Flag to fly for Armed Forces Day celebrations in Staffordshire

People are being invited to show their support for the armed forces, as the county raises the flag for Armed Forces Day celebrations on Saturday 28 June.

Leading the nation’s commemorations is the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire who will be marking the event with a special remembrance service and a host of fun family activities across two days. 

Staffordshire County Council will be flying the armed forces flag from Shire Hall in Stafford over the weekend to show their support. People are encouraged to join the #saluteourforces campaign by uploading photos of themselves saluting to pay tribute. 

Former soldier and Vice-Chairman of Staffordshire County Council, Gordon Munro, served in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Corps for nine years.

Gordon said: “After serving in the Army during the Falklands Conflict, I’ve come to appreciate Armed Forces Day not just as a date in the calendar, but as a proper moment of recognition. 

“It’s essential that we, as a society, remember and celebrate those that put their country before themselves and ensure that their service is never forgotten. 

“Whether people have served in the frontlines, supported from home, or been the family holding the fort, we all know that military life demands a lot.  Be proud, be thankful and have a great Armed Forces Day.”

Staffordshire County Council remains committed to supporting its armed forces communities, having re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2023.

The authority was also awarded the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Gold Award for its ongoing work to support the employment of the armed forces. 

The County Council are also encouraging businesses and organisations to join them by signing the Covenant and pledging their support to the Armed Forces community.

Ian Cooper, Leader at Staffordshire County Council, added: “We are proud to do our part in honouring the brave men and women in our armed forces.

“It’s an important day that gives us a chance to show our support and gratitude for those in the forces, who remain a vital part of our society. 

“There’s so many ways to show your support for them and I urge everyone to get involved and do whatever they can over the weekend.

“It’s also wonderful to see The National Memorial Arboretum take centre stage for some of the weekend’s celebrations. It’s one of our proudest institutions in Staffordshire which reinforces our strong connection with our military across the county.”

People can find out more about the day, along with any local events on the Armed Forces Day website. 

Pictured: Vice-Chairman of Staffordshire County Council Gordon Munro with the Armed Forces flag