Details of Armed Forces Day event in Colchester revealed

The 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team are set to take over Abbey Field for the Colchester Garrison Show on Saturday, June 25.

Armed Forces Day is the nation’s chance to show its gratitude and support to the military.

Highlights across the day will include displays by the Parachute Regiment’s Red Devils freefall team, music from British Army Band Colchester, and a march by veterans and cadets from across Essex.

There will be key pieces of modern equipment on display, which will include an RAF Puma helicopter, artillery and a field hospital able to be deployed by parachute.

Marching on - father and son watch the march

There will also be an insight into the garrison’s history, which will be given by historians, who will also show the kit and weaponry of First and Second World War soldiers.

The action packed day will build up to a dramatic finale with a combat demonstration.

The event will showcase the skills and equipment of the Colchester 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team, the British Army’s global response force.

Taking aim - a soldier taking part in combat demonstration at the last event

This summer’s event is the fifth staging of the show, which is organised by Colchester Garrison every other year.

It will run from 11am to 4pm and will also feature refreshments, bouncy castles and free parking.

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, commander of Colchester Garrison, said: “Armed Forces Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the link between the military and the civilian community in which they live and work.

“The residents of Essex are hugely supportive of soldiers and their families which we in uniform are hugely appreciative of.

“It is important that the Army gives something back in return.

“The show promises to be an exciting, interesting, and entertaining day which I warmly invite everyone to attend.”