Military chiefs say thanks to those on duty in the UK and abroad this Christmas
Military chiefs have expressed their gratitude to serving personnel and their families in a series of special Christmas messages.
This year will see thousands of Armed Forces personnel on duty in the UK over the festive period, with 5,000 more taking part in over 40 operations around the world.
In a message recorded by Forces News, Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said some of those had been deployed at short notice, particularly to the Middle East, only being told in the last few weeks that they would not be home for Christmas.
"It's just to say an enormous thank you for what the whole department does on behalf of the nation," said Adm Sir Tony.
"All of our Armed Forces, it's our civil servants, it's our reservists, it's our contactors, but we can only do that with the love and support of our family and friends - so we say thank you to them."
Chief of the General Staff General Sir Patrick Sanders said the Armed Forces "could be really proud of what we have achieved" this year.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, who officially took over command of the Royal Air Force in June, said he wanted to deliver a very simple message to those who are serving away from home this Christmas.
He said: "What you do is important. What you do helps protect the country, and helps protect your family and friends here at home."
The head of the Royal Navy, Admiral Sir Ben Key, spoke about how being away from loved ones at Christmas was a characteristic of military life.
He said: "So for those of you who are on watch over this festive period, thank you very much and to your families.
"We are extremely grateful that you play the role that you do, supporting your loved ones in uniform deployed around the world."
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