Abbey to honour the life of Dame Vera Lynn

Celebrated as a symbol of the British wartime spirit, Dame Vera had a career as a singer and entertainer lasting a remarkable ninety years. Her songs We'll meet again and The white cliffs of Dover caught the national mood, and their popularity among servicemen earned her the status of 'Forces' sweetheart'.

Her radio series, Sincerely Yours, was broadcast throughout the War and linked the soldiers at the front with their loved ones at home. In 1944, she visited the troops in Europe, the Middle East and Asia, leading to a lifelong commitment to the welfare of veterans.

Her popularity was undimmed after the War, and she pursued a career as a variety artist and recording star in both the United Kingdom and the United States, releasing new albums until her hundredth birthday.

She was made a Dame in 1975 and a Companion of Honour in 2016, and died in June 2020 at the age of 103.

'Voice to the hopes and fears of a generation'

Reflecting on Dame Vera’s life, the Abbey’s Dean, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, who will lead the service of thanksgiving, said:

‘Vera Lynn gave voice to the hopes and fears of a generation that lived through the trauma of war. Loved and admired, she responded with love and admiration and never forgot those who made her famous. The Abbey is proud to honour a woman who honoured others and to remember someone who was herself faithful to precious memories.’

Tickets

A limited number of tickets are available to attend the service. 

Find out more about the Service of Thanksgiving and book tickets.