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Each June, communities across Britain unite to mark Armed Forces Week – a nationwide show of support for the men and women who serve, have served, and support the British Armed Forces. What began as a modest day of recognition has evolved into a full week of celebrations, reflections, and events. It’s a time when the country pauses not just to wave flags, but to pay genuine tribute to those who’ve put service before self.
In 2025, Armed Forces Week carries extra weight. Against a backdrop of global instability and ongoing deployments, it reminds the public that behind the headlines are real people – soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and veterans – who continue to carry the burden of national defence.
From Veterans’ Day to a Week of Celebration
The tradition began in 2006 with Veterans’ Day, a government-led effort to ensure that ex-servicemen and women never faded into obscurity. Held in late June – close to the anniversary of the first Victoria Cross in 1857 – the day aimed to give veterans the public recognition they rightly deserved.
In 2009, the event was rebranded as Armed Forces Day, expanding its focus to include currently serving personnel, reservists, cadets and families. Over time, what started as a single day has grown into Armed Forces Week – a full seven days of national pride and participation. Events now begin on the Monday and culminate in the National Event on Saturday, with hundreds of towns and cities taking part in between.
What It Means in 2025
Armed Forces Week is more than parades and pageantry. It’s a powerful moment of connection between the British public and the military community. It recognises not just the front-line service of troops overseas, but the often unseen contributions made here at home – by medics, engineers, logistics teams, reservists, and the families who support them all.
At the start of Armed Forces Week, Prime Minister Keir Starmer shared on social media:
“This Armed Forces Week, I want to say thank you to all those who work tirelessly keep us safe. You represent the very best of us.”
This genuine acknowledgement from the nation’s leader resonates deeply among service personnel and veterans – it’s heartfelt, simple, and sincere.
Supporting that public message, Veterans’ Minister Alistair Carns, a former Royal Marine and now MP for Birmingham Selly Oak, said:
“Thank you to our veterans and every member of the Armed Forces. And thank you to all those who support them, in the Vale and across the UK.”
Such affirmations aren’t just ceremonial. For those in uniform — and those who’ve served — knowing the country values their dedication is a major morale boost. It reminds veterans that their sacrifices matter, not just historically, but right now, in 2025.
A Vital Week for Veterans
For veterans, Armed Forces Week carries a special kind of meaning. Unlike Remembrance events, which are solemn and reflective, this week is about celebration – of identity, pride, and community. It’s a chance for former service personnel to dust off their medals, reunite with mates, and be recognised for what they gave – and continue to give.
Many describe it as a time to reconnect with the public. Wearing a beret or marching in a local parade becomes a visible symbol that service doesn’t just end with discharge. It stays with you – and Armed Forces Week gives that experience the spotlight it deserves.
It’s also a powerful moment for younger generations to see the human face of service. For the grandchildren of Cold War soldiers or Gulf War veterans, it’s a way of connecting with family stories and national history.
A Celebration Across the UK
From Glasgow to Portsmouth, Armed Forces Week is marked by events both grand and grassroots. Monday kicks off with flag-raising ceremonies on town halls, bases, and public buildings. It’s a simple gesture, but one that signals the start of a shared national moment.
Through the week, you’ll find community fairs, military displays, school visits, and veteran storytelling events. On Saturday, the National Event takes centre stage – a full day of flypasts, parades, family fun, and evening concerts. Each year a different UK city is chosen to host it, ensuring all parts of the country have a chance to shine.
Local pubs fly Armed Forces flags, businesses offer discounts to personnel and veterans, and families turn out in thousands to show support. From the Red Arrows streaking across the sky to cadets helping kids into bomb disposal suits, it’s as much about future inspiration as past appreciation.
More Than Just a Week
While the bunting comes down after Saturday, the impact of Armed Forces Week lasts longer. It raises awareness of the Armed Forces Covenant, strengthens ties between military and civilian communities, and reminds veterans that they are still seen, still valued, and still part of the national fabric.
In the words of a veteran interviewed during a past celebration: “It’s not about being thanked. It’s about knowing that what we did mattered. That’s what this week gives us.”
In a world where military service often happens out of sight, Armed Forces Week brings it right back to the heart of British life – loud, proud and deeply appreciated.
