Raising the flag ahead of Armed Forces Day 2024 in Oxfordshire
An annual event to celebrate the role of the military took place in Oxford today looking ahead to national Armed Forces Day on Saturday, 29 June.
Armed Forces Day is a chance for people and organisations across the country to show their support for the armed forces community – from serving troops to service families, veterans, reservists and cadets.
The armed forces flag is being raised on buildings and landmarks around the country. Oxfordshire County Council’s flag raising event was overseen by Councillor Alison Rooke, Chair of the Council, in Oxford Castle Yard.
The event involved a parade by personnel from RAF Brize Norton along with bugle fanfare and the raising of the armed forces flag, led by the chair of the council, the Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, and RAF Brize Norton Group Captain Claire O’Grady.
Military and civilian representatives were in attendance, including Oxfordshire County Council armed forces champions.
As signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant – a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly – Oxfordshire County Council is proud of its strong and supportive relationship with the local armed forces community.
Councillor Rooke said: “At today’s event I made a point in my speech of expressing our sincere thanks and admiration to all military personnel and their families here in Oxfordshire, and of course to those currently serving abroad.
“We acknowledged the achievements and sacrifices of those currently serving and those who have served. Armed Forces Day and associated events are very important moments in the year for us to give due recognition and support to the armed forces based locally.”
Oxfordshire County Council’s support to the county’s armed forces community includes:
- Hosting and supporting regular meetings of the Oxfordshire Civilian Military Partnership Board to provide a platform for partners to hear and address the needs of the armed forces community.
- Working with local health bodies to help improve access to health and dental services for armed forces families who may be disadvantaged by relocations as part of military service.
- Supporting the county’s over 3,000 service pupils across 187 schools with initiatives such as the voice of the child survey, publishing the council’s service pupil promise and sharing evidence and best practice with local and national partners.
- Working closely to support military moves, such as the ongoing move of 7 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps into the county, ensuring that schools, housing and other provisions are planned and made in advance
- Appointment of military champions from among elected councillors to maintain good strategic relationships with the county’s main military bases and stations.
More information on the work the council does to support the armed forces is available on the council’s website.
Information about events in your area can be found on the Armed Forces Day website.
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