29-06-2025
National Armed Forces Week celebrations at Caldicot Castle
The castle played host to the closing of the week-long celebration Armed Forces Week, Wales, which highlighted all those involved in our armed forces – from serving personnel and reservists to veterans, cadets and service families.
As well as showcasing the dedication and skill of the armed forces, the event shone a light on local cadets, and veterans and gave the public a chance to meet and thank those that have served – and those preparing to serve their country.
Among the many attractions for the thousands in attendance were military displays, parades, vehicles and a strong showing from the blue light brigade, who showcased their skills and service.
Gwent Police, South Wales Fire and Rescue and the Welsh Ambulance Service were all available to the public, with children especially enjoying sitting at the wheel of Caldicot's fire engine.
Competing with the firemen for kids' attention, the South-East Wales branch of the Military Vehicle Trust, proudly showed off an array of vintage military vehicles and their tips and stories about how and why they maintain their mechanical veterans.
Veterans Ron Bennett and Graham Blackford, both long-term RAF veterans, flew the flag for the Abergavenny and Caldicot Royal British Legion branches respectively.
Graham said: 'The Legion is there for us all and talking and meeting helps us all. An event like this gives us a chance to celebrate the great work the Legion does.'
Cadets Soliana Sium and Daniela Smith attended with Gwent and Powys Army Cadets.
Solana said more young people should attend cadets to help others and themselves. She said of the day: 'It's great to be here and I have made so many friends and learned such a lot about people in the cadets.'
Long-distance award for cadet dedication goes to Corporal Braby, of Gwent and Powys Army Cadets: 'I live in Redditch, near Birmingham, and belong to the local force here.
"It's a family thing and not really a burden.'
