Launching the event recently was Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams with military personnel.
Preparations for Armed Forces Day 2023 in Larne are well underway and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is delighted to announce that there will be a historic 21 Gun Salute to mark the King’s official birthday at the event.
Taking place at Sandy Bay Playing Fields in Larne from 10am on Saturday 17 June, Armed Forces Day 2023 will be an action-packed day filled with something for the whole family.
One of the highlights on the day will be the 21 Gun Salute to mark this special occasion. Gun salutes have existed for centuries, with the firing of guns or firearms seen as a mark of respect on special occasions or as a military honour.
Other entertainment on the day will include a performance from the Band of the Royal Irish Regiment, a fantastic Military Village, interactive & static military displays, a parachute display by Silver Stars Royal Logistics Corp and a RAF display team featuring a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire and Hurricane.
There will also be an Army Air Corp Gazelle helicopter (static display), a RAF Police Dog Display Team, children’s entertainment, an Ulster Aviation Society static display and Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) competition.
Taking to the stage will be talented musicians from The Music Yard in Larne, The Swingtime Starlets and righteous rock and soul brothers The Gold Tips.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, said:
“I am so looking forward to Armed Forces Day 2023 in Larne and particularly the 21 Gun Salute to mark the reigning Monarch’s birthday. It will be a very special occasion this year as it is the first time guns will be fired for His Majesty King Charles III.
“This is an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors to play a part in the birthday celebrations, plus there will be so much more entertainment throughout the day for all ages. Come along, join in the fun and help us recognise the honourable service of the Armed Forces, both past and present.”
The event will begin with a Parade to Sandy Bay Playing Fields and a Drumhead Service, concluding that evening with Beating the Retreat Finale.
Further information about Armed Forces Day, together with a travel plan for the event, can be found at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/AFD.