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Blind veterans reconnect with their history during Remembrance Week

Published on 17 Nov 2021

During the week of Remembrance, 12 blind veterans visited our Llandudno centre for Military Week.

This annual event organised for our veterans helps them reconnect with their history, exploring military memorabilia from the First World War to the Cold War, and meeting modern soldiers.

During the week, our group of veterans (including nine who served in the Second World War) enjoyed various visits, including to the Royal Welsh Reservists Centre in Colwyn Bay and RAF Cosford Museum where there were displays of military equipment, vehicles, aircraft and weaponry.

A photo of a group of blind veterans visiting the RAF Cosford Museum posed in front of the fighter jets
Blind veterans gathered at RAF Cosford Museum
A photo of a tank pictured outside our Llandudno centre
A military tank pictured outside our Llandudno centre

They also listened to talks on weapons, explored Second World War vehicles and reenactors and listened to our very own Billy (blind veteran and charity staff member) talk about the Abbot (Self Propelled Gun), which Billy served on in the Royal Artillery for ten years.

A photo of a weapon demonstration which took place as part of Military Week
Weapon demonstration
Photo of blind veteran Barry, right, and wife Joan, left, holding a gun during demonstration
Blind veteran Barry and wife Joan holding a gun during weapon demonstration

Music filled other parts of the week and veterans were able to put on their dancing shoes for a mid-week tea dance.

Tea dance

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Remembrance Sunday

Later that week, our 12 blind veterans visiting the centre marched through Llandudno to the Cenotaph. It was an emotional moment for all, particularly when the public started to clap as the parade made its way through the town and along the promenade.

 

Blind veteran Margaret wearing her military badges and beret, holding a poppy wreath
Blind veteran Maureen pictured at Remembrance Sunday
Photo of blind veteran Matt pictured at Remembrance Sunday, seated in wheelchair
Blind veteran Matt, right, pictured at Remembrance Sunday
A photo of blind veteran Bob and wife Margaret holding wreath at Remembrance ceremony
Blind veteran Bob and wife Margaret
“It’s been an excellent week. Every minute of it has been filled.”
Margaret
Blind veteran

Themed weeks like Military Week are so important for our blind veterans as it gives them an opportunity to reflect on their experiences, coming together.

The cost of participating in a themed week is £600, which covers provision of activities, transport to and from the centre and more. With your support, we can continue providing themed weeks for years to come.

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