Issue No. 10 August 2014

The Commonwealth Issue

In this issue:

Commonwealth Heroes We recognise the dedication of

Commonwealth soldiers during WWI

Joanna Lumley OBE She talks to us about her public

support of the Gurkhas and memories of her Father who served in the British Army

The Commonwealth Games Charity beneficiary Micky Yule shared

his hopes for success Powerlifting at the Commonwealth Games

Opinion piece Christopher Warren of the RCEL

talks about supporting Commonwealth veterans

AUGUST16 ABF The Soldiers Charity Day at the

Newbury Races Newbury,Berkshire(HomeCounties)16-17 Operation Bolero MVT Event LacockVillage,Wiltshire(West)16-22 Five Peaks Challenge, scaling the

highest peaks NorthernIreland,Scotland&England19 T2T2T Challenge London,Paris Brighton Races Brighton,EastSussex(SouthEast)22-23 Le Grand Velo (Skipton Rotary Cycle Ride) Skipton,Yorkshire(NorthEast)

&Yorkshire23-24 Aviation Fair MazeLongKesh(NorthernIreland)23-25 KBIS Wellington Horse Trials StratfieldSaye,Reading(HomeCounties)23-25 Spinnaker Tower Abseil PortsmouthHarbour,Hampshire

(HomeCounties)28 Drinks Reception, Beating Retreat followed

by Supper at Chatsworth Derbyshire(EastMidlands)30 Hazelgrove Band Concert at Hazelgrove

School Somerset(SouthWest)31 Bucks County Show WeedonParkNrAylesbury,

Buckinghamshire(HomeCounties) PARAs 10 CatterickGarrison(NorthEast

&Yorkshire)

SEPTEMBER4-6 Belfast Tattoo OdysseyArena,Belfast(NorthernIreland)5-7 Highland Military Tattoo FortGeorge,Inverness(Scotland)06 Somerset Military Tattoo Somerset(SouthWest)07 War Memorial by Clive Aslet ExeterUniversity,Devon(SouthWest) ABF The Soldiers Charity Ride Bedfordshire&Hertfordshire(EastAnglia) Great North Run SouthShields(NorthEast&Yorkshire)09 Beating Retreat & Concert ThursfordCollection,Fakenham,Norfolk (EastAnglia)10 Beating Retreat in Oakham Market Place,

followed by a Reception in Oakham Castle Leicestershire:EastMidlands11 Perth Big Curry BlackWatchMuseum,BalhousieCastle,

HayStreet,Perth(Scotland)12-14 Ludlow Food & Drink Festival LudlowCastle,Ludlow,Shropshire

(WestMidlands) Remember, Choral and Narration TheRedoubt,Eastbourne,EastSussex

(SouthEast)13-14 Army Recruiting Fair KingsHall,Belfast(NorthernIreland)14 Yorkshire Three Peaks (NorthEast&Yorkshire) Manchester Tough Mudder 2014 Manchester(NorthWest)19 Golf Day at Lamberhurst Golf Club Lamberhurst,Kent(SouthEast)20-21 Royal Berkshire Show Newbury,Berkshire(HomeCounties)23 Walsall Golf Day Broadway,Walsall(WestMidlands)

23 Early, Early Christmas Fair Preview Evening and Supper Tidworth,Wiltshire(West)24 Early, Early Christmas Fair All Day event Tidworth,Wiltshire(West)27 Concert for Courage RoyalConcertHall,Nottingham

(EastMidlands) Salute Our Heroes Concert at The Sage Gateshead(NorthEast&Yorkshire) Tidworth Musical Pageant Tidworth,Wiltshire(West)27-28 Berlin Marathon & In-Line Skating

Marathon Berlin(Germany)28 Aldershot Autumn Lunch AldershotHampshire(HomeCounties)30 Kings Troop RHA Open Day MtEdgcumbe,Plymouth,Devon (SouthWest)

OCTOBER01 Carlisle Races bucket collection Carlisle,Cumbria(NorthWest)03-05 South of England Game Show Ardingly,EastSussex(SouthEast)04 Stadium of Light, Charity Dinner,

Sunderland(NorthEast&Yorkshire) ABF The Soldiers Charity Race Day AscotRaceMeeting,Berkshire

(HomeCounties)08 London Clay Pigeon Shoot WestLondonShootingSchool,

Northolt(London)09 Band Concert at Abingdon School Oxon(HomeCounties)10 Red, White & Blue Day AllSchools10 Band Concert at Duke of Yorks Royal

Military School Dover,Kent(SouthEast)

10 Big Curry AssemblyRooms,GeorgeStreet,Edinburgh(Scotland)

11 WW1 Football Match Meriden,Solihull(WestMidlands)

15-19 Ancentry.co.uk Frontline Walk CoveringsomeofthebattlefieldsofWW1

17 Curry Supper Bramcote(WestMidlands)18 Salute Our Heroes BoroughHall,Hartlepool(NorthEast

&Yorkshire) Military Charities Concert HerefordCathedral,Herefordshire

(WestMidlands) Charity Ball at Warwickshire Golf Club Warwickshire(WestMidlands)23 Wine Tasting at The Antique Centre Wilton,Wiltshire(West)24 Kings College Talk given by the

Rt Hon Lord Ashdown GCMG KBE PC Somerset(SouthWest) Question Time at Codford Village Hall Codford,Wiltshire(West)25 Khaki & Lace Ball CedricFordPavillion,NewarkShowground,

Lincolnshire(EastMidlands)26 Curry Lunch at Prince William of

Gloucester Bks SouthCerney,Gloucestershire(West)30 Salute Our Heroes Race Day SedgefieldRacecourse(NorthEast

&Yorkshire)

NOVEMBER01 Gala Charity Night Penrith,Cumbria(NorthWest) Chester & Wirral Band Concert

by Chester Wind Band Chester&Wirral(NorthWest) Band Concert at St Wulframs Grantham,Lincolnshire(EastMidlands)02 Barnstaple Festival of Remembrance Devon(SouthWest) Autumn Lunch & Lecture,

guest speaker Mary Berry Hermitage,Berkshire(HomeCounties)06 Michaelmas Fair PowderhamCastle,Devon(SouthWest)08 Festival of Remembrance DurhamCathedral(NorthEast&Yorkshire)09 Curry Lunch at Enford Village Community Centre

Enford,Wiltshire(West)13 Quiz Night at PWOG Barracks Grantham,Gloucestershire(West)15 Christmas Fair MarketLavington,Wiltshire(West) Salute our Heroes Concert SedgefieldRacecourse(NorthEast&Yorkshire)16 Curry Lunch at St Andrews Hospital Northampton(EastMidlands)22 Taunton Deane, Male Voice Choir Concert Taunton,Somerset(SouthWest)23 Curry Lunch at PWOG Barracks Nottingham(EastMidlands)23 Curry Lunch at Eastbourne TAC Eastbourne,EastSussex(SouthEast)23 Band Concert at Chichester Festival Hall Chichester,WestSussex(SouthEast)27 An evening with The Rt Hon Michael Portillo Blandford,Dorset(SouthWest)28 Micks Door Knocker

Presentation on ARA Santa Fe HerefordCathedralSchool,Herefordshire

(West)

DECEMBER9 Family Carol Service TheRoyalHospitalChelsea(London)12 Christmas Carol Concert StBotolphsChurch,Colchester(EastAnglia)13 Aldershot Christmas Concert AldershotGarrisonChurch,Hampshire

(HomeCounties)18 Clifton College Carol Service Bristol(SouthWest)19 Carol Concert in Hereford Cathedral Hereford(WestMidlands)31 Hogmanay Party at Lorne House LorneHouse,CountyDown(NorthernIreland)

JANUARY18 The Real Downton Abbey Talk & Informal Lunch Highclere,Berkshire(HomeCounties)

FEBRUARY07 Band Concert at St Marys Church Nottingham(EastMidlands)20 Big Curry, Reading Hilton Reading,Berkshire(HomeCounties)

MARCH22 Curry Lunch and Presentation at Foremarke Hall Milton,Repton,Derbyshire(EastMidlands)

APRIL11 London Welsh Male Voice Choir in Concert

at Eton College Eton,Berkshire(HomeCounties)

Dates for your diary August 2014 April 2015. For more information please visit soldierscharity.org/events

Editor Allison Parkes-Norris

ContributorsKirsty Irvine

Special ThanksNational Army MuseumRoyal CommonwealthEx-Services League

Design and Art DirectionPete Black Ltd

Guest PhotographyEd Lloyd OwenFenella MettEva Xydia

ABF The Soldiers CharityRegistered Office: Mountbarrow House6-20 Elizabeth StreetLondon SW1W 9RBT 020 7901 8900F 020 7901 8901E info@soldierscharity.org W soldierscharity.org

FrontLine Issue No. 10The Commonwealth IssueFirst published 2014 ABF The Soldiers Charity

Whilst every effort is made to check the information contained in FrontLine, ABF The Soldiers Charity cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions.

