As we mark Armed Forces Day, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone across Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, and indeed the whole country, a very happy and reflective Armed Forces Day.
Yesterday, I had the privilege of visiting Wattisham Army Air Corps Base, right here in our constituency. Wattisham has long been a cornerstone of our national defence infrastructure and a place of immense pride for Suffolk. The visit provided a rare opportunity to see the impressive Apache MkII helicopter up close - a truly remarkable example of modern military engineering and an essential asset in the protection of our national interests.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Colonel Toby Moore MBE for hosting the visit and to all the dedicated personnel stationed at Wattisham. Their professionalism, skill, and unwavering commitment to defending our country are deeply appreciated by us all.
Days like this remind us that the freedoms and security we enjoy are safeguarded by the hard work and sacrifice of the men and women in our Armed Forces, many of whom live and serve in our local communities. It is vital that we continue to show our support not just on Armed Forces Day, but all year round.