THIS IS NOT AN EVENT ORGANISED BY KENT GRENADIERS

IT IS SHOWN HERE BECAUSE IT IS LIKELY OF INTEREST TO OUR MEMBERS, OR OTHERS WHO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Armed Forces Day in the UK is an annual event held on the last Saturday in June to honour and show support for the men and women of the British Armed Forces, including serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets, and their families.

Purpose and Significance

Armed Forces Day is a national occasion to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of the UK’s military community. It celebrates current service members, veterans, reservists, and cadets, as well as the families who support them, providing a morale boost and public appreciation for their work both at home and abroad. The day also highlights the role of the Armed Forces Covenant, which commits the government, communities, and businesses to support personnel past and present.

History

The event was first observed in 2006 as Veterans’ Day, following plans announced by then-Chancellor Gordon Brown. It was renamed Armed Forces Day in 2009 to broaden the focus beyond veterans to include all members of the Armed Forces community. The date, typically the last Saturday in June, was chosen because it follows the anniversary of the first Victoria Cross investiture in Hyde Park, London, in 1857.

Celebrations and Activities

Armed Forces Day is marked across the UK with a variety of events, including:

• Military parades and displays by the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force
• Flypasts and Red Arrows displays, often accompanied by music and family-friendly activities
• Community events and open days, allowing the public to meet service personnel and learn about their work
• National celebrations in towns such as Aldershot, Scarborough, Cleethorpes, and London, with the main event rotating annually

How to Participate

Members of the public can show support by attending local events, engaging with veterans and serving personnel, or supporting military charities. Organisations can participate by hosting events, promoting veteran-friendly policies, or donating to Armed Forces charities. The day emphasises both symbolic recognition and meaningful action to support the Armed Forces community.

The UK Armed Forces

The British Armed Forces consist of the Royal Navy (including Royal Marines), the British Army, and the Royal Air Force, with a total strength of over 192,000 personnel, including regulars, full-time reserves, and volunteer reserves.  They are responsible for defending the UK, supporting international peacekeeping, providing humanitarian aid, and promoting national security.

Armed Forces Day provides a unique opportunity for the public to celebrate, thank, and engage with the UK’s military community while raising awareness of their ongoing contributions.

Please visit Armed Forces Day for further details