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Armed Forces Day

Giving a sense of community to Veterans

Armed Forces Day is on 29th June this year. This is a crucial day for our Armed Forces community. It is a day for the country to show appreciation for the dedication, courage and sacrifice of serving men and women across the services to protect the nation and maintain our security. The focus isn't just on those currently serving, but also veterans, reservists and cadets, as well as the families of serving military, recognising their support and sacrifice.

Initially known as Veterans' Day, the first event took place on Saturday, June 27, 2006. This specific date was chosen because it followed the anniversary of the very first investiture of the Victoria Cross, which was held in Hyde Park, London, in 1857, when Queen Victoria presented the decoration to veterans of the Crimea War.

Since then, it has become a yearly tradition, celebrated annually on the last Saturday of June and the culmination of a week of events paying tribute to this community and to thank them for keeping us all safe.

Events and activities are held across the country, ranging from parades and military displays to community gatherings and family-friendly activities, all designed to increase public awareness and support for the Armed Forces.

As part of the military community, I know how much we all benefit from this show of appreciation. Just as with Armistice Day, it is good to have a day or a week as an opportunity to acknowledge and thank those who have made sacrifices for and put their lives on the line in the service of our country.

Whether a fly past or an exhibition, a concert or a sports match, wherever you are in the UK, you will find that there is an Armed Forces Day celebration somewhere nearby. If you are already taking part in a community event, I hope you have a great time, if you aren't, then get online, find your local event and get stuck in!

Andy McNab CBE, DCM, MM, DArts

Making the UK the best country in the world to be a Veteran