Mike Penning has organised and hosted a House of Commons reception for 12 Mech Brigade on their return to UK from Afghanistan.

Setting a new precedent at the House of Commons, Mike Penning organised and hosted a House of Commons reception for representatives of 12 Mech Brigade on their return to UK from Afghanistan. This is the first time that such a “thank you” reception has been held at Westminster for soldiers returning from operational duties.

Nearly one hundred men and women of all ranks – from the most junior through to the Brigade Commander – joined Mike, the Secretary of State for Defence and other MPs for a reception to thank and honour them for the work they have done in Afghanistan. 12 Mech Brigade is made up of a variety of units many of which were represented, including The 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment and Mike’s regiment, The 1st Battalion The Grenadier Guards. Also represented were the Royal Army Medical Corps, the Royal Artillery and the Royal Military Police.

Mike said:

“I am absolutely delighted to welcome and honour these brave men and women who have been fighting on our behalf in such difficult conditions. It is my belief that we do not do enough in this country to recognise the dedication, professionalism and courage of our military. I am very happy that I am now in the fortunate position to be able to do something about it.

“These young people have risked their lives to fulfil the wishes of our elected Parliament and the conditions they faced in Helmand Province have not been experienced for many years. They are truly a credit to this country.”