Sun shines for Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Armed Forces Day
Airshow performers - courtesy of Richard Washbrook Photography
Bucks Royal British Legion - courtesy of Richard Washbrook Photography
Spitfire - courtesy of Richard Washbrook Photography
Francesca Skelton, Chairman Bill Chapple, Sponsor Lucian Hudson, Director of Communications at The Open University and Sir Henry Aubrey Fletcher - courtesy Richard Washbrook Photography
Thousands of people turned out in glorious sunshine for the Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes Armed Forces Day event at the weekend.
The event which took place at Aylesbury Rugby Club on Saturday (27 June) is the fifthbiennial event to be held and attracted a fine crowd. Around 8,000 people are believed to have turned out to honour the bravery of those who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces.
Senior officers from the armed forces, veterans, families and serving troops were joined by Ministers including – Mark Lancaster,Minister of Defence and David Lidington, Minister of State (European issues and NATO), council dignitaries, event sponsors, volunteers and members of the public as part of an afternoon of celebration.
Numerous activities, stands, demonstrations and displays transformed the Rugby Club for the afternoon event which kicked off with a special performance by the Military Waterloo Band for the flag raising.
Later, the iconic Hawker Hurricane took to the skies above the Rugby Club for a special flypast to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, before spectacular aerobatic displays by the Yak 52, Extra 330SC and Spitfire aircraft which drew gasps from the packed crowds.
Delighted with how the day had gone, Buckinghamshire’s Lord Lieutenant and chairman of the event organising committee, Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher said: “The purpose of the day is to give the people of Buckinghamshire the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to our armed forces community at the same time as enjoying the entertainment on offer.
“Judging by the smiles on the faces of service and civilian families alike, this was achieved again this year thanks to Bucks County Council and an army of generous sponsors and volunteers.”
Bill Chapple OBE, Chairman of Buckinghamshire County Council said: “This County has a close, strong relationship with our Armed Forces and Military services and this event is an opportunity for us all to show how much we value and appreciate the contribution and sacrifices they and their families make on our behalf.
“This day is important because we need people to be aware of what a good job our armed forces are doing. We must never forget the sacrifices they make to protect our way of life.”
To view some of the highlights from the day visit https://storify.com/Buckscc_Events/buckinghamshire-and-milton-keynes-armed-forces-day.
Photographs courtesy of Richard Washbrook Photography.