Former Prince of Wales, King Charles III

Patron

As Patron of The British Forces Foundation, I am enormously proud of what has been achieved since its formation in 1999. Over the years, I have seen the Foundation grow as celebrities of music, sport, film and television have joined with the charity to demonstrate the support and appreciation of the nation for our Armed Forces. I have also witnessed how the Foundation has positively changed the landscape, in terms of the welfare provided, to our servicemen and women deployed around the world.

The Foundation displays a rare and imaginative approach in the way it develops initiatives to boost morale among our troops. During the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts the award-winning ‘Lap of Honour’ campaign, held at significant sporting events, changed media opinion and coverage by enabling the public to positively demonstrate their support – a pivotal moment for the perception of our service personnel. Families also continue to benefit, thanks to the Foundation’s ‘Panto Bus’ which provides entertainment for young and old alike at over seventy military establishments in the U.K. and overseas every year. Furthermore, the charity has responded in spectacular fashion to my ‘By Royal Demand’ shows for the incredible N.H.S. staff looking after our sick and wounded.

Despite many a challenge faced – not least the past eighteen months – and the ever-increasing demand for its services and limited resources, The British Forces Foundation has built an enviable reputation for both quality and innovation, and its work is greatly appreciated by the wonderful men and women it is there to serve. I would like to express my warmest gratitude to the Chairman of the Board, Matt Wiles, and his Board of Trustees, the Director, Mark Cann, and his loyal team, the selfless entertainers who have given their time and talent, and all of you for continuing to support its excellent work.