Widow in landmark victory joins Poppy Appeal
Her heart is full of pride as she remembers her husband serving his country, but she is still grieving after his death three years ago.
Now, after a lengthy battle, the Legion has won a landmark case on Tina's behalf ensuring she will be awarded a full payment under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme to look after the family her husband Mick left behind.
In a lasting tribute to Mick, Tina and their son Aidan, three, gave their support to the Poppy Appeal last year by featuring in a campaign poster.
She has signed up again for the appeal this year and took part at the launch at Kemble yesterday.
In the poster, Tina, from Bourton-on-the-Water, and Aidan look like a typical family. But, holding his hand is not his father but the Poppy Man – a full-size figure made of the distinctive red flowers.
The poignant image represents all the British Legion do for families – lending a helping hand in times of need.
Tina, 37, said she was left wondering what might have been had her husband survived.
"I was really taken aback when I saw the picture and thought it should have been Mick there, but I was very proud," she said.
Mick was killed in a car accident in Cyprus in July 2005, aged 38.
Working as a chef in the Army for 17 years, his service saw him travel to Bosnia, Ireland and Iraq before living in Cyprus with his wife and new-born son.
But because he was travelling to work and not on duty when he died his family were told they weren't entitled to his full pension.
Mick's son Lewis, 16, from a previous marriage will now also receive the full award.
Tina said: "Anything I can do to help the Legion I will. They helped me so much and managed to win our case without having to go to court.
"They managed the legal side of everything and I can't thank them enough for their support. People told me to get in touch with the Legion when Mick died but I didn't realise just what they do.
"It isn't just for older people and veterans of past wars but any service people and their families who need help. They still keep in touch with me now and that is lovely."
Tina said Mick would have been pleased about his family getting involved with the campaign.
"He would have been sad that he is not here with us, but so proud," she said.
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