The book, titled “A Journey”, is being published on Sept. 1.
The Evening Standard reported that Blair is handing over a $7.2 million advance plus any royalties to establish the Royal British Legion’s Battle Back Challenge Centre.
The nearly $19 million complex is due to open in 2012 and will house injured troops with gym and training facilities. Blair’s fortune is estimated to be worth over $23 million.
“In making this decision, Tony Blair recognises the courage and sacrifice the Armed Forces demonstrate day in, day out. As prime minister he witnessed that for himself in Iraq, Afghanistan, Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone and Kosovo. This is his way of honouring their courage and sacrifice,” said a statement on Blair’s website.
The director-general of the Royal British Legion told the Independent that “Mr Blair’s generosity is much appreciated and will help us to make a real and lasting difference to the lives of hundreds of injured personnel.
However anti-war activists say the ex-premier has blood on his hands after hundreds of British soldiers and thousands of civilians died during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“Tony Blair’s decision to give the money made from his memoirs to the British Legion is welcome if it means that some of those who have suffered as a direct consequence of his criminal wars will benefit,” said Stop the War Coalition. “But no proportion of his massive and ill-gotten fortune can buy him innocence or forgiveness.”
Activist Peter Brierley is campaigning for Mr. Blair to be brought to trial over his part in the Iraq conflict, and says the gesture has not changed his mind.
Brierley’s son was killed during military service in Iraq, according to BBC News.
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