A SPECIAL flag was hoisted at West Somerset Council's offices in Williton on Monday in honour of Britain's armed forces.
The ceremony marked the start of the build-up to this year's national Armed Forces Day tomorrow (Saturday).
Among those present were Captain Shaun Henderson of 40 Commando and Lieutenant Mike Felton from HMS Somerset.
Captain Henderson said: "I would like to relay our gratitude for the support we have received from the community and all people in Somerset during our recent tour of Afghanistan.
"It is a privilege to represent the armed services at ceremonies like this."
Representatives of the British Legion led the exhortation with standard bearers from the British Legion, Royal Air Force Association and the Burma Star Association.
The flag was hoisted by chairman of the council Cllr Tony Knight and the ceremony closed with a blessing from the Rev Bethan Guttridge, associate vicar of the joint benefice of Watchet and Williton.
Cllr Knight, said: "The professionalism of our armed forces is recognised throughout the world.
"Members of the public gathered with veterans to show support for the tremendous contribution that our armed services make to the safety and security of our country.
"Flying the flag is our way of showing gratitude for their dedication, which allows our community to live peacefully at home."