Armed Forces week, beginning on Monday 21st June, is an opportunity to honour those in the Borders who have served in the past and who are serving today. It is a chance to recognise their unwavering commitment to keeping up safe.
The week of celebration culminates on Saturday 26th June with Armed Forces Day where events will take place across Scotland and the United Kingdom more widely.
Over the past months, members of our Armed Forces have stepped up to give Covid-19 jabs in centres across the Borders, accelerating the vaccine rollout. They have been instrumental in contributing to the huge achievement that over 80% of all adults in the UK have received first doses, using vaccinations procured by the UK Government.
John Lamont MP said:
“I would like to thank all those who currently serve and those who have served in our Armed Forces in the past for their dedication to helping keep us safe. This also extends to reserves, cadets and veterans- of which there are many here in the Borders.
“Each day of the year, men and women in the Armed Forces are working to deliver aid, promote peace, provide security and fight terrorism all around the world.
“I am pleased that this week in particular, we are able to recognise the sacrifices that they and their families make for our protection.”
Councillor John Greenwell said: said:
“As was the case last year, due to Covid-19 restrictions we cannot celebrate in the usual way, but will be showing our support by flying the Armed Forces flag all week at Council HQ.
"Scottish Borders Council has always been at the forefront in supporting our Armed Forces, recognising the historical connections and commitments made by many Borderers over the years.
“This year we are also recognising the significant role that our Armed Forces continue to play in our response to the pandemic. Here in Scotland, they have been instrumental in the coordination and management of a range of vaccination and testing centres and more recently have been deployed to deliver vaccines to residents in the NHS Lothian and NHS Lanarkshire areas. Similar support is available south of the Border and their efforts overall are to be greatly commended.
“I look forward to being able to celebrate Armed Forces week next year in a more traditional way but in the meantime hope you will all join me in doing what you can to honour the vitally important contribution they have, and continue, to make to the safety and security of our nation.”
