SEND A MESSAGE TO A VETERAN THIS CHRISTMAS

To All vets.

To all those who have, like me, served our country with pride and honour remember we are part of an elite group, and always will be, that are there for each other and people are out there that wish to help those of us who need it. For those who need the help I say to you, "The hardest thing to do is to ask for help and our pride can sometimes get in the way but please, please try and get past it and get help so that enjoy many more years of being part of this special group of people". Happy Xmas

Greg

Hi Greg, I have been were you are, as I spent 3 years in bed, on floor or away from home on intense physiotherapy & under a mind specialist. I found isolation difficult until it became a learning time, reading, time to myself to decompress my life. I started campaigning on things that matter to me like the way politicians treat us veterans, die in dignity campaign and Britain in general. I joyed social media. Most importantly talk to fellow veterans as we all feel the same at times 💪🏻💪🏻👊

All Veterans

I wanted to contact you to say you are NOT alone.. I for one am corresponding with you. A difficult time of year for you, I personally feel Sundays can be lonely so perhaps try and do what really helps, looking up at the night sky seeing the stars twinkling. Just a short stroll outside can really make a difference.I could go on with ideas so it would be nice to hear your thoughts so take a deep breath and reply.

A serviceman who feel unappreciated this Christmas time

The genuine people of this country do appreciate all your service did for us I know loneliness as I am a pensioner widowed 30 years ago but hold tight my love things do get better and know that I am thinking of you at this special time

To all who have provided service

I am a physics teacher and have the honour of educating our young people. Without your bravery , honour and astounding work my students would never have their opportunity to learn and live in a free society. When they smile, laugh in lessons, design air craft engines (their favourite) and feel safe in school it is because of you. You have provided the foundation for their hope, love and happiness. For this, I thank you with all my heart and for allowing me to teach our kids everyday x

To all those who have served and those who still serve

This message of support and care is for all those who have served and those still serving. We are all one family when one hurts we all hurt you are never alone you will always be in our hearts and thoughts, not just Christmas but always.

All the Team

Hello Team H4H, Thank you very much for your help and support for the vulnerable.Your motivating and encouraging words during my recovery keeps ringing my eyes and gets me going. You doing an amazing work.Happy Christmas to you all.

To all suffering with Mental Health

About 3 years ago my PTSD was wrecking my life. Then I had an accident and Ifound my self in Hospital. My lower back was the issue, and suddenly i found myself bed bound. Over the next three years I worked my way through some of the most horrible days if my life. I felt it wasn't worth trying anymore. I have always had religion in my armoury, but even this was ebbing away. Overtime I began to feel stronger and most of the pain dissipated. I joined VOS, and have started to live again. So Believe

All Who Have Served

Thank you to all of you who have served whether in peace or in conflict. I hope you have a happy peaceful Christmas and looking forward I hope you have a Happy Health and Peaceful 2023.

Greg

Every time I go past Catterick Garrison, Phoenix House, and the War Memorial I think of people like you who gave so much. You are not forgotten and never will be. It is because of what you did for this country that I make a monthly donation to Help for Heroes, in the hope that it will help brave veterans, just like you. Please remember that they are there to help in many ways. Have you contacted them? If not, now is an excellent time to do so. They will understand and not judge you.

Greg

From one veteran to another, you are not alone. I for kne am grateful to you all for your dedication and duty. Hope you have a good Christmas and New year. I salute each and everyone of you.

Ex vet

The Night Before Christmas T'was the night before Christmas, he lived all alone in a one bedroom house, made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney with presents to give, and to see just who in this home did live. I looked all about, a strange sight I did see: no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. No stocking by the mantle, just boots filled with sand; on the wall hung pictures of far distant lands. With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, a sober thought came through my m

Greg

I thank you for your service, i have one son in the army, the other one didn't want to stay whilst he was getting married, both of Son's have seen the Horror in Afghanistan and also Irac, my Husband was also in the Armed, he is now in a Care home with dementia, i am also alone, still have a happy Christmas, and a happy new year, ❤

All who served

Merry Christmas & thank you for your service. Love is all around you, just reach out your hand. The first step is always the hardest but you know that, you completed basic training! You miss the camaraderie and purpose you had when you served but it is still out there, it is just different. Look & find that new purpose in life and grab it with both hands - you are loved and you are deserving. Not everyone has walked in your shoes but so many of us have - take a deep breath and embrace 2023.

