Tag: Armed Forces Day

Scotland to host parades and events for Armed Forces Day

  • More than a dozen events being held across Scotland to mark Armed Forces Day
  • Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dumfries, Glasgow, and Thurso among those leading Scotland’s celebrations
  • Around 200 events are planned across the United Kingdom as nation gathers to thank Armed Forces community

Communities across Scotland are today (Saturday 27 June) celebrating Armed Forces Day, joining around 200 events planned across the United Kingdom.

Armed Forces Day is an annual opportunity to thank the entire Armed Forces community – service personnel, reservists, veterans, cadets and military families – for all they do to keep us safe.

Earlier this year the Ministry of Defence announced it would provide up to £500,000 of funding for Armed Forces Day celebrations across the country.

The events – a map of which can be found here – help deliver on the Strategic Defence Review’s call for a whole-of-society approach to defence, strengthening the bonds between society and our Armed Forces.   

Almost 10,000 Armed Forces members live and work in Scotland, and the defence sector directly supports nearly 12,000 jobs in the country. Approximately 176,000 veterans live in Scotland.  

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: “I welcome the whole country uniting for Armed Forces Day to show our support for currently serving troops, service families, veterans and cadets.

“Scotland plays such a vital role in the UK’s defence and I am appreciative, and deeply proud of, our service personnel. Their professionalism and bravery to keep us and our allies safe are rightly respected worldwide.

“The UK Government is renewing the country’s contract with our military personnel through initiatives such as a new housing strategy which will make homes fit for heroes, delivering the biggest pay rise for personnel in 20 years and putting the Armed Forces Covenant into law. National security is a top priority for the UK Government and we will always stand up for our Armed Forces.”

Armed Forces Day events are hosted every year by local authorities, veterans’ organisations, schools, places of worship, charities and community groups. 

The UK Government is determined to ensure British people can take pride in their communities and enjoy safe and vibrant high streets, with community events like Armed Forces Day an important part of British life. 

The Government has also increased defence spending to both support local jobs and keep families safe in an uncertain world.

Scotland is home to the UK’s military shipbuilding industry in Rosyth and the continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent, which is based at HM Naval Base Clyde. 

RAF Lossiemouth operates the UK’s Quick Reaction Alert, which scrambles Typhoon fast jets to monitor suspicious aircraft in the skies above the UK. 

EDINBURGH’S CITY CENTRE PARADE CELEBRATES ARMED FORCES DAY

Serving personnel, veterans and their supporters will parade through St Andrew Square in Edinburgh this weekend at a special event being held to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

The celebrations will start from 10.30am on Saturday, June 27, as the annual procession of around 400 members of the Armed Forces community will assemble in Charlotte Square, led by 12 vintage vehicles from the Scottish Military Vehicle Group.

From there they will follow the route along George Street, reassembling in St Andrew Square where they will be welcomed by Edinburgh’s Depute Lord Provost, Lezley Marion Cameron, followed by a day of fun and entertainment until 3pm.

The public will also enjoy tunes from the Lowland and Highland Bands of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums. 

There will also be static displays of vintage military vehicles throughout the day, and members of the public will be able to see some of the kit and equipment used by our Armed Forces over the years.

Dr. Claire Armstrong, OBE, Chief Executive of Royal British Legion Scotland, emphasised the significance of the occasion, stating that it is a time for unity and appreciation for all those who have served, both past and present, and their families. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces every day, highlighting their dedication and commitment. 

Dr. Armstrong said: “We hope this event will be a good opportunity for veterans and serving personnel to reunite acquaintances and comradeship and will also be a fitting tribute to everyone who serves in our Armed Forces and will also recognise the continued sacrifices that our servicemen and women make today.” 

She encouraged residents of Edinburgh and beyond to attend the event, show their support, and enjoy a memorable day out. 

Dr Armstrong added: “We hope you can come along and help us celebrate the Armed Forces community in our capital city in style, whilst also learning about the valuable work of charities Royal British Legion Scotland, Poppyscotland and many more.”

www.armedforcesday.org.uk 

Poppyscotland to be out in force this Armed Forces Day

Leading national charity Poppyscotland will be a noticeable presence at various events across the country this Armed Forces Day.

