NORFOLK is leading the United Kingdom in its backing for a unique flag-flying initiative to show support for the armed forces.Every borough, district, city and county council in the country has been approached to take part in the event.
NORFOLK is leading the United Kingdom in its backing for a unique flag-flying initiative to show support for the armed forces.
Every borough, district, city and county council in the country has been approached to take part in the event. Norfolk is the first county to secure the agreement of all its local authorities to take part.
It will mean that from 10.30am on June 22, flags will fly high across the county to celebrate the outstanding sacrifices made by our servicemen and woman.
Norfolk entrepreneur Bruno Peek, pageant master and co-ordinator of the project for the Ministry of Defence, said: “I'm particularly pleased to see Norfolk showing the way as this was the home county of Vice Admiral Lord Nelson, an inspiring figure in the history of our armed forces.
“The simultaneous raising of flags will unite the nation in its support for the armed forces at the start of the week, and showing how much we care and value the work they do, sometimes under very difficult circumstances.”
Armed forces day, on June 27, is a new day in the calendar for the country to show their respect for the forces, past, present and future. Cadet forces, current personnel, reserve forces and veterans from all three services will take part.
The idea is for all the flags to be raised simultaneously in a simple ceremony, staying in place throughout the week until armed forces day ends.
On the day itself, and in the weeks leading up to it, events will take place across the country, ranging from national and regional celebrations, to dozens of local events organised by councils, ex-service organisations, community groups and schools.
Launching the day, defence secretary John Hutton said: “Current members of the armed forces show professionalism and dedication both at home and abroad, often working in the most challenging of circumstances.
“Veterans have honoured their commitment to defend our country's interests in service, and are now valuable members of their local communities. With the establishment of armed forces day, June 27 is a chance to honour the achievements of the armed forces yesterday and today.”
For more details visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk
For more information on the flag-raising event, contact Bruno Peek on 01425 652169 or email brunopeek@mac.com
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