On this day, we pause in quiet reflection to honour those who gave their lives in service. We thank all those who have served, and we think of all those still living with the impact of conflict, including veterans, their loved ones and the bereaved. #LestWeForget

A very busy October with engagements ranging from conferences to support group visits, and of course the start of the Remembrance period, which brought a number of moving, reflective events. Read more in my latest monthly round-up: https://t.co/oujztpAPTB

Pleased to return to the Police Scotland Armistice event to provide an update on the policy context for veterans & lay a wreath in remembrance. Great to hear about the revalidation of their Defence Employer Recognition Gold award & the developing role of their veterans champions.

It was a privilege to speak at @ScotHousingNet's Annual Gathering yesterday. Kevin McLeod from @ScotVetRes joined me to share a powerful & personal story which highlighted the challenges some veterans face when securing housing - and how support & collaboration can address them.

Applications are open for a range of roles within @VeteransGovUK, working to deliver the new VALOUR programme which aims to transform support for veterans across the UK. You can search for positions using the search term VALOUR at ➡️ https://t.co/rkIpqtSiv5

A really valuable day of collaboration in action at the Unforgotten Forces Autumn Gathering yesterday. Great to see so many organisations, including new members, coming together to share experience, insights and practice in supporting older veterans across Scotland.

A minor clan gathering at the #ScottishPoppyAppeal launch at Holyrood last night, meeting Major Del Hamilton and Captain Sean Hamilton. A meaningful start to Remembrance, and to the vital fundraising period that helps provide life-changing support for the veteran community.

I was delighted to meet LGBT veterans Janice and Kent who had both travelled from Scotland for the event. The memorial stands as a powerful symbol of Remembrance, recognition and progress, ensuring that every veteran’s service is valued and respected.

This poignant memorial honours those who served with courage and pride, including LGBT+ veterans who endured harmful treatment under the ban on homosexuality in the Armed Forces which remained in place until the year 2000. (Pictured with @walesvetcomm James Phillips)

Yesterday I was honoured to attend the dedication of the new LGBT+ Veterans Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum, held in the presence of his Majesty The King.

It was a pleasure to welcome Scottish Veterans Commissioner, Susie Hamilton to our Linburn Centre last week! She had a packed day of activities and got to see first-hand how support from Sight Scotland Veterans helps to combat isolation and build confidence and community.

It was a pleasure to meet veterans and staff at @SightScotVets' Linburn Centre last week and hear about the activities, support and friendship that make such a difference. Inspiring to see visually impaired veterans supported to lead active, independent, and fulfilling lives.

After the service I was delighted to meet Roy Geddes MC, Regional Manager of Erskine's Activity centres in Bishopton and Forres.

The opening of the Garden of Remembrance at Kelvingrove in Glasgow yesterday was a deeply moving occasion. The Lord Provost, Armed Forces personnel, MSPs and the veteran community came together to honour those who gave their lives for our freedom, and the loved ones left behind.

Edinburgh's Garden of Remembrance was opened today with a moving service. I was delighted to catch up with Sheila Elrick, Chair of @LegionScotland's Women's Section.

The Scottish Veterans Fund is open for applications & I look forward to chairing the panel. I hope to see the commendable projects delivering expert help to the veteran community come forward for funding. Find out more: https://t.co/nglBax63eZ & apply before December 5th.

A valuable day of insight with updates & networking at Firm Base conference arranged by 51 Bde. Encouraging to hear the range of support for Serving people, families & veteran community. Although there’s still work to do to ensure none are disadvantaged because of Service.

Today, The SVC Office was represented at a moving & poignant re-dedication ceremony for the newly restored Scottish Veterans Residences memorial. In Edinburgh’s Eastern Cemetary, it carries the names of more than 220 veterans who lived at Whitefoord House from 1911 onwards.

This year’s Progress Report marked a major milestone, with no recommendations rated red for the first time. In my latest blog, I reflect on a decade of progress and the importance of ensuring it leads to meaningful change for the veteran community. More: https://t.co/cBtm8bRAbK

It was a huge pleasure to meet Margaret and Ryan from @SSAFA last week to discuss the charity's invaluable support to the bereaved community in particular. As always, the empathy, warmth and compassion of the SSAFA team shone through.