PRIME MINISTER KEIR STARMER: “It’s a real privilege to be here and say something very simple but profoundly important: thank you. Millions back home are immensely proud of what you do.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered an impassioned address to British troops stationed at RAF Akrotiri this morning, extending his gratitude on behalf of the government and the British public for their dedication and service during a particularly challenging year.
Starmer began by acknowledging the sacrifices made by service personnel, particularly during the festive season. “It’s a real privilege to be here and say something very simple but profoundly important: thank you,” he said. “Millions back home are immensely proud of what you do.”
“Thank you for everything that you do for our country. And I say that as me. I say that as Prime minister, head of the government on behalf of the government. But I also importantly say on behalf of so many citizens back in the UK who would love to be able to stand here and see you and say thank you. Millions of people in the UK who would love to be on this stage, having the opportunity to personally say to you, thank you on their behalf, on behalf of their families and their communities for what you’re doing because they’re so proud of what you do. They don’t have that opportunity.
“But through me, I want to extend that to you, and I want you to feel that from across the whole of the country, because here you are, a long way from home. But back at home, everybody so appreciates what you were doing. And I think it’s very important at the end of the year as we come towards Christmas, I’ve seen some of the decorations up on my way in, but it is a period, to remember that not everybody here will necessarily have their family with them. Some will, some won’t. Many of you will be missing out on the wider family experience, back at home, but also, is the time to reflect towards the end of the year or what for you has been an incredibly busy year. When I say thank you. I want to extend that to all of your families and the staff and everybody that forms the team here, because they’ve also made a huge contribution.
The Prime Minister highlighted the pivotal role played by the troops in key operations throughout 2024, including Operation Shader, humanitarian aid drops in Gaza, and critical evacuation missions.
“This year has been extraordinarily busy. The challenges have been intense, and we’ve asked you time and again to step up,” he noted. “When making decisions in Downing Street, I had complete trust in your professionalism and readiness to act.”
Starmer also conveyed the confidence of international allies in Britain’s ability to respond to global crises, crediting the troops for upholding the nation’s reputation on the world stage.
Acknowledging the support systems behind every soldier, Starmer extended his thanks to the families and staff who contribute to the overall mission. “Your families and team here make a huge contribution, and their sacrifices do not go unnoticed,” he said.
He also expressed his awareness of the limitations surrounding the communication of sensitive operations. “Although we can’t always tell the world what you’re doing, the whole world relies on you, and so does everyone back at home.”
Starmer also underscored the critical importance of their service in an increasingly volatile world.
“There’s no higher service than what you give to our country. You make the UK and our allies safe in a turbulent time. Your service is the highest form of dedication,” he stated.
The Prime Minister closed his speech by wishing the troops a moment of respite over the holiday period. “I hope you find a little time to reflect and relax after a year of incredible service. Thank you for making us proud,” he said, leaving the troops with a message of national gratitude.
This visit to RAF Akrotiri comes as part of Starmer’s broader commitment to connect directly with the Armed Forces and to reaffirm his government’s dedication to their well-being and operational success.
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