This week, activities have taken place commemorating the bond between armed forces based personnel near Felixstowe and the neighbouring Suffolk civil community.

Beginning with a flag-raising ceremony and culminating in a celebratory public gathering, the events have reaffirmed a pledge made by local authorities in October 2012 – with the signing of the Suffolk Armed Forces Community Covenant – to support the local armed forces community and develop mutually beneficial projects.

Since 1990, the Ministry of Defence has supported local communities to organise Armed Forces Day events that give thanks to the armed forces community, including serving military personnel, veterans, service families, reservists and cadets.

Each year, Suffolk council leaders have agreed to coordinate, host and support an annual Armed Forces Day event for the county. This year's events, hosted by East Suffolk Council, aimed to raise public awareness of the contribution made by His Majesty's Armed Forces, and show public support for the men and women of the armed forces community.

Cllr Katie Graham, East Suffolk Council's cabinet member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism, said: "We're proud of our military history and our connection to armed forces based in Suffolk. Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for us to celebrate that bond and show our support for serving troops, service families, veterans, reservists and cadets, and for communities to join us in paying tribute to their actions, past and present."

In Woodbridge – the closest town to Rock Barracks and home to 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment, a showcase public event was held to thank armed forces personnel and their families for the service and sacrifices made on behalf of the nation.

Armed Forces Week began with flag-raising ceremonies at both Rock Barracks and the Woodbridge war memorial on Market Hill on Monday 19 June. The ceremonies were attended by representatives from East Suffolk Council, Woodbridge Town Council, representatives of the services and the Royal British Legion.

On Thursday 22 June, a community event took place at Elmhurst Park attended by local dignitaries, veterans and the public, and featured a parade of service personnel from Suffolk military bases. There were also military charity stalls and information stands, music, food and refreshments. The parade was followed by a small reception for invited military personnel, their guests, and dignitaries.