A SOCIALLY distanced gathering was held to mark Armed Forces with representatives from the armed force and Wiltshire Council coming together.
Armed Forces Day, takes place today (June 27) and is a chance for people to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.
In attendance at County Hall, Trowbridge, with the official Armed Forces Flag were; Cllr Alison Bucknall, Cabinet Member for Communities; Cllr Chris Williams, Armed Forces Champion; Cllr Richard Gamble, Chairman of Wiltshire Council; Wiltshire Council Chief Executive Officer, Place, Alistair Cunningham; Col Nev Holmes MBE Comd SW; Lt Col Duncan Attwell Reservist and Engagement Officer SW; and Liz Creedy Head of Programmes. Wiltshire Council.
Both Alistair and Liz were also presented with a Commanders Commendation each for their work in Military Civilian Integration.
This time last year Salisbury hosted the official Armed Forces Day event, which saw thousands of people join in the celebrations across an entire weekend which included a military parade, parachute displays, a fly-past by the Red Arrows, live entertainment with music from Kaiser Chiefs and others, and fun family activities.
PICTURES: Salisbury Armed Forces Day 2019>>>
Cllr Richard Gamble, Wiltshire Council chairman, said: “Wiltshire enjoys a close relationship with the Armed Forces community and it’s a partnership we are very proud of. We can hardly believe it’s already been a year since we held the Armed Forces event in Salisbury and we have such fond memories of seeing thousands of people of all ages come out and enjoy the occasion.
“Come rain or shine it’s reassuring to know that we’ll support one another when needed.
“We were very proud to see both Alistair and Liz get a Commanders Commendation – it’s a great achievement for them and Wiltshire Council.”
Colonel NR Holmes MBE, Commander South West Headquarters said: “Wiltshire Council and the military in Wiltshire have a very strong relationship. Our partnership goes from strength to strength.
“Thank you to the council for continuing to support the Armed Forces both during Armed Forces week but throughout the year here in Wiltshire - it provides a much valued boost for our military community.”
Armed Forces Day 2020 is being celebrated virtually this year by service personnel and communities across the UK due to the cancellation of events.
Ahead of Armed Forces Day, Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a virtual call with some of the personnel involved in the response to the coronavirus pandemic to thank them for the support they have provided.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said: “Whether you’re a regular, a reservist, a civilian contractor, a veteran, or the family and friends who support our military in so many ways, we as a nation salute you.
“We know that – day and night, at home and abroad, at sea, on land, in the air and even in space and online – our fantastic Armed Forces are there for us
“And it’s for all that and more, that I’m proud to salute our Armed Forces.”
Scarborough were due to host this year’s Armed Forces Day National Event which was unfortunately cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
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