Manchester reveals plans to mark Armed Forces Day 2024 with ‘poignant’ military parade next weekend
Plans to mark Armed Forces Day 2024 with a “poignant” military parade in Manchester next weekend have been revealed.
As the country prepares to honour Armed Forces Week – which is taking place this year from Monday 24 June, right through to Saturday (29 June) – and show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, Manchester has revealed how our city will mark the annual event next weekend.
Armed Forces Week sees Brits celebrate those who are currently serving troops, their families, serving reservists, veterans, and cadets.
Manchester will also be paying tribute to the hundreds who have “fearlessly served”.
To mark the start of Armed Forces Week, the Armed Forces Flag is always raised on buildings and famous landmarks across the UK, and here in Manchester city centre, Manchester City Council has confirmed that the flag will be raised above Manchester Central Library on Monday 24 June at 10:30am.
Armed Forces Day 2024 itself is to be marked in our city with a formal commemoration and free public event on Saturday 29 June in St Peter’s Square.
Beginning at 11am and running through to 4pm, the Council has stated that the formal celebrations are to begin from 11:30am with a military parade and “poignant” performances from the Lancashire Artillery Band, before visitors of all ages are invited to gather together in the heart of the city centre centre to show their support.
There’ll be live music throughout the day, as well as face painting for little Mancs, the chance to see an Army Light Gun on display, and, in another “celebratory nod”, specially-selected information stalls will also be in attendance to give visitors a look into the history of life in the Armed Forces.
Senior members of Manchester City Council will be there on the day – including the city’s newly-appointed Lord Mayor, Cllr Paul Andrews.
“Commemorating Armed Forces Week and Day is a chance to remember the selfless and heroic sacrifices of thousands of service men and women in our community,” commented the city’s new Lord Mayor ahead of next week.
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“We have a rich history of recognising the efforts of the Armed Forces in Manchester, and this day is only a continuation in acknowledging their feats both past and present.”
Featured Image – Manchester City Council