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Princes support Britain's heroes at St Paul's pageant
Robert Jobson, Royal Correspondent10.04.08
Princes William and Harry are backing a major event in the City to support Britain's war heroes.
They have lent their support to the appeal - City Salute - which will include a sunset pageant on 7 May in front of StPaul's Cathedral to help raise money for injured servicemen and their families.
Prince William, who is patron of the appeal along with Prince Harry, 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 all 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 of all three Services who protect and care for the wounded so brilliantly and with such tireless dedication," he said.
The event will include the band of the Royal Marines marching through Temple Bar, ceremonial troops and armoured vehicles of the Household Cavalry, an RAF fly-past and a son et lumière at St Paul's Cathedral.
Harry, just back from serving in Afghanistan, dismissed claims that after his 10-week tour he was a hero. Remembering the two seriously wounded soldiers he flew back to England with, he said they were "the real heroes" and said the bravery he had seen among his fellow troops had been "humbling".
"There were two injured guys who came back on the plane with us who were essentially comatose throughout the whole way. One had lost two limbs - a left arm and a right leg - and the other was saved by his mate's body being in the way but took shrapnel to the neck.
"Those are the heroes. Those were guys who had been blown up by a mine that they had no idea about, serving their country, doing a normal patrol. It is a choke in your throat because you know that it's happening."
The two charities to benefit from City Salute Appeal will be Help for Heroes and the SSAFA - the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.
Supporters of the appeal come from right across the City and include alternative investment managers Sarasin and Partners, lawyers and insurers.
The Lord Mayor of London, Alderman David Lewis, said: "The City of London is immensely proud of its historic and very close association with the armed forces, which dates back to when the City was founded. I am delighted that through City Salute we have an opportunity to celebrate these links and to show our gratitude for the courage and forbearance displayed by them and by their families."
Bryn Parry, of Help for Heroes, said: "This is an important moment to celebrate the mettle of our young soldiers, sailors and airmen. Unquestioningly and with the highest professionalism, they continually place themselves in unrelenting danger, more often than not, with a good sense of humour. The City Salute Appeal is London's chance to say thank you."
SSAFA's chief executive, Major General Andrew Cumming, said: "The funds raised will enable SSAFA to continue to provide practical support to servicemen and women and their families."
Guy Monson, managing partner of Sarasin & Partners, and on the City Salute Appeal committee, said: "The UK's financial centre, the City, owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to our service personnel. I would encourage everyone in the City to show their appreciation and support for these young men, women and their families."
Reader views (1)
Having just sat and watched the T.V coverage of this even, I hope Bush, Blair and Brown watched the brave story of the soldier who has lost his legs and one arm,all 3 of these so called world powers should have a lump in their throat over such a brave guy. The 3 B's have caused so much damage to so many individuals and families they should be ashamed and bring the rest of our "boys" home. Clarkson, what a fantastic comment about footballers, and you should be the voice of the British Forces.
- Ian Watson, Louth, Lincs. UK
