Afghanistan presentation

The 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment has returned from Afghanistan, and the Chairman of Essex County Council has invited a whole host of people to County Hall for an event this evening to recognise the operational achievements of our county regiment and garrisoned troops.

In addition to the Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff, Members of Parliament and the Mayors and Chairs, of course it's the military's evening - and they're there in force, from all ranks and of all ages.

After a welcome drink, and when we're all settled in the Council Chamber, Lt Col Stuart Carver DSO, the battalion's commanding officer, gives a talk about the regiment's tour of duty in Helmand province. There are charts, photos, even video; and we're given a graphic introduction to the conditions in the field of battle, which doesn't shy away from anything. The young men of the battalion clearly deserve our thanks and respect for the tough and dangerous job they've been doing.

After the presentation, there are questions from the audience, chaired by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex Lord Petre - how old are the troops? what are communications with home like? what's the military's view of the Afghan national police? what about opium? - and the Leader of the County Council gives a concluding speech of thanks.

We end with the national anthem, and move into the atrium for a buffet supper and a chance to talk. It's a pleasure to spend time in conversation with a Harlow couple from the Royal Air Force Association; we talk about their experience of life in the services, and the declining number of veterans taking part in organisations for ex-servicemen and women.