Learn about Armed Forces Day in the UK—its meaning, history, and how communities across Britain honour the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.
What Is Armed Forces Day UK?
Armed Forces Day is a national occasion held every June across the United Kingdom to celebrate the service of the men and women who make up the British Armed Forces—past, present, and future. It’s an opportunity for communities to come together and show their support for those who have served and continue to serve in the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, including Reservists, veterans, cadets, and their families.
In 2025, Armed Forces Day will take place on Saturday, 28 June, with events planned in towns and cities throughout the UK.
https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/
https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/events/armed-forces-day
https://www.ssafa.org.uk/support-us/our-national-campaigns/armed-forces-day/
A Brief History of Armed Forces Day
Launched in 2006 as Veterans' Day, the event was renamed Armed Forces Day in 2009 to broaden its focus beyond veterans and include serving personnel. Since then, it has grown into a vibrant national celebration with parades, flypasts, military displays, and community events.
Each year, one UK city is chosen to host the national event, but local communities are encouraged to organise their own parades, flag-raising ceremonies, school activities, and remembrance services.
Why Armed Forces Day Matters
🇬🇧 Honouring Service and Sacrifice
Armed Forces Day is more than a celebration—it's a recognition of the immense commitment, bravery, and sacrifices made by British military personnel throughout history and in today’s conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
🫡 Raising Awareness
The day shines a spotlight on the often unseen work of the Armed Forces, both at home and abroad. It also reminds the public of the importance of supporting military families and veterans in civilian life.
👨👩👧👦 Community Unity
Events across the UK foster a sense of unity and national pride, bringing generations together to remember, learn, and celebrate. From school children learning about WWII to veterans sharing personal stories, Armed Forces Day bridges the past and present.
How the UK Celebrates Armed Forces Day
🏳️ Flag Raising Ceremonies
The official Armed Forces Day flag is raised on buildings across the country in the week leading up to the day. Local councils, government buildings, and schools often take part in public flag ceremonies.
🎖️ Veterans and Cadet Parades
Veterans’ groups and cadet organisations often take centre stage in parades and services of remembrance. These events honour not only combat roles but also logistics, nursing, intelligence, and engineering branches.
✈️ Military Displays and Flypasts
Depending on location and weather, Armed Forces Day often features exciting military vehicle displays, air shows, and flypasts by the Red Arrows, historic aircraft, or helicopters.
🎉 Family Events and Open Days
Towns and military bases may host open days, fetes, educational talks, and family-friendly activities—offering the public a chance to learn about military life and equipment.
Ways You Can Get Involved
Whether you’re a civilian, veteran, or member of a service family, there are many ways to take part:
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Attend a local event – Many towns host parades, exhibitions, and concerts.
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Raise a flag – Schools and businesses can show support by flying the Armed Forces Day flag.
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Share on social media – Use the hashtag #ArmedForcesDay to spread awareness.
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Donate or volunteer – Support military charities such as the Royal British Legion or Help for Heroes.
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Invite a speaker – Schools and organisations can invite veterans or historians to give talks about military history and service.
Supporting the Armed Forces Year-Round
While Armed Forces Day is the focal point, supporting the military community is a year-round commitment. That includes:
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Respecting Remembrance Day in November
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Supporting veteran employment schemes
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Advocating for better healthcare and housing for ex-service personnel
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Teaching younger generations about Britain’s military history and its role in shaping the world
Final Thoughts
Armed Forces Day UK is a moment to reflect, to learn, and to express our gratitude. Whether through a small gesture or attending a public event, it’s a day where we can all play a part in recognising the dedication and courage of our Armed Forces.
Let’s not forget: they serve every day—so let’s remember them, not just today, but always.