Military groups and veterans joined Cllr Kairen Raper, the Mayor of Thurrock to raise the Armed Forces Day flag outside the Civic Offices in New Road, Grays on Monday 24 June.
Representatives from the Royal Airforce Association, Royal British Legion, Far East Veterans Association and the Ambulance and Police services were all in attendance as Cllr Raper raised the flag.
The service began with a parade to the flagpoles led by local piper, Jo Goddard who played a rendition of 'Wings', a traditional marching song.
Following the parade, the Mayor gave a speech which commemorated the brave men and women whose courage and sacrifice have defended our nation against tyrants.
The flag will fly all week ahead of Armed Forces Day, which takes place on Saturday 29 June.
Photo below: the Armed Forces Day flag flying outside the Civic Offices.
