As part of the week-long celebrations, students from the Air and Defence College (ADC) and Public Protective Services (PPS) have run, cycled, walked and even skated the infamous Hell’s Highway to celebrate Armed Forces Week (22nd-27th June).

The nationwide week is held to recognise the vital role the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community play: from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.

The 100-mile Hell’s Highway route across the Netherlands, towards Nijmegen, was the original route taken by soldiers during the Second World War as part of Operation Market Garden, also known as the Liberation Route in Europe. Students covered a total distance of 107 miles and raised over £300 for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

23-year veteran of the Royal Air Force and Course Director of the Air and Defence College, Jo Evans, said:

“I am really proud of all of our students who have gone the extra mile to honour the Armed Forces this week. Many of them will go on to join the services and it means a lot to them to be able to show their support for the humbling work they do.”

Students have also shown their support online by posting videos, discussing what the Armed Forces mean to them and signing off with a salute as part of the week’s #SaluteOurForces initiative.

Caroline Greyson, Course Director of year one level three Public Protective Services and Royal Navy veteran, said:

“This has been a brilliant way to pay tribute to the British Armed Forces community for their hard work, dedication and efforts to keep us safe.”

ADC Student, Jack Blaxill, said:

“I support the Armed Forces because they help to combat terrorism, deter conflict and deliver humanitarian aid.”

Another ADC student, Jason Partridge, said:

“The Armed Forces defend our country and have given me the opportunity of a future career with them.”

PPS student, Kai Ashby, said:

“The Armed Forces mean to me the hope of tomorrow and opportunity to helpful innocent civilians.”