Articles and Speeches

MP to praise Troops and give out medals
Friday, 7th November 2008.  Press Release.

Windsor’s Conservative MP Adam Afriyie will decorate D Squadron, Household Cavalry Regiment with their Operational Service Medals, on their return from Afghanistan this Remembrance Sunday, 9 November.

Prince Harry, who is a serving officer with the regiment, will be present.

Speaking about all our forces, Mr Afriyie will tell the troops:

“You might never feature in magazines or star in TV shows. You might not be the ones who make the most money, drive the best cars or buy the biggest houses of your generation.

But I tell you this: you are the best. The best of your generation.

To leave behind your homes and loved ones. To face the hardships and dangers of war. To risk life and limb to protect your countrymen, most of whom you don’t know and will never meet. That proves moral calibre and strength of character of the highest possible order. That is the most noble, the most selfless calling there can be. That is the highest act of citizenship.

 “I want to tell you this, while the sand of Helmand is still in your boots: the nation you serve and guard holds you, the volunteers in our armed forces, at a level of honour and respect so high, that it is accorded to nothing and no-one else.”

 ENDS

 Notes to Editors:

The homecoming ceremony will take place at Combermere Barracks in Windsor at 9am before the Squadron marches to church for a Remembrance Day service.

The Squadron lost 2 men killed during their 6 month deployment in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

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