To all

Thank you so for your incredible dedication to this i hope and pray God gives you a wonderful Christmas and a great new year xxx

All service people

Thank you from the bottom of my heart and my bottom :p You have given up so much to keep us safe and it really is appreciated. You are thought of and remembered. My nephew served in the RAF regiment, my mum the womens RAF and by dad the army. We live in safer times because you looked after us. So a huge thank you to you. Be with a friend or family or remind yourself of happy times to keep your spirits up. You are valuable and validated. sending love and virtual hugs xx

All Veterans

Thank you so much for everything you have done and continue doing for this country. There’s not enough words to express how grateful we are as a country to have people like you serve for us. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a great 2023. Take care x

ALL veterans

Your not forgotten lads and ladies,seek help from vet's groups, I support BLIND VETS ,SO VETS ARE ALWAYS IN MY THOUGHTS.SAYING MERRY CHRISTMAS SOUNDS LIKE UGH BUT I DO HOPE YOU MAY FIND YOUR PEACE THIS CHRISTMAS.🇬🇧✌️

All veterans

Never give up,stand tall I was married to a member of the armed forces for fourty years unfortunately he lost his final battle with cancer 3 years ago. I hope you have your family supporting you or your brother's in arms. Never feel alone, we're all here for you. Have a lovely Christmas and keep safe. Talk to anyone and everyone.x

Greg

you more then welcome to come over have a coffee or tea or just watch a film i got all sorts of film or just a chat my door always open to brave veterans who made it a better place to live in love to meet a veteran to say thanks' X

All who serve our country

Your role as part of our services is valued, and was seen to be special in so many ways, especially in this last year, where you have been seen at the funeral of our queen and at the Remembrance Parade in London. We thank you for everything that you do, and send you our very best wishes to you this Christmas, Yvonne and Adrian

All veterans

A massive thank you to each and every one of you. I know it takes a certain special someone to join any of the forces. My husband was in the Royal Engineers and I cherished our time and the bonds around the army quarters. Sending those warm vibes to you all. Know you are not alone, Take good care Una

All veterans

With an open grateful heart, I just want to say thank you to you all for everything you have done for us civilians in the UK. You don't know any of us but yet are prepared to sacrifice your own life to defend us - We are truly blessed to have such courageous people fighting to keep us safe. God bless you all.

To all you amazing women and men

Thank you all for amazing bravery and selflessness for which I and my family are forever grateful. Please reach out for any help you need. Wishing you the very best 2023 can bring you. You are in our thoughts Debbie

To all veterans

We thank you for your dedicated service. Thinking of you all and wishing you a peaceful Christmas and a very Happy New Year

The many amazing veterans

Bless each and everyone of you brave men and woman who have served ur country above and beyond the call of duty , my thoughts and prayers are with you at what can be a very difficult time , of the year please reach out if you need help forever reason , God bless and protect you each and everyone x

A veteran

Hi, Thank you for everything you did. Hope you enjoy the holidays however you celebrate them. People care and are thinking of you. Best wishes, Carol.

A veteran

Hi, I hope these few words will help to ease the loneliness a little, I'm the wife of a veteran, and consider myself and family very lucky. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas, and that 2023 will be a better year for you. Take care of yourself Best wishes Tess

All veterans

Thank you… I urge any veteran this year .. to seek help , advice, counselling from SSAFA , dealing with mental health… it is the hardest decision you will ever have to make , they can help you with support from all other agencies including housing, and Mental health services. Each and everyone of you deserve support as you supported Queen and country, now it is time for you to try and make sense of your plight.. New year 2023 New you x

All veterans

Hello as a fellow veteran I can under some of the struggles veterans go through and wanted to say you are not alone -you are amazing you served not everyone who applies is accepted-remember you are unique and you are amazing -get through today because you never know what tomorrow will bring there is alway hope that things will get better -if you are down I will pick up you, if you are sad I will make you smile and all because you are worth it

All Veterans

My Father was in the Navy, as was my husband. It’s difficult to imagine how servicemen and women cope with all the horrors that, at times, surround them. I wish every single one of you happiness and most of all peace in your hearts so you can now live life the way it is meant to be lived. Generations past and present thank you. God bless you all.

