Commemorative poppy train launched by rail operator ahead of Remembrance Day
A commemorative poppy train has been launched by Greater Thameslink Railway (GTR) as a permanent tribute to the Armed Forces communities and all who have served ahead of Remembrance Day.
GTR, which operates Thameslink, unveiled its special Thameslink poppy train at London Blackfriars station on London Poppy Day, October 29 - a flagship Royal British Legion event which sees thousands of military personnel and volunteers fundraise at stations across the capital to support serving and veteran communities.
Members of GTR’s Armed Forces Network, volunteers from the Royal British Legion, and the 19th Regiment Royal Artillery attended the unveiling, where guests could see the poppy on either side of the front and rear carriages on train 700045 - a nod to 1945 when World War Two officially ended.
The event, organised by GTR’s Armed Forces Network, builds on the rail operator’s commitment to the Armed Forces community after GTR signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2022. The agreement aims to help Armed Forces leavers back into employment and ensures that those who serve, or who have served, are treated fairly in the workplace.
Chair of GTR's Armed Forces Network and RAF veteran, Robert Jordan, said: “We’re proud to have launched the Thameslink poppy train as a lasting tribute to the Armed Forces communities across our network. The railway and Armed Forces share a long connection, and this train serves as a visible reminder of the service and sacrifice of serving personnel, veterans, reservists, and military families.
"As we approach Remembrance Day, we’re encouraging passengers to donate to the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal so they can make a real impact on veterans’ lives and their families.”
Army veteran and On-Board Supervisor, Ryan Mayo, attended the poppy train unveiling and shared why Remembrance Day is significant to him.
He said: “Remembrance Day is about reconnecting with fellow veterans, rekindling old friendships, and sharing stories with people who understand exactly what that part of my life was like. It's a chance to reflect on the hard work, sacrifice and commitment that servicemen and women have given to defend our country, but it's also about community.”