TODAY (June 26) marks Armed Forces Day and the Mayor of Hounslow, Bishnu Gurung, has praised the Armed Forces' contribution.

He said: "Armed Forces Day holds a special place in my heart, having served in the British Armed Forces Brigade of Gurkha from 1976-1995.

"I served in Hong Kong, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, the UK, and Germany during my time in the Army.

"A soldier's life is not an easy one and I know the commitment, sacrifices and dedication that serving men and women of the Armed Forces makes every day to ensure the safety of our country and people.

"I would like to thank each one of them for their courage and fortitude.

"As division secretary and caseworker for SSAFA (Soldiers, Airmen and Families Association) I would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness of the work they do helping provide lifelong support to soldiers, veterans and their families.

"Hounslow has many veterans and serving Armed Forces men and women who add to the rich tapestry of our community and I will continue to work hard to ensure their contributions are recognised and celebrated."