Today is Armed Forces Day, an opportunity for people to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community – from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. There are many events going on across the country, especially in towns and communities where there is a historic connection with the Armed Forces.

MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire, Stephen Crabb, wrote the above description ahead of the day and sent us the following report:

“In Westminster this week, many of the staff working on the parliamentary estate who also serve as Reservists have been taking part in talks and displays to explain their work and how they support their full-time military colleagues. On Wednesday after Prime Minister’s Question Time I popped along to meet some of them, and it was fascinating to hear how they balance their busy day-jobs in Parliament with their Reservist duties. 

“Ahead of Armed Forces Day, the Welsh Affairs Committee, which I chair, took evidence last week from Wales’s first Veterans Commissioner Col James Phillips along with representatives of key veterans charities in Wales. The Commissioner was appointed in March 2022 in order to enhance the support for veterans in Wales and to advise on government policy for veterans. 

 “My committee was interested to hear how Government commitments to veterans are being implemented in Wales and to learn more about some of the key challenges facing veterans. I was delighted that Barry John MBE, founder and Director of the VC Gallery in Haverfordwest, was part of that expert panel of witnesses. We were encouraged to hear that veterans in Wales are well supported overall, but there remain challenges when it comes to housing and mental health support.

 “One branch of the Armed Forces family which sometimes gets overlooked are the animals that are still used in different ceremonial and operational activities. Last weekend saw the annual Trooping the Colour parade and it was a delight to see Household Cavalry Drum Horse Juno, originally from the Dyfed Shire Horse Farm in Eglwyswrw, leading the parade. This local farm has produced a number of magnificent horses in recent years that have been bought by the Army for such duties.

 “Amidst all the political noise and argument at Westminster, it is nice to reflect on a section of our national life which is characterised by such virtues as selflessness, duty and loyalty.

“Wishing a happy Armed Forces Day to everyone in Pembrokeshire who is part of the wide and varied armed forces family.”

For more information about Armed Forces Day, head to https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/