On Sunday, I attended the Drumhead Service in Deal, organised by the Royal British Legion Downs Branch to mark Armed Forces Day.
It was a great honour to mark Armed Forces Day at the Drumhead Service in Deal to celebrate the great contribution of all those who are serving our country today and I thank the Royal British Legion Downs Branch for, as always, organising such an excellent event.
Over the past year our armed forces have played a vital role at home and it was tremendous to see that support on our very own streets. This included the great Christmas clearance – getting Dover town back into shape in hours instead of the expected days following the border closure by the French. As well as setting up our community testing centres and helping to vaccinate in our battle with the virus.
It was fitting that Parliament too was considering the Armed Forces Bill last week. This bill strengthens the Armed Forces Covenant and brings it into law. The bill sets out new requirements in housing, education and healthcare provision for veterans. This is a major step forward to strengthen the covenant to the armed forces and require councils to provide better, and more consistent, support across the country.
So, as we celebrate bravery, duty, excellence and commitment, we inevitably remember and are thankful for the ultimate sacrifice and selfless service. Thank you to all service personnel, past and present, and your families.