FOUR faces gazing upwards on this page, but which one is the veteran? The answer of course is all of them, young and old, men and women. And together this quartet is helping to promote the values behind Blackpool's Veterans Day 2008.
Second World War Marine Jim Baker may be a familiar face to many, having fronted the original 2005 celebrations, as did serving soldier Private Lee Thornton, from Marton, who was tragically killed while on tour in Iraq with 12 Regiment Royal Artille
ry.
Now Jim partners young Ollie Shillitoe, also of 12 Regiment.
Despite the 61-year age gap there are similarities between the two, having both fought in war zones while still teenagers and both joined the police after leaving the armed forces.
Alongside council worker Marion Crossley and paramedic Alan Thompson they are out to prove the end of a military career can be the start of another worthwhile mission.
Organisers are keen to stress this year's event will combine commemorating the sadness and loss of war with celebrating the achievements of those who fight for their country.
Ollie is one of 20,000 forces' veterans now working in the emergency services across the UK/
Figures show one in seven police officers, firefighters and ambulance workers has served in the armed forces.
Jim Houldsworth, chairman of the Fylde Ex-Service Liaison Committee, said: "Having looked at the major employers around the Fylde coast we found many had staff who had served in the forces and were therefore veterans, using the skills they learned while enlisted.
"We want to celebrate not only the contribution they made to this country while in the armed forces, but also what they have done since leaving.
"Society is much richer for it and I think it is important for them to be recognised for it."
Veterans of all ages and from all walks of life will be presented with the official Veterans' Badge during the resort's nine-day long festivities, from June 21 to 29, with 50 chosen to receive theirs in a ceremony at the Tower Ballroom on June 27, Veterans' Day itself.
Anyone wanting to take part must write to Veterans' Badge Presentations, Visit Blackpool, 1 Clifton Street, Blackpool FY1 1LY or email jenny.harvey@blackpool.gov.uk putting forward their case of why they should be one of the special 50 by May 31.
Others can collect them from the Ministry of Defence stalls around the resort throughout the week with their service number, call (01253) 330561 or visit www.veterans-uk.info to find out how else to receive a badge.
