TO mark Armed Forces Day today (June 24), I would like to take the opportunity to highlight the important work that the members of the UK armed forces, and the RAF in particular, do in keeping us safe by defending the UK and its interests at home and abroad.

The people of our armed forces, day in, day out, are ever vigilant, identifying and responding to threats that could affect us and our families, but they are also ready to prevent conflict and ready to deliver urgent assistance that is needed here in the UK or around the world.

Armed Forces Day gives us the chance to collectively show support for the military community, including the RAF.

The RAF continues to respond to events in Ukraine, including patrolling the skies, delivering humanitarian and military supplies, and the RAF regiment training alongside the Ukrainian armed forces in the UK. In 2022, more than 7,250 personnel were deployed in 75 countries and directly supported 41 operations across five continents and the Falkland Islands.

As we all mourned the death of her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the RAF conveyed her late Majesty from Edinburgh to RAF Northolt with dignity, professionalism and utmost care. And more recently, the RAF provided both ceremonial and security support for their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s coronation.

Armed Forces Day is a great occasion to remind all in our RAF family, those who have served, are serving and their families, that the RAF Benevolent Fund is here to support them in their time of need. Whether that be with practical, emotional or financial support.

To find out more about the work we do, or how we could support you, visit rafbf.org.

Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, controller, RAF Benevolent Fund

* Email your letters to alistair.shand@keighleynews.co.uk