The disabled veterans at The Royal Star & Garter Homes in Surbiton paid tribute to British Service personnel past and present by raising the Armed Forces Day Flag in advance of Armed Forces Day on Saturday 30 June.

The Flag was raised in front of residents, family, staff, volunteers and the local CCF unit.

Earlier in the day, the Home held a ceremony to present new residents with their Armed Forces Veterans badge. Residents who are partners of veterans received a special Spouses badge. Later on, a group of residents and staff visited the Bromhead Memorial at Richmond Cemetery, to commemorate the lives of the Charity’s previous residents.

Siobhan Creighton, the Charity’s Director of Human Resources formerly served in the Women’s Royal Army Corps and commented: “It’s important that we pay our respects to those who have served our nation and continue to do so. The residents appreciate the opportunity to unite with fellow comrades to raise the Armed Forces Day Flag and remember their time in service. We are honoured to mark each new resident’s service with a Veterans badge.”

Other events that take place this week include a concert by The Royal British Legion Mid Shires Band, and a talk by Alison Merrington, of Hampton Wick Remembers, on the impact of the First World War on the local community.

Activities Manager Raquel, who organised the week’s events, elaborated on the importance of commemorating Armed Forces Week, “The military was and still is a huge part of residents’ lives, so it’s important to recognise that connection. Armed Forces Day is an occasion to pay our respects to our Servicemen and women, but it is also a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our Forces.”