All Veterans

As Christmas approaches, it is a wonderful time for most, but sometimes it is bittersweet for veterans who have seen and done things in their service years that no civvy would or could understand… if I can grant you one wish “ Try to be with people who care “ let those demons go and enjoy 😊 Christmas 🎄 for the sake of your Mental health❤️❤️.. You all have done your time , you deserve to know people are proud that you served your country and survived to tell the tale . Happy Christmas xx

Greg

Hello love. Looking good. I hope you have love and support around you this festive period. I served in the Navy and I know how you sometimes feel. Sending my love to you today. Take care. X

A brave soldier

My sons an ex serviceman only 19 on his last tour of duty I’m so proud of all ex servicemen you did for us what no one else would It makes my heart proud of you I will always think of you wherever you are whatever your doing and be so grateful you stood by us and for us when we needed you most Never not be proud of yourself You are a hero and are much loved and cherished I will stand by you always

All Veterans

Thinking of you at this time..I`m an Ex army wife so i know how much you have all done for us and our families..Although my husband left me i still believe that there are good people and you are some of the best...My love and thoughts are with you..x

All veterans

Thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service. I hope you have a truly happy and relaxing Christmas. You deserve it. X

A Veteran

If I could put into words how grateful I am to you for letting me sleep easy at night because you said not on my watch.

All Service Personnel & Their Families

Remember Christmas is just 1day, there are 364 others that are equally important The support, people that care and help are available, don't suffer alone, call a service friend who maybe you haven't spoken to in ages, don't be ashamed to say "hey life is tough" Seek assistance from your local services and remember you have served your country and your country can also serve you in times of need

All veterans

On 10 November 2022, my first child was born. The following day, when I brought the baby and my wife home from the hospital, was Remembrance Day. On that day, I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the fact that, because of your sacrifices, I was able to enjoy life with my new family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service, and for keeping our country safe. My family will be forever in your debt. Have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.

You

Your courage and dedication with all that you endured has got to be the ultimate act of bravery any human being could ever do in this lifetime. If you are suffering and isolated, please reach out and get the help which you so rightly deserve. I pray that you can find peace and blessings this Christmas and for the rest of your life, which you and many others sacrificed so much and deserve the recognition and support to help you cope, especially this time of the year. God bless you all.

Veterans like my Dad

I know your Oath of Allegiance has no expiry date. My respect for you & your service also has no expiry date. I know you don't see yourself as a hero, but I and others do! I understand life in Civvy street can be hard, challenging & lonely but you have unknown supporters cheering you on. Keep going, you're doing great! However, if you ever feel you need support (or a little word in your ear), reach out and a hand to guide will be there as your hand has been there for others to lead the way.

You

My God Bless you for all you have given and may he sustain you now and bring new hope and paths to bring you joy for you deserve the best in life thank you You are never alone but always in someone’s prayers and thoughts Be proud of who you are and face the world with that pride walking tall each day Share with others and you will find new peace and new friends MERRY CHRISTMAS AND AN EXCITING PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR XXXXXX

Veterans

Thank you for your service, you are worthy and precious to our society.

The Fallen

There are not many people that would put themselves, literally in the firing line to defend thier flag and the freedom of thier compatriots. Those that do deserve the thanks and utmost respect of everyone. Thier selfless and fearless acts are almost impossible to comprehend.

