ARMED FORCES HONOURED AT LOCAL CEREMONY

June 24, 2016

Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Brian Bloomfield, recently hosted a ceremony to raise the Armed Forces Flag at Lagan Valley Island to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week nationwide.

Annually the Flag is raised at the Civic Headquarters to honour Britain’s Armed Forces of the past, present and future. 

The Flag was raised by Lieutenant Colonel Frank Cannon, Station Commander at Thiepval Barracks.  Elected Members and representatives of the Army, the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force, and the Royal British Legion were present.

Speaking at the ceremony the Mayor, said: “We are gathered here to raise the Flag in honour of our Armed Forces as a mark of respect and to celebrate the achievements of our veterans as well as what our troops are currently fighting to achieve and also the opportunities that can be offered to future generations of soldiers who have made the decision to dedicate their lives to protecting us.

“It is at times like this that we remember those who have served and also remember those who will never be returning home, not forgetting the grieving families left behind.  By raising the Flag here at the Civic Headquarters, the message to residents and visitors is that Lisburn and Castlereagh appreciates the dedication and achievements of all our service personnel, and supports the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community including service families and cadets. 

“Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council recognises the dangers faced by those fighting in battles on foreign soil and any loss of human life and the infliction of serious injuries is humbling, in the face of such bravery, camaraderie, and dedication to duty,” he concluded.

For further information on Armed Forces Weeks log on to www.armedforcesday.org.uk