Editors LetterA Common Cause

Contents01

Editors LetterBritish, Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers

all serve under the same flag

02CEs Message, Welfare Update

A word from our Chief Executive and an update from our Welfare Team

03Appeals Update

Find out about the impact of your support to our January Appeal

04Star Supporter, News

Meet our Star Supporter and catch up on the latest news from across the Charity

06Thrill Seeking Challenge Events

Read our inspirational stories and maybe sign up yourself!

07Serving for a Commom Cause

Four former Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers share their experiences of serving

under the British flag

12On the Frontline

An image from the archives of WWI

14No Mans Land: RHS Chelsea Flower ShowFind out about how we were awarded the

gold standard

16Commonwealth Heroes of WWI

A handful of examples of the many brave Commonwealth soldiers who did their duty

during WWI

18The Commonwealth Games 2014

Find out why we are 100% behind Micky Yule

20For King and Country

National Army Museum are going on-the-road!

22Opinion: Christopher Warren

He shares the valuable work of the RCEL

24Interview: Joanna Lumley

Charms us in an exclusive interview!

The Centenary anniversary of World War One has given us a unique opportunity to reflect on the many contributions of individuals, both serving and civilian, to the war effort. In this edition we wanted to focus on the often forgotten involvement of Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers during WWI. They provided a significant contribution to the campaign, embedded within the British Army and their sacrifice must be remembered. You can read about some of these incredible individuals on page 16.

However, the Foreign & Commonwealth contribution did not stop with the end of WWI; today we still feel the benefit of the support of individuals from around the world who serve our Queen and Country. Many of them are now beneficiaries of this Charity. Turn to page 9 to get an insight into life serving as a Foreign or Commonwealth Citizen.

August is also an exciting time for former Sapper Micky Yule, a double amputee and Charity beneficiary who is competing in Powerlifting at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. We caught up with him in the week leading up to the Games to hear about his training schedule and hopes for the competition. Read all about it on page 18.

On page 24 Joanna Lumley, a long time supporter of The Soldiers Charity, shares her personal experience of living in Foreign & Commonwealth countries as a very young child. Her memories of the warmth and nobility of the Gurkhas her father served with is an intimate testament to the valuable support Britain received from thousands of Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers from all over the world.

Through our funding of organisations such as the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League (RCEL), we are able to positively affect the lives of individuals, like veteran Pte Erik Mdeza (2nd Kings African Rifles) who served in Africa and Burma between 1941 and 1945. Turn to page 22 to hear from Lt Col Chris Warren, General Secretary of the RCEL, about how he and his team distribute our help and assistance.

For Soldiers For Life is our motto and it is therefore entirely appropriate that we continue to support Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers and their families who serve now and long ago - from around the world.

Allison Parkes-Norris

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

Chief Executives Message

On the eve of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, and the commemorative events around the outbreak of World War One, it seems entirely appropriate that this edition of Frontline focuses on those soldiers and their families from Foreign & Commonwealth countries who have collectively served with the British Army over many years.

It must be right that as the Armys national charity we honour our debt to them and provide a lifetime of support wherever they may live after their discharge. A significant portion of our funds go to current serving Foreign & Commonwealth personnel, or to charities that directly support elderly veterans and those

families often in the far flung remnants of the former Empire. Some of these cases represent some of the most heart wrenching examples of need that we deal with. An elderly veteran or widow living in difficult circumstances in Clacton is one thing but if they have long ago retired to a now African conflict zone, quite another!

I remain hugely grateful to all those who support the Charity, in a myriad of ways, which allows this and other work to continue. Thank you.

Martin RutledgeChief Executive of ABF The Soldiers Charity

FrontLine Welfare UpdateOur Grants and Welfare team continue to ensure the Charity helps as many members of The Army family as possible when they find themselves in difficult situations. This includes the Commonwealth arm of our family; they did their duty and we have been proud to continue to support them. You can read about some of the Commonwealth charities we support on the opposite page.

Breaking it Down: Cost by PurposeHere is a breakdown of the different areas in which our routine grants (not including the h4h Quick Reaction Fund and Individual Recovery Plans) have helped the Army family during the financial year 2013/2014.

Why the fall in Individual Cases?

During fy13/14 the Charity managed a total of 5,295 cases, which reflected a reduction of 12% compared to the previous year. However, excluding support to Wounded, Injured and Sick soldiers passing through the Army Recovery Capability, routine cases fell by 9%. It is difficult to put a finger on exactly what has caused this reduction, but the most likely rationale is the improving national economic situation and changes in the demographics of the veteran community. We cannot however be complacent and are aware that changes in statutory benefits could have a significant impact this year and in the future. Key concerns for the future relate to supporting veterans and their spouses in old age, especially those with dementia and other age-related health problems and continuing to provide support to those disadvantaged through military operations.

5,295 grants to individuals totalling 5.002m*76 Grants to charities totalling 2.931m

12% fall in individual cases we have supportedTotal value of Grants 7.934m

8.14%

3.83%

9.16%

12.12%

9.14%

5.87%

10.25%

2.40%

3.22%

2.75%

12.30%

14.81% (of total expenditure)

6.01%

Annuities 313,978

Bursaries 147,896

Care Home Fees 353,338

Hardship 467,671

Employment / Training 352,634

Funerals 226,442

Mobility 395,277

Respite 92,709

Home Adaptations 124,149

Miscellaneous 106,027

General 474,575

Furnishings / Equipment (cash expenditure) 571,215

Maintenance 231,956

02 | 03

* This figure does include H4H Quick Reaction Fund and Individual Recovery Plans

The Charity operates outside the UK looking after the welfare of ex-service men and women of Commonwealth countries who have at some point in time served the Crown. Formed in 1921 the League now has 57 member organisations in 49 countries. The Charity acts as a link throughout the Commonwealth and provides financial assistance for ex-service personnel and their widows whose difficulties are beyond the means of their local organisation. Financial support is

also given to self-help projects that will generate income for local welfare. The objective of the League is that no eligible ex-service man or woman, or their widows shall be without help if in need. ABF The Soldiers Charity gave 220,000 to the RCEL during financial year 2013/2014. An element of this money was specifically targeted to support the partnership between RCEL and Zimbabwe, A National Emergency (ZANE); a charity run by Tom Benyon, providing direct support to former

service personnel living in Zimbabwe. The RCEL helps over 12,700 ex-service personnel and their widows, 11,000 of whom are ex-Army. Their average grant of 147 a year, which constitutes a meal a day, often makes the difference between life and death. It also gives some dignity to those who fought for us, in their twilight years. In the last 15 years The Soldiers Charity has been proud to make grants totaling approx 5.7 million to RCEL.

WASPs mission is to deliver a range of services, support and advocacy for West Indian ex-service personnel and their families and support their resettlement into local communities. Their charitable objectives are to relieve the need, hardship and distress of widows, orphans and dependants

of those who have served in Her Majestys Armed Forces, who are in necessitous financial circumstances or who are suffering from ill-health or injury. They also aim to advance the education of ex-servicemen and women of the West Indies, and their dependants.

We gave 20,000 to WASP during financial year 2013/2014 to fund a Governance and Finance Officer to assist with the administration of the Association. Since 2002 The Soldiers Charity has made grants totalling approx 130,500 to WASP so they can continue their excellent work.

The Soldiers Charity is totally dependent on the kind donations of our supporters and we continue to be humbled by your responses to our appeals.

In January we asked supporters to help fund our Wounded to Work project. This appeal focused on the work that the WISECs (Wounded, Injured, Sick Specialist Employment Consultants) have done for our soldiers. These Specialist Employment Consultants are funded by The Soldiers Charity to work

closely with soldiers transitioning out of the Army who find themselves wounded, injured or sick. They help identify possible careers and transferable skills before coaching them through every stage of the job-hunting process. WISECs are embedded within the Personnel Recovery Unit of a Brigades HQ, to ensure they can assist soldiers in a familiar environment.

The appeal focused on the case of former Gunner Terry Death and thanks to generous donations has raised just under 180,000 to support other soldiers

which is a fantastic effort. That is all down to your tremendous support and generous donations, so a sincere thanks from all of us at the Charity.

In 2013/2014 we were able to raise just under 1,200,000 from appeals like this. Without your generosity we wouldnt be able to continue to be the backbone of support for soldiers, veterans and Army families. On behalf of our beneficaries, we would like to say a big thank you and hope that we continue to receive your support in 2014/2015.

FrontLine Appeals Update: The difference your support has made

Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League (RCEL)

West Indian Association of Service Personnel (WASP)

If you would like to

continue to support

please donate by

calling 0207 811 3231

or visit

soldierscharity.org/donate

In March we sent an appeal focusing on the Regiments of the British Army. We wanted to highlight the long standing relationship we have with the Regiments and how we work together to support our soldiers, veterans and Army families. Skippy Teasdale, a Chelsea Pensioner, talked about his connection to his Regiment, the Durham Light Infantry (DLI), which has now amalgamated into The Rifles and how the Charity assisted in providing a grant for refurbishment to the Royal Chelsea Hospital. With your generous support we raised just over 110,000. We received so many lovely stories about your connections to the Regiments. One of which came from Col John Ralph

Wooddisse. With his donation he included a booklet called Military Recollections. Col Wooddisse joined the Army in 1952, where he went into one of the eight Regiments of Infantry that still had two regular Battalions including the DLI and The Sherwood Foresters. He served for 25 years in the Army. He had also been a Chairman for ABF The Soldiers Charity in Cumbria for six years. Col Woodisse met his wife Ann Elizabeth Tackaberry when she was a sister QARANC at BMH Singapore. They married in 1962 and have two sons and a daughter. This booklet is a lovely collection of his time served. If you would like to read Military Recollections please visit soldierscharity.org

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

Star Supporter Colonel John Wooddisse

The 2014 Carrington Drum, which is awarded to the unit from the Regular Army and Army Reserve that raises the most funds for The Soldiers Charity, has been won by the Recruiting Team from 1st Battallion The Grenadier Guards.

