Sir – Every day, men and women from across the south east of England risk their lives for the defence of our country. It is only right and proper that we recognise their courage and show them the respect they deserve.

This week, events will take place in Oxfordshire to mark the first annual Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

This will be an opportunity to honour, not just those currently serving, but also the thousands of veterans to whom we owe a huge debt of gratitude for their role in securing our freedom. It is vital for them to know that they have the support of their fellow citizens for the sacrifices they have made and continue to make.

This is the first time a day has been dedicated to all those who have served in the Navy, Army or Air Force, either full time or as a reservist, and more than 200 major events are taking place up and down the country. On Monday, specially designed Armed Forces Day flags were raised across Oxfordshire by local councils, schools, businesses and members of the public.

Similar ceremonies took place across the UK and the world, wherever men and women of our armed forces are deployed, so those serving abroad know that the whole country is supporting them in the vital challenges they face so professionally.

These flags, which are based on the Union Jack, will be flown all week, leading up to Armed Forces Day itself on Saturday.

On that day across Oxfordshire the community will be celebrating its armed forces in unique ways and the show of support is humbling indeed. As part of these events, across the county, military bands will play, there will be flypasts; veterans, cadets and returning service personnel from operations in Iraq and Afghanistan will be marching and putting on displays.

To find out more about Armed Forces Day and how you can get involved, visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Kevan Jones, Defence Minister