Dr Altaf Husain AM has shown his support for our military during a visit to 160 Field Company Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers, in Bridgend.
Dr Hussain was given a tour of the base and saw the soldiers - all reservists - in action as they took part in a Scrapheap Challenge . The Commanding Officer, Major Fergus, briefed the local AM on the role of REME and the important links 160 Field Company have with local businesses and the wider community. The reserve soldiers, who are mechanics, electricians and engineers in their day jobs, give up their spare time to serve in our armed forces. 160 Field Company has grown from around 96 Reservists to over 200 in the last 12 months.
Dr Hussain said:
“I enjoyed meeting the men and women of 160 Field Company and am keen to maintain close links with the Company. They are vital part of our community.
“It was fascinating to learn about the work of REME, without them the Army couldn’t function. Their scrapheap challenge looked a lot of fun and something I wish I could have done when I was younger.
“The reserve soldiers give up their spare time to serve our country, they should be congratulated and we must do everything we can to support them.
“Our armed forces, both regular and reserves, are the best in the world. They protect our nation and deserve our gratitude and support.
“Since the UK decided to extend airstrikes into Syria to combat ISIS there have been instances of verbal abuse directed to those in uniform, with soldiers being called murderers and baby killers.
“Those opposed to airstrikes have a right to oppose, they have that freedom which has been defended by our service men and women. They do not have a right to verbally attack the brave men and women who defend our nation and our freedoms.”