Thousands of visitors packed the streets of Coleraine as the town came alive with military pageantry, aerial displays and community spirit to mark Armed Forces Day.
Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey attended Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland speaking with Serving Personnel.
Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey attended Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland speaking with Serving Personnel.
The 206 (Ulster) Battery Royal Artillery performs a ceremonial firing display for Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland.
The RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team during Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland.
Members of the Cadet Forces marching past Coleraine Town Hall during Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland.
VIPs and honoured guests watching on, as parade marched past Coleraine Town Hall during Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland.
Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey attended Armed Forces Day in Coleraine, Northern Ireland speaking with Serving Personnel.
The event also marked the first major public engagement for the Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey, since taking office. His presence underlined the significance of the occasion and the government's commitment to the armed forces community.
The day began with serving personnel, veterans and cadets parading through the town centre. A Drumhead Service then provided a moment of solemn reflection on the service and sacrifice of the armed forces community.
Celebrations continued at Christie Park, where the afternoon delivered a series of showstopping highlights. These included a parachute display by the RAF Falcons, a flypast by a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota, and a nine-round artillery salute which echoed across the River Bann.
Visitors also had the opportunity to meet armed forces personnel, explore military equipment, and learn more about the Army's work at home and overseas.
Calvin Bailey, Minister for Veterans and People, said: "Attending my first Armed Forces Day as Minister for Veterans and People has been an incredible privilege. Seeing the pride, professionalism and community spirit on display in Coleraine today is a reminder of why supporting our armed forces and the veterans and families who stand behind them is so important. I am grateful to everyone who came out to celebrate and pay tribute to the remarkable men and women who serve our country."
Brigadier Piers Ashfield DSO MBE, Commander 38 (Irish) Brigade, said: "Armed forces day here in Coleraine has been a wonderful opportunity to recognise the dedication and professionalism of our people, and to thank the public for their continued support. Seeing so many local people come together with serving personnel, veterans and their families is a fitting tribute to those who serve. It's a real highlight of the close bond between the armed forces and the communities they serve. The warmth and turnout is exactly what days like this are about."
Armed Forces Day is a national moment to honour the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from those currently serving to veterans, cadets and their families. The Army is proud to have played a central role in this year's event, showcasing its people, its capability, and its enduring connection with communities across Northern Ireland.
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