The team, who are based in Aldershot, raised money by running the London Marathon, collecting at the Army vs Navy Rugby Match and the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. They also assisted at several of The Soldiers Charity events around the UK. They were presented with the Drum by General Sir Mike

Jackson GCB CBE DSO DL, President of The Soldiers Charity.

Lt Col Charles Broughton MBE, CO1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, said I am immensely proud of the Grenadier Guards Recruiting Team for winning the Carrington Drum. Captain Andy Butcher and Guardsmen Viggors and Avery have raised a vast amount of money for the Charity over the last couple of years and this award is testament to their hard work and dedication in supporting the Charity. F Company Scots Guards, who did

a unit-wide skydiving day (amongst other activities) came in 2nd place in the competition, while 3rd place went to the Army Training Regiment (Winchester).

With thanks to our kind sponsors, Mappin & Webb, for the Carrington Drum trophy, silver salvers and all engraving which they supply for us each year. Our best wishes to Mr. Victor Barley (pictured here with the winning team 3rd from right) , Director at Mappin & Webb, who is retiring at the end of this year after 56 years with the company.

The team received their award from General Sir Mike Jackson GCB CBE DSO DL, President of ABF The Soldiers Charity

Grenadier Guards beat the Drum!

If you would like to continue to donate to our Spring Regiment appeal please call 0207 811 3231 or visit soldierscharity.org/regiment

Colonel John Wooddisse with his Grandchild

04 | 05

The Taste of SuccessThursday 10th April saw the 7th annual Lord Mayors Big Curry Lunch at Londons Guildhall hosted by The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Fiona Woolf. Liverymen, city professionals and supporters of the Charity were joined by the Executive Committee of the Army Board and Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester for a delicious, hearty curry. We would like to extend our thanks to our generous sponsors, advertisers and the Lord Mayors Big Curry Lunch Committee for their support and hard work in putting on such a wonderful event, and are delighted to announce that the lunch raised over 165,000 for ABF The Soldiers Charitys Current Operations Fund.

This years Alliance Trust Cateran Yomp was the largest ever held, with nearly 570 participants taking up the epic challenge in Scotland. The Yomp, which features bronze (22 miles) silver (36.5 miles) or gold (54 miles) routes, was won by team Gurkha Intake 12 / 09 who completed the 54 miles in 12 hours.

Individuals who took part included 120 serving soldiers and veterans and a team of US Marines from Wounded Warrior Regiment. A civilian team, the Fifie Wifies, came in second place in just under 13 hours, with a team from 4 PARA in third.

The annual event has now raised 1.4 million for The Soldiers Charity and the Alliance Trust Staff Foundation, which supports local projects in Scotland working with disadvantaged youth.

A big step forward for the Cateran Yomp

Next years Yomp will

take place over the

13 and 14th of June.

If you want to enter

a team, please visit

soldierscharity.org/yompTeams yomped over the beautiful Scottish Highlands to earn Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals

For full details of

our sponsors and

supporters, and for

information on how to

be involved with the

2015 lunch please visit

bigcurry.org/events/lordmayorPass a poppadom! Guests tuck into a delicious curry feast

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

Hurt Zone

Teams lugged heavy water containers across parts of the course

This event was new to our calendar for 2014 and launched in May with over 380 participants brave enough to take on the mud and water of the challenging assault course. The event, which was organised by our Home Counties regional office, saw civvies and soldiers pounding the route together to raise money for The Soldiers Charity. 11 Trg Bn REME from Arborfield entered a mighty 100-person force into the event, which included their Lt Col Claire Phillips who together with the team raised over 2000. The course was indeed tough but the camaraderie pulled them all through to the finish line with smiles on their faces. You can find out more about the event at hurtzone.co.uk

Skydiving in Scarlet

Charmaine takes a step through the sky door at 13,000ft

Charmaine Coleman bravely became the first Chelsea Pensioner to Skydive for The Soldiers Charity last month at the impressive age of 82! She started her Army career by enlisting at Whitehall in January 1954 and completed 23 years service with the Royal Military Police before she was discharged in 1974, having been promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Charmaine, who jumped 13,000 ft in full scarlet uniform said When I was in the Army I did a three week freefall course in Germany and I loved it immensely. That was in 1970, and I havent done any parachute jumps since. When I found out two weeks ago that fellow Chelsea Pensioner Ray was doing it I thought Id love to do another one. I suppose I am a bit adventurous, but its a wonderful thing to do and Id recommend it to anyone. Fellow Chelsea Pensioner Ray Pearson, 77 years old, will Skydive in late August. If you would like to join him in this challenge, places are still available! Contact Sophie Coad on 0207 901 8913 for more information.

The Big One Abseil

Dave Watson, Mark Harding and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles prepare for their abseil

On the 16th of June this year 40 supporters climbed up the 421 steps to the top of the UKs tallest Roller Coaster, The Big One, at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. After climbing to the top of the 235 foot high structure they each abseiled back down. For many this was their first experience at abseiling, but in the safe hands of Yamba UK, who managed the abseil for us, they all completed the descent successfully with smiles on their faces. Amongst the participants were former soldiers Dave Watson and Mark Harding, both severly injured in Afghanistan and long time supporters of the Charity, 89 year old Harold Addie, a Normandy Veteran, 76 year old, ex-Army Officer and now retired Vicar, Ken Wright, plus all four Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!Fundraisers commenced their climb to a Fanfare from the Band of the Kings Division Trumpeters and the whole day had a really great carnival atmosphere. This is the second year that the event has been held and while the total for this year is still being toted up, last years event raised nearly 40,000. Blackpool Pleasure Beach have asked us to return next year, so contact us to register your interest for 2015!

If you or a loved one feel inspired to get involved in a challenge event in aid of The Soldiers Charity, please visit www.soldierscharity.org/events or call 0207 901 8900

Thrill Seeking Challenge Events

This summer has seen some of our most daring challenge events take place across the UK and when we put the call out for courageous fundraisers, you didnt disappoint us! We have been overwhelmed by your determination to take part in our incredible events and raise funds for The Soldiers Charity. Here are just some of the ways that you have risen to the challenge and made us all proud this summer.

06 | 07

Serving for a Common CauseBritain has a glorious history of international cooperation and partnership with Foreign & Commonwealth serving personnel. As we mark the anniversary of the Centenary, we are reminded that it was this partnership that helped secure the Allied victory in The Great War. Foreign & Commonwealth Forces offered a significant contribution during WWI which has continued to the present day. We spoke exclusively to four Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers to find out how it feels to serve under the British flag for Queen and Country.

What made you want to sign up to serve in the British Army? I desperately longed to experience the life of a recruit and be a professional soldier of the British Army. I had heard they were a formidable force and I really wanted to be part of it. I also did it to financially support my family in Nepal as they were in need of money. I wanted to be part of the best Army in the world and I wanted to represent them in the best way possible.

As a Foreign recruit, how do you feel about your time in the British Army? I got the opportunity to experience being in a war and winning it too The Falklands War, and along my journey I met some people who still live long in my active memories and stay close to my heart to this very day. I thoroughly enjoyed my time being part of, and representing the best Army in the world and I feel extremely proud to have done so. Overall I must say it was an exhilarating Army career.

Dilli Gurung MBE (Nepal)

Dilli, 64, left home and joined the British Army when he was just 16 years old. He fought in the Falklands with 7th Duke of Edinburghs Own Gurkha Rifles. He was stationed at Bluff Cove during an Argentinean artillery bombardment which resulted in four serious injuries including severe injury to the Second in Command, and was later a Platoon Sergeant for the assault on Mount William. In the aftermath of the Falklands, Dilli returned to Hong Kong and was commissioned as a Queens Gurkha Officer. He retired from the Army in 1993 after 27 years of devoted service. In 2003 he was awarded an MBE in recognition of his outstanding welfare work with British Gurkha Nepal.

In late 2013, Dilli finally returned to the Falkland Islands with a group of fellow Gurkha veterans (pictured above). We awarded a grant of over 34,000 to the Falklands Veteran Foundation which paid for flights and essential expenses during their stay. This allowed the group to revisit the places where they had demonstrated such bravery, pay their respects to fallen comrades and for some, lay to rest the memories of traumatic events.

