The Mayor of London and the London Assembly joined members of the British Armed Forces at City Hall today (Monday 25 June) for a flag-raising ceremony to honour the courage and commitment of the Armed Forces community.
The annual ceremony took place ahead of National Armed Forces Day, next Saturday, and was attended by members of the Forces as well as veterans, reserves, cadets and representatives from military charities. It is the 10th Armed Forces Day ceremony organised by the Mayor and London Assembly.
The Mayor, Sadiq Khan and Chair of the London Assembly, Tony Arbour AM, joined senior military figures for the ceremony, which featured musical contributions from the Band of the Royal Yeomanry.
Naval Commodore David Elford OBE, Army Colonel Victor Matthews OBE and Air Commodore David Prowse OBE from the Royal Air Force offered a joint military response.
The Armed Forces flag was raised by Cadet Cpl Aaron Harmsworth and Cadet Charlotte McCarthy.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Our Armed Forces work tirelessly to keep us safe which is why I’m so proud to welcome their representatives to City Hall today to acknowledge their bravery and dedication.
“This year, as every year, Armed Forces Day encourages us to reflect on the immense contribution made by men and women across the forces in service to our country.
“The Armed Forces are a tight-knit community so, as well as honouring current service personnel, today we remember the families, charities, reservists and cadets who support our military throughout their careers and beyond.”
Chair of the London Assembly, Tony Arbour AM, said: “We have been raising the flag at City Hall in support of our armed forces for ten years.
“Armed Forces Day is the day we recognise the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.
“It ensures we appreciate the role they play in promoting peace and security, fighting terrorism and delivering aid.
“We are proud of our armed forces and appreciate the sacrifices they make on our behalf.”