The laying of wreaths marks ten years since the end of British combat operations in Afghanistan

Veterans, servicemen and families have marked the tenth anniversary of the end of British combat operations in Afghanistan with a wreath-laying ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

It was organized by the Royal British Legion and consisted of a memorial service and a wreath laying ceremony at the Armed Forces Memorial.

The 235 guests included Afghanistan’s serving and veteran communities, the families of those who served, and those who worked as civilian contractors in support of the British armed forces and civil society during the conflict.

Minister for Veterans and Peoples Alistair Carns, himself a veteran of the conflict, attended the ceremony and laid a wreath.

Victoria Bateman, widow of Corporal James Bateman who became the 101st British soldier to die in Afghanistan in 2008, gave a talk.

Earlier this week, Defense Secretary John Healey laid a wreath at the Iraq and Afghanistan Memorial at the Ministry of Defense in London.

October 26 marks ten years since British forces ended combat operations in Helmand, Afghanistan, and handed over Camp Bastion to Afghan authorities.

About 150,000 British forces served in Afghanistan and 457 died.

Mr Healey said: “As we mark ten years since the completion of British combat operations in Afghanistan, we honor the immense sacrifice made by our personnel.

“We remember the 457 British personnel who lost their lives, the thousands who were injured and the families who bore such a burden during this conflict.”

Mr Carns said: “The 10th anniversary of the end of British combat operations in Afghanistan is a solemn occasion for reflection.

“After serving five operational tours in Afghanistan, it was a very personal moment to lay a wreath for those who served and died.

“We remain committed to supporting the Afghan people through diplomatic and humanitarian efforts.”

Chief of the Defense Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, said: “Today we remember the bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces personnel who served in Afghanistan.

“Ten years after the end of British combat operations, we remain committed to honoring the 150,000 service members who served and the 457 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

The Royal British Legion’s director of commemorations, Philippa Rawlinson, said: “Many families have lost loved ones during Operation Herrick, and as we mark ten years since the end of combat operations in Afghanistan, we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the RBL stands ready to support those in our community affected by this conflict.

“In a year when we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Second World War, it is important that we also take time to remember the service and sacrifice of more recent conflicts and the younger generation of the armed forces community, including those who fought in Afghanistan. ”

British military involvement in Afghanistan began in October 2001 as part of NATO’s response to the September 11 attacks.