Armed Forces Week provides the public with an opportunity to show its support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.
The national celebration is organised by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and takes place from today (Monday) to Sunday 30 June 2019.
The Armed Forces Community is made up of currently serving troops, Service families, Veterans and Service Cadets, including the Highland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (HRFCA).
Those who are members of the Armed Forces, both Regular and Reserve, reflect the values of civil society and, whether full-time or part-time, are trained to the same standard, use the same kit and receive the same pay. Because of this, our Forces are recognised as world-class.
On top of this, the men and women of the Volunteer Reserve also hold down civilian careers, supported by family, friends, colleagues and, not least, by their employers. Without this support they could not provide the military capability essential to defend the UK and its interests at home and abroad.
Many of the same qualities are fostered in young people by the Service Cadet organisations, led and guided by volunteer adult instructors who also give up their own time to help make sure that Sea Cadets, Army Cadets and Air Cadets are encouraged to achieve their full potential in a fun, rewarding and safe environment.
Armed Forces Week kicks off up and down the country today with numerous events where Armed Forces Day flags will be raised above buildings and famous landmarks.
Then, on Wednesday 26 June, the focus shifts to Reserves Day, the day that gives Reservists the opportunity to wear their uniform to work and to receive well-deserved recognition from colleagues for their extra contribution to society.
Armed Forces Week then culminates in Armed Forces Day on Saturday 29 June. The main celebration within the HRFCA-area is at King’s Park in Stirling. The free event features a parade of Regular and Reserve Armed Forces personnel, Service Cadets, and Veterans. There is also a show ring with a variety of entertainment including a parachute display along with static displays of military equipment from each of the services and the Service Cadet organisations. Add music, dancing and interactive fun to the mix and there is plenty to keep the whole family happy.
There are also similar events in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The Aberdeen event features a parade from Union Street, finishing at the Castlegate. The parade is a celebration of the history and proud record of the Armed Forces and allows the people of Aberdeen to show their respect for the role they play within society. Doing this helps boost the morale of serving troops, Reservists, service leavers and the wider community.
The National Event 2019 will be held in Salisbury, while in 2020 the event will take place in Scarborough.
There are many ways for people, communities and organisations across the country to show their support, from attending events like the ones at Stirling and Aberdeen or perhaps throwing a party or local event.
Our Armed Forces are busy working around the world, promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security and fighting terrorism. They couldn’t do their job without the incredible support of their family and friends.
The Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (HRFCA) exists to support, in a range of practical ways, Reservists and Cadets throughout the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
We also encourage businesses and organisations to support the Armed Forces by signing up to the Armed Forces Covenant and the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). The ERS scheme awards Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates to supportive employers.
You can contact either of HRFCA’s Regional Employer Engagement Directors, who will provide you with all the information you need to start formally supporting the Armed Forces through your company or organisation:
Jim Dickie on 01382 631026, or email: hi-reed@rfca.mod.uk
Roy McLellan on 01382 631022, or email: hi-reed2@rfca.mod.uk
*To find out more, or to get involved with the Reserves, Cadets or HRFCA, check out the HRFCA website by clicking here where you will find links to us and those we support as well as information and reports from Armed Forces Week. You can also follow HRFCA on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram where you’ll find all our latest news and pictures.