Taking place on Saturday, 27th June the day celebrates the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. It marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, which began on Monday 22nd June.

Poppyscotland provide lifelong support, expert guidance and ongoing care for current and former members of the Armed Forces as well as their families when its needed most. 

Last year alone, the charity responded to almost 800 individuals and families with advice and practical help on a number of issues including financial support, interventions and advice for people and families living with dementia, practical assistance and advice dealing with mobility issues, housing, mental health support, employment issues and much more.

This Armed Forces Week, the charity is reminding the public why their work matters and how they support the Armed Forces community all year round.

One such beneficiary, is serving soldier Timoci Waqanibau and his wife Titilia who contacted Poppyscotland for help, to reunite them with their children after nearly two years apart.

After Timoci joined the British Army in 2019, the family made the heartbreaking decision to leave their nine-year-old son and six-year-old daughter in Fiji while they built a new life in Scotland, staying connected only through daily video calls and the promise of one day being together again.

When Titilia reached out to Poppyscotland for help, everything changed. Within weeks, the charity arranged everything: visas, flights, and full travel support to bring their children home to Scotland, and to finally meet their baby sister. The reunion in October was everything they’d hoped for.

“The children were so excited, screaming. We all cried,” Timoci said. “All we wanted was our babies all together, and thanks to Poppyscotland that dream has finally come true.” 

Leanne Bonner, Head of Scotland at Poppyscotland, said: “Families like Timoci’s are at the heart of everything we do. No family should have to face challenges like these alone and with Poppyscotland’s support, they don’t have to.”

For more information on Poppyscotland and how they can help, please visit:

www.poppyscotland.org.uk.

Volunteers needed in Edinburgh city centre this Armed Forces Day

Can you help?

Leading charity Poppyscotland is calling for volunteers to help man collection stations during Armed Forces Week in Edinburgh later this month.

Volunteers are being sought at both Waverley and Haymarket train stations in the city centre on Saturday, 27th June and Sunday 28th June, as well as at the Armed Forces Day parade at St Andrew Square on Saturday, 27th June. 

Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. It marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, beginning on Monday 22nd June, when the public show their appreciation for the Armed Forces community. 

Poppyscotland requires volunteer collectors during Armed Forces Week to allow the charity to continue the valuable work they do in helping countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces.

There are roles that suit a range of interests and experiences, and no matter how much time you can spare, you will make a difference. 

Volunteers will be ably looked after, supported and trained by dedicated Poppyscotland staff. But, most importantly, the chance to make a real difference is there for the taking. 

Sean Walsh has been volunteering with Poppyscotland for six years. The 20 year old said: “I volunteer at various events throughout the year, including at Armed Forces Day. Sometimes I can manage full days and other times I sign up for a couple of hours at a time due to my busy shift patterns at work.

“I know that even a few hours can make a real difference.

“I really enjoy my volunteering with Poppyscotland, you definitely feel part of something bigger!

“It’s a very straightforward process too – I sign up online, where I get all the information I need.”

If you would be interested in volunteering at any point over the weekend of Saturday, 27th June or Sunday, 28th June, then please sign up now at www.poppyscotland.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/armed-forces-day.

For more information on Poppyscotland and how we can help, please visit, www.poppyscotland.org.uk

Armed Forces Day celebration in city centre on Saturday

Serving personnel, veterans and their supporters will parade through St Andrew Square in Edinburgh this weekend at a special event being held to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

The celebrations will start from 10am on Saturday, June 28, as the annual procession of around 400 members of the Armed Forces community will assemble in Charlotte Square, led by 10 vintage vehicles from the Scottish Military Vehicle Group.

From there they will follow the route along George Street, reassembling in St Andrew Square where they will be welcomed by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, followed a day of fun and entertainment until 3pm.

Highlights will include The Highland and Lowland Bands of the Royal Regiment of Scotland; The Royal British Legion Scotland and Association’s Standards and Veterans; live performances from Stuart McLean, Richard Kerr, Niamh Corkey, Fraser Mclean and Maria Townsley. The event will be hosted by BFBS broadcaster Mark McKenzie.

