On 21 June, representatives of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, were entertained at 10 Downing Street at an Armed Forces Day reception. Beneficiaries and volunteers in the organisation were personally thanked for their service to the Nation by the Prime Minister’s wife, Akshata Murty and the Minister for Veteran Affairs, the Rt Hon Johnny Mercer.
The sun shone on Downing Street’s garden as veterans and service family members shared their stories with politicians and each other. Larry, the Downing Street cat even made an appearance.
Lynne Doherty, Director of Social Care Operations said:
“We took with us a wide array of both beneficiaries and volunteers, who were treated to drinks in the beautiful gardens on a lovely sunny afternoon.”
Amongst the guests were Keith King, a 94 year old World War II veteran; Paul Jacobs, 36 year old Afghanistan veteran, blinded in service; Maree Rogers, service widow, Jamie Small, 15 years old, whose father ended his own life after struggling with transition out of the military, and Henrietta Malet and Ally Musthan, both volunteers with the SSAFA Central London Committee.
Jamie said:
“It was pretty cool to be invited into the Prime Minister’s house, especially when I saw how many people were trying to get pictures outside the gates. The Prime Minister’s wife was really nice, and I felt like she understood why I’m trying to raise awareness around mental health and suicide.”
Akshata Murty gave a moving speech, recognising the vital role military families play in supporting their service person, and acknowledged the sacrifices spouses and children make to enable these brave men and women to defend the country. Johnny Mercer reaffirmed his commitment to advancing and highlighting the issues faced by veterans, young and old.
