A view from Wrexham MP, Andrew Ranger, on Armed Forces Week
This week is Armed Forces Week and a chance to show our support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.
The week culminates in Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 28.
Hightown Barracks is always a focal point for the history of the armed forces in Wrexham, dating back to 1877. Many people in Wrexham have links to the barracks, perhaps through relatives who enlisted for World War 1 there or through the commando unit based there in World War II.
Others remember it as a battalion headquarters and Company location for the 3rd (Volunteer) Battalion of the Royal Welch Fusiliers.
Today, its role is varied as I learned from my recent visit and tour with Colonel Lock and today's armed forces face real difficulties not only after years of cuts but also in the context of a rapidly changing global situation and have my full support to meet their needs.
The Armed Forces Commissioner Bill continues its progress through Parliament and will establish an independent Commissioner to serve as a direct point of contact for Armed Forces personnel and their families. The Commissioner will consider, investigate and make recommendations to address welfare issues faced by serving personnel and their families during their service life.
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I am privileged to have been on the Bill Committee and to therefore be part of tangible and important change for our armed services and their welfare, which has been neglected for too long.
The upcoming Strategic Defence Review will tackle the state of Armed Forces accommodation. Wales's 800 forces family homes are in line to benefit from the significant investment uplift, as part of an overall £7bn in funding during this parliament.
According to the House of Commons Library, there are an estimated 3,450 households in Wrexham who have at least one military veteran. Veteran support is crucial, which is why the UK Government has launched the VALOUR system to ensure easier access to essential care and support.
As ever, if you have any queries or concerns or you have an issue that you would like me to try and assist you with, please do not hesitate to contact me on 01978 788854 or Andrew.Ranger.mp@parliament.uk
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