Special Armed Forces flag raising ceremonies to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week took place in Hereford earlier today, along with the five market towns and at the County Hospital.
The County’s Rifles Colonel, Col Andy Taylor DL, Civic Leaders and senior figures from the Armed Forces attended the event in High Town, Hereford, with invited guests representing military charities and the veteran community. Onlookers were treated to special tributes by pupils from Holmer C of E Academy, Riverside and Sutton Primary School.
Armed Forces Week (23-28 June) is a chance to give thanks to the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets. The flag-raising events traditionally mark the start of a weeklong programme of public events leading up to Armed Forces Day, which this year will be hosted at the Old Market Shopping Centre in Hereford from 10.30 am.
His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire Mr Edward Harley said:
I am delighted that Flag Raising, the start of Armed Forces week, has taken place in High Town, Hereford and in the county’s market towns this year. The recent 80th Anniversary of VE Day and the forthcoming anniversary of VJ Day serve as a reminder of the importance of our Armed Forces.
The culmination of Armed Forces Week will be Armed Forces Day on Saturday 28 June, in Hereford City hosted by British Land in The Old Market. I hope as many people as possible will attend to show support for all those involved with the Armed Forces.
Councillor Peter Stoddard MBE, Chair of the Herefordshire Armed Forces Covenant Partnership, added:
Today, as we mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week, I am proud to honour and thank our servicemen, women, veterans and their families for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice. Recognising the vital contributions of those who serve or have served in the armed forces; their commitment to our safety and freedom is the backbone of our community.
Prior to the event in High Town, a special flag-raising event took place at the County Hospital.
Ali Bolton, Associate Director of Improvement for Wye Valley NHS Trust, said:
We are delighted to mark Armed Forces Day with the raising of the flag at Hereford County Hospital. We are proud to have former members of the Armed Forces working and volunteering in our Trust, and we also wish to recognise our colleagues whose family members are currently serving in the Armed Forces.
Visit www.herefordshire.gov.uk/armedforcesevents for further details on armed forces events and news.