Anyone

When we say thank you for your service it comes from the heart my son was in Afghanistan my dad was in the army one of my grandads was in WW1 and then WW2 and my other grandad was in the navy a lot of service for 1 family I am proud beyond words and I know you have given your service for people like me after doing that the thought that you could be on your own breaks my heart I’m not sure if we send messages to the same person if we do i cannot wait to hear from you or anyone who receives this

To all vetrans

No words can ever say enough How much you all mean to use Just know we are here for you all As you were for us Have a lovely Christmas and a happy new year xxxx

Brave warrior

Without you I don't know how I would have survived in this world. Your dedication and bravery have protected me every day from war. Standing on the point of the spear and staying there facing danger you have given me and my family a life without fear. That's a gift that is priceless. Not only me and my family but neighbours, friends and so many people. There are not enough thank you words and love to send you. Please be kind and loving to yourself now and rest. You deserve the world.

Any veteran

Thank you for being brave and defending the country and the people of the country I was married to a veteran so I know how hard it can be , but you should not be ashamed to seek and accept help, it's your right, I know you cannot unsee many horrific things that you may of seen, but talking helps, baby steps is always a good start, without people like you I wouldn't have the life I have now, Make 2023 a new start

Men an women of armed forces

Thank you,doesn't seem alot really . Thank you for all your service , all you've given,all you sacrificed to protect this country an the people who live in it.to all past,present an even the ones who didn't make it home,thank you from the bottom of my heart.i appreciate everything you have done an are still doing ,best wishes an merry Christmas to you.

Veteran

You are in always in my thoughts and prays and thank you for your service to are country as we would not be here if it was not for your service to are country

Any veteran

Thankyou for your service. We are retired police and know what you have gone through only a million times worse. Keep your chins up.

All the veterans present & past

You are in my thoughts & prayers. Words can never express the deep gratitude & love that I feel for each and every one of you who willingly risk your life to keep mine safe. Not all superheroes wear capes & you are all the best in the world, thank you 💖💖💖

Armed forces veteran

You aren’t forgotten! your sacrifice and service are greatly appreciated by me, my family and friends. I hope these words bring you comfort in dark times and I greatly thank you for what you have done for our country.

All our veterans

Thank you all for your selfless service to our King, country and our people. Even in your dark times please know that you are in our thoughts always, wishing hoping for you that the darkness will pass.

To all veterans & service personal

To you all my family & Thank you for serving Queen /King & Country .The sacrifices of you all is very much in my heart as a once army wife .I know first hand of some of the many challenges you have all faced for us . No words can express how much our wishes for a Happy Christmas & the continuation of our heartfelt love & respect to you all . Don’t ever feel alone we are all here waiting for you to reach out if you need us in the meantime again Thank You ,your all real life hero’s xx

All our veterans

Thankyou for everything you have done for your country, your service and bravery are not forgotten, thankyou for everything you gave up for us in doing so. Very proud to stand by you

Les Burrows

Thank you brother for your excellent service towards the wonderful country country and people of England! If we're not for you and your brothers in arms, England would've been history 15 years ago. Thank you for your honor, courage and commitment towards military service even up until today, once a soldier always a soldier. Lest we forget. ❤ 💙

Out wonderful heroes,

Thank you for your dedication & service to our country, we salute you all xx

All men an women of the armed forces

Thank you for everything you have done for this country,merry Christmas to all .

The all of you that made a difference & you still do!

Thank you will never be enough. Just know we are so grateful and wish you health and happiness for the rest of time.

Wallace Woollacott

Warm wishes on Christmas to all the veterans. We are really proud of you and we are always praying for your happiness and wellness. On the occasion of Christmas, we extend our warm wishes to all the veterans who have always stood for the country. Merry Christmas to you. Thank you for all you have done for your country, we are beyond grateful and will never truly be able to express how proud we are.

Veteran every were

Happy Christmas, hope that you all keep safe and well this Christmas Thank you for looking after this country

Anyone who needs to see this

Thank you for being there for us, for giving your service to our Country, for protecting us, for being there for all of us. I wish that we could return the favour. I hope that you know that you matter, you are revered and respected and we are incredibly grateful for what you have done for us. (Created the image myself, so no permissions required)

All veterans everywhere

i dont know any of you but as far as im concerned you are the bravest of the brave you defended us without question we owe you everything and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Have a happy christmas where ever you are andvknow you are thought of and appreciated!

