SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity has partnered up with best-selling book, Benedict’s Brother, which is carrying on the legacy of the late author – Tricia Walker.
The book (set to become a major motion picture soon) tells the story of a young woman, Benedict, whose late uncle leaves a request for her to scatter his ashes from the River Kwai in Thailand. Without previously knowing of his past ordeal, she goes on to discover that he was a former Japanese prisoner-of-war in WWII and forced to work on the railway.
Sales of Benedict’s Brother aim to support SSAFA’s work with the Armed Forces community, increase knowledge about this chapter of Britain’s military history in schools and to lift the gagging order on all soldiers involved in the conflict in Japan – whilst keeping the memory of Tricia alive.
For every copy of Benedict’s Brother sold, a donation of £3 will be made to SSAFA – with an overall target of £42,000 being set to help SSAFA support the military community.
Mike Curry, Managing Director of Benedict’s Appeal said: “Tricia wanted to show her appreciation to all of those men and women who have served our country, especially those who never came home, those who suffered in war, and still do, and their families who sometimes have to bear even greater suffering long afterwards. It was a project close to her heart and we are proud to continue her legacy with this new partnership with the oldest tri-Force military charity.”
Rebecca Keaveney, Head of Commercial Operations at SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, said: “We are honoured to be involved with Benedict’s Brother. The book is an important tool in opening up discussion about a conflict shrouded in secrecy for many years. SSAFA was there during WWII supporting those fighting and those left behind on the Front Line, it means a great deal that the money raised through this partnership will help us continue to do the same today”.
For more information or to purchase the book, head to: benedictsappeal.co.uk
Notes to editors
SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been providing lifelong support to our Forces and their families since 1885. Every year our staff and team of volunteers help more than 73,000 people, from Second World War veterans to young men and women who have served in more recent conflicts.
For more information visit www.ssafa.org.uk and follow us on Twitter: @SSAFA.
