BOROUGH reservists are invited to celebrate their role in the run-up to Armed Forces Day.

Formerly known as ‘Uniform to Work Day’, Reserves Day - on Wednesday June 21 – offers a chance to celebrate the Reserve Forces and for reservists and the important role they play in supporting UK defence capabilities.

Reservists, who give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, play a central role alongside regulars to meet defence requirements.

Reserve units are increasingly paired with and train alongside regular units and may deploy on operations with them.

There are currently reservists supporting operations worldwide including in Afghanistan, countering the threat of Daesh in Iraq, UN peacekeeping in Cyprus, and playing a part in global counter-terrorism and counter-piracy operations worldwide.

To mark Reserves Day - employers are encouraged to invite reservist employees to wear their uniform, where possible, in the workplace.

Employers can also hold events and seminars to promote the work of their employees who are also reservists or take part in the #SaluteOurForces campaign where organisations share pictures on social media of them saluting the Armed Forces.

Councillor Dave Tyler, the Mayor of Dudley, said: “Reserves Day is a chance to celebrate the unsung heroes of the forces. These are the people who give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces and are a valuable part of the wider Armed Forces family.”

Reserves Day takes place in the week running up to the national Armed Forces Day which pays tribute to the work of servicemen and women and which will be celebrated at Himley Hall and Park on Sunday June 25.

Captain Andy Peters from B Squadron, The Royal Yeomanry in Dudley said: “Reserves Day is an extremely important event for us during Armed Forces Week, it’s not only an opportunity for our soldiers to feel very proud of the contribution that they make to the local community and to their country but it’s also a chance to show the general public who we are and what our volunteers can do.”

He said two events have been planned for the evening of June 21. Local employers have been invited to the Army Reserve Centre on Vicar Street and from 7pm to 8pm members of the public can pop along and meet the Reservists and check out the vehicles, weapons and equipment they use.

For more information call 01384 230166 or pop in to the centre at 5 Vicar Street, DY2 8RH.

Anyone wishing to find out more about Armed Forces Day can go to www.armedforcesday.org.uk.

Dudley’s event will see badges presented to veterans and will also feature a display of historic military vehicles, Land Girls Victory Show, a youth marching band competition and children’s entertainment including a gladiator themed army dual and bungee run.