All veterans

Thank you all so much for your service. You have all gone above and beyond the call of duty. I know you have faced hardships and many of you feel isolated and lonely at times, but please know that there are many of us who have not forgotten your sacrifices and I for one would be proud to meet you and shake your hand and Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Best wishes for a happy 2023 to all hero’s

Everyone

You are important and you are enough. Thank you for all you do and have done. You are appreciated and a blessing. Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, and know you matter. 😊

Any Veteren

Hello hun. Well you should really be proud of yourself for how you fought in the army for our country. I don't know you but from now lets be friends even if we can't meet. Take care and lots love Jennifer

All verterans

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done to keep us safe. I hope 2023 is a good year for you. All my love and thanks. Myra xx

All the wonderful veterans

Never forget that you are appreciated and honoured by so many people. Without your dedication our country would be a very different place. I so hope you find comfort and some happiness in these coming months and that your future is a brighter happier one. God bless you xxx

Royal marine commando

Thank you for your service and may 2023 be the year your dreams come true

Any wonderful Vet that needs to read it.

I feel that there is nothing worse than feeling lonely, or feeling like you have been forgotten, neglected, ignored. You do matter. Your feelings matter. Your opinions on the world matter. Your health matters. How you are and have been treated matter. YOU matter. I am an empath, and without even knowing you, or what you have been through, I know the amount of pain that you endure. I wish that things were different, that you were not one of the forgotten. (I created the attachment)

All the great squaddies

Thanks for your service towards our safety and protecting this country and given up the prospect of losing your life your most certainly not forgotten and keep strong when times are hard again thankyou

All of you.

Hi thank you for giving me the opportunity to let you know that I am do proud of you for joining the armed forces and choosing to defend our country. Some people may not think about what you have given but as a parent of a serving member of our armed forces i really want you to know that you are loved and respected by me and my family. That you again and I hope you have a good Christmas. God bless you and all your comrades.

To everyone that serves

I wanted to let you know that your not forgotten and you are appreciated. Sending lots of love and hugs. X

Our Fellow Brothers and Sisters who served.

Thank you all for your service! You are appreciated by many!- you served us Well! Be Proud! Reach out to the help waiting for you! You deserve a helping hand!

All

Thank you so much for everything you have done and are doing for our country and our safety. Please remember you are valued and respected. Take care of yourselves and each other. With love and best wishes Davis Family

All veterans of all conflicts and unstinting service

You are in our thoughts and remembering all those Christmases served away from families and friends but shared with like minded colleagues. We are here to help with colleagues throughout Gloucestershire.

A lonely Veteran

Hi, here is a wish for you, I wish you peace, a warm meal, a place to keep warm, if I had a spare room I would offer it for a night..I know how it feels to be lonely, I'm 72 yrs young and have been alone for 20 odd years, yes I have the luxury of a good family but ya know, sometimes that isn't what I need..anyway, enough of my small talk, I really hope you find yourself in a warm place with a home-cooked meal at least once in a while..God Bless you..

A veteran

I hope you manage to find some joy this Christmas . Thank you for all you have done to keep us safe. Whatever you are doing , know that you made a difference . Merry Christmas

Anyone who would like a message Meg

Hi I hope that you have a wonderful Christmas and that 2003 is a wonderful year for you here are my friends Meg

A Veteran Hi I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and if you would like me to write regularly just let me know Meg

Hi just enjoy yourself whatever you are doing Meg

All veterans

Thank you for your service in the armed forces to keep us safe and for making so many sacrifices so that the rest of us can live well. You have constantly put others before yourself and have given so much for us. We are in your debt. Now it's your turn to live well, so please reach out if you need support. Sending all good wishes for a happy Christmas and hope for a better and more positive future for you and your families.

All service veterans

Your service to our country will never be forgotten, nor taken for granted by the vast majority of people who enjoy the freedoms we have today, that you helped protect. We are truly grateful. If times get tough, hold fast and reach out to organisations like Help for Heroes. Thank you.

