Local MP Mary Macleod on Remembrance Sunday

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Paying tribute to all those who serve

As we approach this year’s Remembrance Sunday, it is a fitting time for me to pay tribute to all those who have served our country. The commitments made by all our servicemen and women should not be underestimated or undervalued.

I was honoured to be appointed to the role of President of the Chiswick branch of the Royal British Legion last month – it does such a great job in safeguarding the welfare, interests and memory of those who are serving or who have served in the Armed Forces. The Chiswick branch has also appointed as honorary Vice-Presidents two of the country's most distinguished war veterans, Tul Bahadur Pun VC and Lachhiman Gurung VC. Both served in the Ghurka Rifles in WWII and now live in Chiswick.

As part of my role with the Royal British Legion, I was very happy to be asked to launch this year’s local Poppy Appeal at Sainsbury’s in Chiswick – the Chiswick Branch collects an extraordinary amount for the Poppy Appeal.  I enjoyed meeting some of the volunteers on the stall and helping to sell some poppies. I am looking forward to the Remembrance Sunday Service in Chiswick this year and I hope to meet some of you there.  My aim is to attend Remembrance Sunday in Brentford, Hounslow and Isleworth in future years.

One way that we can recognise the contribution of those in our Armed Forces who have served their country across the world is via the unique and unifying symbol of the HM Armed Forces Veterans Badge.  This badge of honour is available to all those who have served in HM Armed Forces and I was delighted to support a local constituent recently to apply for a Veterans Badge for a family member.  Application forms for the Veterans Badge can be found on the Veterans UK website (www.veterans-uk.info) or by calling their Freephone number 0800 169 2277.  This number can also be used by anyone who has served in the Armed Forces to ask for free help and advice on any issues they may have.

To show my strong support of the Armed Services in this country, I recently joined the Royal Air Force as part of a special scheme for Members of Parliament.  I have been fully kitted-out in my uniform and I look forward to working with them over the coming years to fulfil my duty and contribute in a small way to the excellent work of the Royal Air Force.

Mary Macleod MP (Brentford and Isleworth)

November 4, 2010