Talking of old soldiers . . .

Talking of old soldiers . . .

                    

The most well-known old soldiers in England are the Chelsea Pensioners, often to be seen at public events, resplendent in their scarlet coats. Any British Army non-commissioned officer or soldier may apply to become a Chelsea Pensioner, provided he or she is over 66 years old or of State Pension age. (Women were first admitted in 2009) Commissioned officers may apply if they have risen through the ranks.

 Upon acceptance, pensioners must relinquish their army pension and any disability allowance, in return receiving free board, lodging, clothing and medical care. The objective is for every resident to contribute at least £175 per week, and if their pension does not cover that amount, the difference must be made up from personal savings.

                            Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The Royal Hospital Chelsea is a retirement home accommodating 300 pensioners. It aims to enable its residents to live a supported independent life and is open to widows and widowers who may otherwise face a life alone. It replicates the communal bond of comradeship which army veterans have enjoyed during their military service.

The hospital was founded as an almshouse in 1682 by King Charles II as a retreat for veterans. An almshouse was charitable housing provided for people in need in a community, particularly in mediaeval times. Alms relate to food or money given to charity.  The hospital is sited in 66 acres on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea.

Wearing the peaked cap or shako

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Pensioners are able to come and go freely and can wear civilian clothing wherever they travel. They are encouraged to wear their blue uniform, known as ‘blues’, in the hospital and its grounds. If they go further from the hospital they are expected to wear the scarlet coat and peaked cap. For ceremonial occasions, they replace the cap with a tricorne hat and add white gloves.                     

In 1972 a number of generals from NATO countries were in London for a week of meetings. During the evenings, entertainments were organised, to the ballet, opera, theatre, all of which were greatly appreciated.  As a young major, working with them, Barry escorted a number of them to the Royal Hospital Chelsea for a day-long visit.  

In full formal dress, with tricorne hat and white gloves (and well-polished shoes)

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The generals found it fascinating listening to the veterans, some of whom were on active service before many of the visitors were born. The pensioners recounted their experiences of serving during the Boer War and the First World War.

It was universally agreed by the generals that the highlight of their week was the day they spent with the Chelsea Pensioners at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.