WILTSHIRE Police has absolute pride each year that we are part of Remembrance Day services across the county.
Wiltshire has a rich military history and is home to a number of regiments with which we enjoy a close association. Royal Wootton Bassett has been an example of the community spirit and deep respect we all have for our fallen servicemen and women. The streets were lined with people, many from other areas of the county, to honour the repatriation of these brave and dedicated soldiers.
Many of our officers and staff will have military connections, family members and friends who have served or are currently serving the country. It is not uncommon for police to work in conjunction with colleagues from the military; most recently the country would have seen the deployment of military personnel alongside the police in support of Operation Temperer.
Remembrance Day gives us all a focus, a time to reflect at the ultimate sacrifice made by so many military personnel.
As the Chief Constable said on Friday, we must remember those who lost their lives, but also think of those who have been injured in the line of duty. Many of the injuries sustained are not visible and the emotional effects of conflict can last a lifetime.
At this time we also remember the police officers who have fallen in the protection of their communities and of the ongoing threats from terrorism in which PC Keith Palmer was killed earlier this year. It is also important to remember those left behind, the families and friends who mourn throughout the year not just on this one day of remembrance.
The Chief Constable and Senior Command Team feel it is important that our staff and officers are able to attend a service wherever possible. The operational policing demand means staff on duty on Remembrance Sunday will continue to protect our communities and I would hope that staff took a moment during their duty to reflect upon remembrance.
I would like to extend my appreciation to our Special Constables, Police Cadets and volunteers who are also keen to represent the force and will be attending events across the county.
I will be attending a service and laying a wreath as a mark of respect.
ACC Kier Pritchard
Wiltshire Police