Armed Forces Day welcomed

Ulster Unionist MLA for South Down, John McCallister, has expressed his wholehearted support for the first ever Armed Forces Day on June 27.

"This is an opportunity for the nation to get behind those men and women who make up the armed forces community. That includes not only serving troops but Service families, veterans and recruits," Mr McCallister said.

"The allocation of a dedicated day, when people can come together to show their appreciation and support for the Armed Forces, is an appropriate gesture from an indebted public.

"It is incumbent upon us to recognise the bravery and dedication of our troops, particularly when the bond between the public and Armed Forces has suffered in recent years.

"It would be an indictment on us all if the work of members of the Armed Forces - and the sacrifices intrinsic to their job - were not appropriately acknowledged.

"Members of the Armed Forces, full time and territorial, past and present, are deserving of our support and recognition. They, and their families, make personal sacrifices that many of us could scarcely comprehend to protect our interests.

"I hope that the introduction of this event will provide a morale boost within the Armed Forces community."