Lord Howe giving his keynote speech. (Photo: MoD)

The Armed Forces Muslim Forum celebrated Eid with members of the Muslim community in HMS President on July 24.

Defence Minister Lord Howe, Chief of Defence People Lieutenant Gen Richard Nugee, and Commander Home Command Lieutenant General Bashall hosted the Eid dinner centred on the theme of being driven and united by common values and purpose. Lord Howe, in his keynote speech, highlighted how the Armed Forces and Muslim community often experience stereotyping and misconceptions.

“It is wonderful to be celebrating the end of Ramadan together, and in doing so celebrating the important role the Muslim community plays in our Armed Forces.

“There is far more that unites us than divides us, and by working together we are building a diverse force which is, therefore, a stronger force, enhancing our cultural and linguistic skills for our operations at home and abroad,” he said.

In his speech, Lord Howe praised the Muslim community for their generosity and resilience in the face of recent events, including the devastating Grenfell Tower and the Finsbury Park attack. The Minister then turned to the “unknown” humanitarian efforts of the Armed forces, where personnel show “the same values at home and on operations overseas”.

Brigadier Peter Cameron, from the Ministry of Defense Operation Directorate, gave a presentation on the UK Armed Forces’ recent humanitarian operations. Sergeant Ahmed Dhalai described his experience of helping to rescue migrants off the coast of North Africa, where he was able “to use his linguistic skills and cultural background to carry out his tasks compassionately, showing the importance of building a diverse force.”

Colonel Steve Davies spoke about his role in efforts to foster peace and security in South Sudan, and Major Naveed Muhammad spoke about his duties in the fight against Ebola in Sierra Leone.