Redbridge Armed Forces Day 2012 tribute June 30, 2012

Redbridge will pay tribute to men and women veterans of the armed forces as well as those who are currently serving as part of Armed Forces Day celebrations this month.

Armed Forces Day is being held across the country on Saturday 30 June and is a chance to raise public awareness of the contributions made to our country by those who serve and have served in Her Majesty's Armed Forces.

Cadets, soldiers and veterans will form the parade contingent and will gather outside Redbridge Town Hall at 10.15am on Saturday 30 June to witness the raising of the Armed Forces Day Flag.

Redbridge Mayor Cllr Muhammed Javed will inspect the parade before making a short speech. Prior to the dismissal of the parade the Mayor's Chaplain will offer prayers for the armed forces.

The Royal British Legion, Army Cadet Force, Air Cadets, SSAFA Forces Help, 217 Squadron and Royal Naval Association will have display stands outside the former Harrison and Gibson store in the High Road, Ilford giving information about the work they do and how people can get involved.

Two regiments have been granted the Freedom of the Borough. They are The Royal Anglian Regiment and 36 (Eastern) Signal Regiment (Volunteers). To be granted the Freedom of the Borough is a rare privilege and it grants the units the ability to march through the Borough with flags flying, bands playing and bayonets fixed.

Freedoms are usually granted due to long associations with Units - The Royal Anglians have an Essex element and 36 had been based in the Borough and before that in Wanstead since 1945. The 36 Signal Regiment was disbanded in 2010.

If you would like to show your support for both current servicemen and women and veterans, you can post a message on the Council's website www.redbridge.gov.uk/armedforcesday

Redbridge Council is proud to support Armed Forces Day 2012.