This International Women’s Day, we are celebrating the incredible women who have served and continue to serve in the British Army. To recognise their contribution, we hear from some of our female Chelsea Pensioners about their time in the Army. 

To mark International Women’s Day, Matron Jayne Cumming RRC, who left the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel talks about her military nursing career. 

To mark International Women’s Day, we celebrate two female Chelsea Pensioners who challenged stereotypes in the Army and beyond. 

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Chelsea Pensioner Billy in scarlet uniform
Meet Chelsea Pensioner Billy Knowles

Chelsea Pensioner, Billy, joined the Army at 15 years old as an Infantry soldier. During his 25 years in the Army, he eventually became a drummer, working up to a drum major and leaving the military as a Warrant Officer. 

Billy has been at the Royal Hospital Chelsea for three years. His love for music continues; he is part of the singing group and teaches ukulele to his fellow Pensioners. Billy shares more on his time in the Army and how he is spending his time at the Royal Hospital Chelsea… 

Meet Chelsea Pensioner Mick Gue: Sporting Success

Chelsea Pensioner, Mick Gue, talks about his athletic triumphs in the Army, and what he is doing now to stay fit in retirement.