Veterans' honour for North Ayrshire councillor vowing to fly flag for armed forces

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A lifelong affiliation with the armed forces makes Jim Montgomerie immensely proud of his new role.North Ayrshire’s new veterans’ champion is very much in his element following his appointment to one of the key roles within the council.Councillor Montgomerie has vowed to be a dedicated advocate for former servicemen and women.Indeed, close friends and members of his own family have served in the forces – with two of his great uncles making the ultimate sacrifice during the Second World War.“I’m incredibly proud and honoured to be chosen as North Ayrshire’s veterans’ champion,” said Councillor Montgomerie.“It’s a cause very close to my heart and I pledge to do everything in my power to help veterans and pursue issues on their behalf.The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now.Get all the local news in your area – plus features, football news and the latest on the coronavirus crisis – at your fingertips 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories while you can customise your page with the sections that matter to you.The Ayrshire Live app is available to download now on iOS and Android.“I have been a huge supporter of the armed forces from a very early age, with members of my family serving.”Two of Councillor Montgomerie’s great uncles – brothers Hugh and William Montgomerie – are commemorated on Saltcoats war memorial for their sacrifice during WWII.The 100th anniversary of the war memorial’s unveiling in 1922 was marked in May with a special ceremony organised by Councillor Montgomerie, who added: “The war memorial means a lot to me personally with William and Hugh Montgomerie remembered there.“I was humbled to organise and speak at the 100th anniversary of the memorial in May.“I