World Senior Citizens Day is our chance to celebrate the contributions, wisdom, and experiences of the older generation. At Broughton House Veteran Care Village, it carries even more significance, giving us time to honour those who served in the armed forces.
Alongside our veterans, we also care for their family members. Serving the country can take many forms, from being on the front line to standing by your partner while they’re away protecting the country and its people.
To celebrate World Senior Citizens Day 2026, we’re highlighting a number of our residents’ achievements from their storied lives.

Victor Hayes

Residents such as Victor Hayes are among those who served with distinction. A sergeant in the SAS (Special Air Service), Vic’s time in the military included tours in Malay, Indonesia, and Belize, as well as Oman, Canada, the US, and Northern Ireland to name just a few.
Retiring from the service in 1989, Vic is still held in high regard as an inspiring leader in 22 SAS Squadron, and is remembered for his motto, “Follow me,” which everyone always did.
During his distinguished career, Vic was well known for setting the bar high. He completed his second selection 24-hour endurance test at a run with hours to spare, and even holds the record for conducting a free fall with full equipment from 26,500 ft. at night.
Out of the 400 Sabre Squadron members, he was also chosen to represent the Regiment in America, where he was assigned as a Team Leader in the American Special Forces’ Delta Regiment.

Joseph “Brian” Lloyd

Brian Lloyd had a very unique role during his time in the army.
As part of his National Service between 1954 and 1956, Brian and the Manchester Regiment were tasked with guard duty at Spandau Prison – the very prison that held senior members of the Nazi Party who were convicted during the Nuremburg Trials.
Brian spent his days observing the likes of Albert Speer, Karl Doenitz, and Rudolph Hess, all of whom had close ties to Adolf Hitler.
A physically active young man, Brian also represented the army at athletic events while posted in Germany, and could even complete a mile-run in 4 minutes 13 seconds, earning him a top-spot and prizes during the events.

Dot Dawson

Dot Dawson was devoted to her late husband Peter, who served with distinction in the Army Royal Corps of Transport.
Raising their children and offering support to Peter through the trials and tribulations of military life, Dot’s story is one of quiet strength and loyalty. It always does well to remember that the family of those who serve are very much part of that lifestyle too, and their sacrifices should be acknowledged and honoured.
A caring military wife through and through, Dot also fundraised for Broughton House before she became a resident in 2024.

Margaret Morgan

Margaret was a devoted to her husband Kenneth, who carried out his National Service in the army as a driving instructor.
The two were also keen fundraisers for Broughton House, taking part in and hosting events such as a golf tournament.
Proof that the spirit always endures, Margaret loves to join in on the events and activities at Broughton House.
She can always be seen during coffee morning, and more recently took part in our Sports Day as a star of the balloon volleyball team. Margaret also has a lucky side to her, winning a prize this month during musical bingo, and she even imparted her knowledge as a florist by showing residents and carers the art of flower arranging.

The enduring legacy of older generations

World Senior Citizens Day 2026 is our gentle reminder that everyone has a story, and that we should always show interest and listen to those who share theirs.
And it’s also a reminder that more stories are always being written.
At Broughton House, we have so many residents with stories of bravery and perseverance. The next time you come to see a friend or loved one, why not get to know another resident as well to learn their story, or spend some time in our museum to learn more about the history of Broughton House and the people behind it.