What were the highs of serving alongside the British Army? Army life was always full of competitions especially in sport and winning these contests was always very satisfying. The biggest highlight was when I received an MBE for my work with British Gurkha Nepal. I was over the moon and honoured. I experienced a wonderful sensation when I got the news that I was to be awarded this admirable prize as a reward for my hard work.

What about the lows of serving? It was always saddening to see fellow team mates get injured during war and in other difficult situations, especially during our time in the Falklands. Seeing them in an immense amount of pain was nothing short of depressing and seeing them get hurt very badly in front of my very eyes made the experience even more traumatic.

What were the most challenging aspects of your Service? During border duty in Hong Kong, we had to capture illegal

What did you think of the British soldiers you were serving alongside? I must admit it was a great honour serving alongside such friendly and creative characters who remained loyal and thoughtful throughout the time I served. There were a few occasions where spending time with them proved challenging, especially during military competitions where their aggressive nature and their desire to desperately win led to them being at times over competitive.

However, no matter what the outcome, in the end we would all still be closer than ever and they were just wonderful, unique characters to be around. It was a pleasure to be serving alongside them.

What did receiving the grant from The Soldiers Charity mean to you? It was a great experience that brought back many distant memories and I am most

thankful to the Charity for making my dream of revisiting the Falklands come true. The most touching moment of the trip was visiting the memorial of those who were killed and to walk over the ground where we lived and fought.

two different cultures combining. But I think its more to do with personalities rather than culture. We had good days and bad days, like everyone else. But you have no choice, you have to get along to be the best and pass. I served with a lot of other soldiers from the Commonwealth; Jamaicans, Zimbabweans, Ghanaians...loads. But everyone was the same, were all British soldiers operating under the same flag.

Tell us about being a Chef in the Army? I started working in the main kitchen

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

immigrants. I personally had very sympathetic feelings towards them as I could see their intentions; they wanted to enter Hong Kong for a better life, for a better future. They would have put in a huge amount of effort to get to this stage only to be stopped by the guards on border duty. I felt I was ultimately stopping and ending their hopes and dreams; a great feeling of guilt overcame me every time I did this.

That must have been difficult to deal with? Everyone deserves to be happy. I still remember the agonising cries of desperate mothers and children as they scrambled towards the barbed wire fence hoping to get over and fulfil hopes and dreams, but we had to deny them; this felt absolutely horrendous. However, regardless of guilty feelings, we had to do it as this was our duty.

Why did you join the British Army? I was 24 years old when they were recruiting in St Lucia and I just wanted to travel, it sounded so good. I was working in a pizza shop and was also studying but this opportunity to broaden my skills as a Chef sounded promising.

How did you feel about leaving St Lucia? I was young, spirited and I didnt really have anything except my family and I really wanted to help them with money so it was an opportunity to help myself and my family, especially my mum.

How did you feel first coming over to the UK? Well it was October 2002 and the first time Id ever travelled. About six or seven of us came over together so it made it easier for us. We went to Pirbright for training and then my first posting was to Germany. It was hard. I missed home a little, but youre so tired you just dont have time to think.

What was it like being a Commonwealth soldier? It was interesting; it took a little time for the British and Commonwealth soldiers to get to know each other as it was

Jessica, 37, is originally from St Lucia. She lives with her young daughter in West Sussex. Jessica served in the British Army for 11 years as a Chef in the Royal Logistics Corps. This included operational tours of Iraq and Afghanistan. She left the Army in December 2013 and has since done a number of courses in food hygiene and cooking. She is currently working as a Chef on an Army base. When Jessica left the Army she moved from family quarters into civilian accommodation but needed charity assistance in purchasing essential furnishings like beds, wardrobes and other furniture in order to make the flat a home for her and her daughter. The Charity awarded a grant of 500 for this purpose.

Jessica Joseph (St Lucia)

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cooking for single soldiers and I was very busy. Then I started to progress and got promoted, so I started doing rations, stock checks, learning a bit more each time and then I went to the Officers Mess. I had a really good time, I learned a lot and am thankful I had good bosses and people to work with.

You did a tour of Iraq; how did you feel about going out there? I was scared, but Im just someone who gets on and does things. I was the only girl in the unit but the guys looked out for me. As soon as I got there and settled into a routine it was okay. You get so much experience; you dont cook for 10 people you cook for thousands. I am a Christian so I prayed a lot and looked to my faith for strength.

Do you have any favourite memories from that time? Germany was awesome. I had a very good team, a good boss and was always on exercise. I met a lot of people that I learnt so much from.

Any low points during your Service? Being stuck in one place for too long is not fun and some days you really want to go home but you cant. You cant just go home for the weekend as the flight is eight hours long. Sometimes I got really depressed about it but you just have to carry on.

You left the Army in 2013; what are you doing now? Everything is different once you have a child; my daughter was born in the UK and is very young. I just decided that I had enough, I didnt want to bring my daughter up in the Army so made a decision that it was time to make a change for my daughter.

I actually still work as a Chef, with the Artillery. Being a Chef you get a lot of qualifications in the Army so theres a lot of things I could do. I have a better education now. Leaving the Army was the right decision although it was difficult along the way.

Why is it important that we recognise the contribution of Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers to the British Army? Everybody should be treated equally but I think our contribution should be recognised as its not been an easy journey. We dont have our families here, we have to save a lot of money to go home and cant even do that sometimes, so I think that deserves some recognition. Yes people may join for the money and opportunities on offer but Commonwealth soldiers are really hard workers and are very disciplined.

We gave you a grant when you left your Army accommodation and moved into your current flat. Can you tell our readers why you needed the funding? For me, the only thing I knew was Army life, I didnt know civilian life at all and I needed some support. Im a single parent and needed help and some guidance. I couldnt do it by myself. The grant paid for essentials I really needed.

When I found out I was being given the grant I said a prayer to God saying thank you so much and said that over and over to my case worker. I was so

relieved. It helped make the flat a home for my daughter.

What are your thoughts about The Soldiers Charity which is there for British, Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers? I think its brilliant. You struggle at times and its good to know there is a Charity that will help give you a step forward. People shouldnt be afraid to ask for help. Sometimes you just need it, Army or not. It helped me and my daughter a lot. We can call here home now so Im very grateful for that.

When and why did you join the British Army? I joined 16th December 1998, aged 22. I have a history of military service with the British Army and Navy in my family both my maternal and paternal grandparents served in the Navy during WWII so I grew up with them telling me about their Service over here, so decided to follow in their footsteps and join up.

Was the UK very different to home? Arriving in the UK it was so cold, just freezing. I just had the money in my pocket and had to find somewhere to stay and had to look after myself from day one. I went from London to a Careers Office in Scotland and joined up there.

Why Scotland? My family have Scottish heritage; my mother was born in Glasgow but emigrated over to South Africa. My fathers father was Scottish so I decided if I am going to join Im going to join a Scottish Regiment.

Did you enjoy the Army? I got into Army life quite easily, I enjoyed the training, the atmosphere, I didnt have any troubles with homesickness or adapting. It was a good experience.

How were you treated as a South African? Youre a curiosity at first because you speak, sound and act differently. People ask questions and give you nicknames but once they see that you can do your job they tend to forget about it. You are treated exactly the same as the rest of the guys- on your merits.

How long did you serve? I did 13 and a half years in the Army, my final posting was with F Company Scots Guards. Doing the ceremonial duties was the proudest that you will ever be as a Guardsman. You will never forget your first Troop.

Any high points in the Army? Memorable moments were Trooping the Colour, and operational service in Iraq and Afghanistan its the pinnacle of your training, its what youve trained so hard to do. Ive got so many qualifications and have learnt so much through the adventurous training side, which is something I use now on the outside.

And the low points? The hardest thing was the separation factor; when I first joined, a lot of the troops would go home on the weekend, and I didnt have that home here to go to. I had to either stay in barracks or go into town and find a hotel to stay in, until Id made friends and guys would start inviting me to their houses. So theres that separation factor and the isolation.

When did you leave the Army and what are you up to now? I left in April 2013 and I now work as a Senior Door Keeper at the House of Commons in the Palace of Westminster. I really enjoy it. Ive been in London for 15 years, so I know the City pretty well.

Why do you think its important that we recognise the contribution of Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers? From the Anglo- Boer war, Commonwealth soldiers have played a fantastic role in the British

Army; from the Australians, the Kiwis, the South Africans, everybody has had their role. In WWI some of the biggest battles were fought by Commonwealth Battalions and Regiments. They played a fantastic role and still do.

What are your feelings towards The Soldiers Charity? I think its a fantastic Charity; being in F Company Ive seen the amount of work youve done and support that has been given to the Regular and Reserve Forces. If ever I fell on hard times I know that I have The Soldiers Charity to fall back on.

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

Matt Hay (South Africa)

Matt, 40 is originally from Cape Town in South Africa. In his early 20s he decided to follow in the footsteps of his family and join the British Army. He came over to the UK and signed up with the Scots Guards where he served for nearly 14 years which included tours of Iraq and Afghanistan. He also performed a number of ceremonial duties such as Trooping the Colour in front of HM The Queen which was broadcast around the world. He has now left the Army and lives in London working as a Senior Doorkeeper in the House of Commons (pictured above).

