Oxfordshire people invited to show support for Armed Forces

People from Oxfordshire are warmly invited to attend a special flag raising ceremony at Oxford Castle to mark and raise awareness of the role of the armed forces and their strong contribution to life in the county.

The flag will be raised at 11am on Monday June 20, and members of the public are invited to arrive at 10:30am. There will be photo opportunities for the media during this period.

The event will bring together senior representatives of the Armed Forces community in Oxfordshire from Oxford University Officers’ Training Corps, RAF Brize Norton, Bicester Garrison, Abingdon Station, Dalton Barracks, Shrivenham Station HQ, 7 Rifles, the Royal Navy and cadets from across the county.

Local dignitaries will include Councillor Michael Waine, Chairman of Oxfordshire County Council, Tim Stevenson, Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Sarah Taylor, High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, Peter Clark, County Director at Oxfordshire County Council, Superintendent Kath Lowe, Cllr Mohammed Altaf-Khan, Lord-Mayor of Oxford, Cllr Jeanette Matlot, Vice-Chairman of South Oxfordshire District Council, Cllr Reg Waite, Vice-Chairman of Vale of White Horse District Council, Cllr Maurice Billington, Chairman of Cherwell District Council and several town Mayors/Deputy-Mayors.

Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness of the contribution made to the country by those who serve and have served in the Armed Forces.

It is also an opportunity for the nation to show its support for the whole of the Armed Forces community, from serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. Across the country people are getting involved: communities hold local events and business show their support.

Respect and gratitude

County Council Chairman Councillor Michael Waine said: “Oxfordshire is a county with a very long tradition of strong connections with the armed forces.

“It is right that we in Oxfordshire should join with the rest of the nation on an annual basis to recognise the part that the forces play in our day to day lives as well as in protecting the country.

“As County Councillor for Bicester Town I fully realise the important part played by our Armed Services in the life of our nation. Bicester as a Garrison Town has extremely strong links with the army, and past links with the RAF. The armed forces are definitely part of our community belonging to local organisations, attending local churches, and with their children attending local schools.”

“I look forward to welcoming the various representatives of the armed forces to Oxford Castle on Monday, June 20 and I hope members of the public will join us to express their respect and gratitude.”