MP attends launch of Veterans Day 2008 celebrations

5.48.29pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 21st Jan 2008

The new Merchant Seafarer's Veterans Badge which Mr Hunter has been promoting

Mark Hunter, MP for the Cheadle Constituency was pleased to support the launch for Veterans Day 2008 at a special reception in Parliament that was hosted by the Ministry of Defence.

The Armed Forces Veterans Day, on 27th June celebrates and recognises the contribution and service of Armed Forces Veterans in preserving the security and prosperity of this nation, as well as the role played by veterans in the community. It is also a chance to raise the public awareness of Veterans' issues.

Mr Hunter has been campaigning for better recognition for the contribution of our armed forces Veterans by promoting the availability of the Veterans Badge and supporting the Royal British Legion's campaign to persuade the Government to honour the Military Covenant. Over the last year Mr Hunter has helped hundreds of Veterans in the local area apply for and receive their Veterans Badge. Mr Hunter is also supporting the Honour the Brave campaign started by the Daily Mirror, and calling for the Government to create a special medal to honour service men and women who have died or been wounded in action in Iraq and Afghanistan. He has also been active in supporting the Royal British Legion's Honour the Covenant campaign which calls for greater commitment to our armed forces, following a meeting last year at Cheadle Hulme Royal British Legion Club.

Speaking after the launch in Westminster Mr Hunter said: "I was delighted to be able support this important event and to further help raise awareness of the issues facing Armed Forces Veterans, and I am very much looking forward to the celebrations on 27th June.

It is imperative that we recognise the immense contribution that Armed Forces Veterans have made to protect our country. Our Veterans have made great sacrifices and put their lives on the line for us; they really do deserve our respect and appreciation. Veterans Day is a great way of showing this appreciation to the thousands of Armed Service Veterans who still contribute so much to our local communities."