'We remain deeply grateful' - Lancashire County Council raises special flag for Armed Forces Week
Lancashire County Council flies the flag for Armed Forces Week - find out all about it below.
Lancashire County Council and other local authorities across the county have raised a special Armed Forces Day flag today on Monday 22 June.
The flag shows their support and appreciation for the contribution made by our servicemen and women past and present, and for the wider Armed Forces community of families, veterans and cadets.
The raising of the Armed Forces Day flag marks the start of a week of celebrations including the Annual Reserves Day on Wednesday 24 June, culminating with Armed Forces Day itself on Saturday 27 June.
His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Mrs Amanda Parker JP, said: “Once again, Armed Forces Day flags are being raised across Lancashire in tribute to the immense debt of gratitude we owe to our serving personnel and veterans.
"We honour the courage, commitment and professionalism of all those who serve, past and present, and recognise the vital contribution they make to our country and communities.
"We remain deeply grateful to these remarkable individuals and are proud to recognise their dedication and service.”
Mrs Parker attended a small ceremony at County Hall in Preston along with the newly elected Chairman of the County Council, Lee Hutchinson.
They were also joined by the County Council's Armed Forces and Veterans Champion, Gary Kniveton, Father David Craven, as well as representatives from the Royal British Legion, Armed Forces Group, soldiers from Fulwood Barracks, senior council staff and county councillors.
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Marjorie Hanson, a Lancashire-based World War II veteran, who served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) and Richard Brock, 102, who served with the 1st Battalion, East Lancashire Regiment were among veterans who attended the flag raising ceremony.
Marjorie is pictured above at the ceremony, alongside His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant Cadets.
Other Flag raising events have taken place on the same day in each Lancashire district, organised by district councils and attended by a member of the Lancashire Lieutenancy.
For details about Armed Forces Day visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk