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Show your support with a bluey

25 September 2007 | 12:39
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Soldiers of the Royal Anglian regiment in Afghanistan
Soldiers of the Royal Anglian regiment in Afghanistan
COME and show our troops abroad what they mean to you.

This special section of the Evening Star websites is for you to send your 'blueys' in a bid to support British troops.

The Ministry of Defence has backed our efforts, telling of the importance of such messages of support for the soldiers fighting away from home.

A spokesman for MOD said: “Soldiers are well trained and well equipped. The Chief of General Staff General Sir Richard Dannatt said only last week that soldiers want their efforts and successes in the most challenging of conditions, and the ultimate sacrifice that some make, to be appreciated by the public.

“The opportunity for the public to leave messages of support will be much appreciated by the servicemen and women in operational theatres and will boost morale as they work so hard to be a force of good.”

The 1st battalion of the Royal Anglians - which recruits heavily from this region - is still deployed in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan.

Blueys, so-called after the blue-coloured free aerogrammes traditional sent to soldiers by family and friends, were issued for the first time during the early days of the Northern Ireland deployment.

Just enter your message below and we'll add it to the messages of support for our servicemen and women.

Your blueys

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Type your comment below and then click on the Post button.

 

My dad is 63 years old and served in the Royal Anglians a long time ago, and I know his thoughts are always with our soldiers on their tour of duty, wherever that may be. He went to Aarons McClure’s funeral as a mark of respect wearing his Royal Anglian badge with pride. Thoughts of his army life never leaves him or our family and as his eldest daughter I can remember him coming home on leave and then preparing to go off again not knowing if my “dad” will return home safe. Keep up the good work and wear the Royal Anglian badge with pride. God bless you all.
Tracy Hitching, Ipswich

My next door nieghbor was killed throuth friendly fire a mounth ago (Aaron Mclure) i respected him 110%.You are all doing a fantastic job,you are all loved and im very proud of you all. keep safe and look after eachother. glen xxx
Glen Prentice, Ipswich

I totally support this campaign to get as much support to our troops on tour and after they come home too. My son Aaron had received letters and small parcels from people over the country, people he'd never met before and he told me how much it boosted his and the other lads morales while so far away from home. It means so much to them knowing that we are all here at home thinking of them, showing our support. We need to show them that this whole nation is behind them, show them how proud we all are of them, and give them all the respect they so highly deserve. These guys are heroes before they even leave for war....let's forget about showing all our appreciation to the men that sit behind the desks making the decisions to send our troops out there, they're not the ones in the firing line. My son is never coming home to his family, but i know that he appreciated and needed every little bit of support he was given while out there.......R.I.P Aaron James Mcclure....You are my hero along with all your fallen comrades....xx
Lorraine Mcclure, Ipswich

To all of you brave men and women out there fighting for us... may you all keep safe and know that people are thinking of you and respect what you do greatly,your families and friends must be so very proud of you all, come home safe. ps... RIP Aaron James McClure. xxxxxxxxxxx
aly , ipswich

I had the privilage of serving in the British Army for 30 years. I enlisted as a Private soldier and retired as a Major. I have the utmost respect for our service men and women who devote a large portion of their lives to serve and defend our country. We should not forget that they are a volunteers and a fighting force to be contended with. Our servicemen and women are doing a magnificent job and deserve the loyal support of every individual citizen of the UK. We should not however overlook the sacrifices made by the families of our men and women. Mothers, fathers, wives, husbands and children each and everyone suffers whilst their loved ones are in harms way. I salute you, and thank you all for your dedicated service to our country.
Brian Gissing, Henderson, Nevada, USA

I am praying for you all. I cant even start to imagine what you are all going through. I want you all to come home safely. Not long now then your back to good old British weather. Looking forward to meeting you all on November 9th in peerbright. Love from Aarons Uncle. STAY SAFE
Allan McClure, Ipswich

When I married my husband was serving in the forces, his father was a 2nd World War, Korean and Vietnam veteran, I not only have respect towards the serving soldiers but also their families and loved ones. I lost a friend at Warrenpoint and have never forgoten him, his death was not in vain, there is peace in Ireland. Keep safe guys, we look forward to your return home, you are a credit to your uniform, your country, your selves and your families! Take good care, safe journey home.RIP Aaron and thankyou for the ultimate sacrifice.
linda laisure, ipswich suffolk

tremendous effort guys and gals you have put the GREAT back in great britain as alway s
roy , ipswich

To all of you brave men and women out there fighting for us... may you all keep safe and know that people are thinking of you and respect what you do greatly,your families and friends must be so very proud of you all, come home safe. ps... RIP Aaron James McClure.
Andrew, ipswich

You are all such brave courageous people who I have such admiration for. Not long before you are home to your loved ones. Stay strong. R.I.P Aaron McCLure x x
Sarah, Ipswich

