THE Mayor of Thurrock, Cllr Sue Gray, raised the Armed Forces flag outside the Civic Offices in Grays on Monday (29 June).
She said: “This is, I believe, the seventh time we have held this ceremony here in New Road.
“I’d just like to explain why the flag is at half-mast. It’s in remembrance of those poor souls in Tunisia.
“From the start, Armed Forces Day has inspired the nation to show its support for the servicemen and women of the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force at events across the country.
“But it is not just serving personnel who we pay tribute to on Armed Forces Day, but the wider forces community; service families, and veterans of all ages, the cadet forces, and the adult volunteers who support them, all deserve our praise and support on this special day.”
She added: “Last year I was here as deputy and I said I thought it important we take time out of our busy lives to show respect for all of these people, people who put their lives on the line so the rest of us can continue to live in peace.
“I believe that still and that’s what we’re doing here today and what people are doing across the country and the world.
“I would ask that everyone here takes a moment during this short ceremony to think of the reasons behind it and to ponder its importance to us all.
“Thurrock is proud to ‘Fly a Flag.”
Thurrock MP, Jackie Doyle-Price had been scheduled to physically raise the flag, but she was called away on government business, so the mayor did the honours.
Leader of the Council, Cllr John Kent also supported the event, and the Rev Darren Barlow led prayers.
This year, as part of the celebrations, Thurrock launched the VIP Portal to support forces’ veterans with an internet link offering practical information.
Thurrock launched its Veterans Charter in 2012 with a commitment to develop a ‘kit bag’ of information to support veterans. Until now, this has been hosted by the council, but Thurrock has now signed the Essex Armed Forces and Community Covenant who developed the portal as a county-wide resource.
For advice, support and information – including the Veterans Charter – visit thurrock.gov.uk/veterans.
It will reach out to Armed Forces veterans with a range of practical information and support including employment, education, and training; health and welfare; finances; housing; and product services and discounts.
Veterans can join the portal by going to theviptree.co.uk and signing in with their service number.
