Labour’s equalities lead, Cllr Amanda Grimshaw on Armed Forces Day:

This Saturday 25 June marks Armed Forces Day.

It is our chance to show our support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community – from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. It is a public celebration of the service and sacrifice of our Forces and an opportunity for us all to say ‘thank you’.

Labour is proud that UK Armed Forces are respected worldwide for their all-round professionalism. Theirs is the ultimate public service.

There are many ways for people, organisations and communities across the country to show their support and get involved.

Showing support for the Armed Forces provides a much valued morale boost for the troops and their families. You can find out more about what they are doing at home and around the world by visiting the official sites of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.

The UK Armed Forces defend the UK and its interests. They are busy working around the world, promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security and fighting terrorism.

On Saturday, the Labour Group of Councillors on Brighton & Hove City Council stand with and show support to our armed forces personnel past and present and their families, we hope you will do the same.

If you want to go along and support a local event, Worthing and Eastbourne are both hosting Armed Forces Day events.

Meanwhile, here are three simple ways that you can show your support to Forces communities in your area:

• Visit your local Royal British Legion or Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) branch, or your local Armed Forces Breakfast Club to speak with Forces personnel, veterans, and their families in your area.
• Post and share social media in support for Forces personnel.
• Write to your local paper in support of the role Forces personnel play in your area.

Cllr Amanda Grimshaw