Anyone lonely

Thank you for everything you have done for us. If you don’t want to be alone you will always be welcome to any veterans breakfast xxx

Any vetran

Thank you for your service, for all you have done and sacrificed. There are not enough words I can say to thank you. Myself and my family want to let you know you are not alone. You are amazing people and deserve the best. Please take care and know you are appreciated and not alone. Sending love from my family to you and yours.

Everyone

Thank you for letting me raise money for this wonderful charity

Everone

Thank you is a word that given freely or not used at all. From all us volunteers thank you from the bottom of hearts. Every event we do, every tombola raffle tickets folded we do it for you, every penny raised we do it to say thank you. We are here for you every step of the way.

All veterans

We love you for what you have done for our country and you should not go short of anything. Charity should begin at home xxxx

All RAF Apprentices

Thanks to you and all veterans of all three armed services you have helped to maintain Peace in our fragile world. May the Peace continue and let us hope that our sons and grandsons are not called upon to bear arms in a senseless and avoidable conflict. Let us hope that That Politicians and Leaders throughout the world keep the Peace. May the good lord give them the skills they need.

All service people

Just to say, I know what being alone a loneliness is. Wanted to say thank you for your service. Making the world safe for us.

All servicemen and women

Thank you so much for all the unseen work you do protecting us and other vulnerable citizens around the world. Although we only see you on remembrance days we very much appreciate what you do to keep us safe, whilst putting yourself at tremendous personal risk. I have never served but have expetienced dark times having lost 2 friends in very tragic circumstances, and I thought I could never function again but through talking therapy, I found my way back. You can too, it is not a race, you can.

Every service person

God bless you all you deserve so much more than you know without you their would be no us💙❤

Any veteran who feels alone right now

Hello to you, I wish to say thank you for your service, it is appreciated. Stepping outside our comfort zone is where magical change is created - I’m doing this right now as I find face to face connection is better than social media. I hope you have someone you can connect with throughout the year, if not, that you can seek connections outside your comfort zone. Sometimes we make friends in the unlikeliest of places, I know I have. My true friendships are what make me want to reach out to you x

All veterans

I don’t have magic words, but I do have deep gratitude for the protection you’ve given us and the part of your own life you gave up for us. Very few veterans will see themselves as heroes and the word is misused. I see you all as a team that provided protection and safety and that tan is heroic. Christmas is one day, it passes after a lot of fuss and muckabout and is overrated. If you’re on it own remember cede Nullis, don’t let the muckers down and don’t let the bar stewards get you down!

To a veteran without a family

I was born in Norwich just after the war and I remember ration books and hard, cold winters. Now, today, thanks to you and all the other brave men and women who fought and died for our freedom, I want to send my heartfelt thanks for all that you sacrificed for us all to live in a great Country. I sincerely hope that you’ve had a happy life and that you know how much our nation owes to you…. We will never forget…I send my love and gratitude to you this Christmas and wish you peace. Bonita xx

All Veterans

As someone who has been homeless and suffered mental health problems I want to say the strength you found to serve is still in you. The pride in your unit is the pride you should have for yourself. To serve is the most selfless act and should be valued above all other contributions to society. In that you should know you have more worth than can be counted. I would like to offer my humble thanks and sincere hope that life treats you well. Have hope, strength and faith in yourself. Good Yule.

My heto

Just to let u know someone out there really does care , lots of love and hugs x

Every one who gives there all for all of us

Wishing each and every one a merry Christmas and a happy Safe new year prayers 🙏🙏🙏🙏

All the Veterans

Thank you so much for your service and for keeping us and our country safe, it is very much appreciated. I wish you good health and happiness especially at Christmas and I want you to know that I am happy to help in any way I can, even if it is just a message like this. I cannot pretend to even imagine what you have been through and are still going through but I am always here to listen to you, and because I work in mental health, I understand that part of your pain. Take care of yourselves.

To all the heroes ❤️

To all the heroes past present and future, we wish you all the best this coming festive season. Thank you for all your service - thanks to you our families can sleep safely at night and you can’t ever put a price on that. If you are struggling right now - please look after yourself, you are very precious so go easy on yourself. We hope wherever you are you are doing ok and we are so very proud of you all xxxx