As a direct descendant of veterans, Michael Levon Sr takes special pride in delivering Christmas hampers to Bermuda’s war heroes and their families.

“The response is amazing — they reminisce about old times but also just appreciate the fact that somebody is giving to them,” Mr Levon told The Royal Gazette as he visited East End homes.

“Some will just ask you to give to somebody who is less fortunate.”

Mr Levon has volunteered for the Bermuda Legion ever since case worker Carol Everson returned to the island to lead the programme.

“I mentioned to her that my father Eric William Levon Sr had served in the Second World War — she investigated more and found that my grandfather Joseph Levon had fought in both world wars.”

Lillian Levon, his grandmother, is now 99. A resident of Matilda Smith Williams seniors home, she is now in hospital and “very frail” — illustrating the difficulties faced by veterans and their ageing loved ones.

“Our veterans are now in their 90s,” Ms Everson said. “We still have a strong population of our greatest generation, whose main concerns are making ends meet. Many have financial challenges. Rising costs mean they are often swamped with bills and need our help.”

This week the Legion is delivering 104 gifts to veterans and widows, thanks to the help from its donors and volunteers — which today will include “Team Santa” from PwC, who plan to deliver at the Westmeath nursing home as well as to widows and veterans.

•Anyone wishing to get involved is asked to contact the Legion at nosoldierleftbehind@hotmail.com or 293-3975.