Newly Elected MP Brendan O’Hara Attends Lochgilphead Armed Forces Day

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Brendan O’Hara MP observes parade

First visit for local MP after re-election to Armed Forces Day

Brendan O’Hara, re-elected as MP for Argyll and Bute, took the opportunity to show his support for the Armed Forces by attending the Armed Forces Day held in Lochgilphead, Saturday 10th of June. 
Following the parade led by Balaklava Pipe Band, Mr O’Hara took part in the inspection of the Veterans, serving personnel and Cadets and even included the star of the show, army mascot and Shetland pony Cruachan IV along with his handler Major Corporal Mark Wilkinson.

Brendan O’Hara MP with Major Corporal Mark Wilkinson and Cruachan IV

After the event, Mr O’Hara said

“I am delighted that my first engagement after my re-election is to take part in the Argyll and Bute’s Armed Forces Day here in Lochgilphead.  This is my third year running that I have attended and is a firm fixture in my diary; I wouldn’t miss it.  This is a particularly poignant year which commemorates 100 years since the Battle of Arras and 50 years since the Aden conflict were so many lives were lost and is an opportunity for the community to recognise the work and dedication of our armed forces past and present. On behalf of the people of Argyll and Bute, I say thank you.”

Brendan O’Hara MP with Major Claire Luti and Col Brian Hume

Along with Col. Brian Hume of Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Army Cadet Force, Mr O’Hara also presented Major Claire Luti with a 12 years long service medal for her commitment to Cadet Associations.  Major Luti became the first female to take up the post of Commanding Officer of Cadets in Stirling and after a busy 2 years has now been given the task to take forward the Argyll Cadets.

Mr O’Hara in paying tribute to Major Luti said

“I first met Major Luti when I was invited to take part in exercises with the Lochgilphead Cadets and thought she was truly inspirational and a first class role model for our young cadets.  This medal is very well deserved recognising her contribution to Cadet Associations over the years and I wish her continued success.”

Mr O’Hara was re-elected as Member of Parliament for Argyll and Bute at the General Election held on 8th of June.