Lifelong Salvation Army Cadet Prepares To Salute On Remembrance Sunday

An inspirational Chester resident who has dedicated her life to the Salvation Army gets set to pay her respects to servicemen and women on Remembrance Sunday.

Freda Walker, 96, resident at Lauren Court care home in Chester, completed her training at the William Booth Salvation Army college, London in 1940, proudly qualifying as an Officer.

“I was there for The Blitz and remember providing comfort and support to those taking shelter in the underground, often sleeping there.”

Freda’s first appointment was in North Wales in 1941 where she assisted the Captain. She went on to cover more posts in the North West of England, before settling down with her husband on a farm in Clotton.

Her continued interest in The Salvation Army saw her later complete ten more years of service, alongside her two brothers, Cyril, 91 and Bill, 86, who have also worked tirelessly for the charity all of their lives.

Freda added: “I remember fondly the days when I led our Army band around the cenotaph on Remembrance Sundays.”

Meridian Healthcare’s activities co-ordinator, Julie George added: “It is always very interesting to hear about our resident’s lives and their former professions, interests and hobbies, so we can evoke more memories with activities.”