Ten Chelsea Pensioners and ten Gurkhas have arrived in Guernsey in time for this year’s Liberation Day celebrations, with flights provided by Aurigny.
The Chelsea Pensioners and Gurkhas arrived in Guernsey on Thursday 4th May. During their stay, they will form part of the official Liberation Day Parade and commemorative church service, as well as attend local military organisations and community events.
The Chelsea Pensioners are all retired British army soldiers who have seen active service in World War 2, Korea, Borneo, Malaya, Aden, Kenya, Northern Ireland and the 1st Gulf War, while the Gurkhas are serving soldiers of Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas, who have seen active service in the more recent campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. Both groups have a special connection to the Channel Islands, having played an important role in the liberation of the islands from occupation during World War 2 and regularly visit the islands for Liberation Day celebrations.
Nico Bezuidenhout, Chief Executive Officer at Aurigny, said: “It’s a pleasure to do our part for the Liberation Day celebrations and bring these distinguished veterans to Guernsey. Their presence is highly significant; their annual visit is valued by islanders and the Gurkhas and Pensioners themselves, who we know enjoy taking part in the community events and celebrations.
“Aurigny has a long history of serving the Bailiwick and we are proud to play a small role in honouring those who helped to secure the islands’ freedom.”
The partnership between the Channel Islands and visiting Chelsea Pensioners has been running for more than 50 years and was only interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Rob Grant, Liaison Officer for the Chelsea Pensioner and Gurkha Liberation Day visit, said: “Thank you to Aurigny for supporting the Chelsea Pensioners and Gurkha visit to the Bailiwick for this year’s Liberation Day celebrations. This trip is a staple event in both groups’ diaries, and we’re pleased to continue this very rewarding tradition within the Bailiwick.”
