93-Year-Old Retired Private to Receive Veteran’s Badge

A retired army private from Greater Manchester, aged 93, is scheduled to wear an official veteran’s badge for the first time this Remembrance Sunday. Richard Dodd, a former army cook from Sale, had been unaware for years of his eligibility for this award, initially launched in May 2004 by the then Minister for Veterans. Mr. Dodd’s service received official recognition only after Laura Titterington, an apprentice social worker, contacted the government on his behalf. Ms. Titterington, who is affiliated with Trafford Council, is currently endeavoring to locate a National Service medal for him, an award he was due to receive upon his departure from the Armed Forces in the 1950s. Born in Hulme, Manchester, Mr. Dodd trained as a commis chef at the Midland Hotel prior to his conscription, during which he served as a private in both the Royal Army Pay Corps and the Royal Artillery. He commented, “I liked the army, it was something different. I didn’t expect to get anything when I was discharged.” He further stated, “We shook hands and I went off home. But I’ve since found out I was entitled to an award in recognition of my service.” Mr. Dodd was responsible for serving hundreds of troops simultaneously, also utilizing his chef training to instruct other kitchen personnel. After concluding his army service, Mr. Dodd, whose wife Joyce died in 1998, was employed at Trafford Park for three and a half decades. He expressed appreciation for Ms. Titterington, who assists in organizing his daily care and other support, remarking, “She has a lovely personality, she is always smiling.” He added, “She organises things for me and makes my day better, I will never forget her.” Following his discharge, Mr. Dodd, who became a widower in 1998, worked at High Voltage Switch Gear Ltd in Trafford Park for 35 years. His nieces, Samantha and Alison, have also made efforts over the years to obtain his medal and will accompany him to the Remembrance Sunday service at St. Peter’s Square in Manchester city centre, an event where he indicated he would wear his badge with pride.