Sunderland is paying it’s annual tribute to the military and raising the flag on Armed Forces Day on Saturday.
Armed Forces Day on Saturday 25 June is the annual, national event launched in 2009 to help raise awareness of the contribution made by military personnel and their families to our country and communities.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alan Emerson, will be joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Mrs Susan Winfield OBE, for the flag raising ceremony on the public concourse outside the council chamber at 10am.
Everyone is welcome to attend and join military personnel and representatives from military regiments and associations to pay tribute.
The ceremony will also see the presentation of a Falklands War medal and a Veteran’s badge to two Sunderland residents.
This flag raising ceremony is part of Armed Forces Day celebrations taking place across the community, with Recreation Park in Seaburn hosting a weekend of celebratory events and activities organised by Veteran’s Groups.
Deputy Leader of Sunderland City Council and Armed Forces Champion for the city, Cllr Harry Trueman said: “Our city has a close, strong relationship with our Armed Forces, and this annual flag raising is an opportunity for us all to show our thanks and continued support.
“Sunderland is very proud if its military tradition, and the links we have with regiments from across all the Senior Services.
“Armed Forces Day provides us with the opportunity to show how much we value and appreciate the contribution and sacrifices they and their families make on our behalf.”