There will also be static displays of vintage military vehicles throughout the day and members of the public will be able to see some of the kit and equipment used by our Armed Forces over the years.

Dr Claire Armstrong, OBE, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “Armed Forces Day on Saturday follows on from Monday’s event (June 23) when the Armed Forces Day flag was presented to the Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron, and raised above Edinburgh’s City Chambers with pride to honour military personnel past, present and future.

“We hope you can come along and help us celebrate the Armed Forces community in our capital city in style, whilst also learning about the valuable work of charities Legion Scotland, Poppyscotland and many more.” 

Meanwhile, Poppyscotland, in partnership with Legion Scotland, are calling for volunteers to help man collection stations over the course of the weekend.

Volunteers are required to help at both Waverley and Haymarket train stations during timed slots on either June 28 or June 29.

If you would be interested in volunteering on either Saturday, June 28 or Sunday, June 29, please sign up today:

for Haymarket Station at www.poppyscotland.org.uk/AFDHaymarket

for Waverley Station at www.poppyscotland.org.uk/AFDWaverley

Can you help? Volunteers needed in Edinburgh this Armed Forces Day

Poppyscotland, working in partnership with Legion Scotland, are calling for volunteers to help man collection stations on the upcoming Armed Forces Day in Edinburgh.

Taking place on Saturday, June 28, volunteers are needed to help at Waverley or Haymarket train stations during timed slots over the course of that weekend (28th and 29th).

Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets.

There are many ways for people, communities and organisations across the country to show their support, including making a donation to Poppyscotland to allow us to continue the valuable work we do in helping countless men, women and families with issues linked to their time in the Armed Forces or with struggles adjusting from military to civilian life. 

We even help with needs that have arisen long after someone has left the Armed Forces. Whenever, wherever support is needed, we are here.

If you would be interested in volunteering on Saturday, June 28 at Haymarket train station then please sign up now at https://www.poppyscotland.org.uk/AFDHaymarket

or

to volunteer on either Saturday, June 28 or Sunday, June 29, at Edinburgh Waverley station, please sign up at www.poppyscotland.org.uk/AFDWaverley.

For more information on Poppyscotland and how we can help, please visit, www.poppyscotland.org.uk

Hiring a veteran is good for business!

New figures reveal 20% increase in the number of employers looking to hire veterans

New figures released by the Forces Employment Charity to coincide with Armed Forces Day (Saturday, 29 June) reveal that the number of employers actively looking to hire veterans has jumped by over 20% in the last five years, increasing from 2981 in 2018 to 3603 in 2023.[1]

The charity has also unveiled new research which shows that employers who have hired veterans report that they contributed significantly to the workforce.

Results show:

  • 1 in 4 (24%) employers praised veterans for bringing strong leadership skills to the workforce[2]
  • 1 in 5 (22%) employers say having a veteran in the organisation is great for building team spirit2
  • 1 in 5 (22%) employers praise veterans for bringing unique skills to the workforce2
  • 1 in 5 (20%) employers say hiring a veteran is good for business2

The Forces Employment Charity, which supports all members of the military community in achieving civilian employment success, has also seen a massive rise in the number of job roles it has secured for its clients. Last year, the charity secured 13,246 placements,[3] compared to 11,994 the previous year,[4] reflecting more than a 10% year-on-year increase.

Despite a significant increase in employers recognising the value of hiring veterans, less than half of UK employers (41%) say they know where and how to access talent from the military community.2 

Furthermore, only 1 in 3 (35%) veterans say they feel proud of the skills they acquired during their time in the military, and whilst around 15,000 men and women leave the Armed Forces every year,[5] less than 1 in 10 (8%) working-age veterans state that they know where to go for civilian employment support.[6]

The Forces Employment Charity exists to provide life-long, life-changing support, job opportunities, and training to Service leavers, veterans, reservists and their families, irrespective of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving. The charity also delivers Op NOVA on behalf of the NHS, supporting veterans in contact with the justice system.

Edinburgh-based Leanne Bonner, Ex-Forces Programme Manager at the Forces Employment Charity, says: “As someone who works with the military community on a daily basis, helping them to take their next step on the career ladder, I am delighted to see so many more employers actively looking to hire veterans.

“Anyone who has served has a wealth of skills to offer, such as resilience, accountability, leadership and team skills, and an ability to be trained. With the help of moments such as Armed Forces Day, I look forward to seeing more employers taking steps to recruit veterans into their teams.”

Danielle Sandy, Military Talent Acquisition at Barclays, sought the support of the Forces Employment Charity’s Military Women programme to help her secure her new role, which drives veteran recruitment.

She says: “My advisor was fantastic throughout my application process for the Barclays position. She helped me not only with my CV but also put me through a number of mock interviews, which set me up perfectly on the big day.

“She is extremely knowledgeable and always on hand to provide support – no matter what time of the day. I will be forever grateful for her assistance during a daunting experience. Going from a very comfortable position into a huge corporate brand during a pandemic was a risk and a challenge.

“Still, with her support, I could make a very smooth transition. She was engaged throughout the whole process, from the first viewing of the job advert and initial application to even following up with me in weeks one and three of my new role.

“The whole experience was superb, and she gave me the confidence to take the next big step in my career. Although I have offered Service Leavers and Veterans advice for years, I often found it difficult to apply that same advice to myself and lacked confidence!

“Thankfully, my advisor was able to offer me advice and build my confidence.”

Speaking about her role as Military Talent Acquisition at Barclays, she adds: “As a Royal Navy veteran, I know first-hand both the incredible skills that veterans can bring to the civilian workforce, but also the common challenges that can sometimes act as a barrier to accessing meaningful employment once you have finished your Forces career.

“I am so proud to work for an organisation that takes active steps to embrace military talent and nurture their skills and abilities.”

Shaun Harrison from Glasgow sought the support of the Forces Employment Charity, having served in the British Army. With the help of his dedicated Advisor, who provided job signposting, CV advice and helped with interview technique, Shaun secured a role as a Nursing Assistant with the NHS.

He comments: “With the help of my Advisor, I was able to secure employment without getting overly stressed. Knowing someone had my back whilst I was navigating this job minefield was good. It let me focus on other things in my life that I love.”

Staff from the Forces Employment Charity will attend a host of events all over the country in support of Armed Forces Day. They will be on hand to provide more information about how the charity can help members of the military community take their next step on the career ladder, whether that be helping with their CVs, searching for suitable jobs, or using interview techniques to help secure funding for training opportunities.

For more information, visit www.forcesemployment.org.uk

Edinburgh to celebrate Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Military bands, veterans, and senior Armed Forces personnel will join a parade through Edinburgh’s city centre on Saturday to show support for our Armed Forces and their families.

The Lord Provost Robert Aldridge will take part in the event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

The parade will commence on George Street close to St Andrews Square, led by the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and Legion Scotland standard bearers, starting at 10:30 am. The route will follow George Street until reaching the saluting dias which will be outside the Assembly rooms. From there, it will make a left turn onto Castle Street and conclude.

Afterwards, the parade will move towards Princes Street Gardens West, where the Lord Provost and Air Officer Scotland Air Vice Marshal Ross Paterson CB OBE ADC DL will deliver speeches.

The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland will begin the programme of entertainment, followed by Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Maria Townsley, Stuart McLean, and Angus Munro.

Formerly known as “Veterans Day”, this annual event is observed across the UK as an opportunity to pay homage to the Armed Forces community.

Dr. Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, emphasised the significance of the occasion, stating that it is a time for unity and appreciation for all those who have served, both past and present, and their families.

It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces every day, highlighting their dedication and commitment.

Dr. Armstrong said “We hope this event will be a good opportunity for veterans and serving personnel to reunite acquaintances and comradeship and will also be a fitting tribute to everyone who serves in our Armed Forces and will also recognise the continued sacrifices that our servicemen and women make today.”

She encouraged residents of Edinburgh and beyond to attend the event, show their support, and enjoy a memorable day out.

ATTENTION! Veterans can celebrate Armed Forces Day with 50% off in Morrisons Cafes

Morrisons has announced that it is offering those in the armed forces and veterans 50% off in cafés nationwide for Armed Forces Day. 

On Saturday June 24th, anyone who comes into a Morrisons café dressed in their armed forces uniform or with a valid form of ID or a medal/badge can receive 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes. 

