The Lord Provost raised the Armed Forces Flag above the City Chambers on Monday to mark the start of the week which honours the forces past, present and future. Today the armed forces community will parade down the Royal Mile.
Events begin at 10.30am when charity stalls open in the quadrangle at the City Chambers. The parade steps off at 11.30 from Johnston Terrace down the Royal Mile where it will pause outside the City Chambers about 11.45.
Edinburgh’s Lord Provost and Veterans Champion, Frank Ross, said: “This city has a long and proud tradition of supporting the Armed Forces and our veterans. Holding a day in their honour provides us with an opportunity to do all we can to thank them for all they do to keep us safe. This week’s flag-raising and the weekend events demonstrate Edinburgh’s support of serving troops and their families, our veterans and cadets. A special private reception for our veterans will be held in the City Chambers as the city’s thank you.”
Kevin Gray MM, CEO, Royal British Legion Scotland (Legion Scotland), said: “As Scotland’s largest ex-Service membership charity, providing essential wellbeing and befriending services to veterans whether they left service yesterday or 50 years ago, we know just how important Armed Forces Day is.
“By offering local communities a chance to not only show their support but find out more about life in the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, the day provides a real morale boost to everyone involved with the Armed Forces. It also helps reinforce the important role the Armed Forces Community play in our society.
“We’re delighted to be part of Edinburgh’s day and other similar events taking place throughout Scotland. I am sure that Armed Forces Day events throughout Scotland will be huge successes.”
Timetable of events :
10.30am – Charity stalls open in Quadrangle outside City Chambers
11.00am – Standard Bearers, marching contingent and Pipe Band muster at Johnston Terrace
11.30am – Parade steps off from Johnston terrace, enters the Royal Mile and continues to the Lawnmarket, over George IV Bridge and along the High Street, coming to a halt at the Stone of Remembrance in front of the Edinburgh City Chambers
11.45am – Parade pauses at City Chambers
11.50am – VIPs depart to attend reception for veterans within City Chambers (private event)
3.00pm – Charity stalls close
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