3 November 2006

Byrne call to Hodge Hill veterans

Liam Byrne MP today invited more local people who served in HM Armed Forces to come forward and claim a Veterans Badge.

The lapel badge is available to the men and women who served before and/or during World War II and also those who enlisted before 31 December 1959.

Liam said:

“With Remembrance Sunday coming up we are all thinking of the sacrifice that was made by so many. It is also a reminder though that there are still survivors of service that have not yet claimed the badge they are entitled to.

“I urge all veterans who have not already done so to contact my office for details of how to apply for the badge. It is much deserved recognition and I know that those ex-servicemen and women, and their widows and widowers, who have already received their badges have been rightly proud.”

Veterans in Hodge Hill should contact Liam’s office on 0121 789 7287. You can download an application form here.

Entitlement

Men and women who Served in HM Armed Forces before and/or during World War II are entitled to a Veterans Badge.

There are other groups who Served during World War II who are included, these are:

• Cyprus Regiment
• Home Guard
• Polish Forces under UK Command

Please note, that Veterans who served in Armed Forces of other Countries and those who served alongside HM Armed Forces are not eligible.

Men and Women who enlisted in HM Armed Forces between 3 September 1945 and 31 December 1959 are entitled to a Veterans Badge. There is no qualifying length of Service.

It is regrettable that the badge cannot be issued posthumously. The badge is a survivors' badge, which is to be worn on civilian attire.

The only exceptions are War Widows and Widowers who are in receipt of a War Widows/Widowers Pension paid by Veterans Agency.

More details of entitlement for the Veterans Badge can be found by going to the Veterans Agency website. If you Served in the Merchant Navy during Military Operations click here.