100-day countdown to Armed Forces Day 2023 begins as flag unfurled by military personnel
A giant flag has been unfurled by military personnel to mark 100 days until the next Armed Forces Day.
This year's event, which celebrates the UK's military, is set to be held in Falmouth, Cornwall, and personnel abseiled down the wall of Pendennis Castle as they unfurled the flag.
The Tudor fortress saw service in both world wars, as well as defending Cornwall for hundreds of years.
A helicopter also made a flypast before a 'canon salute' was fired by RAF Air Commodore Polly Perkins.
Military musicians also played a role in the ceremony, alongside serving personnel, veterans and cadets.
The unveiling of the flag marks the start of its 100-day special tour around Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, culminating in a Red Arrows performance planned at the national event in June.
Armed Forces Day brings to a close a week's worth of military-themed events and celebrations in honour of Britain's military personnel.
As well as parades and drills, the event also provides the chance to see military vehicles up close.
Dr Andrew Murrison, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, said he was "thrilled that the people of Cornwall will come together in Falmouth to show their support for the military community".
"Armed Forces Day is an annual opportunity for members of the public to thank our service personnel and I encourage everyone to get involved, whether that's attending the national event in Falmouth, a local event or running their own event," he said.
Organisers estimate the Armed Forces Day event in Cornwall 2023 will attract well in excess of 100,000 people and earn about £1m for the local economy.
Air Commodore Polly Perkins, Regional Air Officer for the South-West of England, said Armed Forces Day is a "special opportunity for the military services to unite with the very people that we serve".
"Everything is ready and people will have a great experience, we're really looking forward to the national celebrations in Cornwall this summer," she said.
Armed Forces Day 2022 was held in Scarborough, delayed for two years by the Covid pandemic.
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