Inspiring DDAY80 Press Launch at the Union Jack Club

The DDAY80 press launch at the Union Jack Club provided a unique opportunity for the RBL’s (Royal British Legion’s) Izy Shaw to mingle with veterans and to hear their personal stories.

(Image shows: Izy Shaw with Veteran John Bennett)

As well as producing artwork for the launch Izy, who is Poppy Appeal Manager for South Devon, had the opportunity to hear both wonderful love stories and heart-wrenching memories of capture plus the Longest Approach March.

When describing their experiences, the veterans said, with typical modesty, that they did their jobs to the best of their ability.

Festivities during the day included a black tie dinner, which was held at the The Cavalry and Guards Club.  Izy’s signed donated artwork formed part of the silent auction to raise money for the Spirit of Normandy Trust and British Normandy Memorial.

The ‘Eisenhower’s DDay Speech’ chart and the ‘DDay Beach Landing’ raised £2000. Another piece, a drawing of the ‘British Normandy Memorial’ will be auctioned in a few weeks and already has a reserve of £1500.

Captain of Portsmouth Naval Base, Commodore John Voyce OBE won the ‘DDay Beach Landing’ drawing, a blind purchase that he loved.

(Image shows Izy Shaw with Commodore John Voyce OBE)