Who’s supporting Armed Forces Day
Our military veterans and Servicemen and women really appreciate the support of people from all walks of life. You can see messages from some of their more recognisable supporters below, but you can also join in by showing yours here.
Some of the images include video messages – click on the arrows to view.
To all UK armed forces I, like everyone I know, feel only massive respect and gratitude and admiration. All the very best, Hugh Grant, poncey actor.
60 years on and I am still sending messages of support and good wishes to our boys and girls serving overseas. Best wishes to you all, and safe return home. Dame Vera Lynn DBE
I salute all those in our Armed Forces, past and present, who put their lives on the line for the rest of us. Michael Palin CBE FRGS
"Our Armed Forces make a huge contribution on behalf of our country every day, in really challenging and difficult circumstances. That is why it is so important that our Servicemen and women know that they can rely on great public support.
I am proud to be supporting Armed Forces Day, which will see people attending events across the country on Saturday 26 June to show just how important our troops are to them."
~ Rebecca Adlington OBE
“The close relationship between Wimbledon and the Armed Forces goes back more than 60 years since they helped re-establish The Championships after World War 2. Since then the Club has been privileged to be associated with the men and women who form our volunteer Service stewards and we offer our wholehearted thanks for their magnificent contribution both at Wimbledon and for the nation. The nation owes the Armed Forces community a huge amount and Wimbledon is proud to be supporting Armed Forces Day."
~ All England Lawn Tennis Club
Alexander Armstrong supports Armed Forces Day.
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~ Alexander Armstrong
"The men and women working and fighting in our armed forces are the real heroes among us. We should honor them every day."
~ John Barrowman
"I was overwhelmed by the courage and bravery of the Armed Forces serving in Afghanistan. Having seen first hand the vital job that they are doing, it is a privilege to give my support to Armed Forces Day. The nation owes the Armed Forces an enormous amount and Armed Forces Day is a superb way of how we all can show them that they have our support."
~ David Beckham
“I’m supporting Armed Forces Day because I want our troops to know that they can rely on great public support. I send my best wishes to the guys and girls who have left behind their loved ones, friends and family to be serving on behalf of our country.”
~ Christine Bleakley
"On Armed Forces Day, I want to show my gratitude and support for the men and women in uniform who so bravely serve our country and their families who have to be apart from their loved ones, and to pay tribute to those who have been injured or even lost their lives.
I think it’s wonderful that the public have the opportunity to show their appreciation of our Armed Forces."
~ Sir Richard Branson
Fern Britton supports Armed Forces Day.
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~ Fern Britton
“I’m extremely passionate about our Servicemen and women and veterans, and hope that Armed Forces Day encourages the British public to go out and show their support.”
~ Kelly Brook
“Britain should feel incredibly proud of its servicemen and women. We should acknowledge the work they do on behalf of our country and their remarkable achievements in extremely challenging circumstances. The spirit and character displayed by our troops is second-to-none.”
~ Sir Trevor Brooking
“We should all take note of Armed Forces Day. The actions of our Servicemen and women are the only reason we are all still here.”
~ Sir Michael Caine
“My message to our Armed Services on Armed Forces Day is a really big thank you. You should be proud of what you do, because the whole country is proud of you … Britain’s
Armed Forces are brave, are professional and they are a great example to our nation - thank you.”
~ Prime Minister David Cameron
“Your brave service to your country means so much to the players and I, and we all have complete respect for the incredible sacrifices you and your families make.”
~ Fabio Capello
"We here at British Cycling are all extremely proud of the Armed Forces community and the sacrifices they make every day in the service of the country. That's why we want to show our support this Armed Forces Day."
~ GB Cycling Team
"I’m supporting Armed Forces Day, because I want to celebrate the heroism of ordinary British Servicemen and women and the enormous sacrifices they have made on behalf of our country"
~ Charles Dance
“The men and women of our Armed Forces have always been admirable examples of professionalism and courage. Then as now, they perform their duties in often the most difficult and dangerous of circumstances, both at home and overseas.”
~ Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
"We here at Emmerdale are all extremely proud of the Armed Forces community and the sacrifices they make every day in the service of the country. That's why we want to show our support this Armed Forces Day."
~ Cast of Emmerdale
Left to right: Tom Lister (Carl King), Deena Payne (Viv Hope), Oscar Lloyd (Will Wylde), Kitty McGeever (Lizzie Lakely), Lucy Pargeter (Chas Dingle), Lesley Dunlop (Brenda Walker), Suzanne Shaw (Eve Jenson), Shirley Stelfox (Edna Birch), Jason Merrells (Declan Macey).
