Braemar Lodge Hosts Veterans’ Service of Remembrance and Lunch

Our Salisbury home Braemar Lodge recently welcomed veterans, residents, families, and staff from across Colten Care to a Service of Remembrance and a commemorative Veterans’ Lunch. The event honoured the service and dedication of military personnel, past and present, and provided an opportunity for reflection and community connection.

The day began with a performance from local Little Druids Nursery, whose children sang for the residents and brought a handprint poppy display, setting a poignant and thoughtful tone.

Guests were warmly greeted by Home Manager Jackie Cash and the Companionship Team before gathering in the home’s main reception area, decorated with poppies knitted by residents, staff, and the local community.

The service included prayers read by residents and guests, the Exhortation, the Last Post, two minutes’ silence, Reveille, and the Kohima Epitaph. Hymns were sung, and moments of reflection were observed by all in attendance.

Companionship Team Leader Graham, a former Staff Sergeant in the Royal Horse Artillery, led the service and performed the Last Post and Reveille on trumpet. Special contributions came from Commander Douglas Parish RN (Retd.) and former RAF officer Alan from our New Milton home, Kingfishers, who shared stories of their service.

Home Manager Jackie, a former RAF member, invited friends Karen and Sue from the Princess Mary Royal Air Force Nursing Services Association, who joined in uniform. Veteran Ian, who served in the 1960s with the 10th Royal Hussars, also attended, alongside Malcolm, an advocate for D-Day veterans.

Following the service, all attendees enjoyed a lunch in the new dining room. Veteran John from Colten Care’s Winchester home, Abbotts Barton, reflected, “It had been a wonderful day, and thanks to everyone involved for the great hospitality shown to us all.”

Each guest received a Remembrance Day lapel badge as a keepsake to mark the occasion.

Companionship Team Leader Graham said, “It was an honour to host veterans and their families. Seeing residents, staff, and the wider community come together to celebrate and remember those who served made this a truly special day.”