Written question asked by Gregory Campbell (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 7 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 October 2008. It was answered by Lord Beamish (Labour) on Monday, 13 October 2008 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Peacekeeping Operations

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will bring forward proposals for national events to mark the bravery of UK personnel who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Answer: The enormous courage and bravery displayed by the men and women of the armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan is recognised in many ways. For example, returning personnel are often involved in local homecoming parades which are widely reported in the media. At a national level, we recognise the contribution and the sacrifices made by the armed forces at events such as Remembrance Sunday. In addition, the announcement of the six monthly operational honours list of gallantry awards, mostly to those serving in these two operational theatres and who have undertaken acts of particular bravery, are given a high profile.It is usual for the end of significant operations to be marked in some way, and while we have no specific plans at present, this will be considered when the time is right in the case of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Secondary information