National Express West Midlands, Stagecoach Group, Arriva, Reading Buses UK and Thames Valley Buses are among operators offering free bus travel to serving military personnel, veterans and cadets on Armed Forces Day (28 June).
The initiative is a regular gesture among operators marking the annual event, as well as Remembrance Sunday and VE Day commemorations.
Stagecoach operations right across the country, excluding those operated by Megabus, Transport for London and the Bee Network, are giving an extended period of free travel on 27-29 June to those wearing uniform or presenting either military ID, a veteran’s badge or military medal.
Simon Tramalloni, Interim Operations Director for Stagecoach Merseyside, Cheshire and South Lancashire and Armed Forces and Veterans Co-lead, says: “Armed Forces Day is an important opportunity to recognise and thank the incredible men and women who serve and have served our country.
“We’re proud to play our part in supporting them – not only through initiatives like free travel, but also by being a forces-friendly employer with a strong and growing veterans network.”
National Express, which says that in 2012 it became the first public transport operator in the UK to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant, is also showing its commitment to serving and past military personnel.
Antony Goozee, Managing Director of National Express West Midlands, says: “We’re proud to support the Armed Forces and deeply value the important role they play in protecting our country.
“Offering free bus travel on Armed Forces Day is our way of saying thank you to those who have served and continue to serve.
“We are also very proud to employ many veterans and current reservists across the business.
“At this time of year especially we want to recognise the significant contribution they make to our company and our communities.”
