SIR – Many of your readers will have seen the new adverts for SSAFA. Since the launch of our new name, many people have asked me what SSAFA is and what it does.

The vision and drive of one man stands at the heart of the UK’s oldest Armed Forces charity. In February 1885, as the Second Expeditionary Force set sail for Egypt, Major James Gildea wrote to The Times appealing for funds and volunteers to look after families left behind.

Within three months, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association was born. Since then, we’ve supported millions of people, and millions more are eligible for help.

Through two World Wars and every subsequent conflict involving Britain, SSAFA has been here for our servicemen and women and their families, and our new services provide vital support wherever and whenever it is most needed.

SSAFA is the oldest tri-service military charity in the UK, offering support to those who are currently serving, those who have served and to their families.

So the next time you see an SSAFA leaflet, I hope you will understand a bit more about some of the services we offer.

Terry Grayshon, county chairman, SSAFA West Yorkshire, Carlton Barracks, Carlton Gate, Leeds