Veteran is introduced to the PM (From Halesowen News)

Veteran is introduced to the PM

11:20am Wednesday 8th July 2009

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A DUDLEY veteran was introduced to the Prime Minister as part of the national celebrations for Armed Forces Week.

Gordon Willetts, aged 82, served in the 7th battalion of the Worcestershire Regiment in India from 1944 to 1948.

And since serving in the forces, still keeps himself actively involved with the community as vice chairman of the Dudley British Legion as well as vice chairman of the Civilian Air Corps.

Mr Willetts, of The Broadway, was introduced to Gordon Brown at Downing Street, by Dudley North MP Ian Austin.

The meeting, which took place on June 25 in the Prime Minister’s garden, gave Mr Willetts the opportunity to share his experiences with the country’s leader.

Gordon said: “It was a wonderful day, quite an experience.

“When we first went into Number 10, the Prime Minister was coming down a corridor and I was introduced to him and he shook my hand and he said ‘another Gordon’.”

Mr Willetts joined other veterans from around the country, as well as the PM’s wife, Sarah, at the event and even had the chance to show Mr Brown photographs of the war memorial in Coronation Gardens, which the legion secured funds for.

As well as the garden party with the Prime Minister, Mr Willetts also had the opportunity to look round Westminster and enjoyed the sunshine by having a pint out on the riverside terrace.

Ian Austin MP said: “I am delighted that I was able to introduce Gordon Willetts, a man I greatly respect for his bravery and sacrifice, to the Prime Minister.

“It should not be forgotten that men like him showed no fear when their country needed them most.

“Today brave men and women continue to fight to defend and promote the great British values of freedom, tolerance, fairness and democracy. It is important that we show them the respect and honour they deserve.”

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