Armed Forces Day
Armed Forces Day is a day to show our appreciation to the men and women who have served or are serving in the British Armed Forces. It is also a day to remember the sacrifices that these brave individuals have made for our country. There are many ways to show your support on Armed Forces Day. Here are a few ideas:
-Attend a local armed forces day event. Many cities and towns across the country hold events to honour those who have served.
-Fly the flag. Show your support by flying the Union flag on Armed Forces Day.
-Send a care package. There are many organisations that accept care packages for troops overseas. This is a great way to show your support and let them know you are thinking of them. SSAFA can assist with sending packages overseas to our troops on the ground.
Make a donation on Armed Forces Day
-Make a donation. There are many charities that support the armed forces. Consider making a donation to one of these organisations on Armed Forces Day. Some of our favourites include Go Commando A charity set up locally in Somerset to support the families and members of 40 Commando Royal Marines. The Royal Marines Charity. A charity working very closely with the Royal Marines to support a vast range of needs. From injured personnel to supporting bereaved families. Scotty’s Little Soldiers is a charity specifically for British Forces children. It provides long-term support for the children of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.
The Lived Experience
Many of our troops are traumatised by the experiences they have faced. Whether it’s combat based or simply the stresses of adjusting to civilian life of exit from the armed forces. Many former service men and women struggle with day-to-day survival. This can last many years and in some cases a lifetime. Recent studies have found that suicide rates have almost doubled over the past decade. With a rate of suicide equivalent to one death every 2-weeks. In 2020 67 former soldiers took their own lives! As of 2021 veteran suicides are now being recorded by the UK government. No other help is currently available via the UK government.
For more from former Royal Marine turned filmmaker Maker Martin Hill CLICK HERE