Available for one day only, this heroic deal is to thank the thousands of military personnel who have gone above and beyond for their country. 

Military personnel can enjoy hot menu favourites including a Roast Beef or Half Roast Chicken Dinner for just £3.74, Fish and Chips for £3.49 or Bangers and Mash for just £2.49.  

To make the deal even sweeter, those in the forces and veterans can choose from a selection of cakes such as Victoria sponge or Chocolate Fudge cake for just £1.44.

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager, says: “We’re honoured to be offering those currently serving in the armed forces and veterans 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes in our cafés as a thank you for all that they have done and continue to do for us all.”

Customers who scan their Morrisons More card at the till will also receive 600 points when spending £6 or more in a Morrisons café.

Morrisons Armed Forces Day deal will be available in all Morrisons cafés on Saturday June 24th and can’t be used with any other offer or promotion. 

Edinburgh celebrates Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Depute Lord Provost Cllr Lezley Cameron and Keith Brown, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans, joined veterans and city residents to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Edinburgh on Saturday (JUNE 24th).

Hundreds lined the streets as the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums led a parade along George Street, with Legion Scotland standard bearers and veterans taking part.

Cllr Cameron addressed the crowd in St Andrew Square, before a concert featuring both bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Fiona Liddle, Jack Hinks and Maria Townley.

The event, formerly known as “Veterans Day” was a chance to show appreciation and support for the work of the Armed Forces community. The city’s events were organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

Cllr Cameron, whose father and uncle were in the Armed Forces, said: “Today’s event brought back thoughts and fond memories of family members and loved ones who have served.

“It gives Edinburgh the opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, recognising and celebrating the outstanding contribution of those who serve and have served.

“Armed Forces Day acknowledges the personal sacrifices they make and have made to defend the UK and its interests. All of us owe an incredible debt of gratitude to these brave men and women who are the ultimate protectors of our peace and security and our way of life.”

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people coming out to show their support for all those who have served, past and present, and their families. After two difficult years, we were very pleased to return to normal and receive such a warm welcome in the city.

“I’d like to thank the City of Edinburgh Council for their support, and everyone else who helped to make this day a success.”

Armed Forces Day – New career at Amazon for Bathgate military veteran

The team at the Amazon delivery station in Bathgate is celebrating Armed Forces Day (25th June) by shining a light on some of the veterans and reservists working across Amazon’s UK operations network. 

One of the veterans currently working at Amazon in Bathgate is Daniel Da Silva, who joined the company in 2020. 

The Amazon Military Programme offers members of the military community the opportunity to pursue a wide range of exciting new career paths at Amazon.

This year Amazon will recruit (or has recruited) over 300 veterans, reservists and military spouses across the business in over 35 different jobs ranging from health & safety specialists, engineers, sales managers and team leaders to senior managers. These new employees join over 2,500 already employed at Amazon since it commenced its military programme in 2011.  

Amazon has been awarded the Employer of the Year Award at the Ex-Forces in Business Awards for two years in succession for its outstanding efforts in supporting ex-services personnel and military spouses. The Ex-Forces in Business Awards is the world’s largest celebration of military veterans in second careers. 

The awards are dedicated to providing a much-needed platform for uncovering and showcasing the business achievements of ex-military, recognising the value veterans add to businesses as well as the employers that support the transition of servicemen and women.

Amazon’s military onboarding plan dedicated mentoring platform and thriving employee resource group ‘Warriors at Amazon’ continue to ensure our ex-forces have the best possible start to their second careers in Industry.

Amazon is also a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. The Covenant, originally introduced in 2011, has a focus on helping the Armed Forces community to access the same support from government and commercial services as the public. 

Amazon first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013 and renewed its commitment in 2021, vowing to uphold its key principles and to demonstrate its commitment to serving personnel, reservists, veterans and families.

Daniel Da Silva joined Amazon two years ago and is currently working as a Health and Safety Coordinator based at the Bathgate delivery station. 

Before joining Amazon, Daniel decided at age 17 to join the marines in Portugal. Due to an injury after 12 months of training, Daniel was told he couldn’t finish the last three weeks of his course. After recovering from his injury, Daniel started the same training once again and after 12 months, he received his well-deserved blue beret. 

