OUR Armed Forces in South East Cornwall have long played a critical role in our nation’s defence, making great sacrifices to keep us safe.

During Remembrance, we think about those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, those who are currently in our Armed Forces, their families, and veterans. This period of reflection is deeply important for South East Cornwall, especially because of our proud military history and continued connections to the Armed Forces.

There may be some instances that people are unaware of, such as the hosting of American troops at Mount Edgcumbe as part of the D-Day landings. There are also countless sacrifices that many people in our area have made, which are commemorated across our towns and villages.

So, it has been really important to me as South East Cornwall’s MP to play my part during this time of year as part of this season of Remembrance.

Back in October, on the day before the official launch of the Poppy Appeal, I met with representatives from the Royal British Legion in Parliament. I’ve spoken with many branches in our area, so this was a fantastic opportunity to discuss the national work of the charity and raise topics that I’ve spoken about with local people.

In Parliament, the Garden of Remembrance has been a great feature on the Estate and an important mark of respect at our country’s political centre. It is at New Palace Yard, which is where the Cornish flag flew on St Piran’s Day!

Each MP has an opportunity to place a mark of respect for their constituency, and I am proud to say that South East Cornwall has its own display. We will remember them.

On Remembrance Sunday, I attended events across South East Cornwall, including at Callington and Torpoint. There’s so many brilliant events across our area - it's impossible to attend them all!

Thank you to those who laid a wreath at services I was unable to attend, and to the local Royal British Legion branches and Poppy Appeal volunteers who do so much.

As always, the events were extremely moving, putting the lives of those who served at the forefront of the services, showing not just the continued strength of support for our Armed Forces community, but also how much it means to people in South East Cornwall to pay their respects. In particular, I would like to thank all the organisers involved, who played such a pivotal role in these events. Without them they couldn’t take place.

For me, Remembrance is an important reminder of how much our community supports our Armed Forces, veterans, and their families. We care deeply because it is in our DNA, from significant moments in World War II, to those who are undertaking naval training at HMS Raleigh.

It’s a time to be proud of our tradition. Throughout the year, I’ll continue to meet with serving personnel, trainees, and veterans to listen to their needs and raise issues with the government.