Commandos storm Plymouth beach 100 days before Armed Forces Day comes to city

Royal Marines carried out a dramatic beach landing in Plymouth Sound as part of a display marking 100 days until this summer's Armed Forces Day celebrations.

The Marines arrived in high-speed Commando Raiding Craft, flying the Armed Forces and sponsors' flags, before storming ashore at the Barbican.

They then scaled the 70ft walls of The Royal Citadel, where they presented the Armed Forces flag to 29 Commando's Regimental Sergeant Major Stefan Spink.

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"We are delighted to host this year's Plymouth Armed Forces Day launch at The Royal Citadel on The Hoe and support the Royal Marines recruitment drive," RSM WO1 Stefan Spink from 29 Cdo Regt said.

"The day brings communities together – strengthening the connection between the military and the local people, and we look forward to playing our part on the 28 June."

The flag was hoisted above the Citadel's battlements before the Marines abseiled back down to their waiting craft.

The display marked 100 days until Plymouth's Armed Forces Day 2025, which will take place on Saturday 28 June on Plymouth Hoe.

The launch event was attended by The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Tina Tuohy, the Lady Mayoress and Deputy Lord Mayor, representatives from Babcock, Plymouth City Council, and each military service, as well as veterans, cadets, and Military Kids Club Heroes.

More than 45,000 people are expected to attend the free event, which will feature an all-day arena and stage programme, parades, hands-on displays, military vehicles and equipment, thrilling demonstrations, and live entertainment into the night.