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St Paul's will be lit up by tribute to Armed Forces
Sri Carmichael, Evening Standard02.05.08
St Paul's Cathedral is to become a giant billboard promoting the bravery of Britain's servicemen and women.
Images of soldiers in action will be projected onto the landmark as it is flooded with the colours of the Union flag.
The display is part of City Salute, a sunset pageant on Wednesday backed by Princes William and Harry to raise money for injured troops.
Supporters of the appeal, which involves all three Armed Forces, come from across the City and include banking groups, law firms and insurers.
TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson will be leading the crowds in celebration, it was announced today.
Clarkson is a patron of Help for Heroes, one of the beneficiaries.
He has often spoken of the need for better rehabilitation facilities and accommodation for service personnel. He said: "Our troops have been to hell and we need to make their passage back as smooth as possible. Our soldiers do something extraordinary and we should give them something extraordinary in return."
The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association will also benefit.
The images show troops on patrol in Afghanistan and Bosnia, talking to local people caught up in the fighting.
One shows a member of 51 Squadron, RAF Regiment, with Afghan children near Kandahar.
Prince William said: "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."
Reader views (2)
I think this is a good idea as my Husband is in Afghanistan at the moment and I have heard lots of stories about what goes on and they don't get enough praise for what they do. I am certainly going to be there tonight to pay respect to our troops. Thank you.
- Hannah Noakes, essex
Let's hope two-jobs Des Browne attends - but don't hold your breath, he is Secretary of State for Scotland, too, and might be too busy for defence matters.
Well done to the organisers.
- Lester May, Camden Town, London, England
