Chelsea Pensioners and Little Troopers swapped stories of their military lives during a visit organised to celebrate Month of the Military Child.
Fifteen children, whose parents are serving in the armed forces, were taken on a tour of the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea site and chatted with the army veterans who live there.
Keavie, seven, enjoyed her conversation with one of the Pensioners. “He was so nice to me and told me lots of interesting things about his life. He had been to places my daddy has been to!” she said.
Bea, six, added: “One of the Pensioners talked about how being brave is doing something even though you’re a bit scared – like when we had to move and I had to start my new school. That was me being brave.”
The visit was staged by Little Troopers during a programme of events to recognise the unique experiences military children go through as they grow up.
Charity founder Louise Fetigan said: “This was a wonderful opportunity to connect military children with some of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners and understand just how much these two generations have in common.”
Funding was provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the Hospital’s Soane Stable Yard Project to open up its heritage.
Hospital Governor Sir Adrian Bradshaw said: “Bringing children and Chelsea Pensioners together to discuss the history of this institution, and to share experiences between generations, helps the young put today’s events and way of life in the context of the past, and perhaps will help them to make better judgements for the future.
“It’s also fun, and resonates particularly with children from military families who already have understanding of what life in the armed services entails.”