The ABF is proud to award a £15,000 grant to the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, supporting its dedicated work to bring comfort, connection, and celebration to veterans of the Armed Forces.
The Taxi Charity, run by volunteer London black cab drivers, organises free outings across the UK and Europe for veterans from all conflicts. Whether it’s standing in remembrance at war graves, joining in at concerts and ceremonies, or simply enjoying the company of fellow servicemen and women, these trips provide unforgettable experiences, and a powerful antidote to loneliness and isolation.
This year’s grant will help fund a poignant series of events marking key Second World War anniversaries, including D-Day commemorations and the 80th anniversary of the Dutch Liberation. Veterans will travel to Normandy and the Netherlands and will join local communities in acts of remembrance and celebration.
Every year on 4 May, the Netherlands observes a Day of Remembrance, followed by a national celebration on 5 May, where the Dutch people express their gratitude to those who helped secure their freedom. The Taxi Charity’s Netherlands trip, in partnership with the Market Garden Committee, features the Grand Parade, where veterans are chauffeured in buggies through cheering crowds, enjoy a hosted lunch, and receive heartfelt gratitude from all generations. In Normandy, the itinerary includes visits to Renkum Cemetery, commemorative services, and a special farewell dinner.
Colin Mills, London cab driver and Chairman of the Taxi Charity, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to the Army Benevolent Fund for its generous support. These trips are not only a vital way to honour those who served, but they also offer a powerful opportunity for veterans to connect, reflect, and share their stories. For many, these visits are a deeply personal journey and often their last chance to return to places where they once served.
“This Army Benevolent Fund grant plays a crucial role in ensuring that these trips are possible. With the support of grants and donations from the public, the Taxi Charity continues its commitment to celebrating and supporting military veterans of all ages.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer of the Army Benevolent Fund, added:
“We are privileged to support this charity and the incredible volunteer drivers behind it. Their commitment to honouring our veterans, particularly in this milestone year, is nothing short of remarkable.”