On Saturday the 26th June Eastbourne held its Armed Forces Day event as part of the national commemorations. It was a very well attended event and it was lovely to once again see people out in large numbers, trying to get back to some sort of normality. The weather was kind and although overcast the cloud base was high enough to allow the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team to drop in to open the event. The programme also included the 1066 Pipes and drums, The Eastbourne Silver Band, Star Bray (Sounds of the 40’s) and the Stroller dancers, which the public also participated in and a display of restored military vehicles from the Invicta Society.
The salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant for East Sussex, Sir Peter Field, accompanied by our Parliamentary MP and the Deputy Mayor. Sir Peter reviewed the parade with the other dignitaries and presented lapel badges to all on parade including all the veterans.
This event was fully supported by the Eastbourne Branch, who provided bearers for both the Union and Regimental standards as well as the Parade and Standard marshals, along with several veterans who received their lapel badges.
Full credit must go to Steve Scudder and his team from The Blue Van Armed Forces Drop-In Centre and Eastbourne Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club, who organised the event.
