The Royal British Legion is the UK’s leading Armed Forces charity and one of its largest membership organisations. Members get together through the network of branches and clubs all over the country and overseas to participate in social, fundraising and welfare activities.
The Freemasons have supported the British legion and their activates. Over 300 lodges meet in West Lancashire, in every town and city, and a warm welcome awaits in each. Also, certain lodges cater for specific interests. Pro Patria Lodge No 9952 attracts members from the ex-military community, and there is a Bikers’ Lodge, and more. A dedicated membership team is on hand to explain everything and give the appropriate advice.
Membership is open to people from all backgrounds and the organisation’s aim is to empower members to be the best they can be. It is about building character, supporting members as individuals and helping them make a positive contribution to society.
Freemasonry provides a structure for members to come together under these common goals, enabling people to make new friendships, develop themselves and make valuable contributions to charitable causes. Being a Freemason means something different to each person who joins, but whether looking to make acquaintances or develop their own potential, all members share a sense of togetherness that strengthens their ability to succeed and grow.
The United Grand Lodge of England has a strong Armed Forces background through its military Masonic lodges. This partnership therefore represents an important step in further supporting both active and retired military personnel.
Important Armed Forces personnel such as Admiral Sir Peter Parker, Francis Rawden-Hastings, 1st Marquess of Hastings, Captain Robert Falcon Scott, General Viscount Kitchener of Khartoum, Lieutenant Elias Henry Jones, Marshal of the Royal Air Force Cyril Louis Norton Newall, Commodore Wilfred Henderson and Thomas William Gould VC were all well-known Freemasons.
Dr David Staples, United Grand Lodge of England Chief Executive, said: “It is a great honour to be able to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. From its earliest foundations, Freemasonry has always had a strong relationship with the Armed Forces. Today, we want to thank those brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our country and the people who live here. They deserve all our thanks, our respect and this is one of many steps we aim to take in helping both active and retired members of the Armed Forces and their families.”
In 2021 Freemasons signed the Armed Forces Covenant. This was led by His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent.