Armed forces events
Armed Forces Day takes place every year on the last Saturday in June.
It is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets. It also marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, when the public show their support and appreciation for the Armed Forces community.
#SaluteOurForces is a simple way for anyone to pay tribute to the British Armed Forces community for their hard work, dedication and efforts to and keep us safe in the UK and across the globe.
To join in, simply post a photo or video of yourself or your friends and colleagues saluting with the hashtag #SaluteOurForces!
Learn more about #SaluteOurForces
At Braintree District Council, we fly the Armed Forces Day flag and the Chairman hosts a reception for invited veterans and local school children. This year, Armed Forces Day is on Saturday 27 June 2026.
Reserves Day
Reservists give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, balancing their civilian life with a military career to ensure that should their country require them, they would be ready to serve. This year, Reservists Day will be on Wednesday 24 June 2026.
Regular Events
Braintree AFVBC (Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club)
Braintree AFVBC meets on second Saturday of the month at The Pub, East Street, Braintree, Essex, CM7 3JJ at 10am.
The club is a welcoming community where military veterans come together to share their experiences, build lasting connections, and savour a delectable food. The club is committed to creating a safe, inclusive space for veterans of all ages, backgrounds, and branches of the armed forces. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or recently retired, the club offers a place where you can connect with like-minded individuals who appreciate your service. Experience the bond of military fellowship while enjoying a hearty breakfast.
Website: Braintree Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Clubs | Braintree AFVBC | By Veterans For Veterans
Facebook group: Braintree Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club | Facebook
Witham Branch of The Royal British Legion
Witham Branch meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of every month at the Memorial Hall in Newland Street, Witham.
Halstead Branch of The Royal British Legion
Halstead Branch meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7pm at the Royal British Legion Club, 13 The Causeway, Halstead CO9 1ET (rear room).
Halstead Men’s Shed
The shed focuses on community projects such as making, repairing and restoring items for other charities, community groups and schools etc. These activities encompass woodworking and metalworking, but they are open to tackling a wide range of tasks. Additionally, the shed features an allotment for those who enjoy gardening. They meet Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10am and 3.30pm at Fenn Road, Halstead, CO9 2HG.
Email: halsteadshed@gmail.com
Great Yeldham Men’s Shed
Great Yeldham Men’s Shed takes on a variety of activities including model making, gardening, carpentry, bike refurbishment and woodwork. Existing members include veterans. Visit the shed’s Facebook group for more information:
Annual Events
May
D Day
June
Armed Forces Day - Chairman event, flag flown at Causeway House and/or Braintree Town Hall.
August
VJ Day
September
Merchant Navy Day – Flag flown at Causeway House
November
Remembrance Sunday Service at Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens and parade to St Michael’s Church.
Remembrance Sunday and Remembrance Day services across the towns and parishes at local war memorials. More details released closer to the time.
