On 29th June, Stephen
Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, joined the residents
of Basildon in a celebration of the Armed Forces. The local MP inspected the
cadet’s parade along with Mayor Mo Larkin, Council Leader Tony Ball and Rector
of St Martin’s, Reverend Esther McCafferty, before talking to the young people about their
experiences in the Armed Forces community.
The event in Basildon was one of hundreds being held across
the country, championing the work of serving troops, veterans, and cadets. The
highlights of the day’s events were the raising of the Armed Forces flag and a
parade of uniformed cadets from the Navy, Air Force and Army. Led by the Air
Cadets band, the young people marched from Toys R Us to St Martin’s Square.
Armed Forces Day is a national campaign designed to raise
public awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who serve and
have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, whilst also giving the nation an
opportunity to demonstrate their support for the men and women who make up the
Armed Forces community.
Mr Metcalfe, who has long been a supporter of the armed
forces, commented: “It was a privilege to join local people in celebrating the
invaluable work of the Armed Forces and to inspect the parade of cadets.”
“All involved did themselves and their units proud. The
atmosphere was fantastic and I think it was a tremendous way to show our
support for the armed forces and to celebrate the invaluable contribution they
have made and are making to this country.”
The signing of the Basildon Armed Forces Community Covenant
has created a good partnership between the local civilian community and armed
forces in Basildon. The parade is a continuation of events being held in the
local area to show support for the Armed Forces Community which recently
included an Armed Forces Summit.
To find out more about Armed Forces Day and supporting the Armed
Forces community, visit: www.armedforcesday.org.uk
