Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity for people to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.
Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday each June. This year’s Armed Forces Day activities begin on Monday 21 June when the Armed Forces Day flag is raised on buildings and landmarks around the country.
Showing support for the Armed Forces provides a morale boost for the those who are currently on active duty and their families.
The UK Armed Forces defend the UK and its interests. They are busy working around the world, promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security, and countering terrorism.
To find out more about what activities our Armed Forces are involved in see: Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force
A veteran is anyone who has served in HM Armed Forces at any time (including National Servicemen, Regulars and Reserves). Armed Forces Day celebrates their continued role within the military community. See: Veterans-UK website
Reservists give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, balancing their civilian life with a military career to ensure that, if necessary, they would be ready to serve.
The Cadet Forces (Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, Air Cadets, and the Combined Cadet Force) currently support over 130,000 young people in more than 3,000 locations around the UK as they learn life and career skills and vocational qualifications.
Although Armed Forces Day is not a charitable event, the Armed Forces have the support of several UK charities and many local events will offer opportunities to support them. See: here For Armed Forces Day activities in Dumfries and Galloway see: www.dumgal.gov.uk
Councillor Archie Dryburgh, Armed Forces Champion for Dumfries and Galloway Council, said: “The exceptional and challenging circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic over the last year mean that, again, the week leading up to Armed Forces Day will be different from previous years. But, as we celebrate the centenary of the Royal British Legion Scotland and the Poppy Appeal, we’re still determined to show our appreciation for those who currently serve and who have served in our armed forces. As we continue to be restricted in our activities by Corona-19, It’s important that we still show our resolve and commitment to our service personnel, past and present. So, as holders of the Gold Award in the Employers’ Recognition Scheme and as part of our commitment to our Armed Forces Covenant, we’ll raise flags around the region from Monday. And, during the rest of the week, each day, we’ll share a programme of events through the Council’s Facebook.”