"It's a long, long time ago since I was in the RAF and that was in peacetime! The men and women of our Armed Services are a credit to our country and we must never forget the sacrifices they make on our behalf in these troubled times."
~ Bruce Forsyth CBE
"UK Armed Forces are the best of British! They make me extremely proud."
~ Stephen Fry
"To all UK armed forces I, like everyone I know, feel only massive respect and gratitude and admiration. All the very best."
~ Hugh Grant
"The men and women of our armed forces are risking their lives to make sure we stay safe. We mustn’t forget that they’re out in places like Afghanistan and Iraq, fighting for equality on our behalf.
I want to show my own personal support for Armed Forces Day, and I hope that it helps to raise everyone’s awareness for the huge role they play in selflessly protecting our everyday lives.”
~ Lewis Hamilton MBE
"Today, when everyone is thinking about the World Cup and tomorrows game, people should take time out to reflect on real heroes who serve our country with selfless dedication and sacrifice. Our Armed forces deserve our thoughts and gratitude for all they do for us.”
~ David Haye
"I'm proud to have served in the British Army and want our brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and women to know how proud we all are of them. It's so important for us to recognise and celebrate the Armed Forces and the work they are doing right now in Afghanistan and elsewhere. That's why it's great having an Armed Forces Day on 26 June."
~ Dame Kelly Holmes MBE DBE www.doublegold.co.uk/home
“I always have the utmost respect for anyone who is willing to put their lives on the line for our country and appreciate the sacrifices that they make on a daily basis. Even though a lot of our serving servicemen and women are across the world in different areas of conflict I would hate to think they felt forgotten or undervalued. My message to them is “you do a luvvley jubbly job – keep it up – you know it makes sense.”
~ Sir David Jason OBE
"All the men and women in our armed forces do a wonderful job and we as a nation are all so grateful and proud of them. Armed Forces Day is a great way for us to show our appreciation for their dedication and bravery, and we should remember to show it throughout the year."
~ Katherine Jenkins
"We have the utmost respect for the Armed Forces community and we are extremely grateful for the work our servicemen and women perform for the people of the UK. The Welsh rugby team is proud to support Armed Forces Day and acknowledge the massive contribution Our Boys and Girls make every day both at home and overseas"
~ Ryan Jones
“I am delighted to be able to support Armed Forces Day. There are very few occasions chances when we can unite as a Nation to celebrate achievement, honour bravery and meet real Heroes, the 26th June 2010 is one such chance.
As a very proud Dad of a Serviceman, as a fiercely passionate supporter of our Armed Forces and having been honoured to be part of the amazing Help for Heroes phenomenon, I believe we must take this opportunity to show our support for these brave young men and women and you can help. There will be a local event, go to it! There will be a Serviceman or women in your neighbourhood, go and thank them! Please - Do something!
Let’s show these REAL Heroes that we respect, care and appreciate them. Thank you, Vinnie”
~ Vinnie Jones
"I hope that the second Armed Forces Day receives a lot of support on 26 June. Throughout the years our servicemen and women have done a great job serving their country and their commitment and bravery continues today. Armed Forces Day is a great initiative, which helps bring communities together to recognise the huge contribution our veterans, current serving personnel and their families have made. Please buy the flags and enjoy the day."
~ Martin Johnson, England rugby manager
I’m proud to be supporting Armed Forces Day again. These men and women serve our country with loyalty, bravery and professionalism, at home and abroad. I’ve felt honoured this year to meet some of these amazing people, young and old, and think they thoroughly deserve to have a special day in their honour.
I urge people to go along to local Armed Forces Day events to enjoy the activities and meet our troops and veterans - we can all learn a lot from
their courage and determination.”
~ Lorraine Kelly
“Armed Forces Day is a chance for us, the people, to show our appreciation for the sacrifices being made, not only by the members of our armed forces, past and present, but also by their families.”
~ Ross Kemp
“I want to show my support for all the servicemen and women I met while visiting Afghanistan last year and to say thank you to the Armed Forces community for the huge contribution they make on behalf of our country.”
~ Gary Lineker OBE
"As the daughter of a soldier, and having been brought up as an army brat, I want to send you all my very fondest thoughts and warmest gratitude for everything you do to protect and defend us."
~ Joanna Lumley
“I am delighted to show my support for Armed Forces Day. We should all thank our soldiers, sailors and airmen for the contribution they are making both overseas and at home. I applaud their heroism unreservedly.”
~ Desmond Lynam
"60 years on and I am still sending messages of support and good wishes to our boys and girls serving overseas. Best wishes to you all, and safe return home."
