Those that know me will know I spent some of my early adult years with the Parachute Regiment.  I have, in more recent years, had the privilege of accompanying them on foot patrol in Helmand Province.  Whilst they fight hard and well, I have also seen the compassion and skills they have deployed in helping ordinary Afghan people to overcome tyranny and oppression.

I have seen the bravery of those very young men tested and tried, I have seen them risk life and limb to protect us at home, safe in our beds, and to give the people of Afghanistan the chance to be free, to educate, feed and provide shelter for their families.  Those soldiers who left part of their physical and emotional self in Afghanistan will need our support, not just today but in 40, 50 or 60 years' time.