Armed Forces Day-82

Flying the Flag for Armed Forces Day

Lancashire County Council and other local authorities across the county have raised a special Armed Forces Day flag this week.

The flag shows their support and appreciation for the contribution made by our servicemen and women past and present, and for the wider Armed Forces community of families, veterans and cadets.

The raising of the Armed Forces Day flag marks the start of a week of celebrations, including the Annual Reserves Day on Wednesday 25 June, culminating with Armed Forces Day itself on Saturday 28 June.

His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Mrs Amanda Parker JP, said:

"Once again, Armed Forces Day flags are being raised all across Lancashire to honour the immense debt we owe to our servicemen and women, as well as our service veterans. 

"This year holds special significance as we commemorate the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, reflecting on the extraordinary bravery and sacrifices made during those important moments in our history.

"We owe a great deal to these courageous individuals, and we are proud to recognise their unwavering dedication and service."

Mrs Parker attended a small ceremony at County Hall in Preston along with the Chairman of the County Council, Alf Clempson.  They were joined by the new County Council's Armed Forces and Veterans Champion, Gary Kniveton; Father David Craven, as well as representatives from the Royal British Legion, Armed Forces Group, soldiers from Fulwood Barracks, senior council staff and county councillors. World War II veteran, Richard Brock, was also in attendance.

Other flag raising events took place on the same day in each Lancashire district, organised by district councils and attended by a member of the Lancashire Lieutenancy.  

For details about Armed Forces Day visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Notes to editors

Images from the day can be found here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCjc9B