Today’s Defence related news includes coverage of the Millies and a new ID card for Veterans.
The Sun Military Awards
The Sun has produced an 8 page pull out on the awards profiling members of the Armed Forces, veterans, charities, and others who have been nominated for an award as part of its build up to tonight’s Millies.
Speaking in the Sun, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
This year marks the tenth annual Millies awards, so I want to thank the Sun and its readers for continuing to shine the spotlight on our mighty military heroes.
Over the past decade the awards have celebrated the distinguished deeds of great British sailors, soldiers, airmen and women across the world. This year’s nominees are no exception. They’ve tackled Daesh in Iraq and Syria. They’ve evacuated the wounded after rocket attacks. They’ve run towards danger when terror struck our streets. They’ve stopped suicide bombers, thwarted pirates and busted drug smugglers.
Whether men or women, regulars or reserves, veterans or charity workers, the variety of nominees highlights the diversity of the Armed Forces community and are an inspiration to us all.
Whilst we champion the heroic actions of those shortlisted, the Millies reminds us they are not alone, thousands of our brave personnel are currently involved in 25 operations in over 30 countries. All the while they continue safeguarding our shores, policing our skies and patrolling our seas 24/7 365 days a year.
This is our chance to honour all those who keep us safe, they are truly the best of British.
Veterans ID card
The Sun writes that, championed by Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood, the Prime Minister has revealed that Britain’s 2.5 million military veterans will be formally recognised with ID cards for the first time. It says that a large ‘V’ will be stamped on new driving licences in a move that is the first time the state has issued official proof of identity for veterans.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
I am delighted that our brave veterans, who have given so much to protect our security and prosperity, will receive IDs for the first time. They should be proud of their dedication to our country and I hope this ID will become a badge of honour for the veteran community.
Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said:
One of my very first duties as Minister for Defence People and Veterans was to launch this campaign to improve recognition of Veterans. As a former soldier, I am aware of the personal attachment with the service ID. Carried at all times it becomes symbolic of the responsibility and there is a strange sense of loss when upon departing the Armed Forces, it is taken from you.
I’m delighted this initiative, which sits in the Armed Forces Covenant, will help us all better recognise our veterans and their service to our Country.
Afghanistan Locally Employed Staff
Press Association, Daily Mail, and Daily Express all reported on the update on the Government’s policy for Afghan locally employed staff that was laid in Parliament yesterday.
An MOD Spokesperson said:
We owe a debt of gratitude to brave, locally employed civilians who played a pivotal role in helping our troops build a more secure Afghanistan. Our scheme has so far relocated more than 385 former staff and their families to the UK. We expect to relocate over 60 further families.
Image of the Day
Sgt Paul Randall RLC