This year marks the 20th anniversary of Redcar’s annual Armed Forces Day celebration, a community-wide tribute to both current and former military members. Taking place on June 28 along Redcar High Street, the event will feature parades, ceremonial honors, musical performances, and exhibitions by local groups and cadets. Organized in collaboration between Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, the Royal British Legion, and the Redcar Rotary Club, the day is designed to express gratitude and support for those who have served or are serving in the armed forces. Local leaders, including Mayor Ian Hart and Armed Forces Champion Dave Taylor, encourage public participation, emphasizing unity and respect for the sacrifices made by service personnel and their families.
Commemoration Meets Celebration: A Full Day of Honor and Pride
In the coastal town of Redcar, amidst the bustling atmosphere of High Street, a special occasion will unfold on June 28. The 20th edition of Armed Forces Day promises a vibrant blend of solemn remembrance and joyous celebration. At precisely 10:30 AM, a distinguished parade composed of past and present service members will commence from Regents Walk, making its way toward the iconic blue clock near Boyes. This will be followed by a formal raising of the colors, conducted by the Sea Cadets of TS Zetland, under the watchful eyes of proud locals and dignitaries alike.
The ceremony will then transition into a heartfelt homage, marked by the sounding of the Last Post and a two-minute silence. After Reveille, attendees will join in three cheers for the King before singing the National Anthem together. As the morning progresses, more parades, performances, and demonstrations will captivate the crowd, including displays by cadet units and drill teams. Throughout the day, charity stalls representing both military and civilian causes will line the street, offering information and opportunities to show support.
Eric Howden BEM, president of the Royal British Legion's Redcar branch, expressed excitement about the milestone anniversary, highlighting the unique focus this year on recognizing active service members alongside veterans. Councillor Dave Taylor, himself a veteran and the borough’s Armed Forces Champion, echoed this sentiment, noting that the event serves as a powerful reminder of the values embodied by the armed forces—service, sacrifice, and dedication.
A journalist covering this event cannot help but feel moved by the deep sense of community and shared purpose evident among participants and spectators alike. Beyond the music, marches, and pageantry lies a profound message: that honoring those who serve is not just a one-day affair, but a continuing commitment rooted in appreciation and support. For residents and visitors, the day offers more than entertainment—it invites reflection on national duty and the quiet courage of those who protect and serve, reminding us all of the importance of unity in upholding such values.