At the close of June, Hertfordshire County Council proudly commemorated Armed Forces Day, extending gratitude to the Hertfordshire Armed Forces Community and beyond. This day serves as an opportunity to express support for our dedicated service personnel, veterans, and their families.

Hertfordshire County Council celebrated Armed Forces Day as a Gold Award Winner of the Defence Employer Scheme, and as part of our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, which is a promise from the nation to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

Across the week leading up to Armed Forces Day, Hertfordshire County Council hosted two staff events and promoted resources across our social media channels.  Colleagues from Op COMMUNITY joined Hertfordshire Heroes to host a stall in HCC offices and for a virtual lunch and learn meeting.  Both events were to promote the support that is available in Hertfordshire specifically through Op COMMUNITY which is an NHS funded project focusing on community, social and NHS support for the Armed Forces community.

In addition to those events for staff, Hertfordshire County Council Chairman Councillor Terry Douris presided over a flag-raising ceremony at County Hall, joined by distinguished guests:

• The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire
• The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire
• Chief Executive of Hertfordshire County Council and the senior leadership team
• Mayors and Chairs from Hertfordshire District, Borough, Town and Parish Councils
• Chairman of the Hertfordshire Armed Forces Covenant Board
• Commanding Officer from Northwood Headquarters
• Commanding Officer of 162 Medical Squadron
• Hertfordshire RFCA Chair
• Representatives from military charities
• Representatives from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service
• Hertfordshire County Councillors and officers

The Last Post and National Anthem were performed by Stuart Dodgson from Hertfordshire Music Service and the two-minute silence was observed. The ‘County of Soldiers’ exhibition was also showcased which was curated by Hertfordshire Archive and Local Studies.

Armed Forces Day serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our service personnel, and we remain committed to supporting them and their families.