Kings Langley Villager Article, December 2008
A fact-finding mission to Afghanistan
I’ve just returned from a fascinating trip to Afghanistan. I joined MPs of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme on a fact-finding trip in support of our troops in the country.
We visited both Kandahar and Camp Bastion in Helmand Province which is operated and run by the Royal Marine Commandos. I was very please that we were able to meet not only the most senior British commander in Afghanistan but also the youngest and most junior soldiers.
We also met people doing incredible jobs such as bomb disposal teams, medics and Afghani interpreters.
I was massively impressed by the professionalism and camaraderie of the troops who are working in extremely difficult conditions. Not only do they regularly come under attack, but the weather conditions are appalling. At the moment dust is a major problem but the first snows of winter will arrive soon to make things worse.
Our trip was saddened by the deaths of three Royal Marine Commandos whilst we were there and as an ex-soldier and a father, my thoughts and prayers are for the families and loved ones of these brave servicemen.
I also learned some surprising statistics. For example, over half our servicemen and women in Afghanistan are from the Royal Navy (including the Marines) many of whom have voluntarily left their ships to utilise their skills to support the Afghanistan operation – even though its hundreds of miles from the sea.
The supply route is a long overland journey which includes the famous Khyber Pass from Pakistan and every convoy – whether military or civilian - comes under attack.
One of the most privileged moments for me was bumping into Major John Taylor of the Army Air Corps who is commanding a squadron of Apache helicopters. He is the son of one of my closest friends, Sir Teddy Taylor and I’ve known John since he was a small boy. He is now carrying out one of the most important jobs protecting the troops on the ground.
This was a fascinating trip and I have been left with an overall impression of the incredible level of professionalism, dedication and commitment of our troops. They thoroughly deserve all the back-up and support we can provide.
