This Friday is Veterans Day, when communities across the UK come together to celebrate the contribution made by all those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Every year, 27 June provides a focus for the Nation to recognise the part played by veterans of all ages both during their time in the Armed Forces and since leaving. Next weekend sees celebrations from Aberdeen to Abergavenny, and Poyntzpass to Plymouth; but events will continue throughout the summer, from major regional ‘flagship’ events, to dozens of local celebrations planned by ex-Service organisations, councils, community groups and schools.

At the other end of the scale, this year’s National Event in Blackpool runs for nine days, and includes military demonstrations, concerts, a night parachute drop onto the beach, and the Veterans Challenge, in which ex-Service men and women complete tasks such as abseiling down Blackpool Tower and diving into a shark tank to collect their HM Armed Forces Veterans Badges.

Derek Twigg, Under Secretary of State for Defence and Veterans Minister, said:

Veterans are of all ages with a variety of different backgrounds, and they all deserve our recognition. Not only have they honoured their commitment to defend our country’s interests in Service, they have also used their skills and experiences to enrich their local communities.

Hundreds of events will be taking place all over the country, so I hope everyone gets involved to show their appreciation for our veterans

Chief of the General Staff Sir Richard Dannatt said:

We must cherish our veterans who have given so much in service, but then continue to give by using their skills to great effect in their community. I encourage all veterans to turn out at their local Veterans Day event and wear their Veterans Badges with pride

Find out about events in your area at www.veteransday.org.uk, where you can also watch veterans talk about what the Day means to them, view and share pictures and videos of Veterans Day celebrations, and access information on the help and support available to veterans. You can also show your support by visiting our You Tube channel, or joining our ‘I support UK veterans’ Facebook group, where you can get your own ‘I’m supporting veterans’ application.