Poised near Marble Arch stands the Victory Services Club. It is more than just a building. It is a living tribute to the armed forces.
Founded in 1907, the Victory Services Club began as the Veterans’ Association. Major Arthur Haggard, brother of H. Rider Haggard, envisioned a place for retired servicemen. He wanted to foster camaraderie. He witnessed destitute veterans after the Second Boer War. He sought to unite members of the Armed Forces.
In 1936, the club honored Field Marshal Viscount Edmund Allenby. It renamed itself in his memory. Allenby had been President since 1933. After World War II, it became the Victory Ex-Services Club.
The Victory Services Club moved to its current location in 1948. American forces had used the building during the war. In 1956, Prime Minister Winston Churchill opened the Memorial Wing. This expansion provided more accommodation.
The club adopted its present name in 1970. It opened membership to serving personnel and their families. Before that, membership was limited to retired servicemen and their families.
The Victory Services Club suffered a bombing in 1974. The Provisional Irish Republican Army attacked it. One person was injured. The Army and Navy Club was also targeted.
Throughout its history, the Victory Services Club has had distinguished patrons. General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Winston Churchill, and Clement Attlee all lent their support. In 2014, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall became patron.
The Victory Services Club offers lodging and dining. It also provides conference facilities. These amenities cater to members from British, Commonwealth, and NATO armed forces.
Membership extends to all ranks. Active and retired personnel are welcome. Widows and widowers of British armed services can join too. Commonwealth and Native personnel are included. Parents and children over 18 of serving and ex-serving personnel are also eligible. Members can invite up to four guests. They can store luggage. They receive the VSC’s newsletter twice a year.
The Victory Services Club also has reciprocal arrangements. Affiliated clubs in Edinburgh, New York, and other cities offer similar benefits.
The Los Angeles Times recognized the Victory Services Club. It noted the club’s suitable accommodation for military personnel. It serves active duty and retired members of NATO forces.
Sir Winston Churchill once said the club stands guardian of common treasures. It cherishes memories of friendship and brave deeds. He said it was a memorial to fallen comrades. It was also a tribute to those who returned.
Today, the Victory Services Club continues to offer value, service, and courtesy. It provides a comfortable place to stay. It’s a place to relax and reconnect. It supports the military family.
The Victory Services Club has 200 rooms. These include accessible and family rooms. The Grill restaurant offers a seasonal menu. Lounges and bars provide space for socializing. Special member events are held regularly. Members can hire event spaces at reduced rates.
Many members express their appreciation for the club. They praise the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere. Some describe it as “like coming home.” Overseas members value it as their London club.
The Victory Services Club remains a beacon. It welcomes all military ranks and ages. It supports the inclusivity of the entire Armed Forces community.