Sometimes, when I use the word tour, the wrong image comes to mind – of adoring, screaming fans, parties, exotic locations and music. This is not what our soldiers have faced.

There may have been screaming, but of a completely different kind, and the locations may have been somewhere, where you and I have never been, but the sights are something that you and I cannot imagine and would never want to see.

Make no mistake, these soldiers who are returning, are heroes – every one of them. They have all sacrificed seeing their loved ones and families. They have all stood for endless hours in horrible conditions, they have all seen things that they would rather not see, and they have all done Queen and country proud and I salute them for this.

I would urge that when you see someone you know who has just returned – and there are those from the Ards who you will soon be seeing – take the time to speak to them and to convey the high esteem and regard that they are held in.

Give them a firm handshake and a heartfelt welcome home and tell them that you are proud to know them.

I take time to pray for our troops and to pray for our allies and I know that for many parents and loved ones, the safe return of these soldiers is an answer to a much repeated prayer and we thank God for their safe return.

So, on behalf of my family and myself to those who have just returned – thank you. Thank you for service, for your sacrifice and for your desire to serve. Simply, thank you.

Alderman Jim Shannon MLA
DUP Constituency Advice Centre
Newtownards