Stonehenge
Following the nerve agent attack almost two months ago, the city of Salisbury has been shortlisted as a potential host of the Armed Forces Day National Event 2019.
A bid was submitted by Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council as a fitting event to thank the military personnel and emergency services that have supported the recovery of the city; particularly the clean-up required to help Salisbury get back to normal.
The event will also welcome the soldiers relocating from Germany, as part of the Army Basing Programme, which will see a total of 4,000 service personnel and their families move to Salisbury Plain by 2020.
The successful host location will be announced at this year’s Armed Forces Day National Event, held on 30 June in Llandudno, Conwy.
Baroness Scott of Bybrook OBE, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “The Armed Forces and their families make up a significant part of the Wiltshire population, and National Armed Forces Day is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the role that they play on behalf of the whole country.
“It is also a chance to all say thank you for the work that they have delivered in Salisbury to ensure that our city is safe and can get back to normal.
“The National Event is a focal point for Armed Forces Day celebrations, as people come together to recognise the hard work and sacrifice of those that serve.
“During recent events in Salisbury, we have seen how strong the links are between the city and our Armed Forces community. To be selected to host the Armed Forces Day National Event in 2019 would be a wonderful way to thank our service men and women for their contribution to Wiltshire, and for the job they do to keep us all safe.
“We believe Salisbury would be an appropriate choice given what it has faced this year, and we hope we will be successful.”
Cllr Matthew Dean, leader of Salisbury City Council, said: “We are delighted to work with Wiltshire Council on this important national event.
“The City of Salisbury has always held our Armed Forces in high regard. Following recent events, if Salisbury is successfully selected as the host, it will be a fantastic way to thank our Armed Forces and bring our community together.”
Next year’s National Armed Forces Day event will take place on Saturday 29 June 2019. If Salisbury is successful it will be held at Hudson’s Field and in the city centre.
