National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers facts for kids
The National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers (NADSS) was a British group for veterans. Veterans are people who have served in the armed forces, like soldiers and sailors. This organization helped those who had finished their service, especially after World War I.
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What Was the National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers?
The NADSS was a group that supported British soldiers and sailors after they left the military. It was formed to help these veterans get fair treatment and better opportunities. The group focused on improving their lives after serving their country.
Starting Up: Why Was NADSS Formed?
The NADSS started in early 1917. Many local groups of former soldiers and sailors came together at a meeting in Blackburn, England. These men had fought in World War I and were now out of the military.
The main goals of the NADSS were:
- To get better pensions for veterans. Pensions are regular payments given to people after they retire or leave service.
- To create more chances for veterans to learn new skills. This was called re-training, helping them find new jobs.
The group was led by a man named James Howell. It also worked closely with trade unions (groups that protect workers' rights) and the Labour Party (a political party).
Fighting for Rights: NADSS in Politics
The NADSS became involved in politics to help veterans. In the 1918 United Kingdom general election, the group supported several people who wanted to become Members of Parliament. This was part of a movement known as the "Silver Badge Party". The "Silver Badge" was given to soldiers who had been honorably discharged from the army during World War I due to injury or illness.
One candidate, Robert Hewitt Barker, was elected in an area called Sowerby. He was supported by the local NADSS branch.
A New Direction and Joining Forces
Over time, the NADSS changed its focus. It stopped working closely with the labour movement. Instead, it became more traditional in its views. The group started to work more with another veterans' group called the Comrades of the Great War.
In 1919, J.M. Hogge took over from James Howell as the President of the NADSS.
Finally, in 1921, the NADSS joined forces with several other large veterans' groups. These included:
- The Comrades of the Great War
- The National Federation of Discharged and Demobilized Sailors and Soldiers
- The Officers' Association
All these groups merged together to create a new, bigger organization. This new group was named the British Legion. The British Legion is still a very important veterans' charity today.