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Why did you join the British Army? I had heard so much about the British Forces and the Fijians who joined back in the 60s; one of them was Talaiasi Laba Labalaba, he ended up being killed whilst serving with the SAS, and was from the same village as me. Even though he died before I was born, growing up in the village and hearing the stories of his heroic actions in the Battle of Mirbat was amazing, so that was one of the things that inspired me to join the Army.

What were your first impressions of the UK and the British Army? Cold! When I arrived at Heathrow I was wearing flip flops. The Army was very disciplined but I didnt experience any barriers from other people. I wasnt used to British food. I made loads of friends in the British Army; some I can call brothers. Especially when you are out on the frontline, the closeness, the camaraderie, the bond, you just dont see that anywhere else. We are all British soldiers; your colour or country doesnt matter. I see myself as British, the same as the others.

How did your family in Fiji react on hearing about your injury in Afghanistan? All my mother did was cry and cry. My wife Ana had to reassure her that I would be okay because the care and treatment in the UK is totally different to Fiji. It was tough, I wont lie. The first time my family saw me with no legs, they thought there was no hope for me but I was ready to fight.

You started competing in athletics and represented Great Britain in the 2012 Paralympics, how did that feel? It was the best thing that I have ever done and experienced. To represent what I now call my country, in the home Paralympic

Derek Derenalagi (Fiji)Derek, 39, is originally from Fiji and was severely injured whilst serving in Afghanistan in 2007 with 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment.He was thrown from his vehicle when it hit an anti-tank mine. After being flown back to Camp Bastion, Derek was pronounced dead until a doctor noticed a slight pulse movement. He spent the next two weeks in a coma and his injuries were so severe that it was necessary to amputate both of his legs. It was during his recuperation at Headley Court that he was drawn to Battle Back an initiative that rehabilitates injured troops through sport. He became hooked on Shot put and Discus and in the summer of 2012 was selected to represent Great Britain at Discus in the 2012 Paralympics Games (pictured left). He is now in intensive training for the upcoming Invictus Games. The Soldiers Charity gave Dereks wife two grants so she could attend University. Through the H4H Quick Reaction Fund, we administered the funds to cover the cost of the course, her travel and book fees.

Games was such an honour. When I got a call from the UK head athletic coach to congratulate me on making the team, I was emotional.

You are still serving but what else are you up to? Im still serving but am in the elite sports programme for the Army. Im training now for future championships and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. I will also represent the British team at the Invictus Games in September but I wont just be throwing Discus and Shot put; Ill be running as well in blades that have a knee joint. I will be the first person in the UK with bi-lateral above the knee amputations to run with both knees.

Is it important that we recognise the contribution of Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers? It is very important because the Commonwealth has been part of the British Forces for such a long time from long before WWI. We should recognise the input and support but also thank those who have given their lives or put their lives on the line. I feel we need to educate the younger generations about the hard work of our forefathers and those from the Commonwealth who gave their lives for this country.

We administered a grant so Ana could become a teacher. What did that mean to you both? She did a Masters at Westminster University and is now a teacher. The funding made a massive difference. When I got injured, she had to leave her job to take care of me, but now, when Im mobile and doing things on my own, she wants to get on with her life, and with support of the Charity she managed to complete her Masters and is now teaching and enjoying her life. Both of us, we are so grateful.

What are your thoughts about The Soldiers Charity, which is there for all who served under the British Flag? It is very reassuring. I have come across so many soldiers who have so many good things to say about The Soldiers Charity. Your help has made an impact by giving new opportunities; another chance to enjoy life. When we leave the Army we know that there will always be the support there for us. The support is there for the families too, like my wife Ana. I just want to say thank you thank you so much.

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

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This is a photograph of the 18th King Georges Own Lancers near Mametz, Somme, on the 15th July 1916. On the early morning of 15 July 1916 the 18th Lancers were in position to follow up an infantry attack near Mametz. However, the infantrys inability to make headway against the Germans resulted in the cavalry returning to the rear in the middle of the day. This was typical of the experience of the Indian Cavalry on the Western Front with periods of patient waiting and expectancy unrealised.

Image used with permission from the National Army Museum

The No Mans Land garden was designed by Charlotte Rowe, whose grandfather Rupert Cary, fought in and survived WWI. After reading his war time diaries and visiting the Somme battlefield, Charlotte was inspired to create a garden that commemorated the lives lost, the scars left on the landscape and the generation who fought. Charlotte explained: The garden reflected how the landscape of the Western Front, though changed forever, has regenerated and healed. This is a metaphor for the effect of war on the human body and spirit and its capacity to recover from the trauma of war. The gardens design also drew a parallel with the hardships sometimes faced by todays serving and former soldiers and their families who struggle with the transition to civilian life, either through injury or other difficulties. A beneficiary of the Charity, Chris Parrott, helped to build the garden with Charlotte and the team. Chris, who had been injured twice whilst serving in Afghanistan, received

a grant to study horticulture from the Charity, a career that he is now pursuing following his work on the garden. Chief Executive of The Soldiers Charity, Martin Rutledge added: We are seeing increasing demand for help with employment and training at the moment, and it is during this transition that we as a Charity are increasingly stepping in to help. With over 157,000 people attending this years Chelsea show, an impressive 50,000 of the Charitys Garden Guides were handed out to visitors. HM The Queen also took time to view the garden. The official opening saw leading media personalities read war time poetry in the garden in front of selected national, international and local press. Rowan Atkinson, Stephen Fry and Caroline Quentin, amongst others, gave readings while also publicly supporting the Charity. A special re-working of the trench newspaper The Wipers Times was created for each day of the week long show. The publication featured news from

Our No Mans Land Garden is decorated with gold at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2014In May ABF The Soldiers Charity ventured in to pastures new with the creation of a show garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The garden marked the centenary of the First World War and drew attention to todays No Mans Land.

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

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the previous day at the show, satirical reflections of the event, extracts from Rupert Carys diary and specially written articles from journalists, celebrities and MPs. These included two articles written by Stephen Fry and Tim McInnerny, presented as modern day descendants of their characters from Blackadder Goes Forth. The special editions of The Wipers Times are available to download from the Charitys website. The garden and The Wipers Times received a wide range of media interest, with TV and Radio interviews with Martin Rutledge, Chris Parrott and Charlotte Rowe. BBC TV presenter Monty Don also gave a special mention of The Wipers Times during the dedicated programme. The show was supported by several Chelsea Pensioners who, through collections at the event, raised over 40,000 for the week No Mans Land was generously supported throughout the design and build by Coutts and Bechtel Corporation, for which the Charity is very grateful.

To view more exclusive images, video content and the Wipers Times visitsoldierscharity.org/chelsea

1 Celebrity supporters took time out to join us on the garden and recite war poetry (image Chris Warsop)

2 Joey from Warhorse nibbled the wild-flowers on his visit

3 A large water basin represented the many deep, circular mine craters found throughout the Western Front.

(image Marianne Majerus)

4 Chelsea Pensioners enjoyed the garden

5 The Wipers Times revival was handed out on the garden selling out every day. But you can still read it online at soldierscharity.org/chelsea

6 Charity beneficiary Chris Parrott was instrumental in helping with the build of the garden (image Charlie Hopkinson)

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Arthur Currie (Commander of Canadian Corps)General Sir Arthur William Currie GCMG, KCB (5 December 1875 30 November 1933), from Canada, was Commander of Canadian Corps during WWI. He was the first Canadian Commander of the four divisions of the unified Canadian Corps of the Canadian Expeditionary Force. Currie made his mark in WWI by quickly adapting brigade tactics to the new demands of trench warfare. He is considered by many to be one of the most capable Commanders of the Western Front, and one of the finest Commanders in Canadian military history. Currie was also the first Canadian to attain the rank of full General.

Khudadad KhanKhudadad Khan was the first Indian to win the Victoria Cross after eligibility for the award was extended in 1911 to men of the Indian Army. In common with half of the men in his Regiment, the 129th Duke of Connaughts Own Baluchis, Khudadad Khan was a Pathan from northwest India. As part of 7th Indian (Ferozepore) Brigade, the 129th Baluchis arrived in France from Egypt during September 1914.

On 31st October 1914 Khudadad Khan was serving in the Regiments machine-gun detachment at Hollebecke, Belgium, in what would be known as the First Battle of Ypres. Whilst under attack from enemy forces, the British Officer in charge of the detachment was wounded, and the detachments second gun put out of action by a shell. In the face of this assault, Sepoy Khudadad, though himself wounded, remained working his gun even after all of the other five men in the gun detachment had been killed. In doing this he prevented the Germans from making

the final breakthrough, even though he was significantly outnumbered. Thanks to his courage, the German Army was unable to reach the vital ports, with Sepoy Khudadad holding them up until reinforcements could arrive. With his team overrun, Sepoy Khudadad was left for dead by the enemy, but managed to crawl back to his Regiment during the night. He was decorated with his VC by King George V in January 1915 in recognition of his bravery and sacrifice. He survived the war, and died in 1971.

Commonwealth Heroes of the First World WarThe facts speak for themselves of eight million men mobilised for Britain during WWI, almost three million came from the Commonwealth.

