Armed Forces Day was marked with a fanfare of trumpets courtesy of the British Army Band in Colchester.
Colchester Council joined local authorities and community groups across the country by flying the Armed Forces Day flag today.
The day shows support to servicemen and women of the Armed Forces as well as the wider community of families, veterans and cadets.
The flag being raised marks the beginning of a week of celebrations which end with a national event in Falmouth on June 24.
In Colchester, the Armed Forces Day Flag was raised alongside the Pegasus flag of 16 Air Assault Brigade from Colchester Town Hall.
Colchester mayor John Jowers led the ceremony accompanied by the Commander of Colchester Garrison, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, and Garrison Sergeant Major WO1 Andy Lamont.
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Mr Jowers said: “We must acknowledge the immense contribution of our serving military personnel, particularly the British Army's airborne forces based in Colchester, and veterans worldwide.
"Their unwavering commitment and selfless sacrifice, both on home soil and in foreign lands, continue to ensure our liberty and security.
“Let us take a moment to reflect on the bravery and resilience of our armed forces, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid.”
Lieutenant Colonel Rankin added: “Armed Forces Day is a chance for the nation to thank the military community for its service.
"Colchester Garrison is hugely proud of the bond that exists between the military and civilian communities in Colchester, which is second to none in its warmth and longevity.
“The raising of the Armed Forces Day flag and the Pegasus flag on Colchester Town Hall is a strong symbol of that mutually supportive relationship.
“We look forward to a further celebration of that tie at 16 Air Assault Brigade’s parade through the city on Thursday.”
Colchester-based 16 Air Assault Brigade will be marching through Colchester on Thursday to exercise its Freedom of the City.
The parade steps off from the War Memorial at noon with the last soldiers expected to pass the saluting dias at the town hall at 12.30pm.
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