Armed Forces Day celebrations 2012 (From Dudley News)
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Armed Forces Day celebrations 2012
10:06am Friday 11th May 2012 in Dudley Council Noticeboard
The heroes of the armed forces will be celebrated at a special event at Himley Hall this summer.
Dudley Council is organising the free event on July 1 at the picturesque hall and park.
The event, sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, Richardsons and SaBRE, includes a band concert in the grounds of the historic hall, a display of military vehicles and free family entertainment such as a climbing wall, small fairground rides, games and trampolines.
Veterans will be presented with HM Armed Forces Veterans Badges by the Mayor of Dudley during the event.
John Polychronakis, chief executive of Dudley Council, said: “Every year we take the opportunity to celebrate everyone connected to the armed forces and the hugely valuable work they do. That could be people who used to serve, as well as those from more recent conflicts around the world.
“There’s something for people of all ages with the free displays, music and family entertainment so I hope to see as many people as possible there on the day.”
Visitors can also take along a picnic to enjoy on the lawns of the park, and there will also be an opportunity to talk to armed forces members about their work, as well as information for servicemen and women with information on support and advice in the community.
The event will begin with a youth marching band competition from 11am followed by family entertainment, games and displays throughout the day. Veterans will be presented with their badges from around 3.45pm, followed by a performance from the D-Day Darlings singers and the Beating of the Retreat.
HM Armed Forces Veterans Badges are available to people who have served in HM Armed Forces. Anyone who thinks they are entitled to one of the badges can contact the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency, Norcross, Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire, FY5 3WP; Freephone 0800 169 2277 or email SPVA-VeteransBadges@mod.uk Anyone who has already received one of the badges but has not had it formally presented to them, can contact Dudley Council on 01384 815222 to be part of the ceremony. Other veterans and serving armed forces personnel are also asked to contact the council on the same number if they are planning to attend.
