Legion supports countrywide celebrations for Armed Forces Day
25 June 2009
This week, members of The Royal British Legion across the country will be taking part in the first ever Armed Forces Day as the nation gathers to celebrate our brave Service men and women at home and abroad.
Former Royal Marine Commando Sean Power, 27, said that the celebration of the Armed Forces was hugely important for both current and ex-Serving personnel.
"A few years ago I remember feeling disliked by the public for fighting a hugely unpopular war in Iraq" he said.
"It is testament to the hard work of organisations such as The Royal British Legion that people can now distinguish between an unpopular campaign and the soldiers, sailors and airmen who have to fight it."
The Royal British Legion formed part of the panel advising on the Armed Forces Recognition Study under Quentin Davies MP - which recommended the creation of a combined Armed Forces and Veterans Day in June.
The Legion had lobbied for the day to be held in summer rather than the initial suggestion of the second Monday in November to ensure that the Remembrance of the fallen and the celebration of the living were not confused.
Director General Chris Simpkins expressed his support for the first Armed Forces Day saying, "The Poppy is the symbol of Remembrance in November when we recognise the sacrifices made by Armed Forces, particularly the supreme sacrifice.
"How appropriate, therefore, that it is in June, when the poppies are blowing wild in the field, that we celebrate the contributions made by living Armed Forces past, present and future."
Up and down the country, branches of The Royal British Legion are hosting scores of events in local communities to enable everyone to join in the celebrations.
Mr Simpkins added, "Members of The Royal British Legion consider it an honour to lead the festivities in towns and villages from homecoming parades for returning troops to organising fetes for the whole community."
The Legion is the official host and sponsor of the Royal reception at Chatham Historic Dockyard where the national Armed Forces Day event is being held. In addition, Secretary of State for Defence Bob Ainsworth attended a fundraising dinner for Armed Forces Day in Warwickshire.
