Royal British Legion, Women's Section, Little Common Branch - August 1

They were rewarded with the splendid news that we had received two letters from Afghanistan as a result of our shoe box collection. A letter from a Corporal in the 3rd Parachute regiment thanked members for the parcels on behalf of himself and his mates and appreciated being remembered by the folks at home.

The second letter was a personal reply to Mrs. G. Ludkin who had enclosed a note in her goody box. A serviceman from the 7th Paras also expressed his thanks for the parcel. He mentioned how nice it was to know that they were not forgotten and people at home gave them support. This was a pleasing result to our shoe box task. The Women's Section intend to keep in touch with these men.

Leonard Cheshire VC was the subject of our talk, Roger McKenna our speaker gave a very informative description of this great man's life. Cheshire learned to fly at college and joined the RAF at the outbreak of war. By 1942 at the age of 25 was the youngest Group Captain in the force. He commanded the Dam Busters after Guy Gibson and acted as pathfinder dropping flares at low level to light up the intended target. He was awarded the VC and other decorations for his bravery flying over 100 sorties over Europe.

After the war he set up settlements for ex-service men and women who needed support and took into his care a dying friend. From this small beginning grew the charity the Leonard Cheshire Foundation which now operates worldwide. A very noteworthy organisation.

After their visit to the club the Air Ambulance sent their thanks for the collection of over 120 raised by members. We meet again on August 13 at 7 pm and are happy to welcome visitors to our gathering.