It is easy to forget what the Armed Forces do for our country, especially when we find ourselves particularly busy or if the Armed Forces do not touch people’s lives on a personal level. This is what makes National Armed Forces Day that much more significant.
It is a day where UK citizens have the opportunity to show their support to serving personnel and veterans of the Armed Forces, as well as remembering those who have sacrificed their lives serving their country. It is a day of celebration to show how grateful and proud we are of the Armed Forces.
Last year, the National Armed Forces Day was held at Stoke Park, Guildford in June 2015. Having never been to an event marking National Armed Forces Day, I was not sure quite what to expect.
To give an idea of the scale of the operation, over 60,000 people were expected to attend. With displays including a Red Arrows fly past and the Band of the Royal Marines, as well as live music and entertainment, it was a day that honoured our forces.
There are many charities dedicated to caring for the Armed Forces, providing help to those that are most vulnerable, so it was with delight that members of the Irwin Mitchell South Coast team supported the event by helping the charity BLESMA on their stand throughout the day.
BLESMA supports servicemen and woman who have lost limbs or the use of limbs and eyesight in the course of serving our country. Michael Hollis of BLESMA brought along the Armed Forces Tribute Bike, which is decorated with finely detailed art work that makes it an extraordinary tribute.
To help the charity raise funds, Irwin Mitchell organised for Claire Guest of Fascinating Faces to help paint children’s faces. None of us, however, could quite believe it when the Prime Minister David Cameron strolled by. Sadly, Mr Cameron didn’t have his face painted, perhaps allowing the long line of children to enjoy!
With so many displays and stalls to keep the public amused, there was only one thing to do. Go exploring! From Apache and Merlin Helicopters to Tanks, Army Divers and Military Police, it was difficult to decide which stall or display to head to first. In a world where technology is increasingly evolving at a rapid pace, it was incredible to see the equipment and technology that assists the Armed Forces today.
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