Armed Forces Day parade underway as servicemen, veterans and cadets march in Aldershot

The parade of Britain’s servicemen, veterans and cadets has set off in Aldershot as the nation celebrates Armed Forces Day.

Past, present and future representatives of all three branches of the military could be seen resplendent in full dress amid glorious Hampshire weather.

The Aldershot parade, accompanied by military brass bands, received a salute from Chief of Defence Staff Air Marshal Sir Richard Knighton.

Marching in the celebrations were bands of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, British Army and Royal Air Force.

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Each band led marching detachments of military personnel, cadets and veterans.

The third Battalion of the Parachute Regiment will also progress down Queens Avenue as an A400M Atlas military cargo plane performs a flypast.

Armed Forces Day is held on the last Saturday of June each year, bringing Armed Forces Week to a close. The event was first held in 2009, replacing the earlier Veterans' Day, which was introduced three years earlier to mark the contributions of former service personnel.

It was expanded to honour not only veterans but also those currently serving across the Royal Navy, the British Army, and the Royal Air Force.

Celebrations typically begin with Reserves Day on the Wednesday, followed by a nationwide programme of parades, military displays, flypasts, community events and family activities.

Each year, one town or city is chosen to host the National Armed Forces Day event.

Meanwhile, hundreds of smaller celebrations take place across the UK to recognise the contributions of serving personnel, veterans and their families.

Alongside the flagship event, local authorities, charities and veterans' organisations stage community celebrations including parades through town centres, flag-raising ceremonies, remembrance services and family fun days.

Many military bases and museums also open their doors to the public, while historic military vehicles, aircraft and equipment are put on display.

Businesses and public organisations often mark the occasion by offering discounts to members of the Armed Forces community.

Schools and community groups also hold assemblies and educational events highlighting the role of Britain's armed services.

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