We are delighted that Jenny Agutter OBE, star of the long-running hit series, Call the Midwife, is supporting a special way to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day and beyond – the Frontline Walk.
The ABF is also marking this important milestone with a special podcast, and by asking our friends and supporters to share their stories, and those of their families, about the end of the Second World War in Europe, and later in the East.
Jenny’s father was in the Army entertainment corps, and his work took his family overseas to Germany, Singapore and Cyprus. Jenny whose acting career has seen her star in many films and TV series, has endorsed and co-authored our letter inviting participants to sign up for the Frontline Walks, our series of commemorative walks in Crete, across the Normandy Beaches and the Western Front, in aid of the ABF.
Letter from Jenny Agutter OBE
Dear Editor
As VE’s 80th anniversary approaches, I wanted to share a unique way to mark this important milestone.
We read about war daily, but few people today have any memory of the Second World War. My father and mother were children in 1939, and both their fathers were enrolled in the forces. Neither of my parents knew if their fathers would return.
My mother’s father fought the Japanese in the far east. My grandfather on my father’s side fought in Egypt and France. He was captured but returned, walking much of the way home from the prison camp.
The war was never mentioned by any of my family. They wanted my brother and I to only know peace. But peace came at a cost. This is why I feel it is important to mark this anniversary and recognise the hardships of war, to commemorate those who fought and the many who lost their lives for our freedom.
The Army Benevolent Fund’s Frontline Walks are a way to commemorate this historical anniversary, and to have an experience to treasure. Every step taken, and every pound raised will help the Army’s national charity make a vital difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for us.
The Army Benevolent Fund has provided support for soldiers, veterans, and their families in times of need, since it was set up in 1944. Your support would mean so much to the veterans, soldiers and families whom the charity continues to help today.
Let’s make this year one for the history books!
Yours faithfully,
Jenny Agutter OBE
In 2025, the Army Benevolent Fund’s Frontline Walk on the Normandy beaches takes place 1-5 October. From 8-12 October, the Frontline Walk will explore the Western Front where the Battle of the Somme commenced and the Battles of Ypres and Arras took place, honouring soldiers who fought over 100 years ago. There are also Frontline Walks in Crete and Borneo – all with expert guides who share moving stories of past battles along the way. See https://armybenevolentfund.org for details