Trainees join veterans for Poppy Appeal launch

TRAINEES from HMS Collingwood were delighted to be asked to help launch an appeal close to their hearts.

The young sailors received an invitation from Cedar Court Care Home in Cranleigh, Surrey, to take part in the launch of the Poppy Appeal there and were keen to help.

A small team took time out of their busy training schedules to meet the residents and staff and raise awareness of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal 2022.

As Cedar Court is home to many veterans of the Armed Forces, today’s trainees were eager to chat to them and compare their experiences to make sure that each resident could wear their poppy with pride.

Remembrance

The home then provided a lunch for the sailors, residents and dignitaries, which provided opportunities for the trainees to learn more about the Royal British Legion and its vital work from the representatives who attended.

Later, they were presented with a wreath which will be laid on behalf of the home during Collingwood’s November Remembrance service.

Kathryn Thompson, from Cedar Court, said: “A massive thank you for taking part and showing your support at our recent event. Poppy Day is heartfelt in our home here with many residents either serving or having family members who served for their country and HMS Collingwood being with us made the event extra special.

“Chief Petty Officer Ben Donnelly gave a wonderful, personal talk on his thoughts of remembrance which the residents and other guests thought was extremely moving.

“The trainees were a credit to HMS Collingwood and we would like to extend a collective thank you to them for their presence and helping with the residents’ poppies.”

Photographs above and below are courtesy of Cedar Court Care Home