Monday 23rd June 2025 marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, when the public show their support and appreciation for the Armed Forces community. It also includes Reserves Day (25 June), which provides the country with an opportunity to recognise our Reserve Forces.
The UK Armed Forces defend the UK and its interests. They are busy working around the world, promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security and fighting terrorism.
It’s a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.
Armed Forces Day takes place on the 28 June 2025.
Armed Forces Day recognises the commitment and resilience demonstrated by our entire Armed Forces community every day of the year.
The National memorial Arboretum will be marking this event across two days, with a range of fun interactive family activities
The run-up to Veterans Day and Armistice Day can be a difficult time for veterans suffering from mental health issues. With conditions such PTSD and other combat-related problems veterans may encounter stimuli within the environment that remind of situations, and it may trigger unwanted thoughts in the form of nightmares or flashbacks. Military uniforms and enhanced combat coverage in the media can lead to an increase in these symptoms.
Reservists
Reservists give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, balancing their civilian life with a military career to ensure that should their country require them, they would be ready to serve.
Cadets The Cadet Forces (Sea Cadets, Volunteer Cadet Corps, Army Cadets, Air Cadets and the Combined Cadet Force) currently number over 135,000 cadets and 25,000 adult volunteers in more than 3,000 locations across the UK. The Cadet Forces provide the opportunity for young people to develop key life and career-building skills, and gain valuable vocational qualifications.
Families
Our Armed Forces couldn’t do their job without the incredible support of their family and friends.
Veterans
A veteran is anyone who has served in the HM Armed Forces at any time (including National Servicemen, Regulars and Reserves). Armed Forces Day celebrates their continued role within the military community.
Combat Stress If you need to talk to someone, Combat Stress has a dedicated mental health support helpline for veterans and their families.
The helpline number is 0800 138 1619, and it’s available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Op COURAGE Midlands number is 0300 323 0137 or email mevs.mhm@nhs.net
You can find out more information about support for Veterans on the Veterans-UK website or by calling Veterans UK on 0808 1914 218.