The Armed Forces flag is flying proudly outside Waverley Borough Council’s headquarters all this week (June 21-26) in recognition to the service of military personnel – both serving and retired.
The Mayor of Waverley, Councillor John Robini, was joined by the High Sheriff of Surrey, Dr Julie Llewelyn, for a short service and flag-raising outside The Burys in Godalming today (Monday, 21 June) to mark the beginning of the 12th annual Armed Forces Week.
The flag was raised by Colour Sergeant George Lake Coghlan, representing Charterhouse Combined Cadet Force (Parachute Regiment), accompanied by Contingent Commander, Major John Eastham.
Armed Forces Day itself takes place this Saturday 26 June and is a demonstration of support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, including those currently serving, service families, cadets, reservists and veterans.
The work of our armed forces is vital to the defence of the UK with thousands of personnel working across the globe in a range of deployments, from promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smuggling, to providing security and fighting terrorism.
The Mayor said: “Fortunately, there are currently no large-scale conflicts although there is still a presence in Iraq and Afghanistan and our armed forces are still incredibly busy. We pay tribute to the extraordinary work they do in very challenging circumstances.
“Throughout the world they are supporting vital operations to keep people safe, fight crime and terrorism while back in the UK they have been heavily involved in supporting the NHS and have supported the fight against Covid-19. In Surrey they have set up food distribution hubs for the vulnerable, distributed PPE, helped set up mobile testing stations, temporary mortuaries and mass vaccination centres and sent re-enforcements to both Royal Surrey and Frimley Park Hospitals.
“Today’s raising of the flag is a symbolic, clear, demonstration of Waverley’s support for our armed forces, especially to the 6,000 regulars, 210 reserves and 40,000 veterans within Surrey.
“Also, we must not forget those veterans whose time in the services resulted in life changing injuries, both mental and physical. We must never forget the spouses, partners and families who have lost loved ones or are now the primary carer. It is our duty to help them.”
Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for people to show their support for the men and women of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, both past and present and for their families.
Events and virtual events are being held across the country the organisers are encouraging everyone to get involved by flying the flag, joining in on Facebook or Twitter and using the hashtag #SaluteOurForces.
Picture caption: (From left) The High Sherriff of Surrey, Dr Julie Llewelyn, Colour Sergeant George Lake Coghlan, the Mayor of Waverley, Councillor John Robini, Contingent Commander, Major John Eastham.