Rayleigh and Wickford MP and Armed Forces Minister, Mark Francois, recently attended a special church service in Southend, at which the South East Essex Branch of the Parachute Regiment Association laid up their old standard - which has served them well for many years and received a brand new standard for use at future parades - from the Arch Deacon of Southend.
As well as a number of Parachute Regiment Veterans, the service was also attended by the Mayor of Southend, Councillor Chris Walker, Mark’s Parliamentary colleague, James Duddridge MP and also Major General Ranuld Monroe, the Deputy Commander Land Forces and the Senior Army Reservist in the British Army. Some years ago General Monroe was the Commander of Support Company, of the 10th Battalion the Parachute Regiment (whose mortar platoon was then based at Leigh-on-sea).
Following the service, at which the new standard was officially dedicated, the Veterans paraded to the Naval and Military club for refreshments and, as they marched past, the salute was taken by the Mayor of Southend and by General Monroe.
Commenting on the event Mark Francois said:
"As Minister of State for the Armed Forces I was pleased to be able to attend this special service, which is very important to Parachute Regiment Veterans and their families. It was also very fitting for this service to be held on the Sunday closest to D-Day, when the Parachute Regiment famously played an important part in the liberation of Europe - something I am particularly conscious of as my father was a D-Day Veteran as well. The event went very well and I think all those present enjoyed themselves in a very worthwhile cause."