Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning - who initiated the tradition of inviting military formations to the Houses of Parliament on their return from overseas postings - joined MPs from all parties at a function for the 7 Armoured Brigade – ‘The Desert Rats’. The ‘welcome home’ function was held at the House of Commons for 125 servicemen and women of all ranks.
The 7th Armoured Brigade – who adopted the badge and nickname of the ‘Desert Rats’ when the 7th Armoured Division disbanded in the 1950s – have recently returned from the role of lead formation in Iraq, where they were involved in providing support and mentoring to the Iraqi Army.
Mike said:
“It is a great honour to welcome back these dedicated and brave young men and women. They have returned from carrying out a difficult job in difficult conditions and it was interesting and informative talking to them about their experiences in Iraq. It is important for MPs to talk to those who are at the sharp end of the political decisions we make.
“We have every right to be immensely proud of our troops and the work they have done in restoring democracy to the people of Iraq.”
Speaking in the House of Commons afterwards Mike also extended his thanks to the staff of the House of Commons for the welcome they gave to the service personnel.
TEXT FROM HANSARD:
Mike Penning (Hemel Hempstead) (Con): On a point of order, Mr. Deputy Speaker. On Monday afternoon, this House welcomed 125 British servicemen and women on their return from Iraq. They were members of 7 Armoured Brigade. How can I place on record thanks to the staff of this Palace for welcoming those troops so warmly? A lot of them completely put themselves out, doing things that are unusual in this Palace, such as opening doors to allow people to walk through in a way that was suitable for those servicemen and women in uniform. Can we place on record our thanks to the staff as well as our thanks to our armed forces?
Mr. Deputy Speaker: The hon. Gentleman asks how he can put his thoughts on the record. First, I think that we would all sincerely share his thoughts. Secondly, he has put them firmly on the record and has done so well.
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