PEOPLE in Staffordshire are being invited to show their support for Armed Forces Day this weekend.
The National Memorial Arboretum will be leading the national commemorations with a weekend of family activities on Saturday (28th June) and Sunday.
Staffordshire County Council is urging people to upload pictures of themselves saluting to social media with the hashtag #saluteourforces.
Cllr Gordon Munro, vice-chairman of Staffordshire County Council and a former soldier, said:
“After serving in the Army during the Falklands conflict, I’ve come to appreciate Armed Forces Day not just as a date in the calendar, but as a proper moment of recognition.
“It’s essential that we, as a society, remember and celebrate those that put their country before themselves and ensure that their service is never forgotten.
“Whether people have served in the frontlines, supported from home, or been the family holding the fort, we all know that military life demands a lot.
“Be proud, be thankful and have a great Armed Forces Day.”
Staffordshire County Council’s leader Cllr Ian Cooper said he was pleased to see the authority backing Armed Forces Day.
“We are proud to do our part in honouring the brave men and women in our armed forces.
“It’s an important day that gives us a chance to show our support and gratitude for those in the forces who remain a vital part of our society.
“There’s so many ways to show your support for them and I urge everyone to get involved and do whatever they can over the weekend.
“It’s also wonderful to see The National Memorial Arboretum take centre stage for some of the weekend’s celebrations. It’s one of our proudest institutions in Staffordshire which reinforces our strong connection with our military across the county.”
