The event, which took place in towns and cities across the UK, was introduced so the public could show their support for men and women currently serving in the forces.

The occasion incorporated Veterans' Day at the same time, so the service shown by former armed forces personnel is recognised.

Members of the Petersfield Royal British Legion and the Royal Naval Association in Liss assembled for a flag raising ceremony by the Festival Hall flagpole, where the new Armed Forces flag was raised.

Royal British Legion Commander Clive Lewis said: "It is basically a government initiative to make sure that current men and women serving in the armed forces get full recognition for the fact that they put their lives on the line for us all.

"It represents the Royal Navy, Army and RAF and those serving out in Afghanistan and Iraq.

"It is for the veterans too.

"The Veterans' Day is being amalgamated with the Armed Forces Day from this year and hopefully from now on it will be a regular event."

Armed Forces Day was also honoured by East Hampshire District Council at its offices in Penns Place.

EHDC chairman John Smith hoisted the Armed Forces Day flag over the building's flagpole in tribute to the men and women who have served their country.

It will remain flying over the council offices all week as part of the national celebrations.

Cllr Smith said: "It's a very important we pay tribute to the men who put their lives on the line to serve their country.

"They do a very difficult job and in raising this flag this is our way of recognising them and acknowledging the duties they perform."

The week of remembrance will culminate in a special ceremony on Saturday 27 June in Rowlands Castle, featuring REME 4 Close Support Battalion and the Royal British Legion.

At the event, organised in conjunction with East Hampshire District Council, soldiers will march through the village to the green where the Armed Forces Day flag will be raised at 11.15am.