Their contribution in numbers alone is inspiring, but the more you delve into this often-overlooked topic, the more you appreciate the great sacrifices made by individuals who came so far to fight under our flag. Here are just a few examples shared with us by The National Army Museum, The Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League and The Curzon Institute, of individuals from the Commonwealth who did their duty when Britain needed them most.

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

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Khuddadad Khan

the African Distinguished Conduct Medal for reconnaissance work at Tsavo, in Southern Kenya on 6 September 1914. The next year on 18 January 1915 at Jassin in the Umba Valley, located in North Eastern Tanzania, Colour Sergeant Williams under a heavy enemy fire, extricated the remainder of his platoon after one Officer (Lieutenant GM Dean 1/3rd KAR) had been killed and the other seriously wounded. Colour Sergeant Williams also managed to personally carry away the platoon machine gun after the crew and supporting carriers had all been killed or wounded. For this deed, the Divisional Commander, Major General Tighe, recommended him for the Victoria Cross. If this award had been approved, George Williams would have been the first soldier in the KAR to be so honoured. He did not receive the VC, but he was eventually awarded a bar to his DCM before he was killed later in July 1918. Sadly, the Medal Roll for the African DCM has been lost and only a few acts of bravery by African soldiers on Britains behalf are recorded for history. Of the 35,500 KAR who served during the war, 8,225 were casualties.

Francis PegahmagabowFrancis Pegahmagabow, an Ojibwa from the Parry Island Band in Ontario, worked along the Great Lakes as a Marine Fireman before the War. Enlisting early on, he was one of the original members of the Canadian 1st Division. His iron nerves, patience and superb marksmanship acquired him the fearsome reputation as Canadas most effective Sniper and a supreme scout. He was awarded the MM at the Battle of Mount Sorrel in 1916 for capturing a

large number of the enemy, some say the number was 300. Wounded in the leg at Ypres, he recovered in time to return to his unit in Belgium. At Passchendaele, where the Canadian Corps with two British Divisions captured and held the village for five days, Pegahmagabow, by then a Corporal, was awarded the First Bar to his MM. He was awarded the Second Bar to his MM at the Battle of Amiens in August 1918. He is remembered as the most highly decorated First Nation Canadian during the War. He was invalided to Canada in April 1919 after having served for almost the entire war. A member of Canadas Indian Hall of Fame, he died on the Reserve in 1952. Approximately 35% of First Nation Canadians volunteered during the War, 50 were decorated for bravery, several were commissioned as Officers.

Mir DastMir Dast VC IOM (3 December 1874 19 January 1945) was a South Asian recipient of the Victoria Cross. Born in what is now Pakistan, Mir Dast fought in the Battle of Ypres, and on 26 April 1915 led his platoon with great bravery. He stepped in to command additional parties of the Regiment when no British Officers were left to organise the troops, and risked his life to carry wounded British and Indian officers to safety under heavy fire. He was awarded the rank of Subedar before retiring in 1917.

Walter TullWalter Tulls father arrived in England from Barbados in 1876. Both parents died when Walter was very young and he was then raised in an orphanage. He played football for both Tottenham Hotspur and Northampton Town. As soon as the war broke out he abandoned his football career, joined the Army and was sent to France. He was noted by his Officers as a man with courage and great leadership ability and to this end was recommended for Officer training, promoting as a Lieutenant in 1917. He was the first black Officer in the British Army. He served both on the Western and the Italian Front and was mentioned in despatches for his gallantry and coolness under fire. He was then recommended for a Military Cross which he never received. He was killed by machine gun fire on 25 March 1918 and his body was never found.

Colour Sergeant George WilliamsColour Sergeant George Williams, 1st Battalion of the 3rd Regiment Kings African Rifles was a Sudanese Askari with an English name. He was awarded

Mir Dast Walter Tull Colour Sergeant George Williams

Francis Pegahmagabow

Micky YuleMicky has come a long way since we last caught up with him in FrontLine and heard about his recovery from injury and welfare support from ABF The Soldiers Charity. Two years on he is representing Scotland in the 2014 Commonwealth Games. For those unfamilar with Mickys story, in 2010 he was serving in Afghanistan as a Royal Engineer Search Advisor. This high risk role involved counter IED detection and training. On July 1st, only eight weeks into his tour, he stood on a pressure plate IED and as a result of the blast Micky lost both legs, suffered a shattered pelvis and fractured arm amongst other internal injuries. He was flown back from Helmand Province to Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham. His injuries have since required 39 operations. However, less than a year later determined Micky walked down the aisle on full length prosthetic legs to marry his partner Jody. He also began to seriously compete in weightlifting with the aim of competing at an international level. In order to progress with this goal and his physical rehabilitation, Micky needed weights and other equipment so he could train at home. The Soldiers Charity gave him an immediate grant for the purchase of this kit. Now about to compete in Paralympic Powerlifting, he spoke to us about his remarkable journey. How did you become a full time athelete following your medical discharge from the British Army? When I was coming close to getting medically discharged I was doing resettlement courses as well as strength training and looking for new jobs. Then I got offered a contract from British Weightlifting to try and qualify for Rio. They offered me a contract until February 2016 which is the last qualifying date but it wasnt a lot of money, so I was thinking about the alternative salary I might have got with another job. I decided, with the backing of my family, to commit to Rio as it was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Was that a very difficult decision? No, I decided I wasnt going to win a medal for walking, but if I properly trained to compete, I could win a medal at the Commonwealth Games. So Ive been training hard and doing different international competitions and settling into the athletes lifestyle. Whats been the high point over past two years? I broke the British record in January 2013 lifting 183kg. To lift over 180kg at the bodyweight I was, put me in the mix with the top ten people in the world. I dont know if they thought I was going to get there that quickly, but when I did, it definitely opened their eyes to my potential. Whats been the low point? Its the surgeries. Ive still managed to fit in about 12 separate operations around my competitions. I havent had an operation in about four months now, which has been the longest time without one, in four years. Getting rid of the surgeries and being able to concentrate on training is doing me the world of good. It must have been a huge transition from being an injured soldier to a top athlete- you must feel very proud? Nah, I dont feel proud of myself. I feel excited but I dont feel that Im doing anything that anybody else couldnt do. Is it the thought of the crowd that makes you feel so excited? Its going to be quite crazy as Im used to lifting with maybe a

The Commonwealth Games 2014

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

maximum of 300 people watching me, and I already know about 70 family and friends that are coming to watch just me. But I dont feel any more pressure for it; its definitely no more pressure than trying to find an IED! Will there anyone special in the audience watching you? Well my wife and my wee boy Charlie will be there; hes seven years old. If I win a medal Ill be giving it to my son. What will be your biggest challenge? My biggest challenge will be not getting injured. I feel pretty confident physically and mentally but theres just not time to get injured now and then still compete at the level I want. I am going to lift whatever I need to get a medal. The Soldiers Charity gave you two grants; one for the actual weights and then one for 4,000, which paid for a specialist IPC bench and weight rack. What difference did the grant for a specialist bench make? I needed that bench because I was training on a bench that youd see in a normal gym; you stabilize yourself by using your legs but I was trying to train on that with no legs, which was like lifting yourself on a washing line because I had no balance! So I then got the adapted bench thanks to the Charity, which enabled me to train with the equipment I would use in the actual competitions. Being able to train on the equipment that youre actually competing with changes everything. Did you ever think youd represent your country in power-lifting? No I thought Id be in the Army until I was about 42. So before, I thought I was just a normal squaddie, there was no anticipation about representing my country at anything except by going to Afghan. What would winning a medal mean to you? It would mean everything. But in context, with my life having been so messed up over the past four years, you do wonder whether winning a medal means anything more than learning to walk again? It would be a great achievement. Whats next after the Commonwealth Games? After the Games Ill take a couple of weeks off and try and fit some holidays in. And then its about qualifying for Rio. Whats it like living on Civvy Street now? Civvy Streets quite boring, I must admit. Im on such a strict diet and I hardly see the lads. I also feel like I havent had the chance to experience Civvy Street fully because Im under such strict parameters, just like when I was in the Army; my whole days are just as structured. What are your overriding feelings about ABF The Soldiers Charity? I think its a great Charity that had faith in me at the start. I definitely got support at the early stages from the Charity, which pushed me on. And every time Ive needed a bit of help from The Soldiers Charity, theyve come up trumps and have sorted me out with equipment. I definitely wouldnt be where I am today without their help. Have you served with Commonwealth soldiers? What are your feelings about the Commonwealths support? Ive served with loads of soldiers from the Commonwealth. I think that Commonwealth soldiers should be appreciated just as much as anyone else. They do exactly the same job as British soldiers do; theyve been injured and have died in the line of duty. Without the support and influence of soldiers from the Commonwealth wed undoubtedly be a lot less effective.

Boxing CleverChris Bessey MBEChris is a former soldier and British amateur boxer who captured six ABA titles during his career. Chris also won a gold medal in the Light Middleweight class at the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He served for 21 years in the British Army and coached the British Army Boxing Team. Now out of the Army and living in Portsmouth, Chris tells us about the magic of the Commonwealth Games.

