The turmoil in Afghanistan has been difficult for many current and former members of the military. The two-decade long war was not without sacrifice, and many put themselves in the line of fire not just to keep their own country safe, but also to help the Afghans keep the Taliban threat at bay.This is a difficult time and mental health has never been as important as it is now. It was a difficult war, and it was a tough fight. But our men and women in uniform gave it everything they had, and the very valid feelings both current and former members of the military are experiencing cannot be ignored. This is the time to extend support to the people in your lives who don a military uniform.
The scenes coming out of Afghanistan have not been ignored by anyone. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, KCB ADC, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff acknowledged that the fallout of military forces pulling out of the country has unsettled many who have had a role in protecting it in the last two decades, and even now.
“The last couple of weeks have seen a humbling and remarkable effort by the three Services and their Diplomatic Service colleagues to bring over 15,000 British nationals and vulnerable Afghans to safety in very trying circumstances. It has been an extraordinary effort by all those involved and shown, once again, that in times of emergency the nation can always rely on the brave and resilient men and women of our Armed Forces,” he said.
“I especially want to recognise the high price paid by those who made the ultimate sacrifice, by the many more injured, and the enduring impact on some still serving, as well as veterans and families. These sacrifices have not been made in vain,” he continues, while explaining that despite the optics, the reality is that the goal to prevent Al Qaeda from exporting terrorism to Afghan soil was achieved.
“You helped build infrastructure for one of the poorest countries in the world and helped educate young women and men in that country who would never have had access to education. You gave an entire generation of young Afghans hope – and that cannot be easily undone or forgotten,” he said, noting the contributions that our soldiers have made in the country.
The bravery and sacrifices haven’t even stopped. This video from the Royal Airforce helps put into perspective the continuing contribution of our forces.
The Chief of the Air Staff also released these much-needed words:
The Prime Minister spoke of the great accomplishments and sacrifices made:
If you are someone who is having a difficult time processing the current situation, you absolutely must reach out for help. There are multiple resources that have been setup for precisely this purpose. Do not struggle, and remember that your contribution has made a difference, and will continue to do so.
Even now, we are all looking toward the future, and how Afghans can be helped. As things stand evacuees have begun to filter into the country, and steps are being taken to help them settle down.
Reportedly, Heathrow has soldiers ready to welcome those being flown in.
Will, the team leader from Field Army, said: “It’s very rewarding and worthwhile to be involved in this work alongside our RAF and civilian partners. The stories that the evacuees are telling of their lives in Afghanistan and the struggle to get out are incredibly humbling, and it’s heartening to be able to show them some kindness as they start a new chapter in their lives.”
“For the evacuees, at Kabul they’re mainly being handled through the evacuation by soldiers with some civilian involvement, but as they arrive in the UK that balance changes and it becomes a civilian-led effort. Having soldiers as part of the welcome process at Heathrow and Brize Norton is keeping a military presence at each end of the journey, which the evacuees have found reassuring.”
The efforts are being made under Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP), which allows for local Afghan staff to escape from the clutches of Taliban rule. This includes translators and interpreters who risked their lives working alongside British forces. More than 15,000 people were flown out of Kabul during the operation.
We always have and will continue to support our soldiers. We are proud of their hard work and sacrifices and have no doubt that they will continue to show the world what true integrity looks like.
I echo all of the above…and they should feel proud of what they have been able to acheive in the most difficult and heart breaking circumstances.xx
You should be proud of your achievements? Many thanks.
Hey hope your ok