The Island is being urged to come together this afternoon (Sunday) to honour its armed forces personnel both past and present.

Around 100 students from the five secondary schools will join veterans in a parade along Douglas promenade before a service at the Villa Marina.

Manx marine Martin Peters, who was seriously wounded in Afghanistan in 2009, has gathered together some of his fellow Marines to lead the parade in full Marine dress.

The men are serving with 42 Commando, the unit that has taken the heaviest casualties of any in Afghanistan.

Brigadier Norman Butler, chairman of the Armed Forces’ Day committee, says the march and service offer a poignant opportunity to show support for those who serve and have served their country.