Island's Forces community to shine at Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day

Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day will return this year, paying tribute to the Island's dedicated forces community with a day of honour and recognition.

The event, on Sunday, 29 June, will once again be held beachside at Eastern Gardens in Ryde, where last year large crowds were treated to an awe-inspiring display by the Red Arrows.

While many exciting details for 2025 are still under wraps, attractions already confirmed include thrilling cannon and musket displays, promising plenty of booms and bangs, and an impressive marching parade with four bands and more than 100 cadets.

Additionally, the Army Air Corps is bringing back their Gazelle helicopter, offering attendees a chance to step into the cockpit, handle the controls, and snap a memorable selfie! It’s a day to reflect on the courage and service of our Armed Forces, while offering unique experiences for all who attend.

Event organiser, Ian Dore, said: "With the Red Arrows soaring over the Solent skies last year, Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day was packed to the rafters in support of the Island's forces community.

"Attended by all ages, broadcast live on radio and featured on the BBC, it's set to return again this year. 

"I start slinging irons in fires around September the year before the event, but it’s now that things really ramp up.

"The ground elements of the event are nearly complete, with just a few tweaks needed as additional assets come online, but you can expect some firm favourites to return."

Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day is a chance for Islanders to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.

From currently serving troops to service families, veterans, reservists and cadets, the popular event provides a much-valued morale boost for the troops and their families.

The location itself provides the perfect opportunity to display land, sea and air attractions, along with all you’d expect at an Armed Forces Day.

Ian added: "As we progress, more attendees will be announced, and it’s shaping up to be colossal. Last year’s attendance was just shy of 10,000 people, making it the second most attended single-day event on the Island, after the Isle of Wight Festival.

"In part, that is due to who and what was taking part, but it is also testament to the support Islanders have for the Armed Forces community, which, by the way, is around 11 per cent of the Island's population.

"As the official strapline says, show your support. Mark your calendars for Sunday, 29 June, for the official Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day. It’s going to be one of the must-attend events of the summer!” 

More details will be released over the coming weeks on the official website and Facebook page.

PHOTO: Event organiser Ian Dore, Alec Penstone and Sqn Leader Graeme ‘Musky’ Muscat from RAFAT.