Honouring Heroes: Celebrating the Anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the Lives of All Military Veterans

Every year, on the 6th of June, we commemorate the anniversary of the D-Day Landings, a pivotal moment in World War II that marked the beginning of the end of Nazi occupation in Europe. 

This historic day in 1944 saw the bravery of over 156,000 Allied troops who stormed the beaches of Normandy, France, under relentless fire, and began the arduous push that would eventually lead to the liberation of Europe. 

As we reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who fought, it is also a fitting occasion to honour all military veterans and current service personnel who continue to safeguard our freedoms.

A Day of Gratitude and Celebration

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to not only remember the past but also to actively celebrate the contributions of our veterans and serving forces personnel. This year, we propose a nationwide initiative: organising parties and gatherings that bring together veterans, serving forces members, and their families. These events can serve as a heartfelt tribute to those who have served and are currently serving, offering a space for gratitude, camaraderie, and community support.

Organising the Celebrations

1. Community Engagement and Planning

Form Committees: Assemble local committees consisting of veterans' organisations, community leaders, and volunteers to plan and oversee the events.

Venue Selection: Choose accessible venues such as community centres, parks, or local halls that can accommodate a significant number of attendees and provide a comfortable setting.

Funding and Sponsorship: Seek sponsorships from local businesses, charities, and government grants. Fundraising activities can also help cover costs.

2. Inviting the Heroes

Outreach to Veterans and Serving Personnel: Work with local military bases, veterans' associations, and support groups to extend personal invitations. Social media and local news outlets can also help spread the word.

Family Involvement: Ensure that invitations are extended to the families of veterans and serving personnel, recognising the sacrifices made by their loved ones.

3. Event Highlights

Speeches and Tributes: Invite guest speakers, including veterans, military historians, and local dignitaries, to share stories and pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces.

Musical Performances: Arrange for performances by military bands, local musicians, or choirs singing wartime classics and patriotic songs.

Memorial Services: Hold a brief memorial service to honour those who have fallen, including a moment of silence and the laying of wreaths.

Interactive Exhibits: Set up displays and exhibits featuring memorabilia, photographs, and personal stories from veterans, offering a tangible connection to history.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Games and Entertainment: Organise activities such as face painting, games, and bouncy castles for children, ensuring the event is enjoyable for all ages.

Food and Refreshments: Provide catering or potluck-style food offerings, with options to suit various dietary needs.

5. Recognition and Awards

Honour Roll: Create a display listing the names of local veterans and serving personnel to acknowledge their service.

Awards and Certificates: Present certificates or small awards to veterans and serving members as a token of appreciation.

The Importance of Commemoration

Organising parties and events on the anniversary of the D-Day Landings serves multiple purposes. It educates younger generations about the sacrifices made for their freedoms, fosters a sense of community and solidarity, and most importantly, provides an opportunity for veterans and serving personnel to feel valued and honoured. The courage and dedication of our armed forces are woven into the fabric of our nation’s history, and through these celebrations, we ensure their legacy continues to inspire and resonate.

Conclusion

As we approach this significant anniversary, let us come together as communities across the country to celebrate, honour, and give thanks to our veterans and serving forces personnel. By organising parties and gatherings that bring together these remarkable individuals and their families, we not only pay tribute to their past and present contributions but also strengthen the bonds of unity and respect within our society. This year, let’s make the D-Day anniversary a day of joy, remembrance, and heartfelt appreciation for those who have given so much.

Kellogg UK Commits to Supporting Veterans and their Families with Armed Forces Covenant Pledge

Top UK breakfast cereal maker, Kellogg UK has made a special commitment to veterans, reservists, and their families by signing up for the Armed Forces Covenant.

The Covenant is a voluntary pledge which acknowledges by the organisation that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect.

Kellogg’s has a K-Vets and Supporters network at its HQ in MediaCity which is committed to incorporating top tier veteran talent into all levels of the organisation.

The cereal and snacks company actively supports the employment of veterans, recognising military skills and qualifications in its recruitment and selection process.

Chris Silcock, who is Kellogg UK MD said: “At Kellogg’s we believe everyone should have a place at the table. By signing the Armed Forces Covenant we hope to become a career destination for military veterans. We'll continue to actively support the employment of veterans, recognising military skills and qualifications in our recruitment and selection process.”

The company has a strong KVets programme in the USA which supports the 490 ex-military personnel working in Kellogg North America via its Battle Buddies and Military Mentorship Programme.

Chris Silcock was joined by Commander Judith Barnes Royal Navy Reserve, Air Employer Engagement Regional Officer and Colonel Darren Doherty yesterday at Kellogg’s MediaCity HQ to officially sign the Covenant.

Colonel Darren Doherty, Commander Army North West Region commented: “I'm delighted to witness a huge global company like Kelloggs, and one with roots that are firmly in the North West, publicly pledging their continued support to the Armed Forces community: serving regular, reserves, veterans and their families, by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. I look forward to supporting Kellogg’s in their next steps towards achieving award status as part of the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme.”

Kellogg’s donated 19,000 servings of food over the past year to charities across the UK who state their primary audience as being military personnel, veterans or their families. This includes residential settings, training centres, drop in and day centres.

Andrew Western MP said: “I’m delighted Kellogg’s has signed the Armed Forces Covenant Pledge. Our Armed Forces community obviously deserves to be treated with fairness, respect, and compassion; not just when serving, but as they transition back into civilian life.

Kellogg’s employs hundreds of people across its head office in Media City and its factory in Trafford Park, so I have no doubt that the service people and veterans living within my constituency of Stretford and Urmston will benefit from this.”

Kellogg’s also recently removed the requirement for job applicants to the company to have a degree as part of its drive to become a more inclusive employer.

https://www.kelloggs.co.uk/en_GB/home.html

(Image courtesy scan5353 and Pixabay)