SPECIAL flag raising ceremonies to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week have taken place today (Monday). 

His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire Mr Edward Harley CBE CStJ, The Chair of Herefordshire Council, Councillor Roger Phillips, Mayor of Hereford Councillor Jacqui Carwardine and senior figures from all three Armed Forces Services attended the event in High Town, Hereford, with invited guests representing military charities, the Armed Forces and the veteran community.

Onlookers were treated to special tributes by pupils from Riverside Primary School and Lord Scudamore Primary Academy.

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Armed Forces Week (June 19 to 24) is a chance to give thanks to the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.

“We are proud to be honouring our Armed Forces community in Herefordshire for their outstanding contribution protecting our nation," said Cllr Phillips.

"Many residents of Herefordshire have a strong connection to the Armed Forces from our serving community, reservists, our cadet forces and the large veteran population who have chosen to settle in Herefordshire.

"I would also like to pay tribute to the families of those who serve or have served. Our Armed Forces couldn’t do their jobs without the incredible support of their families, who often have to deal with their own unique challenges."

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An Armed Forces flag will also fly throughout the week at Hereford County Hospital. It is a fitting tribute to members of staff who have served their country and those family members of the Armed Forces who work in healthcare. Mr Harley attended along with the Colonel Andy Taylot. 

Erica Hermon, Associate Director of Corporate Governance for Wye Valley NHS Trust, said: "We’re fortunate to work alongside colleagues who have served in the Armed Forces or are family members.

"Collectively, they bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the patient care and services we provide across Herefordshire.

"We are very proud to honour these colleagues and recognise their valuable contribution by raising the flag at Hereford County Hospital for Armed Forces Week."

There are a range of other events planned throughout Armed Forces Week in Herefordshire including:

  • Monday, June 19 - Laguna's Spitfire Legacy: talk at The Courtyard, Hereford
  • Monday, June 19 to Monday, July 3 - Art 4 Veterans Exhibition
  • Thursday, June 22 - NIMITE Military to Business Showcase
  • Saturday, June 24 - Armed Forces Day Army Football Festival

For full information visit herefordshire.gov.uk/armedforcesday