23 Nov 2007 | Ref. 368/2007
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Jennifer sends off Forces' Christmas Box
London, UK - Force’s Favourite and actress Jennifer Ellison joined soldiers, sailors and airmen at Regent’s Park Barracks in London today to wave off the last of 24,500 Christmas gift boxes, or ‘square stockings’ as they are affectionately known, destined for UK Armed Forces personnel on operational duties overseas this Christmas.
The Christmas box scheme, developed by charity organisation UK4Uthanks in partnership with BAE Systems and other sponsors, provides festive cheer for service personnel who are away from their loved ones at Christmas. The contents of the boxes are top secret until their opening on 25 December but every item chosen is fun or useful. The scheme which began in 2004 found its inspiration from gift boxes sent to those serving in the trenches during the First World War.
Jennifer who dressed as ‘Santa’s helper’ for the occasion said, “I’m really pleased to be working with UK4U and BAE Systems to show my support for the men and women protecting us around the world.”
Mike Turner, Chief Executive of BAE Systems added: “BAE Systems is committed to supporting the armed forces and their families all year round. We’re pleased to show our thanks and appreciation to those who put their lives on the line for us all - we're proud to contribute to the Christmas box scheme for the third year running.”
BAE Systems, the biggest supplier of equipment to the UK armed forces earlier this month donated £250,000 to help provide accommodation for families visiting injured armed forces personnel.
The company is actively involved in supporting the work of Combat Stress and the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association and a proud supporter of the USO, a private non-profit organisation which provides assistance for US military personnel and their families.
About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier global defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 96,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £15 billion (US $27 billion) in 2006*.
* On a pro forma basis, assuming BAE Systems had owned Armor Holdings Inc for the whole of 2006
For further information, please contact:
John Neilson, BAE Systems
Tel:+ 44(0) 1252 384795 Mob +44(0)7802 337704
John.neilson@baesystems.com
Kate Watcham, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 383550 Mob: +44 (0)7793 420731
kate.watcham@baesystems.com
Issued by:
BAE Systems, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 6YU, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 384719 Fax: +44 (0) 1252 383947
24hr media hotline: + 44 (0) 7801 717739
www.baesystems.com
