Our city will be celebrated for its role in the Falklands

When the Falklands War broke out in 1982 between the United Kingdom and Argentina over two British dependent territories, our city was thrust into the action.

Within a matter of days after the undeclared war began, aircraft carriers HMS Invincible and Hermes left the Portsmouth Naval Base on a mission to assist the effort to reclaim the islands at stake. On board were sailors from all over the country, but namely from our city.

The role our city played in assisting a UK victory should not be undermined. Portsmouth was critical in the liberation of British territory, with thousands of military personnel setting sail from the city as well as preparing the ships the Royal Navy needed during the conflict.

The 40th anniversary of the Falklands War is due next year and it is great that our city will honour the role which it played during the 10-week conflict.

The tribute is set to see ‘significant’ parades through the streets of Portsmouth, with the city tipped to be the focus of a national effort to honour the war. Among the ideas to honour the event, there could be a national conference within the city, parade and commemoration ceremony.

However, rather sensibly, no commitments have been made to plans just yet due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Our city is being awarded the recognition it deserves for the vital role it played and it is something we can all support and celebrate. It will also serve as an opportunity to teach the young people of our city about its involvement in 1982.

Penny Mordaunt, Portsmouth North MP and former defence secretary, said: ‘Portsmouth was fundamental to our response and I know so many in our city will have such vivid memories of it.

‘As well as commemoration, we also need to ensure those stories are captured for future generations.’