Flag raising ceremonies to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week in Herefordshire
Special flag raising ceremonies to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week took place in Hereford, the market towns and at The County Hospital on Monday 24 June.
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 The Riverside Primary School and Holmer C of E Academy.
Armed Forces Week (24-29 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 by Bromyard & Winslow Town Council on behalf of Herefordshire.
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 D Day was a reminder of the importance of our Armed Forces, and it was most appropriate that this was commemorated widely across Herefordshire. The culmination of Armed Forces Week will be Armed Forces Day on Saturday 29 June, hosted by Bromyard & Winslow Town Council. I hope as many people as possible will attend to show support for all those involved with the Armed Forces.’’
Prior to the event in High Town, a special flag-raising event took place at The County Hospital.
Erica Hermon, Associate Director of Corporate Governance for Wye Valley NHS Trust, said:
"We are proud to mark Armed Forces Day with raising of the flag at Hereford County Hospital and to recognise our colleagues and family members who serve or have served in the Armed Forces. We are fortunate to have former members of the Armed Forces as staff and volunteers who are an asset to our Trust offering their valuable skills and experience to caring for patients.”
From Tuesday 25 June onwards Bromyard and Winslow Town Council will be hosting film screenings and talks throughout the week in the town as a run up to the big day itself on Saturday 29 June from 12 noon onwards. A fantastic family day out with a military parade through the town, decorated shops and cafes, music and entertainment, flag-waving, stalls and military vehicles.
Visit www.herefordshire.gov.uk/armedforcesevents for further details.