Portland Port recognised for supporting military community
Portland Port has been recognised by the Ministry of Defence for going above and beyond in its support of the armed forces community.
It has been honoured with a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for its ongoing commitment to the military family – which includes personnel and their families, reservists, cadets, service leavers and veterans.
PORT SIGNS COVENANT: Portland Ports Chief Executive, Bill Reeves, left, signs the Armed Forces Covenant, attended by Brigadier Graeme Jock Fraser MBE, the Naval Regional Commander for Wales and West of England, onboard RFA Stirling Castle.
The prestigious achievement comes after the port signed the MoD’s Armed Forces Covenant in October 2023.
Portland Port, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, has a strong relationship with the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
Bill Reeves, Portland Port chief executive, said: “The port has proud links with the military which continue to the present day.
“It is an honour to receive the Silver Award in recognition of our engagement with the military community, which makes so many sacrifices and gives such incredible service to our country. We look forward to continuing to contribute to its wellbeing and success.”
Portland’s links with the Royal Navy date back to 1845 and, as a naval base, the port served an essential role in both world wars and during peacetime.
Royal Navy and RFA vessels remain familiar visitors. The port also supports Portland Sea Cadets and counts former service personnel among its employees.
The Silver Award honours employers that actively demonstrate their pledges made through the Armed Forces Covenant.
Mr Reeves signed the Armed Forces Covenant, attended by Brigadier Graeme Fraser, the then Naval Regional Commander for Wales and West of England, on board RFA Stirling Castle at the port in October 2023.
Following the announcement of the ERS Silver Award recipients, there will be a presentation ceremony on October 5 with the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset.
Major General Marc Overton (MSHQ-ACDS RFC), said: “Congratulations to all organisations receiving the ERS Silver Award.
“These employers are making a meaningful contribution to defence by supporting those who serve, while recognising the enormous value that reservists, veterans and military families bring to the workforce.
“In today’s increasingly uncertain global environment, strong partnerships between defence and employers are more important than ever. The commitment shown by this year’s Silver Award holders helps ensure the UK maintains resilient, capable and adaptable armed forces for the future.”
Portland Port opened in 1996 on the site of the area’s former Royal Naval Base.
Visit https://www.portland-port.co.uk/company/community/ for more information.
