Thousands of people lined the streets of Caerphilly to show their support for the armed forces over the weekend.
The town hosted the annual Armed Forces Day celebratory event on Saturday June 24, as serving military personnel, cadets and veterans were clapped and cheered by almost 12,000 supporters as they marched through the town centre.
A poignant drumhead service was held on Owain Glyndwr Playing Fields, which included contributions from the likes of First Minister for Wales, Carwyn Jones, and Secretary of State for Wales, Alun Cairns MP, before the fields were taken over by stalls, marquees, demonstrations, and a music stage.
Visitors were treated to a flypast from a Spitfire – the wartime fighter aircraft favoured by the Royal Air Force – which performed a spectacular display in the skies above Caerphilly Castle.
Cllr David Poole, Leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “We were delighted to welcome such a prestigious event to Caerphilly, which provided a fitting opportunity for residents and visitors alike to give our thanks for those courageous individuals who serve or have served our country.
“It was wonderful to see so many thousands of residents and visitors come out and show their support for our Armed Forces community; as the residents of Caerphilly county borough always do.”
Phil Hubbard, Chair of the South Wales Armed Forces Day Committee, commented: “Once again this important annual event in South Wales has grown both in armed forces’, veterans’ and their families’ involvement. The support and attendance of the general public, was fantastic in Caerphilly.
“I would like to thank everyone who has helped made it possible, especially Caerphilly County Borough Council and all of our sponsors. The military parade, the displays, activities and the entertainment made it a fantastic family day out for everyone who attended.”
Caerphilly’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Alan Higgs, added: “This event simply would not have been possible without the dedicated group of volunteers who make up the South Wales Armed Forces Day committee.
“They don’t receive any special thanks for organising such a spectacular occasion, so it’s important we place on record our appreciation to them for all they do.”
I had great day yesterday at the armed forces event, i felt very patroic seeing our brave boys and girl march through the town. Its an honour for our town to support such an event. Looking at your photo above, the police obviously didnt look too happy patroling the event.
This is an excellent event that gives the public a chance to talk with serving members of the armed forces. I enjoyed looking at the vehicles, talking with soldiers and the sight and sound of a Spitfire over Caerffili.
One thing I would like to see next year is representaion from the Royal Armoured Corps. I would love to see a Challenger II tank in our town as the public see our main battle tanks all too rarely. They really are an awesome sight so let’s hope the organisers are reading this.