The annual report showcases the leadership and dedication of Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE, in promoting the interests of veterans and service personnel.
In April 2024, one of the standout achievements was Dumfries and Galloway’s success at the Scottish Veterans Awards. The region was a finalist in several categories, including Employer of the Year and Councillor Dryburgh was honoured with the Role Model of the Year award – recognising his commitment and leadership in supporting veterans.
In May 2024, Dumfries and Galloway hosted the Royal British Legion Scotland Annual Conference at The Bridge in Dumfries – the first time in two decades that the event had been held outside Perth.
The conference attracted more than 150 delegates, including senior figures from Legion Scotland and the Scottish Veterans Commissioner.
Councillor Dryburgh played a key role in liaising with national and local branches to ensure the event’s success.
The council also marked the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings in June 2024 with a series of commemorative events in Garlieston, reflecting the area’s historic role in preparations for the Normandy invasion.
These events brought together veterans, community members and partner organisations to honour this significant milestone.
Community engagement remained a priority throughout the year with Armed Forces Week, the Festival of Remembrance and wreath-laying ceremonies at every war memorial across Dumfries and Galloway.
These acts of remembrance were warmly received by local communities and reinforced the council’s commitment to honouring service and sacrifice.
Further progress was made through the DG First Contact Group, chaired by Councillor Dryburgh, which developed an Armed Forces Covenant Action Plan. The work of the DG First Contact Group will include the creation of a shared web resource and a training module to raise awareness among partner organisations, ensuring continued support for veterans and their families.
Convener of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Councillor Katie Hagmann, said:
"We recognise that our Armed Forces community have strong roots within Dumfries and Galloway and this report demonstrates the outstanding work being done to support them. We are proud of the leadership shown by Councillor Dryburgh and the positive impact this has on veterans and their families across our region."
Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE, added:
"It is an honour to serve as Armed Forces Champion and to work alongside partners and communities to ensure our veterans and wider armed forces community receive the recognition and support they deserve. Hosting national events and commemorating historic milestones reflects the deep respect we hold for those who have served."
In recognition of his exceptional service to local government, Councillor Dryburgh received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) in September 2025.
The council remains committed to delivering its Armed Forces Covenant and ensuring that the needs of veterans and service personnel are fully considered in local policy and planning.
The agenda and papers for the 11 December meeting – which include the “Dumfries and Galloway Council Armed Forces Champion Annual Report 2025/2025” report (Item 17) – are available on the council’s website at: https://dumfriesgalloway.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=137&MId=6211.