SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity was immensely honoured to have received messages of support from both its Patron, Her Majesty The Queen and President, Prince Michael of Kent on the 75th Anniversary of VE Day.
The message of support from Her Majesty The Queen:
“As Patron of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, I am pleased to send my best wishes to the Beneficiaries, Volunteers, Employees and all those concerned with the Charity on the occasion of the Seventy-Fifth Anniversary of VE Day.
At this increasingly challenging time, I know that you have continued to provide support to members of the Armed Forces and Veterans, together with their families.
As you reflect on the Charity’s One Hundred and Thirty-Five year history, my thoughts and prayers remain with you all for your continued safety and the future success of your important work.
Elizabeth R. 8 May, 2020
The Message from Prince Michael of Kent
As the President of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, I most strongly endorse the words of Her Majesty The Queen, SSAFA’s Patron. The work of the charity’s employees and volunteers to support servicemen and women, veterans and their families is life-changing in many ways; it allows those persons to have and maintain their independence and dignity.
As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day, we should take great pride in the service and sacrifice of the men and women who served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces during the Second World War, protecting our liberty and our freedom. For many, though the War ended on 8 May 1945, their personal battles continued; SSAFA was there for them then, just as it is today for those who need assistance. You should be extremely proud of the support you provide.
Today the Nation faces a different threat, but once again men and women are prepared to put others before self for the greater good. Those qualities reflect the values of those who helped us defeat Nazi Germany and Japan in the Second World War; they are symptomatic of the understanding, commitment, fairness and courage that is exhibited throughout SSAFA. I commend you all for what you are doing in these challenging times.
Sir Andrew Gregory, CEO of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity said:
“It is a great honour that Her Majesty The Queen, Patron of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, and its President, His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, have chosen the occasion of the 75th anniversary of VE Day to recognise the hard work and commitment of SSAFA’s volunteers and staff.
“As we celebrate the end of the Second World War, we can honour the many individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice during that conflict on our behalf and also recognise all the men and women who served this Nation to achieve that victory. For some, though the War ended on 8th May 1945, their personal challenges continued long after that date. For them, SSAFA was there to provide emotional and practical support as we have done since 1885 and as we continue to do today in these difficult times. I am very proud to be a part of an organisation that provides life changing assistance to those who are serving and have served selflessly to protect our freedoms.”
If you, or someone you know from the military community, is in need of SSAFA’s support, contact Forcesline on 0800 731 4880 or head to ssafa.org.uk/forcesline
