Party in the park to say thank you
IT WAS a party with a simple message: thank you.
Reading once again marked Armed Forces Day in style at the weekend, with a host of familyfriendly activities in Forbury Gardens and Broad Street, all as a way of showing appreciation for personnel past and present.
There were performances through the day from Diane James as Forces Sweetheart Dame Vera Lynn and Doris Day, the Silver Tones band, and the Reading Scottish Pipe Band.
Art collective jelly ran a special art workshop, and youngsters could enjoy balloon modelling and face painting activities.
And stalls featured information about the SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity, the Royal British Legion and The Forgotten British Gurkha Veterans Charity.
The day culminated with the annual HM Armed Forces Veteran’s Badge Presentation, led by Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire, James Puxley, and The Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, something that she said was an honour.
Before Saturday’s events, she said: “Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for our community to come together to show our appreciation to the men and women who have served our country in the armed forces, and to those who continue to do so.
“This event is always popular and will include everyone from cadets to veterans.”
And judging from turnout, she was spot on.
Reading’s events were part of a national celebration, with The Princess Royal attending an event at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
Many of those in attendance had been busy supporting the UK’s response to the pandemic over the last year.
And the RAF’s Red Arrows performed a spectacular flypast over the Armed Forces Memorial.
Around the country, local communities and councils the
organised events to show their support. From flag raising and military stalls, to performances and virtual ceremonies.
The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, said of the day: “I’m immensely proud that the UK is defended by without doubt the finest armed services you’ll find anywhere in the world. Our fantastic men and women in uniform are the best trained, the best led, the most dedicated bunch of people you will ever meet.
“This year we have witnessed the full breadth of what the Armed Forces can do – from being on the frontline in our fight against Covid to work fighting terrorism, delivering aid and flying the flag for the UK internationally.
“On behalf of the nation, I want to say a huge thank you.”
Next year’s Armed Forces Day will take place on Saturday, June 25.