The recent loss of Aaron Mclure really touched me,and my deepest sympathy is with his family and all those who knew him. all of you lads and lasses out there are in my thoughts. All you lads and lasses out there fighting for us, keep safe and remember your in the thoughts of many people.xx
michelle, woodbridge

My brother Julian is in 1st battalion,and we are all really really proud of you,and all the men and women out there.We cant wait for you to come home,we're all counting the days!i hope you get this message,just to say your all doing brilliant,and u all have a safe return. love Renee,Mum,Jo,Tony,Marcus,Pete,Andy,Maya,Hannah& Anais xxxx
Renee Perreira, Ipswich

I served in the 1st Gulf War also the Bosnian Conflict. Keep your chins up when all around is in chaos - U r truly the BEST fighting force on this planet. Remember your friends are there for life. Well done guys and gals M
Mark, Ipswich

wanna send you all love, you are doin soo well keep safe missing you grant hope to see ya soon xxxxxxxxxxx
kaylene, ipswich

Most of the people in this country are totally behind our brave service men and women doing a brilliant job in Afghanistan and Iraq. It's a disgrace we allow them lack of proper equipment and medical treatment. We are all proud of your commitment and professionalism. With best wishes for a safe return to families and friends. Thanks.
Jon Mark, Ipswich

Your all doing a great job keep up the good work.I placed a rose on aarons grave when visiting my parents grave, what a brave man, dont worry be happy and come home safe.x
Ann Daniel, IPSWICH

Stay strong, keep as safe as u can. Many people are very greatful for all u do and put urselfs through. Come home safe. RIP Aaron xxx
K, Ipswich

My son Andrew Willans is serving in the British Army,he say's it's something he has to do.My prayers are with my son and all the soldiers fighting for their country.Come home safe!
Diana Morey, Newfoundland,Canada

Best wishes to all our men and women out there with a special mention to Mark W. of the Royal Marine Commandos - you have a very proud family thinking of you every day Mark - expect a well earned tattoo when you return! Gary & Angie
Gary McDonough, Liverpool

My Grandson Tony has just came home from afghanistan Before that he was in Iraq we are so proud of him He celebrated his 21st Birhday while serving in Afghanistan Watched every report we could.We can relax now he is home.So proud of you Tony Well done to every one in Iraq and Afghanistan Proud of all of you.
Jean cowley, Hertford

My friend has a daughter who has just returned from a tour of duty in Afganistan so we know how badly equipped you guys are out there.Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, that you may soon return home safely.
Julie, Milton Keynes

Our thoughts are with all the soldiers who have served past present and future, to those who are no longer with us and to those who are lucky to still be here. I have known many people who have served in Iraq and Afghan and the amount of pressure they are under with the lack of support and equipment and just pray that one day it will all be over. my dad served with the Royal Anglians a few years back now and was on many tours with them and often talks of his experiences. He always remembers his regiment at this time. God Bless and keep doing us proud xx
Hanna, Ipswich, UK

I am constantly amazed at the sacrifice the men and women of our armed forces make so far from home.Their bravery astounds and humbles me , as far as i'm concerned no amount of support is enough, and i realise the impotence of this message , but wanted to convey my thoughts , and prayers for their safety, and to hope the government shows their respect in giving everything they can to these brave people
Julie Blake, London

Very well done to all you men and ladies who are out there risking your lives for us, with out you we would be nothing.
Diane Sawyer, Ipswich

I read with pride reports of the fine work the Royal Anglians are doing in Afghanistan. My father belonged, at one time, to the Suffolk Regiment and I know he would also salute you if he was still here. I have lived in Canada for over 50 years but did serve in the RAF for a few years in the 1950's. Good luck to you all.
Alan Roy Capon, Picton, Ontario, Canada

well done lads you done great thank god yha home safe now R.I.P Private Aaron Mclure you did us all proud all thinking of yha xxxx
Tee, ipswich

Remembering you all out there most days, but especially on Veteran's Day...We may not show how much we care and appreciate what you all do, but deep down we care and are very, very proud of you all...We know how difficult it is for you guys - so, hang in there and trust in God! Peace will arrive through your hard work and negotiations...I feel the US will be pulling out next year. God speed you home.
pat & baz, Florida,USA (Ex Pat's)

to arrons family im so proud of u lot u r all in my heart we will never forget the hero who let us walk the streets safley xxxx R.I.P arronxxx never forgotten xx
lana, ipswich

We wish you all the best of luck guys and gals. Wishing you a Merry Christmas from everyone at Woodbridge Rugby Club. Come home safe. We are all thinking of you.
Woodbridge Rugby Club, Woodbridge

Well done boys we are thinking of you at this time of year especially, and we takes our hats off to you. God bless you all and keep you safe and home to your families in the UK soon. With love. xxxxx
Mrs Karen Cutler, Essex UK

