Armed Forces Day

Published 22 Jun 2012 09:30

THE contribution and commitment of generations of armed forces personnel and those who work to support them will be recognised on Saturday as Stirling hosts its seventh annual Armed Forces Day.

Fresh from their triumphant turn in front of Buckingham Palace at the Diamond Jubilee Concert, the Military WAGS Choir are set to be one of the star attractions at the event, which this year returns to its traditional Kings Park home.

Stirling Provost Mike Robbins said: "We're proud that Stirling Armed Forces Day, honouring veterans, serving personnel and cadets, has become one of the leading events of its kind in Scotland.

"Saturday is set to be a colourful, enjoyable day that everyone can be part of, and the perfect opportunity for local people and visitors to show their support for the men and women who make up our armed forces community.

"There's already a real buzz in the city this summer, with the visit of the Olympic Torch and the terrific Big Concert in Raploch. Armed Forces Day will keep that going with a spectacular parade through the city and a programme with something for all ages."

In addition to the Military WAGS Choir, who topped the charts with Gary

Barlow and their hit 'Sing', highlights will include the show-stopping 1940s-style dance troupe the Kennedy Cupcakes, a chance to see vintage World War II vehicles go through their paces, and a display by the police Dog Display Team. A model Stirling bomber is also set to be on show.

TA personnel from 6 and 7 Scots and the Royal Marines will take part, along with 4 Para, Scotland's parachute regiment, whose Silver Stars team will be in action above Kings Park. A couple of 'grudge' matches featuring rival drilling cadets and Police v Army tug-o-war are expected to get the crowd cheering. For children attractions will include bouncy castles, an inflatable assault course, bungee trampolines, face-painting and craft stalls. A variety of food will be available from stalls.

Armed Forces Day is a Ministry of Defence initiative to honour and

celebrate the work of the armed forces and those who support them. It aims to raise awareness about the contributions of the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force, reservists, veterans, cadets and the wider armed forces community, including service families.

Stirling has strong and enduring links with the armed forces, and the

Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, RAF 43(F) Squadron and more recently

the Royal Regiment of Scotland have all been granted Freedom of the

City. During the Kings Park event a Military Community Covenant will be

signed by representatives from Stirling Council and other organisations

across the community.

The aim of the Community Covenant is to encourage local communities to support the Service community in their area and promote understanding and awareness amongst the public of issues affecting the armed forces community.

A breakdown of events:

12.05 pm Parade steps off from bottom of King Street

12.30 pm Parade arrives at Kings Park

1.00 pm Parade marches into main arena for inspection, followed by

afternoon of events and entertainment

For more information visit www.stirling.gov.uk/armedforcesday

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