When is Armed Forces Day 2024 and how is it celebrated?
Armed Forces Day is celebrated this month as a chance to cheer the men and women who make up the community, from serving troops to their families.
Active members as well as cadets and veterans are all part of the co-ordinated events which will be observed around the country.
It is an occasion marked around the world, but in the UK it was first held in 2009 and replaced the former Veterans Day, which had been held since 2006.
“It is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets,” their website reads.
“Showing support for the Armed Forces provides a much-valued morale boost for serving personnel, veterans and their families.”
Here is all you need to know about Armed Forces Day 2024.
When is Armed Forces Day 2024?
Armed Forces Day is on Saturday, June 29.
The date was chosen as it marked the anniversary of the first investiture ceremony for the Victoria Cross military medal for heroism, held on June 26, 1857.
There is also Reserves Day on Wednesday, June 26, which will see a gathering at Westminster Bridge.
What events are there for Armed Forces Day?
Various celebrations will be taking place in London for Armed Forces Day.
The Woolwich event will be revived after six years. There will be bands, a five-a-side football competition, theatre, displays and a big name final concert – all taking place on June 29, from 10am.
An event will be taking place in Battersea Park from 11am. Guests can expect local Reserve and Cadet groups running activities and chatting to visitors, a military band, assault course, and display vehicles and aircraft for people to enjoy, as well as local veterans invited to the event.
Across the country, there are set to be parades and flag-raising processions, and more than 180 events, which can be found here.
The official account tweeted: “#ArmedForcesDay Celebrations will take place across the UK next week, with military displays, parades, and entertainment arriving in more than 100 locations, from Glasgow to Cleethorpes.”
For further information, visit the website.
