The short flag raising ceremony marks the start of Armed Forces Week 2017, with national celebrations taking place throughout the week thereafter, building up to Armed Force Day on 24th June.
Armed Forces Day has been celebrated across the UK since 2006 and commemorates all the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.
Councillor Richard Foster served as an officer in the RAF for 35 years and is an Armed Forces Champion for Rutland County Council.
“Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for us to say a very public thank-you to those who make up the Armed Forces Community – from serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. Rutland is fortunate to have more than 1,000 servicemen and women based here in the county and we are extremely grateful for all they do – not just in defence of our country but also for what they contribute to our local communities. Rutland will do its part by joining hundreds of local authorities in raising the Armed Forces flag on 19th June and I would encourage as many people as possible join us and attend this important event.”
Councillor Richard Foster, Armed Forces Champion
Rutland’s Armed Forces Day flag will be raised by a party from 7th Regiment the Royal Logistic Corps, who are currently based at Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore.
The ceremony will begin at 10.15am with short addresses from Council Chairman Kenneth Bool and Armed Forces Champion Richard Foster, followed by prayers lead by The Reverend Brian Nicholls, Chaplain to the Royal British Legion.
“Armed Forces Day this year has a special significance for Rutland as we prepare to bid farewell to 2 Royal Anglian Regiment, who will shortly be leaving Kendrew barracks to be replaced by the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment. I would like to wish the Poachers all the very best ahead of their move and thank them for all they done for the county. We also look forward to welcoming the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment later this year and continue to prepare for their arrival.”
Councillor Richard Foster
Armed Forces Day takes place on Saturday 24th June, with nearby events in Leicester, Peterborough and Market Harborough.
