Remembrance at No.10: Honouring Service and Sacrifice in our Armed Forces Community

Attending a Remembrance reception at 10 Downing Street on Friday, 8th November, was a deeply meaningful experience that captured the heart of our mission at X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) and reinforced our unwavering commitment to the Armed Forces community. Being invited to celebrate and recognise the dedication of veterans, service members, and their families at the highest level of government served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice.

Walking through the iconic black door of No.10 with our XFE and Soldiering On Awards representatives, Major Daljinder Singh Virdee MBE and Phill Jones, an Army veteran and confectionary entrepreneur known as The Chocolate Soldier, was an inspiring moment. Each of them embodies the resilience, commitment, and strength that define the Armed Forces family. In a particularly moving gesture, Daljinder presented Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer with a Sikh Subedar silhouette, honouring the contributions of Sikh soldiers in British history. Phill, a shining example of entrepreneurial success, offered the Prime Minister a box of his signature chocolates—a testament to his transition from military service to civilian success, supported by XFE’s self-employment workshops.

This gathering represented a moment of unity, where bereaved family members, reservists, currently serving personnel, and veterans stood side by side. The presence of leaders such as Defence Secretary John Healey and Minister for Veterans and People Al Carns underscored the collective support for our Armed Forces family and reinforced the importance of remembering those who have served, are serving, and will serve.

Each encounter during the reception reaffirmed the significance of our work at XFE. For us, Remembrance is far more than a single day; it is a year-round commitment to support the Armed Forces community, honouring their service and empowering them to thrive in new chapters of their lives. The values of resilience, service, and respect are woven into every story, strengthening the fabric of our society as a whole.

As we move forward, it is always a privilege to stand with our community and renew our dedication to their welfare. This legacy of service is one we’re honoured to carry forward with purpose and gratitude.

We will remember them.