An event was held today (Saturday 24 June) to mark Armed Forces Day.  

Addressing those gathered outside Merton Civic Centre in Morden, the Mayor of Merton, Councillor Gill Manly, said: “We have a strong history of supporting Britain’s armed forces community, and recognising the contribution and sacrifices made by past and present members of the Armed Forces and their families.”

At the start of Armed Forces Week, on Monday (19 June), the Council Leader, Councillor Ross Garrod, co-signed the Armed Forces Covenant, on behalf of the London Borough of Merton along with Colonel Ed Lewis. The covenant is a pledge ensuring those who have served and their families are treated fairly.

In his speech today, Councillor Garrod said: “We are wholeheartedly committed to supporting the Armed Forces Covenant and the essential work of helping veterans integrate back into civilian life and supporting them to be a part of the community here in Merton.

“Both my grandmother and my grandfather served in the armed forces during the Second World War, and, through my years growing up, they instilled in me a strong sense of duty, and a deep respect and gratitude towards to those who have served.”

Find out more about how we are supporting our Armed Forces community.