Put our Tommy in your window this Friday

HIS pensive figure has become a familiar part of tributes to our war veterans, past and present.

The poignant ‘Tommy’ silhouette now symbolises not only First World War soldiers but those from all conflicts.

And to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day on Friday, people across Britain are being urged to place the image in their front window.

The Tommy In The Window campaign was launched by Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) and is supported by the former head of the British Army, General Lord Dannatt. He said: ‘This is a good time to remember that the nation has been through difficult times before and has come through challenges by pulling together.

‘Public mood is low, but we owe it to ourselves as a nation to recognise those who gave their lives in the Second World War, and also those who endured so much at home, to win us our freedom.

‘One will reflect on the commitment of the previous generation by glancing at those Tommys on May 8 and thinking, “Yes, they did a good job all those years ago.” ’ Injured veterans are producing the 10in perspex figures in the RBLI’s social enterprise factory in Kent. On sale at rbli.co.uk/veday75 for £33, each comes with a special edition certificate signed by veterans, and a VE Day booklet in a presentation box.

Money raised goes to the RBLI’s work providing employment, training and support to veterans and their families.

The figure was originally designed in 2016 by artist Martin Barraud for his church in Penshurst, Kent.

He says its appeal lies in the humility of the anonymous Tommy. He adapted his figure from a photograph taken by Horace Nicholls, appointed as the Home Front official photographer in 1917 – the same year he lost his eldest son on the Western Front.

Pictured right in the RBLI factory is former Welsh Guard Steve Hammond, 62, who sustained permanent injuries on the Sir Galahad when it was attacked by Argentine bombers during the Falklands War.

So you can mark VE Day, we have published a Tommy silhouette on the opposite page to cut out and stick in your own window.