Chelsea Pensioner Roy Palmer has become the Royal Hospital’s first Herald. Roy, who was town crier for Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire before he became a Chelsea Pensioner, says he was keen to fulfil a similar role for his new home.

One year ago, Mike Simmonds became a Chelsea Pensioner. He told us what led him to apply and what his experience has been since moving here.

WWII Veteran and Chelsea Pensioner, Lt Col John Humphreys OBE DL, was today awarded the Thank You Liberators Medal.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea hosted its first ever Chanukah celebration on Thursday 22nd December, in conjunction with His Majesty’s Forces Jewish Chaplaincy.

On Wednesday 7th December, the Chelsea Pensioners, guests and staff gathered together in honour of British cheese – a tradition that stretches back more than three centuries. 

"Remembrance is important because it’s history. These people should be remembered by the Nation, because they gave their lives."

Royal Hospital Chelsea, home to the Chelsea Pensioners, has been awarded a £3.2million grant thanks to National Lottery players.

Along with people up and down the country, the Chelsea Pensioners have been mourning the loss of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Her death has a particularly profound significance for them, because – as former soldiers – each one swore an oath of allegiance to her.

Today Chelsea Pensioners and Royal Hospital staff attended a Drumhead Service of Remembrance for Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

 

Everyone at the Royal Hospital Chelsea is deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II. 

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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… 

Black and white photo of Mick Gue at the Cypriot running championship
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.