Writing in a national newspaper last weekend, the Archbishop paid tribute to the brave servicemen and women who put their lives on the line on a daily basis. 

Dr Sentamu has also expressed his support for Community Covenants which aim to strengthen relationships between military and civilian communities.  The Community Covenant was launched in May 2011 and already has received formal support from over half of Yorkshire and North East local authorities.

The Archbishop said: “Our bereaved families and our veterans, injured or able-bodies, young or old need recognition for what they have given for this country.  They give their time and skills and are prepared to risk their lives on behalf of us all, and for some this means the ultimate sacrifice.  Her Majesty’s forces need our support, not only when they are on military operations overseas but when they are home too.  The values of courage, discipline, respect for others, integrity, loyalty and selfless commitment make a ‘force for good’ for all”.

18 of 34 local authorities in Yorkshire and the North East have already signed a Community Covenant. The Archbishop said: “It’s fantastic to have this support, and I would encourage others to join these agreements.”

The Community Covenant agreements aim to recognise and remember the sacrifices faced by the Armed Forces community and to encourage the Armed Forces to help and support the wider community through participation in events and joint projects.  Under the Community Covenant Grant Scheme, communities are invited to apply for funding for projects which promote closer ties with, or a greater understanding of, the military in the local community.

The City of York Council endorsed the York Community Covenant Agreement in December 2011.   For more information on the York Community Covenant partnership, please visit: http://www.york.gov.uk/news/newsarchive/2011/december/PR2412

For media enquiries relating to the Archbishop of York, please contact Kerron Cross (Director of Communications) on +44 07738 354491.