Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council raises flag to honour Britain's armed forces

June 22, 2015

The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Cllr Thomas Beckett, led the Council in a Flag Raising Ceremony today to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week.  The ceremony was held at Lagan Valley Island, the Council’s headquarters.

Elected Members of Council and the Chief Executive, Dr Theresa Donaldson were delighted to welcome Commanding Officer at Thiepval Barracks, Lieutenant Colonel Canon, Lieutenant Kerry Anderson, Royal Navy Reserves, Lieutenant Colonel Sykes, Reserve Forces & Cadets Association NI, MLA’s and representatives from the Royal British Legion.

Following the raising of the flag a two-minute silence was held.

The Mayor addressed those assembled and said: “Armed Forces Week recognises the supreme efforts of our servicemen and women serving at home and overseas as well as our veterans who have served our country in past conflicts. 

“Today, we recognise the great sacrifices taken by those who continuously put their lives on the line, so we can live freely and continue with our way of life. No matter where these men and women are serving, or what mission they are supporting, all are making sacrifices for a better world.”

The Mayor raised the flag in acknowledgement of the bravery, dedication and achievements of the Armed Forces, and to pay a special tribute to those who have been injured or sadly lost their lives in the line of duty.  The Mayor also mentioned the sacrifice of grieving families who have lost loved ones. 

Across the UK, Armed Forces Week will be celebrated with a range of events and Guildford has been chosen as the host city for this year’s Armed Forces Day national event on Saturday 27th June.