The Founder

Group Captain Leonard Cheshire VC, DFC, OO, DSO was a Royal Air Force Pilot by profession, fought for his Country during World War II and was awarded the Victoria Cross in 1944 for his gallantry during the War.

He was born on the 7^th September, 1917 a date, which is now celebrated as the Founders Day in our Home. He grew up in England and like many young people during that time signed up to fight for his country. He soon became one of the youngest commanding officers for the Royal Air Force.

Once he came back from the War, he realised the devastation that the War would caused and that he was lucky to have survived. He was consumed by the desire to make the world a better place. He dedicated himself to humanitarian work with disabled people.

Group Captain Leonard Cheshire passed away in 1992, leaving behind his legacy that we, at the Cheshire Homes India Delhi Unit endeavour to continue fulfilling now and in the future.

Born on 4^th April, 1917, General Virendra Singh belongs to one of the most respected families of Delhi. Like his forefathers, he was also widely admired for their humanitarian and philanthropic outlook. A true Nationalist, he championed several social causes and made valuable contributions in the field of education, public welfare and military services. He was involved with the Cheshire movement for the majority of his life. Among many of his pivotal responsibilities, some of the more important ones are enumerated below:

• Founder Member of the Governing Council of RAPHAEL International Center (with sections for the Leprosy and mentally retarded)
• Member of Executive Body in Indian Mountaineering Foundation
• President, Jawahar Lal Nehru Hockey Tournament Society
• Ex- President, Delhi Golf Club
• Chairman National Youth Hostel Trust
• Trustee, Board of Governors, Hindu College
• Member of the Board of Governors, Sainik and Military School
• Ex-President Old Boy’s Association of Rashtriya Indian Military College