19/05/2008

'National Armed Forces Day' Suggested

British servicemen and women could now have a day that pays tribute to their "tremendous" work, thanks to a new study.

The independent study by Quentin Davies MP entitled 'National Recognition of the Armed Forces' makes 40 recommendations to enhance public awareness and appreciation of the Armed Forces.

The recommendations include greater encouragement for the military to wear uniforms in public, creating a British Armed Forces and Veterans Day and introducing a Cadet Ambassador in London to encourage schools to get their pupils involved in cadet forces.

It is believed that a National Armed Forces Day, will take place on the Monday after the annual November Remembrance Sunday commemorations.

It is understood that Prime Minister Gordon Brown has accepted "virtually all" of the recommendations.

Bob Ainsworth, Armed Forces Minister said: "Our service ersonnel continue to demonstrate the tremendous bravery and courage that makes them the best in the world. This report provides firm foundations to ensure that the work of our Armed Forces is better understood and recognised by the nation they serve.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) welcomed the report.

General Timothy Granville-Chapman, Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, added: "Mr Davies' Report highlights the huge debt the nation owes to its sailors, soldiers and airmen. There is increasing public acknowledgement of this, and support for the armed forces in terms of homecoming parades and charitable giving has been received very well by those in uniform."

Last year the head of the army, General Sir Richard Dannatt said that a lack of public appreciation for Britain's military effort in Iraq and Afghanistan could disencourage troops from serving on dangerous operations.

The study was conducted at the invitation of the Prime Minister. The team consulted with members of the royal family, Parliament, devolved assemblies, civic leaders and the media among others.

On May 15, the Prince of Wales presented awards to almost 80 personnel from RAF Odiham who recently returned from operations in Afghanistan.

Three personnel were awarded the Royal Warrant, given to those with outstanding ability.

(DS)


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