Plymouth celebrates its Armed Forces with two awe-inspiring events on the Hoe

11th June 2024

Two of Plymouth's spectacular headline events return to Plymouth Hoe this month!

Both Armed Forces Day and the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, are back on the Hoe mlater this month and come with an epic programme of events, activities, and entertainment to honour service personnel in the city.  

Visitors will be able to enjoy plenty of free family fun activities and military displays at Armed Forces Day, in association with defence company, Babcock International on Saturday 29 June, 10am to 10.30pm.  

This year Armed Forces Day will include 1940s themed activity, acknowledging the 80th anniversary of D-Day. There will be a display of vintage military vehicles and an energetic performance from the jump jive band Company B, who will be bringing swing and swagger to the stage. From 4pm there will be an air demonstration including a Wasp XT420 and Swordfish W5856 – the oldest surviving airworthy Fairey Swordfish in the world (subject to weather and operational commitments). 

Dave Tytherleigh from Babcock’s Leadership Team at Devonport said: “We are delighted to sponsor Plymouth’s Armed Forces Day again this year. The event provides an excellent opportunity for the community to learn more about the critical role our Armed Forces play in keeping our country safe and we are proud to work alongside them.” 

Other exciting highlights include demonstrations from HMNB Devonport Field Gun (sponsored by the Royal navy and Royal Marines Charity) and the Royal Marines Unarmed Combat Display Team, plus the Junior Field Gun tournaments will have 20 schools competing. Over 100 charities and organisations will be exhibiting in the Veterans Village, supported by the Royal British Legion, offering information and advice. 

The day will finish with a free evening concert sponsored by C&G Catering, featuring lively performances from: Feel Good Factory, Jessica and the Rabbits, Rockafella and The Big Strut. 

Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Tina Touhy, said: “We are very proud of our military history and our Armed Forces based in the city, and it’s a privilege to be able to watch the Strength of Spirit Games and celebrate Armed Forces Day, both on Plymouth Hoe. I invite the people of Plymouth to come along to these spectacular events and show your support to our Armed Forces community.” 

Visitors can also see athletes compete in the Strength of Spirit Games, sponsored by AECOM and The Royal Marines Charity, on Thursday 27 June, 11am to 5pm, including the Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy. The games have been expanded to include The Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge, 10am to 11.15am. 

Spectators can look forward to a thrilling day at the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, at Tinside Lido and on Plymouth Hoe. Service personnel on recovery duties and veterans will compete in the swim, bike and row events. Teams include international representatives from the United States Marine Corps and Royal Netherlands Marine Corps. 

Commander Claire Lees, SO1 Royal Navy Recovery and Resilience Margins HQ, said: “The Rehabilitation Triathlon is an opportunity for individuals facing their own challenges due to illness and injury, to come together as a community. The competitors encourage each other to achieve their personal goals with a sense of friendly competition and camaraderie. Being able to share this event with the incredible community in Plymouth is a real pleasure and privilege and we’re incredibly grateful for all of the support.” 

The Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge will see children from military families take part in the Strength of Spirit Games on Plymouth Hoe for the first time. This exciting event will have 150 pupils from 25 primary schools competing in a demanding rowing challenge. 

Darren Carlile, Head of National Security UK&I AECOM, said: “AECOM is committed to supporting Armed Forces personnel and the veteran community. As a former Corps of Royal Engineers serviceman, as well as a colleague to other former veterans, every day I see the skills and value they bring to our organisation. We are proud to support the Strength of Spirit Games, including the Rehabilitation Triathlon, and to cheer on these remarkable athletes. In addition, we’re very excited to support the inaugural Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge and would like to wish the pupils taking part the best of luck!”   

For more about Plymouth Armed Forces Day and the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, visiting plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk Both events are supported by South West Highways.