With the end of the firefighters’ dispute – in which the Navy provided widespread emergency cover – has come a vote of thanks for the Armed Forces from Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott.

“Their professionalism and dedication was a major factor in bringing this dispute to a satisfactory conclusion,” he wrote to Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon, confirming that Operation Fresco could now be stood down permanently after a dispute which lasted almost a year.

Said Mr Hoon: “I join the Deputy Prime Minister in thanking all those personnel – both Service and civilian – who have contributed either directly or in support.
“ This task, stretching over almost a year, was done in a manner that reflects the greatest credit on all those who took part.

“In all phases of the operation, whether during training, deployment or recovery, you rose to the challenge and endured the disruption this brought to your regular duties and to your personal and family life.

“Your commitment to this additional task and your achievements in saving lives in fires and other incidents throughout the United Kingdom deservedly earned the gratitude of the Government and of the public. Well done.”

Chief of Defence Staff General Sir Michael Walker added: “Although the original remit of the Armed Forces was to provide life-saving cover, this has been exceeded throughout the Armed Forces with the professional response to the full range of fires, road traffic accidents and miscellaneous incidents that have been faced.

“The actions of all our deployed Fresco elements, across all three Services and the Defence Fire Service, have been magnificent and widely praised.

“In all four areas of our deployment, from the defensive firefighting of the Green, Yellow and Red Goddesses, the offensive firefighting of the breathing apparatus rescue teams and regional equipment support teams, to the co-ordination by the Joint Operations Control Centres and security personnel, all played their part in minimising danger and loss of life to the public.

“Although the Armed Forces could not seek to replicate the firefighting capabilities which are provided by the local authorities, the desire of our men and women to do their best with their normal steadfast resolution and ‘can do’ attitude has impressed both the public and Government alike.”

General Walker concluded that he was “keenly aware” that it had been another major commitment at a time when the operational tempo of the Armed Forces was at an unusually high level.

“You met the demands placed upon you. I congratulate all on their contribution to the successful support to the civil authorities, enhancing the reputation of the Armed Forces along the way.”