Last year, SSAFA Test Valley were approached with a very special request from Army veteran Steve Kirk, who served in the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (PWRR). His terminally-ill wife, Marie, wanted to fulfil one of her bucket list dreams of flying in a hot air balloon before it was too late.
Knowing how much this would mean to the couple, the local branch of the Armed Forces charity sprang into action. SSAFA Caseworker Scott Campbell took the lead on this extra-special mission.
After arranging the funds required from PWRR Benevolent Fund, Scott personally upgraded the experience for Marie and Steve.
On May 4th, Steve and Marie took to the skies to enjoy a personal hot air balloon flight, complete with a glass of champagne.
SSAFA Test Valley wants to thank the PWRR Benevolent Fund for their generosity and recognising how much this special memory meant to the couple.
SSAFA provides lifelong support to our Armed Forces, veterans and their families in times of need. Beginning this vital work in 1885, this makes SSAFA the oldest tri-service, military charity running in the UK. This year alone, staff and teams of volunteers have helped over 67,000 people – from World War Two veterans to those involved in more recent conflicts and their families.
It has become clear over more than 130 years of providing Forces support that everyone faces different challenges, so SSAFA uses a tailored approach to meet the needs of today’s serving community. Whether it’s practical, emotional and financial support – SSAFA is there to serve the Armed Forces family every step of the way.
ENDS
Notes to editors
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been providing lifelong support to our Forces and their families since 1885. Every year our staff and team of volunteers help more than 67,000 people, from Second World War veterans to young men and women who have served in more recent conflicts.
For more information visit www.ssafa.org.uk and follow us on Twitter: @SSAFA.
