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Princes' salute to military
Louise Jury, Chief Arts Correspondent27.03.08
Princes William and Harry have given their backing to a fundraising parade on behalf of injured servicemen that will bring armoured vehicles, ceremonial troops and an RAF flypast to the City of London.
The sunset pageant on 7 May will raise funds for Headley Court, a rehabilitation centre near Epsom used by servicemen and women from all three branches of the forces.
The City Salute will be held in front of St Paul's Cathedral, which will be used as a backdrop for a sound and light show.
Announcing the appeal in the Evening Standard today, Prince William said: "As brothers, we are delighted to be supporting the City of London in saluting all those who serve their country. As well as raising money for vital rehabilitation facilities, City Salute is an opportunity for us to celebrate the fantastic contribution made by our servicemen and women and their families.
"It is also a chance to pay tribute to the casualty evacuation and medical staff who protect and care for the wounded so brilliantly and with such tireless dedication."
The Band of HM Royal Marines will march through Temple Bar and troops and armoured vehicles of the Household Cavalry will join the parade. Giant screens will show short films about the lives of the forces and their families.
The event is being produced by LiveNation, the company behind last year's Concert for Diana.
It already has support from businesses including the Man Group, Allen & Overy LLP and Bryan, Garnier and Co. Individuals are also being encouraged to donate.
Guy Monson, chief executive of Sarasin and Partners and chairman of the City Salute appeal committee, said it was a way for Britain's financial centre to show its gratitude to service personnel.
Reader views (4)
In an environment in which it is becoming more and more frowned upon to wave a flag I take great strength from the efforts of the organisers and doff my cap to the Princes and all others, from all walks of life, who helped to make this event possible. I sincerely hope that this will only be the start to an ongoing campaign to put the "Great" back into "Britain".
- Chris Young, Hildesheim, Germany
I think Prince William is so sexy, sweet,and so handsome I just want to marry him.
- Bibi, Philadelphia P.A. American
Thanks William and Harry for showing your support. I believe SSAFA Forces Help will benefit from this event and know of the fabulous work they do for serving and Ex Service men, women and their families. Public support for our troops is so important, so well done all involved and roll on May 7th.
- Jane, N Yorkshire, England
Having read of the plight of the injured and maimed service personnel who return to these shores, and watched with disbelief the closure of military and other specialist hospitals, let's hope the money rolls in for a worthwhile cause. Our troops deserve the finest medical treatment and state of the art rehabilitation.
- Mandy, London GB
