Aldershot Armed Forces Day volunteers thanked at Parliament reception
A reception on 16 September recognised the volunteers, sponsors and community groups behind the national event.
A reception at the Houses of Parliament on 16 September 2026 thanked the volunteers, community groups, sponsors and organisers behind the Armed Forces Day National Event in Aldershot and Farnborough. More than 32,000 people booked tickets for the June weekend.
Three months after Aldershot hosted the Armed Forces Day National Event, the people who made it happen have been thanked at the Houses of Parliament.
The reception
Rushmoor Borough Council says a special reception was held on Wednesday 16 September 2026 for volunteers, community organisations, sponsors and organisers involved in the event weekend. The event took place on 27 and 28 June at Queens Avenue in Aldershot, with free, pre-booked tickets, and the council says more than 32,000 people booked tickets for the weekend.
The weekend celebrated and thanked the Armed Forces, honoured veterans and recognised serving personnel, military families and the wider defence community.
What was said
Deputy Leader Councillor Sophie Porter said: "Bringing the National Armed Forces Day event to Aldershot was a fantastic opportunity to showcase Aldershot and Farnborough and celebrate our proud military heritage." She added that the event's success depended on partners and volunteers, and described it as leaving "a legacy of pride and connection across our communities."
Alex Baker, MP for Aldershot and Farnborough, said: "The National Armed Forces Day celebrations were a very special moment for Aldershot, Farnborough and the wider community."
Other recognition
In July the council also announced it had been awarded the Ministry of Defence's Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for its support of the Armed Forces community, one of 162 organisations nationally at that level.
What it means for residents
Hosting the national event was a milestone for the area, and the thanks go to a lot of local people who gave their time. If you volunteered, took part or simply enjoyed the weekend, this is a good moment to look back at what Aldershot managed to deliver.
For residents, the practical legacy is less obvious than a new building, but the council says the event is meant to leave lasting connections between the community and the Armed Forces. The council's Armed Forces Covenant pages explain what support is available to local service personnel, veterans and their families.
Source: Rushmoor Borough Council.
Frequently asked questions
- When was the Armed Forces Day National Event in Aldershot?
- 27 and 28 June 2026, according to Rushmoor Borough Council.
- How many people booked tickets?
- More than 32,000.
- When was the reception at Parliament?
- Wednesday 16 September 2026.
- What award did Rushmoor Council win in July?
- The Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award.