Buckinghamshire Council kicks off Armed Forces Week with flag-raising ceremonies

Representatives from the Armed Forces attended both events, highlighting the close and enduring relationship between the military and the local community, and providing an opportunity to recognise and thank Armed Forces personnel, past and present, for their dedication and service.

Buckinghamshire has a proud military heritage across the county, from Operation ‘Hillside’ at Hughenden Manor during the Second World War to key defence sites today, including RAF High Wycombe and RAF Halton.

Armed Forces Week is a national campaign dedicated to building public understanding and support for the Armed Forces community — including regulars, reservists, veterans, cadets, cadet force adult volunteers and military families.

Reserves Day on Wednesday 24 June highlights the vital role of reservists, who balance civilian careers with military service.

As a member of the Buckinghamshire Civilian Military Partnership Board, the council is supporting a campaign to encourage more organisations to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and show their support for our Armed Forces community.

Chairman of Buckinghamshire Council, Cllr John Chilver, said:

“Armed Forces Week is a powerful reminder of the dedication, courage and sacrifice shown by our Armed Forces community, both here in Buckinghamshire and across the country. As a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, we are committed to ensuring that those who serve and have served, along with their families, are supported and treated fairly in all aspects of civilian life.”

Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Lesley Clarke OBE, said:

“We are calling on more organisations to join us in signing the Armed Forces Covenant. It is a meaningful way to recognise the immense contribution of our Armed Forces — not only to our national security, but also to our economy and communities — and to ensure they receive the opportunities and support they deserve. It can also bring many benefits to employers, as armed forces personnel, both regular and reserve, and their family members, bring a wealth of skills and experience to their civilian organisations.”

Buckinghamshire Council is a Gold Award holder under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, which means it has been recognised for the support it provides to staff members who are part of the Armed Forces community as a forces friendly employer. Armed Forces Day on 27 June concludes a week of UK-wide events, marked by a national celebration in Aldershot.

Visit the council’s website to see the various ways the council supports the Armed Forces community in Buckinghamshire. Visit the Armed Forces Covenant website to find out more about the benefits of signing.