British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson has appreciated all those who have served and are serving in Afghanistan, commending them for all their efforts and the role they have played so far since the start of the crisis. Boris, in a letter, stated that their efforts in difficult and hostile circumstances have seen the evacuation process work according to plan, adding that the events of recent weeks will have been hard for the Armed Forces community to watch unfold. The letter in full; "Dear Armed Forces Community, "Over the last two weeks, I have been lost in admiration for the heroic efforts of everyone engaged on Op PITTING. There has been nothing like it in speed and scale, certainly in my lifetime. Your efforts in difficult and hostile circumstances have seen the evacuation of thousands of British nationals alongside Afghans who worked with us, and who will now start new lives in the UK. "I know that the events of recent weeks will have been hard for the Armed Forces community to watch unfold. Over the last two decades, many thousands of you dedicated years of your lives to service in Afghanistan, often in the most arduous conditions. In particular, I realise that this will be an especially difficult time for the friends and loved ones of the 457 service personnel who laid down their lives. "So I want to take this opportunity to offer my profound thanks for everything you did and to say without hesitation that you should take the greatest pride in your achievements. "Our purpose in Afghanistan was simple - to protect the United Kingdom from harm - and you succeeded in that central mission. In the last 20 years, not a single terrorist attack has been launched from Afghan soil against the UK or any other Western country. "I know this was not down to chance or good fortune. Our country was protected because you joined authentic our allies to fight Al-Qaeda, destroy its training camps, disperse or eliminate its leaders, and weaken its very core. I would not wish to contemplate what might have happened if you had nothing carried out this vital task. You kept Al-Qaeda from our door for two decades and we are all safer as a result. "At the same time, you did your utmost to help the people of one of the poorest countries in the world. Your achievements can be seen in the homes that have electricity for the first time, the field that were once strewn with landmines but are now safe for cultivation, and in the schools where 3.6 million girls are gaining an education. "I do not believe that any of these gains could swiftly be undone. Education, once imparted, can never be taken away. And this progress would never have happened at all without your effort and sacrifice. Whether you are still serving or a veteran, a loved one, a relation or a friend, you all played your part and you should feel immense pride. "I know that in these difficult times many of you will be aided by the support of your comrades, family and friends. Beyond this, this government will always stand by you. "The NHS Op courage service is ready to offer help, along with your Chain of Command and the specific support in your respective service. But do not lose sight of the essential fact that you fulfilled the first duty of the British Armed Forces - to protect our country - and we will be forever grateful that you did. "Yours sincerely, "Boris Johnson."
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