As the year draws to an end I would like to take this opportunity to say a few words and pass on my Christmas and New Year’s greetings to all Legion Scotland members and supporters throughout the country.

We as an organisation can be justifiably proud of what we have achieved during 2016 in the pursuit of providing assistance and support to the armed forces community nationwide. The dramatic increase in befriending and welfare support has increased our reputation amongst many of our friends throughout the armed forces support community. In that regard it is as this festive season approaches that many in our local communities need and would so much appreciate a visit or the chance to chat with likeminded people, please don’t forget them.  
                                                                     
We have also established a far reaching reputation for our ability to plan organise and execute successful commemorative events on behalf of the nation. The Somme and the Battle of Jutland commemorative events are two that spring to mind, there has however been so many more events organised under the comradeship banner which again reflects so well with all of the participants, be they Legion Scotland members or friends and comrades from the host of Regimental, Corps Naval and RAF associations. It is also worthy of note that our participation, along with our friends in Poppyscotland, in Remembrance events throughout the country has increased and has also been recognised by many in local and national government.

Good progress is being made however, there is still much that we can do to ensure Legion Scotland remains at the forefront of the support that is available to the armed services community and I do not doubt for one moment that you the members will continue to strive to make the name of Legion Scotland one that we can all be proud of. On behalf of the National Board of Trustees I thank you all for your service and support over the past year, your efforts no matter how small the contribution, are so very much appreciated.

It is my pleasure and honour to be your National Chairman, and since my election in May 2016 I have represented you on many occasions and at many events and it is always with the thought that the people that I am representing are some of the finest ambassadors for the community that we all represent. I have truly enjoyed every moment of the past year and so look forward to being your representative and ambassador for the year ahead.

As we approach 2017 we must continue to take our organisation forward I have every faith in our trustees as well as area and branch officials and members to continue the excellent work of the year past and with your support we can all continue to make Royal British Legion Scotland an organisation that can and will provide the very best that we can by way of support for our members and beneficiaries.

I wish you all a very merry Christmas and the best of good fortune and health in the year to come.

Charlie Brown
National Chairman, Royal British Legion Scotland