Olga Hopkins VE Day Story

lga Hopkins, who served in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force during the Second World War, reflects with pride on her service and recalls how she celebrated the announcement of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, 80 years ago.

David Cole

As RBL’s Director of Music, David Cole OBE, directs our Central Band and is also the musical director of the annual Festival of Remembrance.

Mais House

In the coastal town of Bexhill-on-sea in East Sussex, Mais House is set within landscape gardens, providing a picturesque haven for residents and visitors.

RAF veteran cycles across America

Since becoming paralysed RAF veteran Anna has taken on many challenges. This year she conquered the Race Across America cycling challenge.

Lee Buss-Blaire, 17/21 Lancers

Lee jumped at the chance to serve in Bosnia. “They were short of Control Signallers so that's why they wrote to me seeking volunteers.”

Maurice House

Near the coastal town of Broadstairs, Kent, Maurice House enjoys picturesque coastal views of Joss Bay. Providing expert care including respite stays.

Captain John Monro - Escape from Hong Kong

The incredible story of how Major John Monro escapes a Japanese POW camp during the Second World War and received the Military Cross.

Field of Remembrance opens at NMA today 

Hosting just under 35,000 tributes from families across the UK, the Field of Remembrance opened to the public today.

VJ Day 80

In 2025, RBL will commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ Day at the National Memorial Arboretum to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and the end of the Second World War.

How WW2 drove social change

People, families, communities, and nations all went through massive social changes as a result of WW2.

Building new lives in Africa

As African men from the Fourteenth Army returned home in 1945, they found the war had brought subtle and profound change to the continent.

The first and last soldiers to be killed in WWI

The gravestones of the first and last British soldiers to be killed in WWI sit opposite each other in the St Symphorien military cemetery in Belgium.

Military Membership

If you're a serving member of the UK Armed Forces, regular or reserve you can register as a Military Member of RBL for free.

Beyond Poppy Appeal