“They’ve been really good because when I was on my arse and I had nothing they were there for me. They gave me a tent and everything I needed. The RAF Benevolent Fund helped me in the past. It was a long time ago but they helped my brother as well although he is not with us anymore. It’s just my way of raising a few pounds to put back to help somebody else who might be on their arse and needs some help.”
Remembrance Sunday is a poignant day for Brewer.
He will mark it by attending the local parade before taking some time to toast and remember lost friends and family as well as paying tribute to current forces personnel.
“It’s remembering people that I know who are not here anymore,” said Brewer. “My brother predominantly because he passed away a few years ago due to mental health issues and unfortunately took his own life. It’s something that means a lot to me. By doing what I’m trying to do is giving a little back to a lot of people who have supported me in the past and helped me.
“Remembrance for me is something really special that shouldn’t be forgotten and unfortunately needs to be brought to people’s attention because a lot of people seem to forget about it now. You don’t see as many people wearing poppies as you used to and people seem to forget that all these people gave their lives, gave their all so we can have the freedoms that we’ve got now.”
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This year Brewer wants to raise more cash. Last year’s efforts even moved some Big Issue readers to pass on their warm words.
“I even got fan mail at the train station,” said Brewer. “People sent postcards and letters to the train station, saying congratulations and well done. I had about two dozen. The poor little guy at the train station didn’t know what to do with them! It made me feel good anyway!”
Hattie Greenyer, Big Issue frontline manager for Bristol, said: “We’re very proud of James and the Big Issue team here in Bristol and further afield will be supporting and championing his fundraising efforts.
“He’s already given so much through his service, and now he’s giving again – every penny he earns this week is going to help fellow veterans. It’s generosity like that that keeps the spirit of Remembrance alive.”
If you want to donate to Brewer’s cause, head to his JustGiving page.
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