Nottinghamshire Provincial Grand Master Philip Graham Marshall signs Armed Forces Covenant

What is the Armed Forces Covenant?

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, including the bereaved, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society they serve with their lives.

Its two principles are that, recognising the unique obligations of, and sacrifices made by, the Armed Forces:

• Those who serve in the Armed Forces, whether Regular or Reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services.

• Special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a8152b0e5274a2e87dbcff3/20161215-The-Armed-Forces-Covenant.pdf

The Provincial Grand Master for Nottinghamshire is seen sat at a desk along with Major Stephen Goodwin of Joint Military Command -Centre as both sign two copies of the Covenant

The Covenant was also signed by the Grand Master HRH The Duke of Kent in Oct 2021 on behalf of UGLE but todays signing illustrates the importance the Province of Nottinghamshire places on the importance of the Armed Forces Covenant locally and how Freemasonry can uphold its aims and values and to illustrate this Philip Marshall stated the following

Signing of the

Armed Forces Covenant

9 June 2025

There is no doubt that the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant by both the Province of Nottinghamshire and representatives of the King’s Armed Services is both a special and historic moment.

There is a long and deep history between Freemasonry and the military and I have no doubt that the partnership has been singularly beneficial to both parties.

For centuries those serving under the Colours have found the key values of Freemasonry, namely Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service, align with their principles.  It is not surprising therefore that many former servicemen and women find that the friendship they experience in their Lodges is similar to the fellowship and support they encountered during their time in the military.  Without question, however, the engagement by those who have served or still serve King and Country benefits the Lodge and Freemasonry in general as well as providing those with a military background with an opportunity to develop in the civilian world.

The signing of this document can only further enhance the partnership which has existed for many years between two fine institutions; through formally recognising a very special relationship.

Philip G Marshall

Provincial Grand Master

Also seen in the images is Roger Cheetham and Alan Yates whose tireless work has helped bring this association to this very special and successful conclusion, which forms the basis of our future joint success with the Covenant

Also pictured are Capt Mark Giles and Kirstie Parker, both also instrumental in todays success