Cambridgeshire Thanks the Armed Forces

[News June 2025]
The vital role and contribution of the many Armed Forces units based in Cambridgeshire were recognised during Armed Forces Week at a special dinner hosted by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mrs Julie Spence, and supported by 22 local businesses.

All 15 units based in Cambridgeshire, including the University and Cadet Forces, were invited to send representatives to the first Cambridgeshire Armed Forces Dinner, which was held in the Old Hall at Queens’ College Cambridge, where they were thanked for their vital work on National Security and especially their work inspiring, supporting and developing young people.

The senior Military guest at the dinner was Vice Admiral Andy Kyte, Chief of Defence Logistics and Support who thanked the people and businesses of Cambridgeshire, recognising that “……the relationship between Defence and industry is one of our most critical strategic partnerships”. Admiral Kyte also commented, “If we are to meet the future challenges and threats with confidence then the Armed Forces cannot do it alone. There must be a much closer alignment between Defence and Industry because our Supply Chains and industrial base are both a critical vulnerability and a decisive factor in delivering deterrence and sustaining combat power. And there must be that same alignment with academia, and with wider civil society. There is much to do if we are to achieve that. We must create partnerships, built on trust and shared values. With academia to develop critical thinking, to innovate and to challenge.”

Chris Parkhouse DL, spoke on behalf of the sponsors of the dinner and talked about the support from employers and organisations across the county for the Armed forces, providing regular employment for Reservists, Adult Volunteers and veterans. He commented; “The contribution business makes to the work of our armed forces must not be overlooked. Some firms supply or work with the military, some embrace the Armed Forces Covenant, and some generously sponsor events such as this magnificent dinner. However business does it, we can all commit to supporting Regulars, Reservists, Veterans, and military families now, and in the future.”



It is hoped the dinner will become an annual event to celebrate the vital work of our Armed Forces, not only in the County, but also nationally and globally, including their vital role inspiring the next generation through the various cadet and university units, whilst at the same time, bringing employers and defence closer together with a stronger understanding of each other’s objectives.