Calling all armed forces veterans
Veterans are being urged to come forward to have special badges and medals presented by the Mayor of Dudley at this year’s Armed Forces Day event.
The free event, run by Dudley Council and supported by Jewson Partnership Solutions, Pegasus and SF Harrison Roofing, takes place on Sunday 28 June in the prestigious grounds of Himley Hall and Park.
It will run from 11am to 4pm and includes military displays, a vintage and craft fair, a vintage tea tent, climbing wall, archery, live music and much more.
One of the highlights of the free day out will be when the Mayor of Dudley presents former and current armed forces personnel with their HM Armed Forces Badges. Many veterans may have already received their badge but the council is offering an additional civic acknowledgement of people’s service in the armed forces with a formal presentation of their badge on the lawn at Himley Hall.
People are being urged to register their interest in being presented with their badge, so they can be added to the running order for the day.
Mayor of Dudley Councillor Pete Lowe, said:
“It’s important we take time to honour and reflect on the efforts and sacrifices of men and women who have served, or continue to serve, in our armed forces.
“Our Armed Forces Day gives us the opportunity to do just that, as well as find out more about the work of the services and enjoy some nostalgic entertainment.
“It is a privilege for the Mayor of Dudley each year, as one of their first civic engagements, to be able to meet with veterans and present them with their badges and medals.”
Stuart Bell, branch manager at Jewson Partnership Solutions, said:
“We are proud to be working in partnership with Dudley Council and the wider community to support Armed Forces Day at Himley Hall and Park.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to come together, recognise the contribution of our armed forces community and show our appreciation for those who have served, and continue to serve. Events like this demonstrate what can be achieved when local organisations work together to support the people and communities around them.”
People who think they are entitled to one of the HM Armed Forces Veterans Badges should call the Veterans UK helpline on 0808 1914 218 or email dbs-modmo-vetsbadge@mod.uk to apply. For medal queries, email DBS-Medals@mod.uk.
Veterans need to have applied for and received their badge before contacting Dudley Council to have it presented on the day.
Anyone who has already received one of the badges but has not had it formally presented to them before, can contact Dudley Council on 01384 817449 to be part of the ceremony.