Armed Forces Day

english_barber · Post by **english_barber** » Fri Jun 29, 2012 11:35 pm

Hi there,

Today is armed forces day in the United Kingdom, a day to show some respect for those who serve us past and present.

This is a relatively new thing for us Brits, shamed by our allies in the United States and the people of a small town now called Royal Wooton Bassett

In 2008 our military was banned from wearing military uniforms outside barracks in case it offended ethnic minorities within the local community. At the same time their fallen comrades were being brought home without recognition via an air force transport depot locally.

One day in 2008 this all changed forever when the people of Wooton Bassett started to line the streets as the coffins were driven through their town, shaning us all. In 2011 Wooton Bassett was given the status "Royal" in recognition of their deed.

Recognising the huge difference in respect shown to our armed forces the last Saturday in June has been declared "Armed Forces Day" since 2008, a day to "show some support!". Something our allies in the US manage everyday.

So the flag is flying proudly on Charnham House.

Have a great weekend, Robert

desertbadger · Post by **desertbadger** » Sat Jun 30, 2012 1:31 am

Happy Armed Forces Day to all those that served in Great Britian!

Regards,
David

wenestvedt · Post by **wenestvedt** » Wed Jul 11, 2012 9:24 am

I hadn't heard about this. Thank you for mentioning it, and bless & keep safe all those in uniform.

ShadowsDad · Post by **ShadowsDad** » Wed Jul 11, 2012 11:25 am

How did I miss this thread !? I'm offically embarassed.

I think I'll raise a glass tonight for your Armed Forces even if it is a bit late, and to Royal Wooton Bassett.

Wearing a uniform outside the barracks will offend someone taking advantage of your country? What nut case thought that one up? I'm offended that they would be offended and so incredibly two faced.

dosco · Post by **dosco** » Wed Jul 11, 2012 11:50 am

Now that you write it up, I recall the story. I had no idea that the town had been distinguished as "Royal." Cheers for that.

Thanks to those who are serving or those who have. In the US or UK. Cheers.

brothers · Post by **brothers** » Wed Jul 11, 2012 4:36 pm

A salute to those who served, and their families!

slackskin · Post by **slackskin** » Wed Jul 11, 2012 10:55 pm

Go, Brits. Kudos to you. Anyone (in any country) who bad-mouths the military needs to be reminded that it is the soldier who has given us the freedoms we cherish -- not the politicians, not the celebrities, but the soldier. Offending a minority person? Shame on them. If they really want to be citizens of the country, then they need to meld into its culture and adopt its social customs (without turning their backs completely on their own). Don't want to meld in? Then go home.

Incidentally, Armed Forces Day in the US is the third Saturday in May.