Emma Reynolds, Labour MP for Wolverhampton North East and Shadow Housing Minister, attended the annual Wolverhampton Armed Forces Day Parade on Saturday 28 June 2014.Armed Forces Day gives the country an opportunity to pay tribute to serving troops, veterans, cadets and their families.

The parade marched from Wulfruna Street to St Peter’s Square where an outdoor drumhead service – the traditional form for a religious service attended by troops in the field – took place. Wolverhampton City Council has also signed up to the Armed Forces Community Covenant, which aims to make organisations across the city work together to make it easier for members of the Armed Forces community to integrate into civilian life.

Emma said, “On Saturday people up and down the country gathered to pay tribute to the sacrifices, dedication and service of our brave armed forces.

“I was delighted to attend the Armed Forces Day Parade in Wolverhampton to show my support for the British Armed Forces. Thankfully the rain held off and there was an excellent turnout.

“I was happy to see Normandy veteran Geoff Ensor, who I went to Normandy with recently for the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings with my grandfather Ken Reynolds, who is also a Normandy veteran.

“I am pleased that Wolverhampton City Council has signed the Armed Forces Community Covenant. Our Service personnel work around the world in some of the most dangerous situations to defend Britain’s interests and national security. Just like those before them, they do so with unequivocal commitment, enduring professionalism and resolute courage. But the sacrifice associated with military life is rarely endured alone – we must not forget the impact on the friends and families of those who serve too. They provide invaluable support to loved ones away from home and the contribution they make to local communities should never be underestimated.

“That is why Labour has pledged to outlaw discrimination against and abuse of members of the Armed Forces in the first year of a Labour Government.”

July 2014