Honouring the Armed Forces Community

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Armed Forces Week is dedicated to celebrating and recognising the incredible individuals who make up the Armed Forces community. This includes not only the active personnel but also Reservists, veterans, cadets, and their families. It's a week that highlights their dedication, resilience, and the sacrifices they make for their country.

Reserves Day, 25 June, honours Reservists who balance civilian jobs with military duties. They are vital for national security, specialising in fields like medical and cyber capabilities, yet often remain unrecognised. Armed Forces Day, 28 June, celebrates all members of the Armed Forces community, including active personnel, veterans, cadets, and their families. It expresses gratitude for their service and acknowledges the challenges of military life.

Our stories

Andrew Cooksey Veteran, Corps of Royal Engineers and CNI Manager

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Andrew Cooksey

Armed Forces Week celebrates the military family and the sense of belonging it provides. While often perceived only as combatants, the Armed Forces also engage in humanitarian efforts, disaster relief, and evacuations. This week fosters national integration with those who defend the country and aims to inspire future generations to serve.

Ryan Farrell, Ex-Regular – Royal Signals and ER & Case Management Specialist

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Ryan Farrell

Armed Forces week brings back memories of cherished times with friends. Many have left the forces, and I understand the challenges they face in finding employment and the impact on their confidence. I hope this week celebrates those still serving and supports those transitioning out.

George Hayes, Ex-Regular – Intelligence Corps and Senior Product Owner

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George Hayes

Armed Forces week is a time to celebrate the dedication and sacrifices of HM Forces members and their families. Many serving personnel are humble and often overlook their significant achievements, viewing them as routine duties. Reflecting on my own experience in the British Army, I appreciate how it positively shaped my life, providing opportunities for travel, lasting friendships, and an undergraduate degree. At NESO, through our SeRVe ERG, we aim to foster a supportive internal Armed Forces community for ex-regulars, serving reservists, and their families, sharing unique skills and offering support during challenges.

Emilia Thompson, Armed Forces Partner and Power System Engineer

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Emilia Thompson

Armed Forces Week honours the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve, highlighting that military service is a commitment to a greater cause. Their strength and resilience protect our freedom and safety, even if we don't always see it. I am proud of my partner's service and believe their work makes a significant difference, despite the challenges of being apart.

Brit Pickering, Armed Forces Partner and DIE Manager

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Brit Pickering

Armed Forces Week is a time to reflect on the contributions of service members, recognising their dedication, resilience, and sacrifices. It emphasises visibility, education, and action, promoting a culture that values service. Personal experiences, like my partner Victoria's deployment with the Royal Navy Reserves, highlight the importance of support from colleagues during challenging times. This week underscores the need for partnerships that listen, learn, and create an environment at work where Armed Forces personnel and their supporters feel valued and able to make a difference.

Debs Petterson, Executive Sponsor of SeRVe and Director of Resilience and Emergency Management

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Debs Patterson

Armed Forces Week honours the Armed Forces community, including serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets, and their families, recognising their dedication and sacrifice. As the Executive Sponsor of the SeRVe Employee Resource Group, I support veterans and their families within our organization and encourage their involvement in NESO, while also committing to create a supportive environment for the families who support them.

Our commitment to the Armed Forces Community

At NESO, we proudly support the Armed Forces community through our SeRVe Employee Resource Group. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for veterans, Reservists, and military families. As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, we strive to be an Armed Forces-friendly employer, recognising the unique skills and experiences that service members bring to the workplace.

If you're looking for an employer that values your service and understands your journey, view our roles below.

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