Alongside the vehicles, military personnel and ice cream there are plenty of people who come to enjoy the event and make it all worth it.
Often they go unnoticed, but many are former veterans themselves who come to revel in the magic of the weekend. However, some are more special than others.
This year, watching the military parade was Royal Navy veteran Phil Taylor and his Army Cadet grandson Will Prescott.
Phil spent four years in the Royal Navy as a Navigator from 1973-77 operating around the Mediterranean and loves coming to Armed Forces Weekend every year. Living in Stallingborough, it’s something he is extremely proud to come along to and even more so this year with his Grandson in the military parade.
Will, 12, joined the Immingham cadets nine months ago having always enjoyed the armed forces and what they stand for.
“I wanted to try it out and see what it was all about, I’m really enjoying it so far,” said Will. “I’m really happy to be in the parade and it’s something I’m looking forward to being a part of.”
Following in his Grandad’s footsteps, he’s thinking about a career in the Armed Forces. “Maybe when I’m older, I’ll go into the RAF as an aircraft mechanic.”
And watching his Grandson’s footsteps will be Phil. “Just seeing him in his uniform makes me so proud. I’ve no doubt I’ll cry when I see him walking along in the parade.”
Weekends like this remind Phil of how amazing the armed forces are and why they are so important. “These weekends remind all of us of their importance and what each and every one of them have done for our country.
“In years to come some of these people may not be here so it’s important to enjoy these moments. I make sure to keep in contact with everyone I was in the Navy with and keep the memories alive.”
He added: “We love coming here and the atmosphere is just amazing. We especially look forward to the flybys.”
Image Caption: Left, Will Prescott and right, Phil Taylor
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