Events were held across the United Kingdom to celebrate Armed Forces Day yesterday, highlighting the work that the UK Armed Forces do in keeping the people of the United Kingdom safe.
In Falmouth, the location of this year’s National Event members of the Armed Forces took part in a tri-service parade which featured more than 1,000 military personnel, veterans and cadets.
Watched by The Duke of Gloucester, service personnel presented His Royal Highness with the Royal Salute, before a flypast by the RAF Red Arrows, A400M, Merlin and Avenger aircraft bring the formal proceedings to a close.
RAF Red Arrows performed a flypast over Newport, Barnstaple, Falmouth and Plymouth. Officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows showcase the excellence of the RAF and represent the United Kingdom both at home and overseas.
The team consists of 10 pilots, eight of whom fly in the display, and more than 100 support personnel and technicians. Each of the pilots has previous fast-jet, operational experience flying the Tornado, Typhoon or Harrier, enabling the RAF to secure the skies and protect the nation and its interests, 365-days a year.
Now in its 15th year, Armed Forces Day is the culmination of a week of events which celebrate the entire Armed Forces community and all that they stand for, thanking them for defending our way of life, protecting British citizens around the world, and strengthening our relationships with our allies and partners.
It also recognises the service and sacrifice the families of serving personnel make. Hosted by Cornwall Council in Falmouth, this year’s National Event welcomed around 100,000 visitors from all corners of the United Kingdom.
Cornwall is also home to around 39,000 veterans and 1 in 5 people in Cornwall have a personal or family connection to the Armed Forces, making it an ideal backdrop for this year’s Armed Forces Day National Event.
From Stirling to Southampton, more than 108 events were held by communities across the country with parades salutes, fayres and flypasts.
Armed Forces Day is an annual opportunity to thank the entire Armed Forces community: service personnel, veterans, cadets and their families, friends and supporters.
