Families hear updates on loved ones

Over 100 people including families and invited guests attended the reception which was hosted by the Mayor, Alderman Paul Porter and Councillor William Leathem.

The Ulster Branch of the Irish Guards Association, retired Major Smith, serving Officers, Major Powell and Captain Buckley, joined with the Council to provide the reception, which allowed operational and welfare updates to be provided to the families of Irish Guards currently in Afghanistan.

Mr Porter said it was 'an honour and privilege' to be part of the reception.

"It was designed to update families on their loved ones who are fighting selflessly in Afghanistan" he said. "These soldiers train extremely hard to carry out their duties with professionalism and diligence. The effect of this battle is not only on these soldiers but also on their loved ones who wait eagerly to hear from them.

"At the reception family members of Irish Guard soldiers from across the Province were able to hear from the Families Officer of the Irish Guards. Captain Buckley spoke about the importance of the welfare of a soldier's family to the Irish Guards Association.

"It was very humbling to hear first hand the procedures utilised by the army with regards to communicating with a soldier's family."

The local radio station, BFBS, was present at the reception and family members were able to record messages for their loved ones.

These were then relayed the next day by BFBS to the Irish Guards in Afghanistan.

Mr Leathem, Chairman of the Council's Corporate Services Committee, said: "The Council is keen to ensure that those who fight in battle for the safety of others are acknowledged.

"It is very important that as civilians we understand the realities of life and battle in a combat zone. It was enlightening to hear what the Irish Guards and the families of its soldiers had to say about the pressures and dangers of military life and the support mechanisms in place for personnel.

"I was amazed by how at ease the children present seemed to be when their nearest and dearest are fighting for the safety of others in Afghanistan. They are an inspiration to myself and other adults."

At the reception are: (l-r) Councillor William Leathem, Chairman of the Council's Corporate Services Committee; Mr Frank McCracken, Secretary of the Ulster Branch if the Irish Guards Association; the Mayor, Alderman Paul Porter; retired Major Burt Smith; Major Alun Powell and Captain Wade Buckley, Families Officer, Irish Guards.