Hertsmere Borough Council has marked Armed Forces Day by paying tribute to the sacrifice and dedication of those who serve, or have served, in the armed forces.
A special flag raising ceremony was held at Civic Offices on Thursday 25 June, led by the Mayor, Cllr Parveen Rani, with councillors and staff to recognise the contribution made by those in the armed forces.
The Mayor was joined by Deputy Mayor Cllr Morris Bright, and delighted to welcome guests including Her Grace Visakha Dasi, the Mayor’s Chaplain, Len Denbigh from the Borehamwood Royal British Legion and Tim Crichton, Trustee/Director of De Havilland Aircraft Museum Trust Limited.
The ceremony included a performance of The Last Post by bugler, Adrian Temple.
Mayor Cllr Rani said:
“As you may already know, the Armed Forces Day flags are to be raised in unison with all the flags being raised across the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man, in a universal show of support, honouring Britain’s Armed Forces past, present and future and marking a moment in our history that will long be remembered with warmth and pride by the men and women who make up our armed forces.
“It is appropriate to recognise and remember their contribution, securing our safety and those of our children.”
Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of the Council said:
“We are proudly flying the Armed Forces Day flag at the Civic Offices as a mark of respect and a symbol of our gratitude for all those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. “
Cllr Linda Smith, Member Champion for Armed Forces said:
“Armed F Day is an opportunity for us all to recognise and thank the men and women who serve, or who have served, in our Armed Forces. Their commitment, professionalism and sacrifice help keep our country safe, often in the most challenging of circumstances.
“It is also a chance to acknowledge the invaluable contribution made by reservists, veterans, military families and cadet forces, who all play an important role in supporting our Armed Forces community.
“Hertsmere is proud to stand alongside them and to show our gratitude for everything they do.”
Armed Forces Day aims to raise awareness of the contribution made by those who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets.
To find out more visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk
For more information on the Armed Forces Covenant and the Hertfordshire Covenant Board, visit www.hertfordshireheroes.org