Richard Drax, MP for South Dorset today asked the Prime Minister whether there would be any commemoration of the Armed Forces’ service in Afghanistan.
Speaking at Prime Minister’s questions, the MP asked, ““I know that I do not need to remind the House that 453 members of our Armed Forces have lost their lives in Afghanistan … and many, many more were wounded, some seriously … and although we have brought most of our troops home, the 400 men and women of 2 Rifles are still serving with great distinction in Kabul in support of government forces … would my Rt Hon Friend agree with me that it’s time we recognised the efforts of ALL those who served in this war with a commemorative event.”
Prime Minister David Cameron replied. “ I very much agree with my honourable friend. All British combat troops left Afghanistan by the end of last year, fulfilling the commitment that I made almost five years ago. On Monday, my Right Honourable friend, the Defence Secretary welcomed to Parliament the final homecoming parade of our troops deployed in Afghanistan, and today, I am pleased to announce that we will hold a special service of commemoration in St Paul’s Cathedral and a military parade on the 13th March to mark the end of combat operations in Afghanistan. I believe, Mr Speaker, it is a fitting moment to pay tribute to the extraordinary contribution made by our armed forces in Afghanistan over 13 years.”
“I am delighted to hear that the Government will be thanking our brave men and women so publicly and properly,” said Drax. “They deserve our profoundest thanks.
A former officer in the Coldstream Guards, Drax has been notable for his support for and defence of the armed forces throughout this Parliament.