Remembering Afghanistan
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the end of combat operations by British Armed Forces in Afghanistan (Operation Herrick).
The UK had a military presence in Afghanistan from October 2001, when troops were deployed as part of the NATO response to the 11 September 2001 attacks, and then as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) which initially provided security and reconstruction teams. In 2006, British forces were sent to Southern Afghanistan to tackle a growing insurgency in the region, and experienced their heaviest fighting in Helmand.
By 2010, UK troop numbers reached their peak with 10,000 deployed across Afghanistan. Later the same year, discussions began over the withdrawal of NATO forces. In 2014, Britain formally ended all combat operations in the country.
Some 150,000 British Armed Forces personnel served in Afghanistan, and 457 lost their lives.
The service and sacrifice of those who served in Afghanistan and Operation Herrick will be marked with a short, private ceremony on the Armed Forces Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire, followed by refreshments on the afternoon of Saturday 26th October. We invite those who served in Afghanistan to attend, including former and current members of the Armed Forces, their families, and civilian contractors. Registration to attend is essential by completing the form below. Please note that applying here does not guarantee you a ticket. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
The form will close at midnight on Friday 11th October or when capacity is reached.
Registration Form
FAQ's
Booking in Advance
Do I need to book in advance to attend the Ceremony?
How do I know if my application has been successful?
Once you have completed the digital registration form for you and your guests, you will receive an immediate notification that your form has been submitted. We will then be in touch via email to confirm the outcome of your application.
How many guests can I register to attend the ceremony?
When will I receive my e-ticket?
E-tickets will be emailed to guests from the week commencing Monday 14th October.
Can I use my confirmation email as an e-ticket?
I have lost my e-ticket, is it possible to receive this again?
I don't have a printer, can I show my e-tickets on my phone?
Eligibility
Who will be eligible to attend the ceremony?
I was deployed to Afghanistan but did not serve in Operation Herrick. May I attend?
I am a family member of a person who passed away after his/her Afghanistan deployment. May I attend?
I was a civilian contractor working in Afghanistan, may I attend?
If you were a civilian contractor working in support of British armed forces or security, or in support of Afghanistan civil society, then you are welcome to attend.
On The Day
What time will the Arboretum open on Saturday 26 October 2024.
The National Memorial Arboretum will open at 10am.
All service ticket holders will need to be on the Armed Forces Memorial by no later than 1.45pm (there will be no admittance to the Armed Forces Memorial after this time).
What is the dress code for the event?
The dress code for the event is the following for Serving Military personnel: RN - No 1B, RM - No1B (Lovat), Army - No2 Dress, RAF - No 1 SD (Incl. medals, less swords). For Civilian and Veterans: Day Dress / Lounge Suit (incl. medals).
Will parking be included for this event?
Entry to the Remembering Afghanistan ceremony is by pre-registered e-ticket only. The National Memorial Arboretum is free, but parking charges do apply – we recommend booking your parking in advance via the Arboretum’s website thenma.org.uk.
Where will I be required to park?
I have booked parking for multiple people; will the other members of my party need confirmation?
I have a blue badge where will I be required to park?
Can I book a mobility scooter or wheelchair?
I am travelling via public transport. How can I get to the National Memorial Arboretum?
Please see the Arboretum website (Getting Here | Plan Your Visit | National Memorial Arboretum (thenma.org.uk)
Are service animals permitted to attend the private ceremony?
Only Assistance dogs are permitted onto the Armed Forces Memorial and into Aspects. For further information, please see the Arboretum’s website: Visiting With Dogs | Plan Your Visit | National Memorial Arboretum (thenma.org.uk)
Is the venue accessible?
The National Memorial Arboretum aims to cater to the needs of all visitors and will try to accommodate all access requirements where possible. Please visit the NMA website for further details: Accessibility | Plan Your Visit | National Memorial Arboretum (thenma.org.uk). If you have a specific access requirement, please contact [email protected].
Where can I find out more about visiting the Arboretum?
Do ticket holders need to bring anything with them on the day?
Will the service go ahead in inclement weather?
The Remembering Afghanistan service will take place in the event of inclement weather.
A small handbag sized umbrella will be permitted at the event, however large golf umbrellas cannot be used.
What time will the service begin?
Can I purchase a wreath and floral tribute to lay during the service?
Wreaths and individual tokens of Remembrance, such as fresh flowers or poppy tributes, may be laid after the short ceremony.
Wreaths and Poppy Tributes are available to purchase from the Poppy Shop online here: Poppy Shop UK | Charity Gifts | The Royal British Legion Shop
Can I watch the service if I haven't got a ticket to watch the service on the Armed Forces Memorial?
Will I be able to bring my standard to parade during the ceremony?
Will there be a reception following the private ceremony?
Will dietary requirements be accounted for?
Yes, there will be an opportunity during the registration process for all guests to indicate any dietary requirements.
Does my e-ticket also permit attendance to the reception following the ceremony?
If you have any questions, please contact the Remembrance Events Team at [email protected]