Armed Forces Day is an annual event that takes place on the last Saturday of June, to support, honour, pay respect and commemorate the service of men and women in the Armed Forces.
The Armed Forces are the military services responsible for defending the UK and its interests and are involved in promoting peace, delivering aid, providing security and fighting terrorism. Armed Forces Day formerly known as Veteran’s Day was introduced in 2006 by then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown.
Who we celebrate on Armed Forces Day
Armed Forces Day celebrates the current servicemen and women who are involved in promoting peace, delivering aid, providing security and fighting terrorism, all to ensure the safety of the UK and its interests.
Veterans
Veterans are also celebrated for their continued role within the military community after their service. A veteran is a former HM Armed Forces service member that has returned to civilian life, including National Servicemen, Regulars and Reserves.
Reservists
Reservists are those who dedicate their spare time to service in the Reserve Forces. Reservists balance both a military career and their civilian life, ensuring they are prepared to serve should their country require them.
Reservists also have their own dedicated annual event: Reserves Day, which typically falls on the Wednesday ahead of Armed Forces Day – 22 June. More on Reserves Day can be found here.
Cadets
The Cadet Forces consists of four sectors: Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, Air Cadets and the Combined Cadet Force. The Cadet Forces are also recognised for their contribution to the military community, and gain life and career building skills during their training. Cadet groups across the UK currently support over 130,000 young people in more than 3,000 locations.
Families and Charities
It is also important to recognise the valuable support of family members and friends within the military community, as well as dedicated charities who offer various types of support and opportunities for veterans and current service members.
How you can show your support
Events
There will be celebrations at various locations across the UK, both physical and virtual and you can find your local event here.
You could even organise your own event, details on how can be found here.
Salute Our Forces
Pay tribute by sharing a photo or video of yourself or your friends and colleagues saluting on Twitter (@ArmedForcesDay), Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #SaluteOurForces
Events such as Armed Forces Day provide a much-needed morale boost for both troops and their families.
As a company with strong links to the veteran community, we are proud to support a day that celebrates the service of men and women in the British Armed Forces and their families.