The Duchess of Cornwall has become the Vice-Patron of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity following an invitation from the charity’s President, General Sir Mike Jackson.
Her Royal Highness said on her new appointment: “We owe a huge
debt of gratitude to all those in the Armed Forces, who steadfastly
serve our
country. I am, therefore, delighted to become Vice Patron of ABF
The Soldiers’ Charity, an organisation of which Her Majesty is
Patron, which does such wonderful work to support soldiers,
veterans and their immediate families.”
Major General (Ret’d) Martin Rutledge, Chief Executive, ABF The
Soldiers’ Charity, added: “ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is most
grateful and delighted to announce that Her Royal Highness The
Duchess of Cornwall has become its Vice-Patron. The Army Benevolent
Fund, as we were known originally, was formed in 1944 to support
those returning from combat in the Second World War. Our name may
have changed, but our purpose has not: we exist to ensure that
soldiers, veterans and their families can live a life of
independence and dignity. We are honoured that The Duchess of
Cornwall has chosen to support ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and the
work we do to ensure the wellbeing of the British Army family, and
we look forward to working with Her Royal Highness in years to
come.”
Her Majesty The Queen has been the Patron of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity since 1953 and will remain in this position. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is the Army’s national charity, formed in 1944 to provide a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their families when they are in need.
