Salisbury marks Armed Forces Day (From Salisbury Journal)

Salisbury marks Armed Forces Day

11:54am Sunday 27th June 2010 in News By Morwenna Blake

VETERANS and those currently serving in the armed forces were honoured in a special event held in the Market Place this morning.

Crowds surrounded the square to watch a parade of service personnel followed by a Drumhead service led by mayor’s chaplain Canon David Scrace and the padre of the 4th Battalion the Rifles Father Stephen Sharkey at 11am.

City mayor Brian Dalton gave a welcome speech before veterans medals were presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire John Bush.

Cllr Dalton said: “It was a fantastic event and the turnout showed how much support the people of Salisbury give to our armed forces.”

Salisbury MP John Glen said: “The amazing turnout and moving service demonstrated the strong relationship between the people of Salisbury and the armed forces. I’m delighted to be here.”

this afternoon there is a wide variety of entertainment and stalls in the city centre as a part of the event, the theme of which is Armed Forces Past, Present and Future A Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is due to fly over the city centre at about 1.30pm and the end of the day will be marked with a flag lowering ceremony at 4pm.

Chairman of the Armed Forces committee Ian McGill said: “A huge amount of work has gone into this event in order to provide a day which strengthens the bonds between Salisbury and our Armed Forces and to honour all servicemen and women, past, present and future. “ “I hope as many people as possible turn up and thoroughly enjoy the day.”