THE LEGACY left by the First World War generation is being honoured.
The British Legion has launched a movement to say ‘thank you’ to those – both military and civilian – who played their part on the home front and to mark the centenary of the end of The Great War.
The charity is encouraging people from all walks of life to take part and express their gratitude to those who rebuilt the nation after the war.
Communities are being encouraged to come together, and a national competition for youngsters is underway to create art, poetry and song which says thank you.
Legion spokeswoman Jane Britton said: “The First World War left so many legacies that positively impact our lives today, from ground-breaking social change to pioneering innovations.
“The end of the centenary is a chance for us all to thank not only the British Armed Forces who fought and gave their lives, but the thousands who fought alongside them from countries from across today’s Commonwealth, and the countless men, women and children who played their part on the home front.
“We all have a connection to the First World War and we all have a reason to say thank you to this special generation. Whether your personal thank you is an event dedicated to those who made a difference in your community, a personal visit to a place of significance or a social media post there’s no limit to the ways people can take part.
“We are making a plea to every single person across the UK to get involved and take a moment in this very significant year to say thank you.”
The Legion is asking the nation to plan activities from August 8 onwards, to coincide with the anniversary of the ‘100 days offensive’ – a series of victories which brought the war to a final close.
Visit rbl.org.uk/thankyou for information and ideas.