~ Dame Vera Lynn DBE
“It's so important for us to recognise and celebrate the Armed Forces. That's why I'm supporting Armed Forces Day on 26 June."
~ Sarah Manners
"It's so important for us to recognise and celebrate the Armed Forces and the work they are doing right now in Afghanistan and elsewhere. I’m extremely proud of the Armed Forces community and their families and the sacrifices they and their families make every day in the service of the country. That's why I'm supporting Armed Forces Day on Saturday 26 June.”
~ Melinda Messenger
"As patron of Support our Soldiers, I believe it is important to remember all the men and women risking their lives on a daily basis, and their families who are without them for months at a time. To remember all those who have lost their lives and their loved ones. I feel fortunate to have met many British troops and their families, all over the world. I will continue to offer support whenever I can."
~ Nell McAndrew
"Our brave men and women in uniform make me feel so very proud. Armed Forces Day is our chance to show them we support them and to say thank you for keeping us safe."
~ Davina McCall
"The contribution made to our society by our Armed Forces and veterans, and the sacrifices they have made for our country's security, are immeasurable. Armed Forces Day is our way of showing our thanks, respect and pride for the men and women who serve and have served us so bravely."
~ Andy McNab DCM MM
“On Armed Forces Day on Saturday 26 June, millions of people across the UK will be watching the World Cup on television; no doubt many of them Serving Personnel, veterans and cadets. It is important that we show the same passion supporting our Armed Forces. A great deal is asked of our servicemen and women and they always meet those challenges with courage and dedication.”
~ John Motson
"I salute all those in our Armed Forces, past and present, who put their lives on the line for the rest of us."
~ Michael Palin CBE FRGS
"On Armed Forces Day, we want to show our gratitude and support for the men and women of the Armed Forces who so bravely serve our country. The nation owes our servicemen and women an enormous amount and I think it's great that we have the opportunity to thank them and show our appreciation for the work they do."
~ Rob Purdham
"I’m really looking forward to showing my support for Armed Forces Day by performing at Yeovil on the 26 June. It's a real honour to be involved in this event and recognising the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community - both those who have served and those who are currently serving."
~ Esther Rantzen
"I’m supporting Armed Forces Day to say thank you to all our courageous Servicemen and women and their families. From my own experiences I know the bravery these individuals display every day, often in very difficult situations. It’s this bravery and strength in the face of adversity that makes me so proud to have served in the Armed Forces. I hope all our troops make it home safe, and when they do, people give them the recognition they deserve."
~ Chris Ryan MM
"The Armed Forces do an amazing job for us, and I support all of our brave sailors, soldiers and airmen, serving overseas and at home."
~ Alan Shearer
"The men and women who make up the Armed Forces are the bravest of the brave and a real life example of true courage and heroism."
~ Jason Statham
"As England cricketers we are very proud of our brave servicemen and women and recognise the enormous sacrifices they make on our behalf. Armed Forces Day is a great way for the public to show support for all our serving soldiers, sailors and airmen and women and I am delighted to give my full backing to the campaign."
~ Andrew Strauss MBE
"My brother was in the Army for many years and I have had first hand experience of visiting the Troops in Afghanistan. The boys and girls do a fantastic job for our country and my love and support goes out to all of them."
~ Claire Sweeney
“Our forces are incredible and selfless. It's so important for us to recognise the work they are doing right now all over the world. That's why I'm supporting Armed Forces Day on Saturday 26 June. It’s a day to remember their courage."
~ Carol Vorderman MBE
Members of the Wales rugby team have pledged their support for Armed Forces Day in a special video filmed before their match against New Zealand
“I am so looking forward to the Forces events in June and am also so excited to be taking part in the events being held in Cardiff, where I live.
It is only right and fitting that we celebrate the men and women of the armed forces, past and present, especially as things stand at the moment in the world arena. Never has the acknowledgment of all that they do for us been so vitally important as today.
I hope that all who can, come and celebrate and show their appreciation for all that the servicemen and women do. Please make this a regular appointment in your calendar.”
~ Simon Weston OBE
"Our admiration and respect for our troops is unbounded, they are always in our thoughts"
~ Hayley Westenra
"I am delighted that the public have a chance to show their appreciation for those serving in HM Armed Forces. I hope the day goes really well."
Photo: www.cambridgejones.com
~ Richard Wilson OBE
“Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for us all to show our appreciation for the men and women of the Armed Forces. So please don’t forget 26th June Armed Forces Day.”
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~ Helen Worth
“Our Servicemen and women do a fantastic job on behalf of our country and we should all be supporting them. That’s why I’m getting behind Armed Forces Day.”
~ Ian Wright, MBE