Plymouth raises the flag, marking the start of Armed Forces Week
- Jun 22
- 3 min read
The Armed Forces Flag was raised today following a ceremony outside Plymouth Guildhall, marking the start of Armed Forces Week.
The ceremony was attended by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Kevin Sproston and Commander Maxine Burgess, alongside other military and civic leaders.
The flag will be flown all week, as events take place across the city, including the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy on Thursday 25 June and Armed Forces Day in association with Babcock International Group (Babcock) on Saturday 27 June, both on Plymouth Hoe.
Councillor Matt Smith, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, City Centre Regeneration and Events, said: “Plymouth is incredibly proud of its military history and Armed Forces based in the city. Armed Forces Week is an opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to our military, from serving personnel to reservists, veterans and cadets, for all the admirable work they do.
“On Thursday we are extremely privileged to be able to hold the Strength of Spirit Games, ahead of celebrating Armed Forces Day on Plymouth Hoe, which is looking to be a truly spectacular event.”
Commander Maxine Burgess, HMNB Devonport Base Executive Officer, said: “Armed Forces Week in Plymouth is a celebration of the strong relationship between the Armed Forces based in and around the city and the community that supports us. People will know that ships, submarines, Royal Marines, and medical personnel from Devonport are continually deployed to protect the UK and provide stability around the globe; none of that would be possible without the support of the people of Plymouth.
“Events this week will showcase our close bond with the city.”
Visitors are encouraged to come along to Plymouth Hoe and watch the athletes compete in the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, sponsored by Defence Recovery. The event starts at 10.30am with a swim at the iconic Tinside Lido, followed by the cycle and static row, before crossing the all-important finish line!
For the third year running the games will include the Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge, from 10am to 11.15am, also on Plymouth Hoe. This will see children from military families will take part in their own thrilling rowing challenge, representing 24 local primary schools.
There will be plenty to enjoy at Armed Forces Day this Saturday from 10am, including interactive displays, military equipment, thrilling demonstrations, parades, live music and entertainment, and an afternoon flypast from the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
John Gane, Site Managing Director of Babcock’s Devonport facility, said: “Now more than ever we rely on our Armed Forces community to protect our nation, and hosting events that celebrate the work of our military colleagues really matters. We are proud to stand with them and their families through our long-standing support of Armed Forces Week.
“As an integral part of Plymouth’s history and future, Babcock is committed to supporting the people and communities that make this city what it is. On 27 June, we’ll deliver an action-packed display featuring hands-on STEM activities for all ages, alongside insights into our wide range of career opportunities, including our award-winning apprenticeships.”
Armed Forces Day will see ‘villages’ set up across the Hoe, from each Military Service, Emergency Services and the Veterans Village supported by the Royal British Legion, these will include over 100 charities and organisations offering advice and support, plus local companies showcasing their career opportunities, with lots of hands-on activities to try.
Car enthusiasts can admire vintage military vehicles, alongside a large display from the Murray Group. Over on the Hoe promenade, the Foster for Plymouth marquee will offer free family fun, including glitter tattoos, popular characters, and the chance to learn more about fostering in Plymouth.
There will be a range of live music performances throughout the day, finishing with a free evening concert, sponsored by C&G Catering, featuring: Marmalade, The Vibes, Riviera Dogs and Authentic Elton.
Both military events are supported by sponsors and partners - thank you to Babcock International Group, Royal British Legion, C&G Catering, Foster for Plymouth, South West Highways, Plymouth Citybus and Ivor Dewdney for supporting Armed Forces Day. And, Defence Recovery with delivery partners: South West Highways, Plymouth Active Leisure and Samworth Brothers Cornwall for supporting the Strength of Spirit Games.
For all the latest information about Plymouth Armed Forces Day including the full programme, and the Strength of Spirit Games, please visit: plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk.