This weekend, Thanet’s towns and villages will be dotted with wreaths and poppies in commemoration of those who so bravely fought for our freedoms. Remembrance Day has always been a day of national pride. This auspicious date coincides with the Royal British Legion’s 90th anniversary and also falls over the weekend when Her Majesty the Queen will be visiting our Isle.
Across Thanet and Sandwich, we have always had a strong Remembrance Sunday tradition. Every year, I am amazed at the sheer number of events that are arranged to commemorate those that courageously made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Our cadets will parade in their uniforms and residents will gather at war memorials to remember our fallen or injured service men and women.
As a proud supporter of our Armed Forces, I very much welcome the fact that our national obligation to care for personnel once they resume civilian life be reflected in law. After much campaigning by the Royal British Legion, the Military Covenant, has been enshrined in the statute books under this Government. This covenant includes: £30 million to support projects between the services or Veterans groups and the wider community; £3 million to support schools with a high number of service children; up to 3 IVF cycles for Veterans who have suffered relevant injuries; council tax relief for personnel serving overseas increased from 25% to 50%; improved supply of prosthetics for injured service men and women; easier access to social housing; and a Veterans Card enabling discounts and privileges. Of course it is never enough but we have come far in 18 months.
I would like to thank all of Thanet’s local Royal British Legion fundraiser groups for the wonderful support they provide our Veterans, the record money that they have raised over the years and wish them a very Happy 90th Anniversary!