Liverpool has raised the Armed Forces Flag on Liverpool Town Hall as today (Monday 22 June) officially marks the start of Armed Forces Week.
The Lord Mayor Councillor Anna Rothery, was joined by Lieutenant Commander Roy Miller Royal Naval Reserve, and the city’s armed forces champion Councillor Roy Gladden to hoist the flag.
It kick-starts a series of tributes which will include civic buildings lighting up red, white and blue each evening, and culminates in a virtual service from Our Lady and St Nicholas Parish Church on Saturday when it is officially Armed Forces Day.
This will be led by The Reverend Canon Dr Crispin Pailing, with contributions from Liverpool’s Lord Mayor along with representatives from the Royal Navy, Army, Air Force and Royal British Legion. Classical singer Danielle Louise Thomas will perform the national anthem as part of the service.
The service can be watched via www.armedforcesdayliverpool.co.uk from 11am Saturday.
The buildings lighting up are Liverpool Town Hall, St George’s Hall and Cunard.
Anyone who wants to celebrate reservists, cadets and veterans during the week is encouraged to head to the official Armed Forces Week website for ideas on how to show their appreciation.
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Anna Rothery said: “The health pandemic has meant this year we have had to think differently about how we celebrate the dedication of those men and women who serve, or have served, our country.
“Liverpool has a very long and proud tradition of supporting the services and by flying the flag and lighting up our buildings red, white and blue we hope to show our gratitude in a very visual way.
“I’d also encourage people to take part in the virtual service and join with us in celebrating our armed forces in these exceptional circumstances.”
Lieutenant Commander Roy Miller Royal Naval Reserve, said: “Along with many civic and national celebrations, Armed Forces Day is moving in to the mainly virtual domain.
“Despite this our Royal Navy Reservists have been working hard across the region and the nation supporting our countries efforts to beat the current Covid 19 pandemic.
Many of our Ship’s Company are at the front line working within the NHS while others have worked hard supporting the civilian authorities. The people of Liverpool can be proud of the work done by members of HMS Eaglets Ships Company.”
Liverpool’s Armed Forces champion, Councillor Roy Gladden, said: “During this pandemic many people have gone above and beyond to protect us – and the UK’s armed forces are no exception.
“These brave and dedicated men and women have staffed the testing stations throughout the country alongside NHS staff and armed forces day gives us all the opportunity to give our sincerest gratitude to all for their selfless dedication . “We should also give a thought and thanks to all those serving abroad who are carrying out their duties irrespective of what may be occurring at home.”
