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National Armed Forces Day: A400M and F-15 jets fly over Gloucestershire
The roar of massive military aircraft over Gloucestershire appears to be happening more and more these days. And today (Saturday, June 24) is no exception. The roar of a huge A400M was heard over the county shortly after 9am followed by F-15 jets at around 10.25am.
The A400M flights are linked to National Armed Forces Day and a number of flypasts have been arranged to celebrate those who have served in the British Armed Forces. The A400M is going to be a big part of today’s events with a special event in Cornwall.
It is understood the F-15 jets were diverting to RAF Fairford after a training mission in Germany. This has not been confirmed.
READ MORE: Damaged historic Cotswolds bridge which sparked 24-mile diversion to remain shut for foreseeable future
In a letter to mark Armed Forced Day, The King paid tribute to the “selfless service and sacrifice” of British troops. In a signed address, Charles thanked military personnel for their “immense and dedicated contribution”.
The A400M flew out of RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, heading west over the Cotswolds, Cheltenham and then looping around. Armed Forces Day is an annual event taking place on the last Saturday of June that offers people a chance to show their support for the Armed Forces community – including serving troops, their families, veterans and cadets.
RAF Brize Norton said on Facebook: “Today we celebrate National Armed Forces Day, a celebration of the contributions, both past and present, of those who have served in the British Armed Forces. You may notice an increase in activity with the A400M involvement with armed Forces Day activity.
“Wherever you are joining the celebrations, you may catch a glimpse of Atlas A400M during flypasts to mark the occasion – keep your eyes to the skies.”
Today’s timings
- Carterton 9.30am
- Newport 10.50am
- Falmouth 11.23am
- Duxford 12.40pm
- Plymouth 2pm
- Barnstaple 2.30pm
The AIRBUS A400M Atlas has taken over primacy as the predominant RAF air movements platform since the recent decommissioning of the Hercules C130.
Prime Minister pays tribute to British armed forces
Rishi Sunak has paid tribute to the “phenomenal precision and professionalism” of British troops as events are held across the UK to mark Armed Forces Day. Parades and flypasts will take place around the country to thank the military community, with Falmouth playing host to this year’s national event with a 1,000-strong tri-service parade of serving personnel, veterans and cadets.
In a statement, the Prime Minister said: “From Estonia to the Indo-Pacific, as well as here at home, our armed forces personnel protect and defend our freedom every day of every year.
“Much of that service we do not see and often take for granted, but this year we have been privileged to watch thousands of our military on parade for the coronation, in what was a showcase of our forces’ phenomenal precision and professionalism. So I know I speak for the entire country on this Armed Forces Day, when I say thank you to every soldier, sailor and aviator, and their families, who form part of our brilliant armed forces.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer visits RAF Brize Norton
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer visited an RAF base to mark the occasion. He and shadow defence secretary John Healey visited RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, where they met with military personnel including those involved in the ongoing UK operation to provide assistance to Ukraine.
Sir Keir said: “Those who serve in our Armed Forces represent the best of Britain – courage, duty and professionalism. As we mark Armed Forces Day, we thank our Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families for all they sacrifice to keep Britain safe.
“My uncle served aboard HMS Antelope in the Falklands War, and pride in his service echoes through our family. It’s a privilege to mark Armed Forces Day by meeting with serving personnel.”
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