The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today joined together with members of the Armed Forces, the London Assembly and the City Hall branch of the British Legion to honour, celebrate and pay tribute to the UK’s servicemen and women ahead of Saturday’s National Armed Forces Day.
The 14th annual flag raising ceremony took place outside City Hall this morning with music performed by Her Majesty’s Royal Marines CTCRM. This was the first Armed Forces Day ceremony to take place at City Hall’s new location at the Royal Docks.
The Mayor was joined by representatives from across the Armed Forces: Rear Admiral Donald Doull CBE; Brigadier Andrew Wright MBE; Air Commodore Ian Tolfts OBE; Commander Andrew Swain MBE RN, Chief of Staff; and Petty Officer Cadet Sahoo from Croydon Sea Cadet Unit.
There were also attendees from London University Royal Navy unit, HMS President, Royal Navy HQ London and East England, and the Royal Marines Band Service.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Armed Forces Day provides an important opportunity for us to show our support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community - from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. We owe a great deal of gratitude to these brave women and men who have dedicated their lives to defending our interests around the world, promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security and fighting terrorism. It is an honour to join together to pay tribute to their service and bravery.”
Chair of the London Assembly, Dr Onkar Sahota AM said: “For the 14th year, we raise the flag at City Hall today to demonstrate support for our Armed Forces and respect for all who serve, ahead of Armed Forces Day. We have long appreciated the contribution of serving personnel, veterans and military families to our city and our communities.
“In the past few months, we have sadly been reminded of the global importance of our Armed Forces, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. They are a vital force in the global fight for peace and security, and to this end they play an important role in fighting terrorism and delivering aid.
“We will celebrate with them on Saturday and will always be grateful for their work and dedication to keeping us and others safe.”