On Sunday, November 10, military personnel and veterans can enjoy free travel on Transport for Wales (TfW) rail services, allowing them to participate comfortably in Remembrance Day events. This initiative, part of a broader industry effort, is aimed at honoring those who have served the country.
The opportunity for complimentary travel is available to current Armed Forces members who are either in uniform or can present proper identification. Acceptable forms include the MOD90 Ministry of Defence-issued identity card, Veterans Railcard, Veterans Oyster card, Ministry of Defence-issued Veterans ID, or other evidence proving veteran status, like proof of pension.
This isn’t merely an act of goodwill; it reflects the recognized support of the Armed Forces community by organizations like Transport for Wales, which received the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award from the UK Government last year, acknowledging their commitment and participation.
Meanwhile, Chiltern Railways is also part of this nationwide effort. They are facilitating free travel for veterans and military personnel on their services, particularly those traveling to Remembrance Day services. Free rides will be available either on Saturday, November 9, or Sunday, November 10, for those heading to London Marylebone. Return journeys from London will only be complimentary on November 10.
“We are proud to offer free rail travel for military personnel and veterans who wish to pay tribute on Saturday and Sunday,” said Michael Stewart, the Commercial and Customer Strategy Director at Chiltern Railways. “Helping with travel for military personnel and veterans this weekend is vitally important so the Armed Forces community can pay their respects more easily.”
For services beyond London, Chiltern Railways will cover return travel on the same day, November 10. To board the trains, military members must wear their uniforms or show identification, as outlined. Veterans are required to display their Veterans Railcard, Veterans Oyster card, or other forms of service proof.
Chiltern Railways has also organized three separate Remembrance services, which will take place at various stations. London Marylebone will host its service shortly before, on Friday, November 8, at 10:30 am. The Birmingham Moor Street station service follows shortly after at 10:50 am on the same day, and finally, Leamington Spa will have its service at 2 pm on Monday, November 11, providing opportunities for the Armed Forces community to come together and honor their fallen comrades.
Transport for Wales is similarly committed to supporting the remembrance efforts and promotes the free travel offer through various channels to reach as many military personnel and veterans as possible. This reflects the growing importance of community support for veterans, particularly during significant times such as Remembrance Day.
With numerous services scheduled across the UK, and the coordinated efforts of rail companies, the aim is simple: to enable those who have served to attend memorial events effortlessly. It symbolizes the nation’s appreciation of their sacrifices, allowing them to gather, reflect, and pay their respects without the added burden of transportation costs.
For our veterans and active military members, this day is not just about remembrance; it’s about honoring the bonds formed during service. Whether it’s visiting war memorials, attending services, or spending time with family who also served, free access to rail services eases one of the many logistical barriers and transforms their commemorative experience.
Remember the dates: November 9 and 10 offer unique chances to celebrate camaraderie and sacrifice. Whichever rail service you choose—be it Transport for Wales or Chiltern Railways— make sure to bring your identification and reflect on the year's meaning.
