The Armed Forces flag is flying over St Peter’s Hill in Grantham this week following Monday’s ceremony to launch Armed Forces Week.
South Kesteven District Council’s official flag raising was attended by past and serving military and guests and included elected SKDC members, Royal British Legion, Merchant Navy, Scouts, council officers, representatives of the Kings School Combined Cadet Force and Grantham Town Council.
South Kesteven District Council Chairman Cllr Ian Selby thanked the cadets attending and spoke of the importance of recognising the value of the military both locally and nationally.
He said: “Our flag raising ceremony is an opportunity for us to come together to recognise and celebrate the wonderful service provided by our regular and reservist soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, past and present and the families that have supported them.
“It is so important that we continue to recognise and show appreciation for the Armed Forces.”
Grantham’s Prince William of Gloucester Barracks Head of Establishment Lt Col Duncan Lowe delivered a message to serving military, veterans, young people and families.
He said: “This flag represents our armed forces past, present and future. It symbolises courage, commitment and the unbreakable bond between those who serve and the communities that serve them.
“We serve with a quiet dedication but behind every soldier, sailor, aviator and marine is a network of families, friends, employers and citizens like you who support, understand and stand with us.
“To this community, thank you for your support, for your kindness to our serving families and for never forgetting those who wear the uniform.”
Father Stuart Cradduck of St Wulfram’s Church said a prayer of thanksgiving and RBL Grantham representative Lynne Mackay read part of the Poem for the Fallen.
The Last Post and Reveille were played by cadet Samy Almerie and the flag was raised by cadets Oliver Wix and Tiwa Tinvoye.