“In everything, give thanks,” declared war veteran Randolph Hayward when the Bermuda Legion came to his home with early Christmas gifts.

Mr Hayward, a Second World War veteran from the First Battalion, Caribbean Regiment, Bermuda Contingent, was greeted at his door by Colonel Edward Lamb, who was making his rounds on behalf of the Bermuda Legion.

Along with veterans and their widows around the Island, the 92-year-old was presented with diverse gifts, ranging from toiletries, coffee and cheeses to fruit and vegetables.

“We are trying to get across thanks and remembrance,” Col Lamb said. “These are only natural things that can be used up, but the memory has to linger.”

“Point well taken,” replied Mr Hayward, who served from 1944 to 1946 in Italy and Egypt.

The Bermuda Legion is assisted by proceeds from its annual poppy appeal to bring Christmas tokens of appreciation to veterans and their widows: gifts and groceries. This includes visiting the roughly 40 who are in nursing homes, according to Carol Everson, a welfare case worker with the organisation.

“We have done this with the help of some very, very kind sponsorship, and we also give great thanks to Giorgio Zanol and his staff, who help prepare the hampers and allow us a discount,” Ms Everson said.

“Anyone alone or in need of help in the veterans’ community is welcome to contact us.”

• The Bermuda Legion can be reached by e-mail at nosoldierleftbehind@hotmail.com