06/06/2026
🌟🌟 ANNOUNCEMENT - COUNTDOWN TO 31 JULY REMINDER🌟🌟
Colchester City Garrison
Airborne Soldier Statue unveiling event and Airborne Heritage Fete – Fri 31 July 26
Event details and co-ordination
On Fri 31 July 26, the long-awaited Colchester Airborne Soldier Statue will be unveiled by means of a ceremonial spectacle to mark the 25th Anniversary of 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team (16 AABCT) being based in Colchester Garrison City. The statue is a collaborative creation by the Airborne Forces Community, both serving and veteran, supported by family, friends and partnerships, which will be presented and gifted to Colchester City and its people.
A combined 16 Air Assault Brigade Guard, with escorted Colours will provide the backdrop to a formal unveiling service, whilst The Parachute Regimental Association (PRA) will form up as a veteran guard as part of the parade. The dedication service will be delivered by the 16 AABCT Senior Chaplain.
Post the unveiling, an afternoon ‘Airborne Heritage Fete’ will be held on the Garrison Cricket Sports Pitch where there will be lunch feeding, refreshments and a plethora of displays, stands, stalls and attraction / activities; The Red Devils (Parachute Regiment) Freefall Display Team will be jumping mid-afternoon. This is a controlled and protected event, only accessible by pre-registration (see details below). Parking, registration and entry is at no cost, however feeding and drinks will be at personal expense. Please bring cash and cards, in particular for some of the stalls and stands.
PRA and other airborne veteran organisations who wish to partake in the parade are to rendezvous (RV) at the Garrison Cricket Pitch from 09:00 onwards, no later than 10:00, in order to form up and be dressed off. Dress will be Blazer Order with berets and medals. All non-marching veterans should also RV at the cricket pitch prior to unveiling. Morning coffee and tea will be provided at the RV.
VIPs will be hosted and directed under sponsoring unit arrangements which will be described in their invitations; to arrive at the statue location no later than 10:00. Any VIP who wishes to march with the veteran guard should also RV at the Cricket Pitch. VIPs will have allocated seating by the statue location – controlled by the events team.
Parking is free and will be provided on the ‘Abbey Field’ Garrison Recreation ground, which must be approached from the SOUTH only (CO2 7SZ). This area will be indicated and marshalled, including allocated disabled parking. Vehicles may be left overnight, however there is no camping provision. If groups wish to attend by mini-bus or coach, please indicate this on the registration. Please do NOT approach from the NORTH, as the Circular Rd North will be blocked off.
Accommodation is not provided, hence must be sought and booked under personal arrangements.
Weather / temperature. Please ensure all attendees wear appropriate clothing and utilise sun protection measures as required. The cricket pitch is an open ground, surrounded by trees and will offer only limited cover.
Attendees are encouraged to bring collapsible chairs and picnic blankets / gear as required.
Registration:
Registration is currently only open to the serving military, their families, invited friends and the veteran community. A controlled public announcement and registration process will commence in early July.
Please use the following link or QR code to register your details. This can be as an individual or as a group (max 20). An appointed group lead should be overseeing group bookings. Link and QR code:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/regimentheadquarterstheparachuteregiment/2098445
Timings summary:
- 09:00 Veteran / PRA RV at the Gsn Cricket Pitch
- 10:00 VIPs to arrive at statue location under hosting units
- 10:15 Veterans / PRA on parade
- 10:30 Ceremonial parade and service
- 12:00 Airborne Heritage Fete at the Garrison Cricket Pitch
- 14:00 Red Devils Freefall Display Team
- 15:00 Airborne Riders display
- 18:00 Endex
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/regimentheadquarterstheparachuteregiment/2098445
