The memorial for armed forces personnel

Armed forces day launched

Armed forces day launched

By politics.co.uk staff

The government will today launch a new national armed forces day to pay tribute to members of the forces past and present.

Veterans minister Kevan Jones will launch the day of celebration onboard HMS Gannet, the last surviving ship of Queen Victoria’s navy, at around 11:00 GMT.

A statement from the Ministry of Defence confirmed Armed Forces Day would be held on June 27th each year as a way of recognising contributions to the British military.

“The new Armed Forces Day will continue to recognise the veterans who have served their country, while also paying tribute to current service personnel and the wider Armed Forces community,” the statement declared.

During the launch today, Mr Jones will also announce the winning host for the first national Armed Forces Day event.