Colchester will join the nation in celebrating Armed Forces Day with a flag-raising ceremony on Monday, 23 June.
The ceremony, commencing at 10am on the steps of the Town Hall, will see the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag as well as the flying of the Pegasus flag of the 16th Air Assault Brigade, stationed in Colchester. This event signifies the start of a week-long national celebration, culminating at The Historic Dockyard Chatham on Saturday, 28 June.
The ceremony will be led by the Mayor of Colchester, Councillor Michael Lilley, accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison. Other attendees include the Deputy Lieutenant of Essex Nicholas Charrington and representatives from Colchester City Council. The public is encouraged to attend and show their support.
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Michael Lilley, said: “Colchester has a proud and enduring connection to our Armed Forces, and this ceremony is a chance for us to stand together and say thank you. We honour the bravery, dedication, and service of those in uniform – past and present – and reaffirm our city’s unwavering support for them and their families.”
Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: “Armed Forces Day presents an opportunity for the nation to recognise and thank the military community, which encompasses service personnel, both regular and reserve, their families, veterans, and cadets.
“Colchester Garrison is hugely proud of the close and longstanding bond that exists between Colchester's military and civilian communities. The raising of the Armed Forces Day Flag and the Pegasus Flag of 16 Air Assault Brigade on Colchester Town Hall, is a strong symbol of our relationship.”
As part of its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the council is inviting Armed Forces personnel living in the city to register their name and address so they can be kept informed about events and issues regarding the covenant, council help available and anything else that may be of interest.
For more details on Armed Forces Day and how to show your support, visit the official website: www.armedforcesday.org.uk
Page last reviewed: 17 June 2025