Horace Cross MBE is a highly respected veteran and a foundational figure of the Royal British Legion (RBL) Downham Market and District Branch. Rather than a traditional “retirement” from an employment position, his stepping down from active leadership marked the transition of a legendary volunteer who dedicated nearly four decades of service to local veterans.
Key Contributions and Leadership
County Caseworker: He acted as a caseworker for the broader county, personally supporting veterans and their families in navigating welfare systems.
Length of Service: He joined the Downham Market branch in the late 1970s.
Branch Chairman: He served as the branch’s Chairman for 10 years, guiding local charity operations and remembrance events.
Poppy Appeal Coordinator: For eight years, he organised the annual Poppy Appeal across Downham Market and surrounding villages, famously breaking regional fundraising records by bringing in over £25,000 in a single year.
In 2012 New Years Honours Horace was awarded the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) the For voluntary service to the Royal British Legion raising money for the Legion.
