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Armed Forces Day will mark Banbury’s historical and ongoing links with the military
14/06/2023
The Armed Forces Day flag will be raised above the town hall just before the days events begin
Armed Forces Day in Banbury on Saturday (June 17) will be a memorable tribute to servicemen and servicewomen – past, present and future.
An exciting programme of military-style entertainment including parades, displays, demonstrations and collections of war-time vehicles will attract visitors young and old.
The Armed Forces Day flag will be raised above the town hall at 9.45am, ahead of the main event starting in the Market Place at 10am.
A highlight of the event will see members of today’s armed forces, plus cadets and veterans, come together in a parade that will finish at the town hall in Bridge Street with a ceremonial salute. The procession will be led by Banbury’s Sea Cadet Band and will start from the Market Place, march up Parson’s Street, along Horse Fair and down High Street.
The Brize Norton Military Wives Choir will sing traditional and modern songs live on stage – and Trooping the Colour in London will be beamed as it happens onto a big screen for Banbury audiences.
A drumhead service will show how troops held religious ceremonies on battlefields using drums draped with regimental banners as makeshift altars.
Trying a nuclear bunker for size will be an experience no-one will want for real and, back outside, an array of stalls will have military equipment for visitors to inspect.
Banbury’s emergency services will also be present.
Armed Forces Day is organised by Banbury Town Council and the Royal British Legion and the event will run from 10am until 4pm.
Town council leader and president of the Banbury branch of the Royal British Legion Kieron Mallon said: “Armed Forces Day in Banbury is an important annual event that honours the town’s historical and ongoing links with the military.
“Nationally, Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for the country 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.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam