Moray Council is poised to “reinforce its commitment” to the region’s armed forces families.
The local authority’s community planning board has been asked to approve plans to sign up to the Moray Armed Forces Covenant – an agreement which pledges continuing support to the area’s present and past military personnel.
If the plans are endorsed, council representatives will meet RAF Lossiemouth top brass in October to sign official documents at the base.
An initial document was signed in 2012, but council and military bosses believe it should be “refreshed” to reflect the changes the area’s armed forces have experienced since then.
RAF Kinloss has closed and been transformed into an Army barracks since then, while RAF Lossiemouth will undergo significant expansion in the coming years as a fleet of Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft arrive at the station.
Moray Council’s armed forces champion, Chris Tuke, said the document was in need of renewal.
Mr Tuke, who also represents the Heldon and Laich ward on the authority, added: “This seems like an appropriate time to refresh our agreement, we are nearing the end of this term of the council and we want to stress our commitment to the services.
“We have quite a close bond with our Army and RAF commanders, and that looks like it will continue.”
The covenant is intended to “encourage support” for personnel working and living in Moray and to “recognise and remember” the sacrifices made by those who have died serving their country.
It also asks servicemen and women to help their local communities.
The Lord Lieutenant of Moray, Grenville Johnston, and Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire, Clare Russell, are also sign.
