Saturday, September 12, 2009

Prince Edward visits 2 RIFLES in Afghanistan


Prince Edward made a 24-hour visit to British troops in Afghanistan, Buckingham Palace revealed last night.

He arrived in Helmand province late on Tuesday and spent the next day with 2nd Battalion, The Rifles - the unit in which he is Royal Colonel.

The Riflemen have operated shoulder-to-shoulder with members of the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police.

Prince Edward viewed the town of Sangin from the Fire Support Group tower, which has a commanding view of the area. He also walked outside of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) down to the District Governor's offices to see the development of the Government Zone established outside of the FOB, allowing local Afghans easier access to their Governor, Fazil Haq.

As a thank you for the hard work completed since the Battle Group's arrival in March, the Prince brought with him a selection of fresh foods for dinner. The soldiers have been on ten-man ration packs since July, so this was a very welcome gift.

Speaking with the soldiers over dinner, the Prince said:

"Thank you for having me here and looking after me so well. I wish you the best of luck for the last few weeks, I hope it is painless and productive."

Commanding Officer of the 2 RIFLES Battle Group, Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson, said:

"The visit was a real honour - our Royal Colonel has been in the closest support throughout our time in Sangin and we are very grateful.

"It's been a real boost to the Riflemen whose courage and resolve in the face of the most challenging circumstances has been exemplary. And Prince Edward was able to see some of the successes we have had extending the influence of the Government of Afghanistan."

4 comments:

  1. Not long now boys, counting every day till you are all home safe, You've done your country proud and done a great job, and for this your country supports and salutes you all! take care of each other, chins up, heads down, from every mother to every son " I love you " swift and bold boys xx

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  2. is there an address where parcels can be sent out to the lads and lasses seeing as theyre on rations. Im sure they would be inundated, and they deserve it

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  3. Took the words right out of my mouth there. Stay strong and safe and you'll be back real soon! Thinking of you all, always! God bless each and every one of you! SWIFT AND BOLD is your motto, SWIFT AND BOLD you are indeed! x

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  4. Donations to the troops in Helmand can be made via www.bmycharity.com/V2/welfarefund

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