Hundreds of UK servicemen to be honoured as Queen unveils Iraq-Afghanistan memorial
THE Queen is to unveil a new memorial that honours UK armed forces and aid workers for their role during conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, Sir Michael Fallon has said.
The Queen set to unveil Iraq-Afghanistan memorial
The Defence Secretary said the memorial would mark the "huge contribution" made by the armed forces, aid workers and civilians in the Gulf region from 1990 to 2015.
The memorial in Victoria Embankment Gardens in London will be unveiled at a service on Thursday March 9.
Queen is to unveil a new Iraq and Afghanistan memorial that honours UK armed forces
Her Majesty the Queen will unveil the new Iraq-Afghanistan memorial, with a service in London on March 9
Speaking at Defence questions in the Commons, Sir Michael said: "I can announce today that Her Majesty the Queen will unveil the new Iraq-Afghanistan memorial, with a service in London on March 9, as a reminder of the huge contribution that our armed forces, our aid workers and civilians have made towards the security of the United Kingdom, and to help build a more stable future for the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan."
Around 2,500 invited guests will attend a service of dedication from a specially conducted drumhead on Horse Guards at 11am, to include prayers, music and readings.
British troops in Iraq
A small ceremony will then be held in the gardens for the unveiling itself. It will be displayed on screens on Horse Guards.
The guests will be joined by The Queen, other members of the Royal Family, Sir Michael and other senior politicians.