There’s just under two weeks to go until Armed Forces Day 2015 on Saturday 27 June!
Armed Forces Day has been marked with events large and small throughout the UK since the first Armed Forces Day in 2009, and 2015 is no exception.
To help communities host their own events the Ministry of Defence has this year awarded over £350,000 in funding to 124 cities, towns and communities across the country, such as Cardiff, Cleethorpes, Greenwich, Medway, Plymouth, Scarborough, Weymouth & Portland and Wrexham who will all be marking the big day.
The annual funding scheme has seen local councils, organisations and communities apply for up to £10,000 to help with the costs of hosting festivities large and small to celebrate the UK’s Armed Forces past and present enabling the public to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’.
Armed Forces Day really does mean a lot to the men and women of our Armed Forces.
Chief Petty Officer, Samantha Covey, 37, from Guildford, said:
“Armed Forces Day will be a fantastic day. It’s great to receive the recognition from the general public, and is a real morale boost to everyone who serves.
“Armed Forces Day is a chance for us to show what we offer and what we are about. It means a great deal, and it opens up a window on the Armed Forces.”
Previous Armed Forces Day activities held across the UK have included themed horse racing events, a big band dance, a gala day, Proms in the Park, veteran’s dances and dog shows. Businesses and organisers have offered discounts and vouchers to our Service personnel and their families to show their support.
Many of the biggest events will hold air displays and parades, with free outdoor entertainment. So wherever you live, you are sure to find an event near you. Check the Find an Event section to find out where you can celebrate the day and how you can show your support for the Armed Forces.
If you can’t spot something in your area, how about organising your own event? You can find some ideas and tips in the Get Involved section.
You can also show your support by posting a picture of a military salute using the hashtag #SaluteOurForces on facebook or twitter, adopting a Twibbon as a brilliant visual way of getting behind our Armed Forces and joining our mass coordinated effort of support on Thunderclap.
So wherever you live, there is no reason you can’t join in on the fun.