Mike Penning presented badges to 31 veterans at presentation ceremony.

Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning, presented veterans badges to over 30 local people who have served their country in the armed forces at a ceremony on Thursday 18th March. This was the sixth such ceremony to be held since August 2008.

The veterans badge scheme was introduced by the Ministry of Defence to recognise veterans for their service to Queen and country and to raise the profile of our armed forces.

The presentation ceremony was held at the Royal British Legion Club in Queensway. Over 100 family and wellwishers were welcomed by Club Chairman Peter Taylor. Chairman of the Hemel Hempstead Branch of the Royal British Legion, Royal Navy veteran Peter Gibbons, acted as Master of Ceremonies.

Mike Penning said:
“It is always a great honour to meet and present badges to so many forces veterans. They have served their country – and have some incredible stories to tell. With daily reports from the mission in Afghanistan, we are acutely aware of the dangers and sacrifices made by our armed forces and I welcome this opportunity to recognise those who have served.”

Mike also took the opportunity to present a National Service Medal to Cllr Derek Townsend.

Photo: Courtesy of Silver Images [1]

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