“Gave their lives for freedom’ - Lord Mayor Andrew Sangar discusses the importance of Armed Forces Day
Sheffield paid tribute to those who have served their country in an Armed Forces and Veterans Day event in the city centre
Huge crowds of people attended Armed Forces and Veterans Day as they honoured and paid their respects to those that have served their country.
The parade which started on Norfolk Row before passing through Fargate saw some of the country’s bravest people march through the streets along with aspiring cadets, followed by a live band and various activities afterwards.
During the event, there were also various guest speakers, who shared some of their memories while also highlighting the importance of events like Armed Forces Day and the contributions of people that have served in the UK and overseas.
Among those to share his thoughts was Lord Mayor Andrew Sangar, who spoke to The Star afterward about the significance of the 110 year anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, one of the largest and most bitterly contested and costly battles of the First World War, lasting nearly five months and resulting in more than 1 million deaths.
He told The Star : “It's really important to celebrate all those who serve at the moment and those who have served in the past.
“It's really important. It's really important that we continue the links. They gave their lives for our freedom.”
Reflecting on the big turnout in the Steel City, he added: “The Armed Forces Covenant was so important for all those who are currently serving in uniform and those who have served. And it's really good to see the cadets as well, so I'm really proud of all of those Sheffield people.
“So I'm glad that I could play a very small part in thanking all of those involved in the Armed Forces.”