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On Sunday, the Nottingham Forest community came together to pay their respects and honour the sacrifices of armed forces veterans from the Nottingham Forest Community Trust’s Forest Forces Programme and serving personnel from the Mercian Regiment.

These remarkable individuals participated in a poignant Remembrance Day ceremony at the City Ground ahead of Nottingham Forest’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa. It was a heart-warming display of unity and gratitude as the football community and the military community joined forces to commemorate the fallen and those who continue to serve.

Forest Forces is an initiative that provides support and resources to armed forces veterans and their families in the Nottinghamshire area. The programme offers various activities, opportunities, and services aimed at enhancing the well-being and community engagement of veterans. From physical fitness and mental health support to social events and day trips, the programme provides an opportunity to bring people together from different backgrounds and armed forces’ communities.

The Mercian Regiment is a proud regiment of the British Army that boasts a rich history and tradition of military service. They are known for their dedication, professionalism, and courage in the face of adversity. The regiment has a strong connection to the Nottingham area, making their presence at this Remembrance Day event even more meaningful.

Every season, the Remembrance fixture at the City Ground brings a moving and poignant tribute to the fallen heroes of the armed forces. This year, participants, including veterans from Forest Forces and personnel from the Mercian Regiment, gathered together with Nottingham Forest fans to honour the memory of those who have given their lives in service to their country.

Kevin, an armed forces veteran and long-term Forest season ticket holder who had the honour of laying one of the wreaths prior to the game, shared his thoughts on the event, saying, “Being part of this ceremony was an incredibly moving and humbling experience. It’s a reminder that we, as veterans, are not alone, and our sacrifices are appreciated.

To be able to lay a wreath and pay my respects to those who didn’t make it back was a privilege I’ll always cherish. Nottingham Forest has shown that they care not only about the beautiful game but also about the community and the heroes who have served it.”

Events like Remembrance Day, coinciding with the Premier League’s fixtures serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging and honouring the service and sacrifices made by our armed forces. For the veterans in attendance, it can be a moment of healing, a sense of belonging, and a reminder that their service is appreciated and remembered. For the serving personnel of the Mercian Regiment, it reinforces the idea that their commitment to duty is valued by the wider community.