Four members of Trinity’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) were invited to attend a special event in Battersea this week where they met His Majesty King Charles III. The visit, held at Chatfield Health Care, highlighted the work being done to improve healthcare for veterans in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.
The invitation came at short notice over half term, with the contingent unaware of the visiting dignitary until the day itself. Representing Trinity were WO2 Elliot S, CSgt Eloise B, Cpl Vedanth R and Gt Josh O, accompanied by Major A Muirhead, Contingent Commander.
During the visit, the cadets met veterans, NHS staff and His Majesty’s Senior Equerry, Lt Col Jonathan Thompson, before speaking directly with The King, who asked about their time in the CCF, their recent activities and future aspirations.
Reflecting on the experience, CSgt Eloise Barker said, “Meeting the King was a surreal experience and I am incredibly grateful that I had the chance to do so. We talked briefly about wanting to go into the military and the respect we had for veterans. It is important to raise awareness and celebrate veterans, who might otherwise be embarrassed to ask for support or to admit they fought for Britain, so that we can give them the support they might need and show our gratitude for their service to our country.”
The event was part of the Veteran Friendly GP Practice initiative, which helps ensure that former armed forces personnel receive the understanding and specialist care they deserve.
Major Muirhead said, “His Majesty was very engaging with the cadets and took a genuine interest in their service and ambitions.”
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