This Armed Forces Day, I, like so many Welshmen and women, will reflect on our deep and lasting affection for her Majesty’s Armed Forces.
As the son of an army officer, who spent his early years living on a British military base in Cold War Germany, I have nothing but the greatest respect and admiration for our men and women in uniform.
Wales rightfully has a proud affiliation with our armed forces.
Brecon is proud to be the location of the Army's HQ in Wales and 160th Brigade. I recall fondly my visits to the facility as a Government Special Adviser, and making the case to colleagues across Government for continued investment in this vital facility. The town is also home to Derring Lines - the Infantry Battle School, an important training facility for soldiers in Mid Wales.
Meanwhile, Sennybridge remains to this day a celebrated training facility. It was also the stuff of legends growing up in our household listening to my father’s tales of the trials and tribulations endured on the exposed Brecon Beacons.
As a nation, we are incredibly proud of the enduring relationship between the Army and Wales.
It is why I am actively campaigning against the closure of Brecon Barracks. The closure, which is scheduled for 2027, would be a tragic loss to the Mid Wales community."
