A city is set to celebrate past, present, and future armed forces together with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two at an event later this month.
Ely British Legion, together with Visit Ely, and the City of Ely Council are staging the city's annual Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 21, on the Palace Green.
This year, the event has extra significance because it is the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Days when World War Two finally ended.
Once again, there will be plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages including military vehicles, a parade, live music, and a vintage-style refreshments area.
One of the biggest highlights of the day, which starts from 10am with a parade from Ely's War Memorial to the Palace Green, will be a chance to listen to a talk by author Tony Rushmer, the writer of SAS Duty before Glory.
Author Tony Rushmer will be giving a talk at Ely Armed Forces Day. (Image: SAS: Duty Before Glory)
There will also be a question and answers session with Major Kerry Seekings (retired), who is the son of Bob Seekings and nephew of Reg Seekings - both SAS originals.
Tony will be giving a talk on Reg Seekings, who was one of the most highly decorated Special Forces soldiers of the Second World War, who rose through the ranks to become a Squadron Sergeant Major in the SAS,
Reg made his name after becoming one of the SAS unit's first recruits in the summer of 1941 in North Africa. He was involved in a series of daring behind-the-lines operations, including L Detachment’s successful assault (at Tamet airfield).
He went on to fight in Sicily and Italy alongside his brother Bob, who also became a qualified SAS operative.
Tony is a locally-based journalist who runs his own PR and communications company in Ely. His books will be available on the day.
Live music will be provided by Blue Sky Big Band, who will start the day with some Glen Miller classics.
The City of Cambridge Brass will continue the music, taking the event through to the sunset ceremony.
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