Emotional flag-raising ceremonies in Gosport and Fareham celebrate Royal Navy and Armed Forces Week
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The week is designed to remember the hard work and sacrifices of current personnel, and those who served before them
Poignant flag-raising ceremonies were held across the Portsmouth area for Armed Forces Week.
Fareham’s connection to the military was honoured with a tribute outside the town’s Civic Offices. The town’s mayor, Councillor Tina Ellis, said: “With such close family ties to the Armed Forces it is a true honour to be present for the raising of the Armed Forces Day Flag.
“On behalf of myself, my husband, Cllr Robert Ellis, and Fareham Borough Council, I would like to express our appreciation for everything the Armed Forces have done and continue to do for our country ahead of Armed Forces Day this Saturday, June 27. I know the importance of our armed forces within our Fareham Community and it’s right that we recognise all they contribute.”
Captain John Cromie, Commanding Officer for HMS Collingwood, was among the top brass in attendance. Others include the base’s Warrant Officer, WO1 Chris Lindop, Leading Hand Gamble, and ten other sailors from the Newgate Lane base.
Cllr Robert Ellis, the Mayor’s Consort, served with the Royal Marines for 25 years, completing his service at the rank of Warrant Officer First Class. They both support the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC).
A similar commemoration was held in Gosport on June 22. Personnel from HMS Sultan and representatives from Gosport Borough Council conducted a flag-raising in Falkland Gardens - marking the beginning of Armed Forces Week.
The ceremony was attended by Commanding Officer of HMS Sultan, Captain Mark Hamilton, the Lieutenant Commander Vince Noyce, Executive Officer of the Institute of Naval Medicine, and the Mayor of Gosport, Councillor Kirsten Bradley. The event was an opportunity to show gratitude to serving personnel, veterans, reservists, and their families. Former service personnel were in attendance.
Captain Hamilton said: “Armed Forces Week provides us with a great platform to recognise the commitment and tireless work of all our service personnel, who work to maintain our national security, and interests, both at home and in challenging and complex environments around the world.”
Cllr Bradley added: “This flag-raising event, celebrates our amazing armed forces community, their bravery and the sacrifices they make for our country. Gosport has a deep and proud relationship with the Armed Forces, and events like this remind us all how integral they are not just to national defence, but to the life of this borough.”
Portsmouth honoured Armed Forces Day on last Saturday with a large event on Southsea Common. Hundreds of people attended to see the parade of military personnel and veterans, thanking them for everything they have done for our country. The centre-piece was a historic Portsmouth100 photograph, with civilians and troops standing alongside each other to mark the city’s centenary.