Special flag raising ceremonies to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week took place in Hereford, the market towns and at the County Hospital on Monday 19 June.
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire Mr Edward Harley OBE CStJ, The Chair of Herefordshire Council, Councillor Roger Phillips, Mayor of Hereford Councillor Jacqui Carwardine and senior figures from all three Armed Forces Services attended the event in High Town, Hereford, with invited guests representing military charities, the Armed Forces and the veteran community.
Onlookers were treated to special tributes by pupils from Riverside Primary School and Lord Scudamore Primary Academy.
Armed Forces Week (19-24 June) is a chance to give thanks to the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.
The Chair of Herefordshire Council Councillor Roger Phillips said: “We are proud to be honouring our Armed Forces community in Herefordshire for their outstanding contribution protecting our nation.
“Many residents of Herefordshire have a strong connection to the Armed Forces from our serving community, reservists, our cadet forces and the large veteran population who have chosen to settle in Herefordshire.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the families of those who serve or have served. Our Armed Forces couldn’t do their jobs without the incredible support of their families, who often have to deal with their own unique challenges”.
An Armed Forces flag will also fly throughout the week at Hereford County Hospital. It is a fitting tribute to members of staff who have served their country and those family members of the Armed Forces who work in healthcare. His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire Mr Edward Harley attended together with County Colonel, Col Andy Taylor.
Erica Hermon, Associate Director of Corporate Governance for Wye Valley NHS Trust, said: “We’re fortunate to work alongside colleagues who have served in the Armed Forces or are family members. Collectively, they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the patient care and services we provide across Herefordshire.
“We are very proud to honour these colleagues and recognise their valuable contribution by raising the flag at Hereford County Hospital for Armed Forces Week”.
There are a range of other events planned throughout Armed Forces Week in Herefordshire including:
- Monday 19 June- Laguna’s Spitfire Legacy: talk at The Courtyard, Hereford
- Monday 19 June to Monday 3 July- Art 4 Veterans Exhibition
- Thursday 22 June – NIMITE Military to Business Showcase
- Saturday 24 June – Armed Forces Day Army Football Festival
For full information visit www.herefordshire.gov.uk/armedforcesday
