Ian Swales MP has expressed his dismay at the decision to scrap
the 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment (Green Howards) that was
announced this morning. The Green Howards have a historic link to the area and
are very important to the generations of families whose lives are intertwined
with the name.
The unit can trace its beginnings back to the 17th
Century, and retaining historic links is vital for the local community to feel a
sense of belonging and purpose.
Ian Swales MP commented:
"Sadly the Green Howards regiment was scrapped in 2006 under
the previous Government but I was delighted when the name was preserved and
attached to the 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment (Green
Howards). I hope that at the very least we can attach this historic name to a
reserve battalion and I will be urging the minister to consider this.
"The Green Howards have always had a very strong connection to
our area. I know a number of former Green Howards and they have the Freedom of
the Borough. It is always a fantastic sight to see them march through Redcar.
"I will be challenging this decision in Parliament as our area
remains a fertile ground for recruitment regardless of demographic projections,
and it is important that we retain the distinct identity that the Green Howards
have and their historic link to our area."
Eric Howden, Secretary of Redcar Branch, and Chairman of the
Cleveland Group for the British Legion commented:
"I am really saddened to hear the news today. This area has
served the British Army with its sons and daughters for many years, and not too
long ago granted the Green Howards freedom of the borough.
"My step-son, Darren, was killed whilst serving with the
Green Howards before their amalgamation, and to lose it now will not only be a
great loss personally but also a great loss to our communities."
Family links - Our eldest lad Steven Abbott served 9 years in the Green Howards Regiment
No comments:
Post a Comment