To mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week 2025, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley and a former British Army medical officer, joined fellow Parliamentarians, veterans, and service personnel at the official flag-raising ceremony in New Palace Yard, Parliament.
Hosted by the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the ceremony was a solemn and proud occasion, bringing together representatives from across public life to honour the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of the entire Armed Forces community including serving personnel, service families, veterans, and cadets.
Speaking after the ceremony, Dr Shastri-Hurst said:
Earlier today, I had the honour of attending the Annual Flag Raising Ceremony in Parliament, marking the beginning of Armed Forces Week.
As a veteran, it was deeply moving to stand alongside Parliamentarians and fellow veterans to pay tribute to the bravery, service, and sacrifice of our Armed Forces community, those currently serving, veterans, service families, and cadets.
At a time when the world is facing growing instability and rising threats to peace and security, the importance of our Armed Forces has never been clearer. Their professionalism, courage, and readiness to defend our values at home and abroad are the cornerstone of our national resilience.
Events like these are a vital reminder of the values we hold as a nation and the people who embody them every day. I was proud to represent our community’s shared commitment to those who have served and continue to serve our country.
Thank you to all who took part, and to those who continue to support our Armed Forces throughout this week and beyond.
Armed Forces Week offers a moment of national reflection, a time to reaffirm our gratitude to those who defend our freedom, uphold our values, and serve with distinction at home and abroad.
