The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, today joined with London Assembly members and representatives of the Armed Forces to celebrate and pay tribute to the UK’s servicemen and women ahead of Saturday’s National Armed Forces Day.
The flag raising ceremony took place outside City Hall in London’s Royal Docks and was attended by Andrew Boff AM, the Chair of the London Assembly, the City Hall branch of the British Legion, guests from various military charities, military personnel and veterans, cadets, and local schoolchildren from Tollgate School, Newham.
Music was performed by the Band of The Coldstream Guards.
In 2019 the Mayor signed an updated Armed Forces Covenant committing to supporting the Armed Forces community across the capital.
The Covenant also named London Assembly Member Len Duvall as an informal Armed Forces champion, who chairs regular stakeholder roundtables on behalf of the Mayor. The Mayor also funds Veterans Aid to provide immediate practical support to all former UK servicemen and women who are homeless, facing homelessness or in crisis in London.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said, “I am honoured to join with members of the Armed Forces, the London Assembly and the City Hall Branch of the Royal British Legion to celebrate and pay homage to the work of our Armed Forces at City Hall’s flag raising ceremony.
“From protecting our nation to providing humanitarian support and promoting peace – their responsibilities are wide-ranging and we must never underestimate the sacrifices they make to keep our country safe. It’s vital that we continue to reflect and honour their immense courage and commitment.”
Chair of the London Assembly, Andrew Boff AM added, “Armed Forces Day is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible work of our armed forces personnel, cadets, veterans, and military families, both at home and abroad.
“Around the world, our armed forces play an important role in promoting peace and security, fighting terrorism, and delivering aid. Here in London, we have recently witnessed first-hand the commitment and integrity of our armed forces through their part in the funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of King Charles III.
“It was an honour to represent the London Assembly today as we raised the armed forces flag to show our support and appreciation to all those who risk their lives to keep us and others safe and to those veterans whose service we will never forget.”