“At some point in life we all fall, but it is down to us to stand up and use that bad moment as a fuel for something greater,” he said. 

As lockdown struck, Daniel found it very hard to stay at home. His brother was working at Amazon, so he decided to apply for a temporary part-time job but decided to stay on with Amazon after lockdown restrictions lifted. 

“I started to enjoy the diversity of roles here and opportunities and when it came to the time to go back to my previous job, I decided to stay at Amazon,” Daniel said. 

“For six years of my life, I had done a lot of leadership training and learned a lot during that period. I can now use those experiences to put what I learned into practice at Amazon. It’s something that comes naturally to me now. 

“Amazon is a great company to work for and a brilliant place to develop skills. You can go up the levels if you have the passion and commitment to do so.” Daniel added. “Comparing the opportunities that we have at Amazon to the military, it’s a much safer environment and you can spend more time with family, which are two big bonuses for me.” 

Clare Cornbleet, Senior Delivery Station Manager at Amazon in Bathgate said: “The Amazon Military Programme has been a fantastic success and Daniel is one of the many brilliant veterans and reservists working in Amazon buildings here in Bathgate and around the UK.

“The skills learned in the military are highly transferable to a role at Amazon and we’re pleased to continue offering employment, training and development opportunities to former servicemen and women through our programme.” 

Gillian Russell, Principle Programme Manager, Global Military Affairs and retired Royal Navy Officer at Amazon, added: “The military community brings huge value to the workforce and we have a dedicated team focused on bringing that talent into Amazon.

“We offer opportunities across the whole business and we train, develop and support veterans, military spouses and Reserves to flourish and thrive here. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to lean new skills and build their career at Amazon.”

Launched in 2021 the Amazon Corporate Military Internship Program is one such opportunity. It offers a direct path into corporate roles in e-commerce for those transitioning from the Armed Forces.

Those on the programme are supported throughout their transition to the corporate world, including a military mentor who already works at Amazon, tailored support from line management and an on boarding buddy.

To find out more about beginning a career with Amazon, visit Amazon Jobs

Amazon provides competitive pay, comprehensive benefits and a modern, safe and engaging work environment for its employees. The roles pay a minimum of £10.00 or £11.10 per hour depending on location, and Amazon employees can also take advantage of Amazon’s pioneering Career Choice programme, which pre-pays 95% of tuition for courses in high-demand fields, up to £8,000 over four years, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a career at Amazon. 

Amazon also provides opportunities to improve existing skills or learn new ones through internal career progression opportunities such as cross-training, transferring to a different department and promotion into a managerial role. 

Amazon has invested over £32 billion in the UK since 2010 to provide convenience, selection and value to UK consumers, while supporting tens of thousands of businesses and creative professionals including small businesses selling on Amazon’s online stores, Amazon Web Services developers and Kindle Direct Publishing authors.  

Edinburgh to celebrate Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Military bands, veterans, and senior Armed Forces personnel will join a parade through Edinburgh’s centre tomorrow to show support for servicemen, women, and their families.

The Depute Lord Provost Cllr Lezley Cameron will take part in the event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

Starting in Charlotte Square, the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums, and Legion Scotland standard bearers will lead the parade along George Street at 10:15am.

They will march to St Andrew Square for a short address by the Depute Lord Provost. This will be followed by entertainment from both bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Fiona Liddle, Jack Hinks and Maria Townley. There will also a variety of stalls, including from Poppyscotland, Legion Scotland, and other charities. 

Formerly known as “Veterans Day”, the annual event is marked each year around the UK and is a chance to pay tribute to the Armed Forces community.

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “This is a chance to come together and show our appreciation for all those who have served, past and present, and their families. It’s a day to remember the sacrifices that our Armed Forces make every day and commemorate their dedication and commitment.

“This is always an uplifting and morale-boosting event, and we’re especially delighted to return to normal after two difficult years. We’re pleased to be working with the City of Edinburgh Council and presenting an exciting and varied programme of entertainment.

“We’d encourage people throughout the city and beyond to come along, show their support, and enjoy a day out.”