Hi Guys and Girls Just wanted to say that my entire family are behind you all, you are doing a fantastic job in difficult conditions none more so that being away from family and friends at this time of year. I'm sure they are all thinking of you as are the rest of us. Keep strong and more importantly try your best to stay safe.
Philip Bates, Nottingham UK

The risks that you have to take are enormous. You are all doing a wonderful job. May god bless you and return you to your families safe and well. Peaceful Christmas wishes to you all
Brown Family, Ipswich

A really BIG callout to all you brave vikings, I pray and hope that your all well and keeping your spirits up!!! Your in our thoughts, THANKYOU for everything you do. LOVE YOU ARRON XXXXXXXXX THE DURCANS
ANDREA DURCAN, IPSWICH

Just like to thank you all very much for fighting for our country,please be safe,god bless you all!
annon, ipswich

My son will soon be joining the troops for a7 month tour . God be with all of you .
Gail Ash, Bath England

Arron RIP missin ya xxx
Emma, Barnsley

I come from a military family and appreciate what service life means for you all and what hardships you face. Thank you all for what you do on our behalf, this country has a great debt of gratitude to you all. Congratulations on your professionalism, you are a great example to every military force, and we respect your bravery. Our servicemen are not forgotten by the folks back home, we admire what you do and wish you a safe return. God bless you all.
Kay , Martlesham

My brother is in the royal anglians and I would just like to say that him and his mates are doing a great job and best of luck to them all
Chelle Booth, Leicester

I admire and respect you all. Stay safe.
Della, Ipswich

Are troops are the best in the world and the brittish people knowthese it is a pity the goverment of day let are troops down.All best to all our troops were ever they are.
peter. m., ipswich

Hi there, Just want to say THANK YOU to you all for doing a fantastic job out there, and to wish you all a safe return. You are in our thoughts. Take care
Lisa-Marie, Ipswich Suffolk

Lorraine Mclure i am sorry for your loss and mine too, my dad is Shaun Kemp I'm the one you met a few weeks ago. I hope all the troops come back from Afganistan soon, once again sorry for your loss.
Jake Kemp, Copdock

My little bro Bradley is now in germany , getting ready to go out to Iraq, we are so proud of you and wish all the lads going all the best xx
Alicia Hambling, ipswich

hi i just wanted to say i think you are all doing a great job and hope you all return home safe and well soon.
carolyn , layham

Well done guys and girls! very proud off you all. i have been in the Royal Anglians while teaching in the ACF. very proud to wear my beret and wear it with pride. 110% respect to you all! if ever i see a viking you can have a pint on me!
Lee Arthurs, Colchester

I,m proud to say the Royal Anglians are my local regiment.You soldiers make us all proud.You are supported and appreciated at home by us all. Stay safe and come back home injury free.The Ross Kemp series recently gave us all a really realistic(as it can be from home)picture of what you are all going through and the dangers you face.Just best wishes and good luck to you all.Ryan suffolk.
ryan day, hadleigh

You should all be extremely proud of yourselfs. I am an air cadet of 188(Ipswich) squadron, and I will hopefuly be out there fighting with the servicies ASAP. Im sure I speak for the Whole country when i say, Keep up the great work, and return home, and safe soon!
Jonathan Adams, Ipswich

to the service men and women fighting the war you are so strong.i personally cannot put myself in your or your family's position but they are also very strong. it may mean nothing but, thank you. for everything you are doing for giving up a normal life. You must be some of the most extraordinary people in the world. God Bless you. xx
lauren Gordon, Northern Ireland

Thank you all so very much for laying your lives on the line so that our lives are more secure. You have my full support and best wishes. Sincerely.
jean wheeler, Ipswich

You boys or should I say men! keep up the good work.your in my thoughts,we pray for you all when im in church on a sunday.
Michelle Edge, Ipswich Suffolk

Iwish to send a Message out to my son Moses Millard in Germany who I beleive will be stationed out in Iraq. To Say we all love him please keep safe and we will keep praying for you God Keep him safe Love From His Mother father Brother and Sisters laura and children.
Maureen I Millard, Germany

we are a family originally from Bedfordshire. My husband is a former para and ex special forces. My two sons have both served in the reserve defence force, one of whom is a serving officer still. We therfore have a good understanding of the trials and tribulations that you lads and lasses are going through daily. we wish you well and a safe return home. God bless you all.
valerie merrifield, Ireland

Keep up the good work always thinking about you especially Scott Morling the grand prix darts has started so hurry back and get your arrows out xxx My good wishes go to all servicemen and womenx
Ann Daniel, IPSWICH

i would like to say how proud i am of all of you guys over there fighting. there are no words that could be said to say how brave you all our. i wish you all well and you are all being thought of back here. come home safe love donna
donna, felixstowe

Was posted in Suffolk in the mid 1960's in U.S. Air Force. Have a special place in my heart for G.B. Thanks for what you are doing.
Paul Strickland, Tennessee, U.S.A.Thanks

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