New chair of AJEX commits to veterans’ welfare and education

Mike Bluestone, a former Territorial Army signaller and veteran of the IDF, takes over the reigns at the Jewish Military Association from Colonel Martin Newman

A former a Territorial Army signaller and veteran of the IDF has been elected as the new National Chairman of the The Jewish Military Association UK (AJEX).

Mike Bluestone has committed to focus on “veterans’ welfare and education” as he takes over the reigns from Colonel Martin Newman, who finishes his two year term.

A security executive, the incoming chair intends to support AJEX’s recently introduced ‘cradle to grave’ approach, supporting personnel during and after their service.

“Through its ongoing support for initiatives such the WW1 ‘We Were There Too’ educational project, and the recent highly successful ‘Veterans Games’ for British and Israeli disabled veterans which was held in Israel, AJEX will be further focusing on veterans’ welfare and education”, he said.

Bluestone added he has “been impressed by the by positivity, optimism, and enthusiasm within AJEX for the associations’ future”, and that the organisation is “firmly committed” to holding its annual parade at the Cenotaph.

He said in order to encourage increasing numbers at this year’s event, “membership is open to all – service in the armed forces isn’t a requirement.”

AJEX also announced that serving army reservist, Sgt. Dan Fox, was elected as deputy chairman.

Outgoing chairman, Colonel Newman, said: “I am delighted that AJEX is in good hands with Mike Bluestone at the helm assisted by Dan Fox and the executive officers and staff. I wish them well for what I am sure is going to be successful tour of office.”