More than 10,000 people turned out to show their support at the South Wales Armed Forces Day event held in Caerphilly town on Saturday.
Hundreds of Armed Services personnel, cadets and veterans marched through the streets to loud applause and cheers.
The parade was followed by a special Drum Head Service, which was held against the backdrop of Caerphilly Castle. The service provided an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and featured contributions from First Minister Carwyn Jones AM and the Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns MP.
The Owain Glyndwr Playing fields then played host to a variety of activities from military displays to music. There was even a parachute jump courtesy of the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) Silver Stars parachute display team.
The event was organised and coordinated by the South Wales Armed Forces Day committee – a dedicated team of volunteers – and supported by Caerphilly County Borough Council.
Phil Hubbard, Chair of the South Wales Armed Forces Day Committee, said: “”We’re really proud to have been able to hold Armed Forces Day South Wales in Caerphilly for the first time this year.
“It has become an important annual event in South Wales which has grown both in armed forces’, veterans’ and their families’ involvement and the support and attendance of the general public, which 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 spectacular displays and activities made the day a fantastic family day out.”
Brigadier Martyn Gamble, Commander 160th Infantry Brigade and Headquarters Wales, added: “Armed Forces Day is a wonderful opportunity for us to collectively share the opportunities and the sacrifices that Armed Forces give to Wales and to the nation and we’re delighted to have celebrated Armed Forces Day South Wales this year in Caerphilly.”
Cllr Dianne Price, Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “We were absolutely delighted to host such a prestigious occasion, and it was wonderful to see so many people turn out to show their support for the Armed Forces community.
“I must also pay tribute to the small group of dedicated volunteers who make up the Armed Forces Day organising committee – without their dedication and drive, this event certainly would not have been possible and we were delighted to have played a supporting role in delivering such an occasion.”
A really good day, even a monsoon like downpour failed to dampen the spirits of the public and the service men and women out on the field. It was a rare opportunity for people to see the armed forces up close and to talk with them. Both the young and the old had a really good time listening to the military bands and looking at the displays.
Now thats worth closing down the town for.