Several bus operators have announced they are offering free travel to armed forces members and veterans on Remembrance weekend.
First Bus says it will give free return travel to military personnel or veterans wearing their military uniform or showing the driver their service ID card on both Armistice Day (11th November) and Remembrance Sunday (12th November).
Simon Pearson, Chief Commercial Officer at First Bus, says: “Remembrance Sunday is an important and solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by so many in our Armed Forces, and we wanted to do something to mark the occasion.
“We have a number of veterans working for First Bus and we’re very proud of their efforts and sacrifice. This is our way of saying thank you to them, as well as honouring all men and women who choose to serve and protect the freedoms our country now takes for granted. We look forward to welcoming veterans and serving service men and women on board this weekend.”
First Bus Sheffield is marking the weekend with a poppy bus appeal in partnership with Royal British Legion.
Arriva is similarly offering free travel across its bus network to military, ex-military and cadets on Sunday on production of suitable identification.
Cora Woodhouse, Marketing and Customer services director for Arriva, says: “We’re always keen to support this national event as it’s important to pay tribute to all those who’ve contributed to serving in the forces both in the past and right now. In fact, many of our employees used to be in the military and we know how important it is to them. Our drivers may also pull over to take part in a two-minute silence at 11am on both Armistice Day, November 11, and the day after on Remembrance Sunday, provided it’s safe and legal to do so.”
Stagecoach is repeating its free travel commitment which it made on Armed Forces Day in the summer.
Likewise, Transport for Greater Manchester says it will make travel free for armed forces members on Bee Network buses on the Saturday and the Sunday.
National Express is marking its 10 years of supporting the Royal British Legion by allowing poppy collectors and uniformed personnel to reach Remembrance services for free on both days.
National Express UK, Ireland and Germany CEO Alex Jensen says: “We’re proud to support the armed forces and want to recognise the significant contribution they make to our country. Offering free bus travel on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday for those who are either poppy collecting or wearing their uniform is our small way of saying thank you to those who have provided and continue to provide an invaluable service to our country.”
McGill’s Bus Group already offers free travel on its network to all armed forces all year round but is extending the programme to veterans on Remembrance Day.
McGill’s Group Managing Director Alex Hornby says: “The Armed Forces are close to the hearts of many of our colleagues and customers and we’re proud to be able to support both serving military personnel and veterans attending Remembrance services this Sunday.
