A good crowd assembled to mark Armed Forces Day with a simple service at Pembroke Dock combined with an open day at the town’s Heritage Centre.

Speaking from the steps of the former Dockyard Chapel on June 29, Mayor Cllr Maria Williams described Armed Forces Day as a chance to celebrate the work of our armed forces and other uniformed services throughout the UK.

“Pembroke Dock has a long-standing military history, so it is an honour that we continue to mark Armed Forces Day.”

Accompanying her on the steps were Deputy Mayor Cllr Michele Wiggins, Mayor Consort Sheena Fisher, Pastor of Bethel Baptist Church Michael Bave and Mayor of Pembroke Ann Mortenson.

Mayor Maria thanked the Parade Marshall and the Standard Bearers, the cadets and the various stall holders for taking the time to attend the service,. Fire engine and crew were at hand too.

“I would also like to thank the Heritage Centre for agreeing to host the event in the grounds of this wonderful building and working with our officers at the Town Council to put on this event.”

Thanking everyone for their attendance and adding that she hoped they all would enjoy Armed Forces Day 2024, the mayor then invited Pastor Michael Bave to lead a prayer for all serving uniformed personnel.

Pembroke Mayor Ann Mortenson then read fitting passages from the Bible, and the short service concluded with a parade involving the Standard Bearers, Army Cadets and Milford Haven Sea Cadets.

Inside the centre, the café was a busy hub, serving teas and coffees and delicious cakes, while visitors were free to browse the fascinating displays of history - “showcasing Pembrokeshire’s longstanding relationship with the armed forces” to use the words of Stephen Crabb, who attended with Senedd Member Samuel Kurtz. Labour’s Henry Tufnell also paid tribute to the Heritage Centre and the armed forces after attending the event.

Councillor Tony Wilcox pointed out to fellow councillor Michele Wiggins where his father Mervyn Wilcox’s medals and beret are on display. “It was wonderful to see so many of our community supporting Armed Forces Day,” commented Michele.

Pembroke Dock WI offered warm Welsh cakes at the Heritage Centre Armed Forces Day 2024 event
Pembroke Dock WI offered warm Welsh cakes (Observer pic)

Outside, Pembroke Dock WI offered warm Welsh cakes. Other stalls included a burger and hot dog stand, artwork and cadet recruitment. The Army Cadets took part in reenactments during the event.

Cadets at Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre
Cadets at Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre (Observer pic)

On their Facebook page, Pembroke Dock Town Council commented: “It was great to see so many people support the day.”