Residents are invited to join the Mayor of Colchester as the city marks Armed Forces Week with a flag-raising ceremony at the Town Hall on Monday, 22 June at 10am.
A moment to say thank you
This simple but powerful ceremony on the steps of the Town Hall marks the start of a week of national celebrations, leading up to Armed Forces Day on Saturday, 27 June. It is an opportunity for the community to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who serve, or who have served, in the Armed Forces.
Alongside the Armed Forces Day flag, the Pegasus flag of 16 Air Assault Brigade, proudly based in Colchester, will also be raised. These flags are a visible symbol of the deep and enduring bond between the city and the military community.
A proud connection to our Armed Forces
The ceremony will be led by the Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Andrew Ellis, joined by the Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, the Commander of Colchester Garrison and representatives from Colchester City Council.
Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Andrew Ellis, said: “I am incredibly proud to join our community in recognising the extraordinary service and sacrifice of the men and women of our Armed Forces. Colchester has been a garrison town – now city – for over two millennia. We understand that service is not just about those who wear the uniform, but also the families who support them and the veterans who continue to contribute so much to community life.
“This occasion is particularly meaningful to me as the son of a soldier. During my mayoral year, I am honoured to support the Army Benevolent Fund, which provides invaluable assistance to serving personnel, veterans and their families. Few places have a closer connection with the Armed Forces than Colchester, and we are immensely proud of the role that service personnel, veterans and their families play in the life of our city.
“I hope residents will join us at the Town Hall as we raise the Armed Forces Day and Pegasus flags. It is a simple ceremony, but an important one, giving us the opportunity to come together as a city, reflect on the freedoms we enjoy, and offer a heartfelt thank you to all those who serve, or who have served, our country.”
Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: “Armed Forces Day is the nation’s moment to acknowledge the service given by the military community, which includes military personnel, both regular and reserve; their families; veterans; and cadets.
“Colchester's military and civilian communities enjoy a uniquely close and longstanding bond, that the soldiers of Colchester Garrison are immensely proud of and draw strength from. The raising of the Armed Forces Day Flag and the Pegasus flag of 16 Air Assault Brigade on Colchester Town Hall is a strong symbol of our enduring relationship.”
Staying connected to support
Members of the Armed Forces community living in Colchester are encouraged to register their details with the council. This helps ensure they receive updates about local support available through the Armed Forces Covenant, as well as relevant events and opportunities.
Be part of the occasion
Residents are warmly encouraged to attend and show their support. Whether there is a personal connection to the Armed Forces or simply a wish to recognise their contribution, attending the ceremony is a meaningful way to take part.
Find out more about Armed Forces Day and ways to get involved at www.armedforcesday.org.uk.