The Queen begins Remembrance Commemorations in Kent
The Queen began commemorations for Remembrance day on wednesday during a visit to Kent. Her Majesty celebrated the centenary year of Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) by opening their new Appleton Lodge care facility as well as visiting the centenary village housing project. The RBLI support armed forces personnel and their families by providing care, support and unemployment.
The Appleton Lodge facility was named Edith Appleton, who served on the frontline as a nurse during World War I. The Queen learned more about the care provided to residents of the Lodge and how they also provide day-care to locals in the community. Residents at the lodge have access to arts and crafts, reading sessions and flower arranging which provide numerous benefits.
The Queen also met the Lodges oldest resident, 99 year old John Riggs and his family. Riggs is a veteran of World War II and shared a story of when he met the Prince of Wales. His daughter mentioned that Prince Charles gave them "a very nice tea". Before continuing on to the centenary village, Her Majesty unveiled a plaque to commemorate her visit.
At the centenary village, the Queen saw how the first phase of the project provides homes to wounded service personnel with unique challenges. The Queen also met staff of "Britains Bravest Manufacturing Company" which provides employment to service personnel.
To finish her visit in Kent, Her Majesty buried a time capsule set to be open in another hundred years. The capsule included a message of congratulations from the Queen and items from RBLI.
The Queen will be in attendance at the Festival of Remembrance and the Remembrance service along with other members of the Royal Family. xx