FORMER and current members of the Bermuda Regiment are now eligible for benefits from the Royal British Legion, an international charity based out of London.The Legion has provided financial, social and emotional support to persons who have served or are currently serving in the United Kingdom Armed Forces and affiliated units, and their dependants since 1921.

“This important extension of Legion benefits for Bermuda was developed through the tireless efforts of Lance Corporal Carol Everson over the last four years and I am thankful for her determination,” said Regiment Commanding Officer Lt. Col. William White.

“Thousands of Bermuda residents stand to benefit should the need arise.”

The news follows a recent pledge by Government to extend pension entitlements and healthcare benefits to many of Bermuda’s World War Two veterans.

A move also spearheaded by L/Cpl. Everson, it saw war pensions double from $400 to $800 per month.

“I am honoured to be involved in this project and am pleased to be able to assist going forward,” said L/Cpl. Everson, who has been trained by the Legion to serve as the island’s caseworker and will process all enquiries and requests for assistance.

“The range of benefits the Legion offers is extensive, from assisting with immediate financial needs, debt relief, interest-free loans for housing repairs, small business loans, disability grants and assistance with careers. The Legion also assists with children’s needs, community outreach programmes and acts as a liaison with Government.”

The organisation processes thousands of calls for help and spends $150 million each year, to provide its services.

Said the Legion’s head of public affairs Patrick Leavey: “We are delighted to recognise the eligibility of Bermuda’s current and former armed services personnel and welcome them to the Legion family.

“The Legion is here to safeguard the welfare, interests and memory of all those who serve and have served.” The island has already benefited from the relationship. As explained by L/Cpl. Everson: “In one case a middle-aged former sergeant with the Bermuda Regiment suffering from heart disease was awarded $4,000 for loss of family income while he recovered from surgery, plus a further $2,400 for the deposit on an apartment.

“Another current assessment covers a former private soldier in his mid-20s who suffered paralysis and brain damage in a motor vehicle accident; it is hoped that an electrically-powered custom wheelchair might be acquired. The Legion is also assisting an 82-year-old veteran with housing repairs. Requests are dealt with in strict confidence and forwarded to the Legion’s head offices in London.

“Decisions are swift and usually made within a week to ten days,” L/Cpl. Everson added.

Bermuda residents may contact L/Cpl. Everson on 533-4567.

Legion