16 hours ago
Members of Pontypool armed forces honoured with flag raising event
A flag raising ceremony to commemorate and pay respects to Torfaen locals in the armed forces was held outside Pontypool Civic Centre.
The ceremony took place on June 23 and was part of the Torfaen's Armed Forces Week events.
Armed Forces week is a national event running from June 22 to June 28.
Gaynor James with Dave Poulsom Standard Bearer for royal British Legion Pontypool Branch at a flag raising ceremony for Armed Forces Week (Image: Gaynor James) The event is a chance to show support for people who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.
The event took take place at 9:30am and was attended by local dignitaries and veterans.
Speaking at the event councillor Gaynor James Armed Forces Champion read aloud the following:
'Unlike the opportunities we're given to mourn out fallen soldiers, this is a time we show appreciation and support for our Armed Forces personnel, past present and future and the work that goes into our Armed Forces Community.'
Gaynor James with Anthony Hunt leader of Torfaen Council at a flag raising ceremony for Armed Forces Week (Image: Gaynor James) According to the Welsh Government approximately 3,230 military and civilian personnel are based in Wales, with the Army having the largest presence at over 1,400 personnel.
In addition, over 115,000 people in Wales reported having previously served in the armed forces, representing about 4.5% of the Welsh population aged 16 and older.
The event was held ahead of Armed Forces Day which is taking place on June 28.
More information about Armed Forces Day in Gwent can be found here.
