Armed Forces Week

As it always does, Dumfries & Galloway rose to the occasion with Armed Forces Week. The royal family have long been supporters of the military and this is the time when the country also recognises the work carried out by our soldiers, sailors and airmen, our veterans, reservists and cadets… We salute you all - and we thank you!

The week began with the Flag Raising. Flags are officially flown on government buildings and monuments about a dozen times a year - and Armed Forces Week is one of them. The Lord-Lieutenant of Dumfries, Fiona Armstrong, was in Dumfries, as was the Provost, Tracey Little, and other dignitaries. Thanks went to the council and Royal British Legion Scotland, among others, for making it run so smoothly. Major Charles Milroy, DL, presided over events and gave the vote of thanks.

There were other Flag Raisings around the region. Dumfries Deputy Lieutenant Kate Thompson was in Annan whilst Lord David Johnstone, DL, was at Moffat. Meanwhile, Lady Jack, DL, went to Sanquhar. where work is being carried out on the Tollbooth - but this town doesn’t let a bit of scaffolding stop them showing their support for the Armed Forces…

Saturday was Armed Forces Day itself and the centre of Dumfries was packed as veterans and cadets marched to the Midsteeple. A big thanks to Annan Silver Band who provided the music. The Lord-Lieutenant of Dumfries, Fiona Armstrong, welcomed Mr Angus Ferguson, DL, from the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright. D & G’s Armed Forces Champion, Cll Archie Dryburgh was Master of Ceremonies whilst dignitaries included the Provost of Dumfries, Tracey Little and MPs and MSPs. 

Lieutenancy cadets! Cadet Company Sgt Major Mackenzie Marshall was there with Fiona Armstrong ,whilst Cadet Corporal Archie Ross assisted Mr Angus Ferguson.

And well done Stuart Robb and Graeme Maxwell who ran a military pop-up shop for the week in Dumfries. Our region has always risen to the occasion when it comes to joining the military and inside told the story of local veterans. The place was well visited...

The week ended with a service at St Michaels in Dumfries. This is the town’s ceremonial church, and it reflected the gratitude that people feel for those who serve to keep us safe...