VETERAN SHARES HOW ROYAL HOSPITAL CHELSEA GAVE HIM RENEWED PURPOSE

After serving in the British Army and working overseas, Ivan rediscovered comradeship as part of a unique community of veterans

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For Chelsea Pensioner Ivan, a community is not an add-on to service; it is the reason the service endures.

Remembrance holds special significance for him, turning memories into shared purpose and ensuring no veteran is left standing alone.

Ivan said: "I've been involved with the RBL Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall twice. Whenever I put my scarlets on for it, or in general, I grow six inches. Remembrance is always important, but to attend as a Chelsea Pensioner makes it even more special."

British Army veterans like Ivan, who live at London's Royal Hospital Chelsea, are known as Chelsea Pensioners and it is at this historic institution where they find a rich community offering care, camaraderie and support.

Ivan spent 17 years in the British Army, most of them with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, supplying equipment and ammunition.