Hackney honours brave and committed service people on Armed Forces Day
The borough commemorated Armed Forces Day on Saturday (24 June) by paying tribute to the brave service people in the British Armed Forces community.
Armed Forces Day takes place every year on the last Saturday in June to acknowledge the dedication and efforts of those who serve in the Armed Forces.
Following a static parade in Town Hall Square, Speaker of Hackney Cllr Anya Sizer joined representatives from units and cadets in Hackney including members of Hackney’s Salvation Army, 3 Military Intelligence Battalion, London Cadets, RAF Air Cadets, Sea Cadets and the Hackney Memorable Order of Tin Hats, for the flag raising ceremony and to listen to an address from Stephen Howlett CBE, Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Hackney.
Select troops and cadets were presented with certificates in recognition of their exceptional service before the ceremony was closed by the traditional playing of a lone bugler.
Armed Forces Day is a moment to reflect on the brave people who have and continue to serve in the Armed Forces. We are proud to raise the Armed Forces Day flag high above Hackney Town Hall this morning, to mark this occasion, and to show our wholehearted support to all British Armed Forces troops and their families.
We mark this day to show support for our Armed Forces. This is a much-valued morale boost for the troops and their families. Having raised the Armed Forces flag, it is right that we recognise the sacrifices they make, many placing themselves in danger around the world, training for a day we hope will never happen, protecting us and our loved ones from those who wish us and our country harm.