, and it’s important that we can pay our respects to the friends who never came home.
At my age, these journeys aren’t easy, but they matter more than anything.
This support from the Government will help veterans like me make that trip whilst we still can.
We owe it to our comrades to be there, to remember them where they fell.”
Mortimer emphasized the emotional significance of these trips, reflecting on the sacrifices made and the value of remembrance.
Additional Coverage
- “Was it all worth it?” A 100-year-old veteran shares lessons on Remembrance Sunday.
- Second World War veterans and royals honored as the nation observes Remembrance Sunday.
Author's summary: The Government's new initiative supports ageing WWII veterans travelling overseas to honour fallen comrades, ensuring their sacrifices are respectfully remembered before it is too late.