What was it like winning gold and representing your country in the 98 Commonwealth games? It was an excellent experience where we had 50% of the team return with medals; four gold and two bronze. As the Boxing Team Captain at the time it was a great achievement.

How did you become Head Coach of the British Army Boxing Team? I was actually pencilled in to succeed the Army coach when I finished competitively boxing, however, I had only just picked up my SNCO/Sergeant so not deemed experienced enough at that time. It wasnt until two years later that I got a call whilst on Op TELIC 2 with the offer to return as Head Army Boxing Coach.

Why do you think that its important that the general public recognise the contribution of Foreign & Commonwealth soldiers to the British Army? In my own view, in this multi-cultural diverse society that we live in, it is vital for EVERYONE to respect the various cultural, spiritual, religious and ethnic diversity which now contributes to Britain as a whole.

Image by Alistair Devine

At the National Army Museum (NAM), numerous projects are underway to explore this further. Recent funding successes and increased interest in the conflict as the Centenary approaches have enabled the Museum to dedicate more time and resource to investigating the Commonwealth and its role in the conflict. The Museum is currently closed for the Building for the Future redevelopment project, but, thanks to a generous 11.5 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund supporting the project, work continues to open up the Museums extensive Empire archive. One such initiative started last year, when the NAM hosted War and Sikhs workshops to explore the many ways in which Sikhs have contributed to the rich military heritage of Britain and India. In partnership with the Anglo Sikh Heritage Trail, the workshops recruited Sikh volunteers to handle and reinterpret the Museums objects associated with Sikh history (pictured top right). They unravelled many mysteries behind objects including images, weapons and uniform. The role of Sikhs in WWI was a major focus, and such was the success that more workshops looking at objects from the conflict have been scheduled for this year too.

The National Army Museum is taking its unique

objects and learning facilities out into the nation.

WWI exhibitions will be running in the following

locations:

Outbreak!

Wales Goes to War

18.06.2014 04.05.2015

Firing Line, Cardiff Castle Museum

of the Welsh Soldier, Cardiff

Your Country Calls:

Enlistment to Embarkation

24.06.2014 8.05.2015

Folkestone Town Hall, Folkestone

Outbreak!

Royal Engineers Go to War

03.07.2014 22.12.2014

Royal Engineers Museum & Library

(REMLA), Gillingham

Outbreak!

Road to the Trenches

05.07.2014 17.11.2014

Museum of the Kings Royal Hussars,

Preston

Outbreak!

Durham Light Infantry Goes to War

10.07.2014 22.03.2015

Durham Light Infantry Museum, Durham

Outbreak!

Staffordshire Goes to War

21.07.02014 18.01.2015

Staffordshire Regiment Museum,

Staffordshire

Outbreak!

Royal Fusiliers Go to War

08.2014

The Fusilier Museum London,

Tower of London

Visit www.nam.ac.uk for more dates.

In addition, the Museum has worked to recreate the 15th Ludhiana Sikhs Regiment, which fought during the War. Uniforms have been ordered, training is in progress, and the Regiment is set to tour events around the UK. I wanted to help British Sikhs engage with the history of WWI more actively, to physically mark the Sikh contribution to the conflict, says Project Officer Jasdeep Singh. A separate project will also take the NAMs Indian Army Collection as its focus. Having mobilised almost 1.5 million troops during the conflict, the number of objects at the Museum relating to the Indian Army is vast. Brothers In Arms, funded by the Esmee Fairbairn Collections Fund, is taking a fresh look at this Collection, auditing, researching, digitising and disseminating the objects. Over the next two years, the collection will be better catalogued to make it more accessible than ever. Looking ahead, the NAM will shine an even brighter spotlight on the Commonwealth in the War. A four-year commemorative programme, also falling under Building for the Future, will take Empire and Commonwealth as its focus for 2015. As part of this, the Museums commemorative website, First World War in Focus, will offer learning resources, insight into relevant

The Centenary presents an opportunity to reflect on the soldiers who bravely served one hundred years ago. At the National Army Museum, a series of projects are underway to mark the Empires significant contribution to the conflict.

For King and Country: The Commonwealth and Empire in WWI at the National Army Museum

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

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campaigns and battles, and stories from soldiers of the Empire to help people find out more. Finally, taking inspiration from the discoveries of the War and Sikhs workshops, a new project called Crown & Country: Colonial and Commonwealth Soldiers will work with a wider cross-section of the British public from across the Commonwealth. Participants will be invited to attend reinterpretation workshops where they will get hands on with objects directly related to the service of Colonial and Commonwealth soldiers, or artefacts originating in former

The NAM exhibits its own replica uniform from WWI for the 15th Ludhiana Sikhs. They wore a Chakkar (quoit) as their turban badge: a key symbol of their Sikh faith. Their Khaki turban or Pagri cloth could reach up to eight metres in length. They wore 1903 pattern leather Bandolier equipment and carried the Short Magazine Lee Enfield (SMLE) 303 Rifle.

colonies. The results will feed into the Museum's collection, and may feature in future displays within the new Museum's gallery spaces. With the Building for the Future redevelopment working towards reopening in 2016, the Museum is taking the opportunity to integrate Commonwealth stories into the wider story of the British Army. Rather than feature in a specific exhibition, the history of soldiers of the Empire will be woven throughout the new Museum, to tell a true and full story of the British Army to today.

The 15th Ludhiana Sikhs were issued with thin cotton Khaki Kurtas when they embarked at Karachi in 1914, as standard issue tropical (or Indian) uniform. With the assumption that the Regiment would go straight to Egypt, these thin Kurtas were ideal for warm climates; however the 15th Ludhiana Sikhs were immediately redirected to the Western Front in September of 1914.

Their uniform was therefore not fit for the cold winter in Europe, and requests were sent to issue the 15th Ludhiana Sikhs with warmer uniform. Unfortunately by the time that warmer uniforms eventually arrived, the Regiments were sent to Egypt.

Indian Army Uniform

Below: Jasdeep Singh, Project Officer at the NAM proudly models the Museums

incredible uniform

What did you do in WWII is a question I was asked by a Commonwealth veteran when I visited his ramshackle hut in Uganda. He spent his days largely on his own sitting on the mud floor next to a fire to keep warm. As the Secretary General of The Royal Commonwealth Ex Services League (RCEL) I have the privilege of visiting Commonwealth soldiers who fought for the Crown prior to their countries independence. There is a small team of four in the office based in Haig House with The Royal British Legion. Our Controller of Finance is Nigel Dransfield who served in the Royal Army Pay Corps and Lance Gill is our Controller of Welfare, who completed a full career in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. Both worked in commerce between leaving the Army and joining RCEL. Mari Gordon-Roe, keeps us all in line and makes sure everything runs as it should as the Office Manager. She is also responsible for the global distribution of Poppies across the Commonwealth. Once in a while I get the feeling that as a Nation we are sometimes embarrassed about our colonial past. But one element we should be proud of is the wonderful Commonwealth Regiments and Corps that served the Crown and made such a contribution to victory in the two World

Wars. When I meet Commonwealth veterans, often in dreadful conditions, in some of the poorest places in the world it is they who are certainly proud to have served. Many are in their 90s and unable to tell you what happened yesterday but most remember with pride and in some detail their service in the British Army.As we rightly mark the Centenary of the outbreak of WWI in 2014 we also commemorate the 70th Anniversary of D-Day. We remember too those veterans

of Kohima and many other battles of WWII and as such the theme for the RCEL is The Twilight Ten Years because by 2024 there will sadly be very few Second World War veterans with us. Many will have watched the remarkable scenes of The 70th Anniversary of D-Day organised by The Royal British Legion in Normandy last month and I mention this because the moving Service of Remembrance held in Bayeux was in the setting of the Commonwealth War Graves

Lt Col Christopher Warren talks to us about the work of the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League and how the continued funding from The Soldiers Charity has helped them to achieve their aims.

Opinion: Christopher Warren

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

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CyprusThe Executive Committee of The Cyprus Veterans Association which is a non Government organisation, non-sectarian and non-partisan. It has five branches and the Northern, Kyrenia Branch, is based in Nicosia in North Cyprus. Pictured are three WWII veterans.

LesothoMasalang Kapa is one of the widows generously supported by The ABF The Soldiers Charity and the Womens Section of The Royal British Legion. She was married to Sgt Simon Kapa in 1940 who served with the East Africa Pioneer Corps from 1941-1946. Sadly, he died in 1952 as a result of a spinal injury suffered during the War. Masalang is 85 years old and has no family to care for her.

LesothoPte Kotele is 88 years old and served with the East African Pioneer Corps from 1939-1945 and the High Commission Territories Corps from 1946 to 1948.

