Armed Forces Day helps tackle mental health stigma, says Cambridgeshire RAF veteran
Serving and former military personnel will be marking the event today
Military veterans in Cambridgeshire are being urged to come forward for help if they're struggling with their mental health.
It comes on Armed Forces Day today, which gives communities a chance to show their support for serving personnel, veterans, cadets and their families.
Daz Swindell from Ely served in the RAF for 33 years before retiring as a flight sergeant around four years ago.
"I've never suffered from mental health issues other people have; you can see it in some people and it's reaching out to them to help guide them into the right areas, or just sitting and listening (to them)," he said.
"Not only does it raise awareness, it also provides guidance as to how to seek help, where to seek help, and what to look for."
What is Armed Forces Day?
As well as on the day itself, Armed Forces Day marks the end of a week of celebrations as the public show their appreciation for the Armed Forces community, as well as recognising the work of Reserve forces.
Events have been taking place locally to recognise Armed Forces Week, with Parker's Piece in Cambridge playing host to a fair from 11am till 5pm.
A special Armed Forces Weekend event is also being held in Whittlesey, where there will be military vehicles of old and new, as well as a number of re-enactment groups and live music performances.
Daz recalled life in the Royal Air Force and what experiences like his can teach others about the Armed Forces.
"Life in the RAF is a big community; we look after each other, work well together and we support each other throughout individual needs," he said.
"We are showing those people what we are about, raising the awareness of the issues our veterans and serving people are experiencing."