GREAT BRITAIN: Archbishop of Canterbury issues statement for Armed Forces Day

June 26, 2009 [Lambeth Palace] The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, has published the following statement in support of Armed Forces Day, which is being marked throughout Britain for the first time on June 27. Armed Forces Day is intended as an opportunity for the nation to show its support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to service families, and from veterans to recruits.

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Recent years have brought home to all of us the tragic costs of war, in a way most of us have not experienced before or have not experienced for very many years. We ask our service personnel to carry a huge load on our behalf -- not only in the physical risks they run, but also in the making of almost impossibly difficult and sensitive operational decisions. We know how high the human costs are, and how much we owe to those who live daily with such costs.

The professionalism and responsibility they regularly show, as well as their courage in the field, are deeply appreciated, and it is right that they should be nationally recognized on this Armed Forces Day. It is also an opportunity to give thanks for all those who have served their country in past conflicts, for their sacrifice and example.

As we continue to pray for the peace that God wills for his creation, we pray also for all currently serving in the Forces and for their families -- for inner strength, and for commitment to a vision of justice and stability in the world which will sustain them in their labors.

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