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Government to fly Armed Forces Day flag
29/06/2012
Scotland’s main government building will fly the Armed Forces Day flag tomorrow in support of the national day of events.
The forces’ flag will be flown outside St Andrew’s House in Edinburgh, honouring the commitment and contribution of both serving members of the armed forces and veterans.
First Minister Alex Salmond made the announcement in advance of a day of commemorations and celebrations being held throughout the UK – the fourth year that the event has been held.
Veterans Minister Keith Brown will represent the Scottish Government at a reception at Edinburgh City Chambers and a Veterans Parade in Princes Street Gardens.
The First Minister said:
“Armed Forces Day is an important opportunity to show how much we value the contribution made by serving soldiers, veterans and military families, as well as honouring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Flying the Armed Forces Day flag outside the Scottish Government’s headquarters in Edinburgh is a small but very significant indication of our ever-present pride in and commitment to our forces.
“I am determined that the Scottish Government will do all we possibly can to support our forces and families, particularly in this jubilee year. As part of the celebrations of Her Majesty’s sixty years on the throne we have made a £50,000 donation to the charity Veterans Scotland, in recognition of the mutual warmth and affection between The Queen and her armed forces.
“Armed Forces Day is a fitting way to recognise the bravery and commitment of those who serve.”
Related information:
The Scottish Government's record of support for armed forces and veterans includes:
- Concessionary bus travel for injured veterans introduced on April 1st 2011
- Veterans given NHS priority for service-related health issues
- The establishment of the Scottish Veterans Fund, with resources of £400,000 since 2008 supporting almost 60 projects
- Funding of £1.7 million for Combat Strength to support mental health services for veterans
- In partnership with Scottish Veterans Housing Association we will provide £2.3 million for 50 housing units with outreach support in Cranhill, Glasgow
- Using legislation to make it easier for veterans to establish local connections to access housing
- Extending priority access to shared equity schemes to veterans, widows, widowers and other partners of service personnel
- Appointing Major General David McDowall as an adviser on veterans' affairs and setting up a special unit within government to support veterans
- All local authorities and NHS boards appointing "Armed Forces & Veterans' Champions"
- The FM being the first FM to meet with the heads of all the Army, Navy and RAF in Scotland.