Bracknell Celebrates First Armed Forces Day!

Bracknell Forest held its first-ever Armed Forces Day on Saturday 20 June, turning Bond Square in The Lexicon into a family-friendly military showcase with vehicles, stalls and displays.

The parade, led by the Reading Scottish Pipe Band, brought together veterans, Chelsea Pensioners, new recruits and cadets. The Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Berkshire attended and more than 20 interactive community stalls were on show.

Deputy armed forces champion Councillor Mike Forster, a Royal Engineer, spoke about mine-clearing in Bosnia after the Dayton Peace Agreement. After a tragic accident that killed two deminers, international teams rallied and Forster worked to secure safer equipment. He told the crowd: “No one did it for recognition. It was simply about doing the right thing.” He added: “It reflects the ‘Serve to Lead’ ethos-quietly supporting others, even when no one is watching.”

Entertainment included the Sandhurst Military Wives Choir, The Candy Girls and the Vocalese Choir. Local groups ran a history quiz and the Army Welfare Service Youth Voice promoted its ‘Beyond the Uniform’ campaign, highlighting the challenges faced by military families.

Armed forces champion Cllr Georgia Pickering said: “It’s the first time we’ve done this and it’s been hugely successful. From the cadets to the veterans and Chelsea Pensioners, the armed forces have made a huge contribution. I want to extend my thanks to the armed forces community for everything they do to keep us safe.” Deputy champion Cllr Mike Forster added: “As a veteran it’s fantastic to be part of the event and to thank Bracknell Forest for supporting the armed forces community.”

Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter