Mayor’s salute for Armed Forces Day

WOKINGHAM’S Town Mayor paid tribute to the Armed Forces at a special ceremony on Saturday.

Cllr Peter Lucey spoke to an assembled crowd as part of a nationwide event.

Before and after he spoke, members of the Saint Sebasatian Wokingham Brass Band performed.

Cllr Lucey said: “Armed Forces Day is our annual chance to show our support and saute our Forces for all they do for us and our country; it is an annual opportunity for this nation to show its support for the men and women of the Armed Forces, a community that includes currently serving troops, veterans, reservists and the Cadet Forces.

“And, of course, their families.” He also spoke of the role that the Armed Forces has during times of peace.

“I am particularly pleased with days like today where we can celebrate and support our Armed Forces, in peacetime, and as part of our daily lives.”

Although The Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers – (REME) have relocated from Arborfield to Lyneham, Cllr Lucey highlighted the ongoing links between the town and the regiment.

He also mentioned youth initiatives such as the Army and Air Cadets.

“I and we all support and applaud the efforts of the many cadets, and of course those who give their time, often voluntarily, in leading the cadet troops,” he said.

After promising to raise the Armed Forces flag in Wokingham, he concluded his short address with an upbeat message: “Wokingham salutes and supports our Armed Forces.”