The Historic Dockyard Chatham has won the competition to host the first national Armed Forces Day event on 27 June 2009, which will be complemented by hundreds of events in towns and cities across the UK.
The Dockyard is set in the heart of an area rich in military and Defence history. Tens of thousands of Service men and women have served, passed though, or retired here, or as civilians have worked for the Royal Navy in the Royal Dockyard or for other naval establishments on the Medway.
Admiral Sir Ian Garnett KCB, Chairman of the Chatham Historic Dockland Trust, said:
It is both an honour and a privilege for The Historic Dockyard Chatham, in the heart of Medway, Kent, to be the venue for the UK’s first National Armed Forces Day. With over 400 years of military history, we are looking forward to arranging a family event that will recognise the many achievements of today’s Armed Forces and veterans.
Plans for the event are still being finalised, and will include:
- Have-a-go displays and activities with the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force
- Free entry to Medway attractions for Veterans Badge holders and current members of the Armed Forces
- Celebratory peals of bells from the Churches of Medway
- Fly-pasts and aerial displays.
Rodney Chambers, Leader of Medway Council, said:
I am delighted that The Historic Dockyard Chatham – the very heart of the area’s heritage – has been chosen as the venue for the first National Armed Forces Day. The people of Medway look forward to welcoming representatives from our current Armed Forces and Veterans communities, with their friends and families, at what will be a most prestigious event. Medway Council together with other organisations are working with Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust to offer a varied programme of exciting events, activities and offers throughout the week in support of the big day.