Dorset soldiers hail Forces Day (From Dorset Echo)

Dorset soldiers hail Forces Day

9:40am Monday 26th January 2009 in Search By Harry Hogger

SOLDIERS and veterans in Dorset have welcomed the announcement of a national Armed Forces Day to celebrate the efforts of our servicemen and women.

Veterans Minister Kevan Jones has revealed that June 27 this year will be the first Armed Forces Day.

It will incorporate the annual Veterans Day that was introduced in 2006 and also recognise those currently serving.

Former warrant officer Chris Smart, 40, from Weymouth, left the Army in August last year after completing his 22-year service.

He spent three spells in Iraq in 1991, 2003 and 2005 with the 9/12 Lancers and says he supports the plans for a national Armed Forces Day.

He said: “It is important to have a day of recognition for the armed forces.

“There are still people who disagree with the war in Iraq but when it comes to people respecting the job the troops are doing there is no question.”

Mr Smart said the day would help the morale of troops serving in places like Afghanistan and Iraq.

He said: “It does make a difference – you do keep your ear to the ground when you are out there and hear reports from back home.

“You know you will always have the backing of your friends and family but it’s nice to know others support you.

“It would be an added boost for the guys out there and I’m sure they would appreciate it.”

Sergeant Bill Pulman returned from his second tour of duty in Iraq shortly before Christmas, after spending six months working in a field hospital in Basra with Royal Army Medical Corps.

He said: “I think it’s a very good idea. People should be reminded, and for the majority of people it will give them an extra opportunity to come out and cheer on the troops and give thanks.

“For once I will actually be in the local area to enjoy it and hopefully we will get a nice sunny day.”

Sgt Pulman, who is on leave and will leave the Army later this year after completing his service, said he hoped the Armed Forces Day would show most people still had respect for the work done by the services.

He added: “I will wear my uniform proudly, I wear my uniform proudly every day anyway.”

Rob Stone, 39, known to his friends as Boris, served with the Devon and Dorset Regiment for 13 years before he was forced to leave the Army following a training exercise injury.

He is now Portland commander for the Dorset Army Cadet Force.

Mr Stone said: “My old regiment is out in Afghanistan and blokes are losing their lives or coming back injured.

“It’s great for today’s kids to have something to celebrate what these guys are doing.”

County manager for the Royal British Legion Howard Fairman said he expected local branches of the RBL would get involved.

Mr Fairman added: “I welcome it, I think we all owe a great deal to those who have served in the past and those who are serving in places such as Iraq and Afghanistan.”