The British Legion: Caring for Our Veterans

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – We all see the poppies every year, but where do those poppies come from? We sat down with the chair of the British Legion Bahamas branch to find out more about the organization that cares for the country’s oldest veterans.

Chairman, Adina Munroe-Charlow tells us the British Legion Bahamas branch is a registered non-profit organization with roots dating back to 1921.

There are three registered Bahamian World War II veterans living in The Bahamas, one of whom is Comrade Vernon Pinder, who you may remember from our previous interview with him. But the British Legion’s care doesn’t stop there – they also cater to the 17 widows of our veterans.

Before becoming the patron of the British Legion, her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, also served in World War II, joining the Auxiliary Territorial Service at 18, in 1944.

But where does the money come from to help the veterans? A combination of funds from the Crown, as well as funds raised during the poppy selling season.

If you’re wondering what you can do to help the British Legion outside of financial donations, consider offering your time.

And with Remembrance Day on November 11, the British Legion is entering their peak season for the year. Munroe-Charlow says this year, the focus will be on the female platoon of Bahamians.