TRIBUTES were paid to UK servicemen and women past and present with the annual Armed Forces Day flag raising services in Redditch on Monday.
The Mayor and leader of the borough council took part in raising the Armed Forces Flag at the town hall to mark the start of Armed Forces Week.
The annual flag raising ceremony is held in honour of the Armed Forces community, to show support and appreciation for their service.
Those attending included local dignitaries, standard bearers, and borough councillors.
Mayor of Redditch, Coun Susan Eacock, said: “As we raise the Armed Forces Day flag, we not only honour those who have served, but also reaffirm our ongoing support for the men and women who continue to protect our nation.”
Redditch Borough Council leader, Coun Matt Dormer, added: “As a former retained firefighter, I have always had the utmost respect for those who dedicate their lives to public service.
“The commitment shown by our Armed Forces deserves our gratitude not just this week, but every day of the year.
“Thank you to everyone who attended yesterday’s flag-raising ceremony, and to all those who continue to support our Armed Forces community here in Redditch.
“I hope as many people as possible will show their support ahead of Armed Forces Day this Saturday.”
The flag will fly all week until Saturday, June 27 – which is this year’s official Armed Forces Day.