People from around the Commonwealth who have benefited from ABF The Soldiers Charity grants to the RCEL

Cemetery. Whilst the focus was on the British service men and women who fell in battle that day, we should remember the 2.8 million Commonwealth soldiers who volunteered to serve the Crown in the titanic struggle that was WWII. The incredibly strong bond between the British Army and the Commonwealth endures today with over 5,000 currently serving. It is appropriate to commemorate the sacrifice of those who lost their lives in the First World War. This lasting memory still remains, not only in our national consciousness but also within our collective community and family consciousness. But we have either forgotten large parts of our history or, more likely, never been taught them. The simmering rivalry of empire building nations in Europe in 1914 was sparked into war by the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand which affected not only Europe but because of the ties with Dominions, Protectorates and other affiliated countries, affected the world. The contributions made in manpower, resources and infrastructure from across the globe were strategically significant. Without these contributions the war could have taken a different direction and it is incredibly important to recognise and salute the service of these soldiers, fighting thousands of miles from their homeland. There was no shortage of volunteers during WWII and thousands of examples of heroism. Just one is that of LCpl Lucas Majozi a Zulu from South Africa who served in the Native Military Corps at the battle of El Alamein as a stretcher bearer.

He won a Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) for extreme devotion to duty under continuous enemy fire to save the lives of many wounded men who would otherwise have died. His portrait and DCM hang in the South African National Museum of Military History. I wrote earlier of the significant Commonwealth contingent currently serving, and the RCEL also supports this contemporary group of veterans across all 3 Services with the help of The Royal British Legion, The Royal Navy Benevolent Trust and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. But the vast majority are soldiers and this where the ABF The Soldiers Charity steps in to help those who need a hand up, often in the poorest countries in the world. Through their deep commitment and generous annual donation RCEL has been able to provide a meal a day to over 9,000 Army veterans and widows in 2013. Those assisted by

The Soldiers Charity range from Pte Erik Mdeza who joined 2nd Kings African Rifles and fought in Africa and Burma between 1941 and 1945 through to the father of Pte Emori Ratu, who asked for help when his son was killed on duty in 2011 as they had nothing and had relied on Emori to send money back to Fiji. The Soldiers Charity provided a grant to help the family establish a goat farm which only a year later generated enough income to support them all. Today the many Commonwealth men and women serving in the British Army carry on the remarkable tie with the British Army serving in all operational walks of life. But I end by returning to our theme The Twilight Ten Years as we strive to support those Commonwealth veterans who fought and survived WWII and to reassure them that we do remember them, wherever they are, and the sacrifices they made 70 years ago.

MalaysiaBritish & Malaysian Veterans in Kuala Lumpur on Remembrance Day 2013.

MalawiCpl Henderson Samuja served with the Kings African Rifles between 1942-45 and deployed to Burma to fight the Japanese.

SingaporeMr Amin Bin Hj Rueh served with the Royal Engineers from 1947 to 1950. At 84 years of age he suffers with high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels and is totally reliant upon his daughters who pay for most of his needs. The grant from the ABF The Soldiers Charity and The Royal Engineers Association goes towards the little extras to make him more comfortable in his twilight years.

Christopher and his team at RCEL

Tell us about your familys military connections? My father was a soldier and he served with the Gurkhas. Wherever he went, we went because we followed the British flag with him. So we were together as a family while he was serving, except in extreme conflicts. We travelled with him across the world, thats why I was born in India.

What was it like living in India at that time?I was tiny when I left India but I remember Hong Kong a bit and Malaya a great deal. We were in Kuala Lumpa during the Emergency, from 1951-54, and if we travelled across the country we went in armoured cars and in convoy. Once I remember being told to lie down on the floor in a train as it passed through bandit territory.

Is that why you have such an affinity with Gurkhas? The Gurkhas are my family, now even more than then. As a child my mother took us to visit injured Gurkha soldiers in the Kinrara Hospital outside Kuala Lumpur. Ive known Gurkhas all my life. My father was a professional soldier and when he left Sandhurst he learned Gurkhali, because you had to

learn the language before you could join the Regiment. His first job was out on the north west frontier in India with a hundred Gurkhas and just him, the only English man there. He couldnt have loved them more. He said they were so brave, so funny, so uncomplaining and inspiring. For most of the Armed Forces; sailors and airmen as well as soldiers, you find when the Gurkhas are around everyone feels a little bit better and safer.

Why are you such a very public supporter of the Gurkhas plight? When we discovered there was this anomaly in the law which meant that unlike other Commonwealth troops they wouldnt be allowed to settle or reside or work here, we set about changing that. It took a little bit of time, a bit of struggle, but by-golly it was worth it and now they are allowed to. And of course what they truly want; they never want to beg, they dont want handouts, what they want is the chance for a good education. They also want to be near the Queen, they love the Queen so much, they want to be in the same country, the country they have protected for 200 years. They think of us as their second home and always have done. I think its just fine and right that they come here. On the whole they have been so warmly received and have made themselves so popular; the schoolchildren are so hard working and so bright and eager. I just hope it will go on and on making our multi-cultural society even richer.

Youve said how much they admire the Queen, but of course youve become a bit of a national treasure in Nepal havent you? I know. Its completely unwarranted! The Gurkha Justice Campaign, was of course supported by millions, but of the five of us, the very small team who were at the front of it, I was the only woman and so maybe thats why I was sort of singled out. I used to have to do most of the horrifyingly terrifying and important meetings with the Prime Minister or the Home Secretary on my own, I wasnt allowed to take people with me. Anyway, I was just so proud, first of all to be a Daughter of the Regiment, of the Brigade of Gurkhas and Daughter of Nepal. Im just thrilled to bits.

How important is it that the Foreign & Commonwealth contribution to WWI is recognised? Its vital. These awful conflicts are part of our shared history, and their proud contribution cannot be separated from ours.

How can we best do this and are you taking part in any Commonwealth WWI remembrance events in the coming months? There will be many events which I shall have to miss as I shall be filming in China and Russia this autumn. But I will remember each one from far away and raise a glass and light a candle.

FrontLine magazine has inspired a response from you in the past Do you enjoy reading it? Its terrific! I say to everyone: get it, read it and contribute to it yourselves.

Youre quite a campaigner; now with The Garden Bridge. How is that going? I am so proud to be part of it as it was my idea in the first place, as long ago as 1998. It just shows, keep on keeping on. Its going well, we hope to start building next year and it should be finished for us to walk across in 2018. How fabulous is that!

Looking back over your career which character have you enjoyed playing most?Id be a fool if I didnt say Patsy: Patsy and Purdey! They are as different as chalk from cheese. Lucky me! Jennifer (Saunders) is a very generous writer, shed pick up on things and write special things in just for you and you could suggest things and shed write that and incorporate it. As a team we were so fond of each other and theres nothing lovelier than the sound of people really, really laughing. And we recorded live in front of a studio audience, so you got an immediate reaction, whereas quite often, when youre making films, it doesnt come out for six months and then you dont have any real connection with it. Ive had a great deal of luck and a great deal of love in my life and every part you do, you love just as much as the next part. Its one of those things.

Interview: Joanna Lumley OBEActress and campaigner, Joanna Lumley OBE talks to us about her public support of the Gurhkas and what it was like growing up with a father serving in the British Army.

FrontLine | The Commonwealth Issue

24

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ANCESTRY.CO.UKFRONTLINE WALKIN SUPPORT OF THE SOLDIERS CHARITY

15-19 October 2014

We are looking for walkers to represent each of the Regiments that

fought in the First World War which Regiment will you be in?

For more information about the walk, please contactAmy KenyonEmail: akenyon@soldierscharity.orgTelephone: 0845 504 6349Visit: soldierscharity.org

We remain enormously grateful to The Bonita Trust for its continued and invaluable support towards funding mature students bursaries and vocational course fees, so that former soldiers can retrain and gain the qualifications they need to secure long-term alternative employment in civilian life.

We sadly say farewell to Christine Styant, executive assistant in our East Anglia office after 15 and a half years of loyal service to the Charity. We wish her well in her retirement.

We bade fond farewells to two key members of staff, Maj John Noonan, our illustrious Head of Administration for almost 14 years, and Col Paul Cummings, our highly acclaimed Director of Grants and Welfare for eight incrediby busy years. Both made a very real and positive difference and we are immensely grateful to them.

Thank you to Brigadier Barry Cash. Standing down after six very successful years as Guernsey Honorary Chairman. We wish him well in his future endeavours.

Thank you to Col Murray Colville TD DL, Chairman of the Leicestershire & Rutland Committee who has stood down after four successful years. Although he needs to make time for some new responsibilities and commitments we are pleased that he has agreed to remain a member of the Committee.

A huge thank you to Stuart Baynes, BLO East Anglia, London and East Midlands for his commitment and dedication to our Charity over the last three years. We wish him all the best in his new role with the PRC in Colchester.

Our thanks go to Frank Marsh, Chairman of Powys Committee, who has decided it is time to enjoy his retirement. We wish him and his family well.

After leading the Northamptonshire Committee for the last five and a half years, Major David Williams has decided it is time to stand down. He and his wife Rosemary have provided support and leadership to the Committee for nearly twenty years. We would like to offer our congratulations to David, who received the MBE in The Queens Birthday Honours for his services to charity and the local community. We are delighted that he has agreed to continue as a member of the Committee.

We wish to thank RewardsforForces Merlin Entertainments and Vauxhall for their incredible support. Their generous donations of prizes for raffles and competitions have allowed The Soldiers Charity to rais