Local MP thanks Veterans and steps up Badge Campaign

12.01.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 27th Jun 2008

Malcolm Bruce has paid tribute to the service offered by Gordon's veterans

On Veteran's Day (Friday), local MP Malcolm Bruce stepped up his campaign to ensure that all of his constituents who have ever served in the armed forces receive their Veterans Badge in recognition of their service.

Mr Bruce praised and thanked Gordon's veterans and announced he is to host a special open meeting in the autumn especially for veterans and veterans' group representatives.

Mr Bruce said:

"Today is an important day for us to mark the vital contributions that veterans have made over their careers, often serving in difficult theatres around the world. We pay thanks to all the Regulars who have served throughout the Armed Forces but in this, the centenary year of the Territorial Army, special mention must also go to those Reservists who have served.

"I recognise that veterans often have specific concerns and I hope veterans as well as their relatives, will take advantage of the open meeting and surgery I will be hosting in the autumn where I will be happy to hear any concerns they have; perhaps relating to pensions and other welfare matters, the military covenant, soldier's inquests or on honours and decorations such as the Pingat Jasa Malaysia award."

Commenting on the Veteran's Badge Scheme Mr Bruce added:

"When the Veterans Badge was first introduced, applications were restricted to those who had served in particular years. However, the Ministry of Defence has now opened up the badges to every man and woman who has ever served in the UK armed forces and I hope that those veterans who have not already applied will do so now."

Application forms can also be downloaded from Malcolm Bruce's website at: www.malcolmbruce.org.uk

ENDS