A flag raising ceremony has been held in Haddington ahead of Armed Forces Day on 29 June.

Armed Forces Day is a UK-wide event providing local communities with the opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community – from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.

The Armed Forces Day flag was raised at the Town House, Haddington and speaking at the ceremony, Provost John McMillan said:

"Today we support those currently serving in the Royal Navy, the British Army and the Royal Air Force who are working to promote peace, fight terrorism, deliver aid and offer security to communities and nations across the globe.

“Whilst in recent years we have rightly focused on national commemorations of anniversaries of the outbreak and cessation of hostilities of the first World War and the key events of the second World War, Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity for local communities to express their support for current serving personnel.”

“I firmly believe the high profile given to national commemoration events, including the public holiday next year to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day, not only reminds us of the nation’s gratitude to those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice in conflict but also gives each successive generation an understanding of the role our Armed Forces continue to play in peacetime.”

“Back in 2013, East Lothian Council signed an Armed Forces Community Covenant which encourages support for the Armed Forces community living and working in East Lothian. Through partnership working with other agencies we seek to offer help and advice to serving and ex-service personnel and their families.”

“I look forward to speaking to those attending today and hearing your individual stories and experience of your service."

Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday each June but the celebrations begin on Monday 24 June when the Armed Forces Day flag is raised on buildings and famous landmarks around the country.

Published: Monday, 24th June 2019