A new flag is now flying above County Hall in Chelmsford to mark Armed Forces Week 2025.
The flag was raised by Councillor Derrick Louis, our Lead Member for the Armed Forces Covenant and Engagement.
He said: “In the year when we remember the end of World War II and the many sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, it is right and proper that we raise the armed forces flag today in the county of Essex – a county with a long tradition of hosting and supporting both serving personnel and veterans.
“Since the end of that war, armed forces personnel from Essex have been engaged in numerous conflicts from Korea through to Afghanistan, where I served, right up to today where members of the British Army are training soldiers from Ukraine.
“The sacrifices continue and so must our support. During the course of this week we will be promoting the numerous ways Essex County Council and our partners are providing this to the brave men and women of our armed forces community.”
Councillor Ray Gooding, the new Chairman of Essex County Council, added: “It cannot be overstated how much we depend on our brave service men and women to keep us safe. Their courage is unmatched, and I am proud to see this flag raised in their honour.
“We have a rich military heritage here in Essex, with historic regiments that go back hundreds of years. This is embodied by today’s armed forces community.
“I pay tribute to all service members past and present as we find ourselves in highly uncertain times which call for such selflessness and dedication.”
As set out in our Essex Armed Forces Covenant, we must support those who risk their lives for our safety. This means making a real difference to improve their quality of life.
Last year, the Armed Forces Needs Assessment was updated by the Essex Civilian Military Partnership Board. It has over 30 recommendations to improve support for current and ex-service members across five key areas:
· health and wellbeing
· education and children’s care
· housing
· employment and transition
· criminal justice system
Find out more about how armed forces and veterans are supported in Essex.