Service Marks End Of Afghanistan Conflict

The Queen has led the nation in paying tribute to those who served in Afghanistan over the last 13 years.

Veterans of the campaign as well as next of kin of the 453 service personnel killed in the war attended the special service at St Paul's Cathedral in London.

They were joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, who himself served two tours in Afghanistan.

Prime Minister David Cameron, other political figures and members of the military were also at the service.

A ceremony has also been held in Kabul.

During the service in London, the Archbishop of Canterbury thanked those who fought in Afghanistan.

In his address, the Most Rev Justin Welby said: "Today is a moment for us to say thank you: thank you to all who served, whatever your role.

"We thank you for your faithfulness: you who left family behind, you who trained hard, you who did not turn from danger, you who suffered injury and you who risked yourselves to care for the injured.

"I'm told that each wounded person was supported by up to 80 others by the time they got home. Great is your faithfulness.

"We also thank those of you who stayed behind, who let your loved ones go: you who worried for their safety each day and took your phone to your bedside each night, you who lived with the pining of children, as well as your own fears. Great is your faithfulness."

"And we honour the faithfulness of all those who gave up their lives to give peace and security for others."

Prayers were said for those who were killed in the conflict, for families left behind while their loved ones served and for the Afghan people and its leaders.

A Memorial Cross made from used shell cases was processed through St Paul's Cathedral by representatives from the RAF, Royal Navy and Army.

After being blessed by the Archbishop, it was taken to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire as part of a permanent installation.

After the service, a parade of servicemen marched through the streets of London ending at the Guildhall in the City.

It was made up of veterans representing many parts of the military.

There was also a flypast of aircraft that flew in the conflict: a Sea King helicopter, two Chinooks and two Apaches, followed by an RAF C-130 Hercules and two Tornado fast jets.

Various members of the Royal Family then hosted three receptions at the Honourable Artillery Company, Horse Guards Parade, and the Guildhall.