International Development Secretary Priti Patel said:

Today we honour all those both past and present who serve in our Armed Forces. From countering the brutality of Daesh to stopping deadly diseases from reaching our shores, our military personnel continue the proud traditions of service by protecting our country and upholding our values. We thank those who willingly risk their lives so that we may live in a safer and more secure world.

I am proud that everyday my Department works extremely closely with military personnel around the world to help tackle the root causes of global problems, like disease, terrorism or chronic poverty. We owe each and every member of our Armed Forces and the families who support them a tremendous debt – one that can never be repaid – and I pay huge tribute to their bravery and resolve.