Christmas is a time to round off the year by kicking back from work and spending time with your loved ones.
However, for many in the military, Christmas is just another day at work for their country.
According to Forces Network, roughly 11,000 sailors, soldiers, airmen and Royal Marines will be sent overseas to carry out military operations over the festive period.
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So while many people in the UK will be signed off to chill out with their families (aside from charity workers and NHS staff, of course), troops will be working 24/7 across the globe on high-pressure tasks.
And who knows where they could end up - currently there are 35 operations in 30 countries, from Somalia and South Sudan to Ukraine and Estonia.
Meanwhile, 14 naval ships will be at sea, including RFA Mounts Bay, which is protecting UK Overseas Territories in the Caribbean, HMS Enterprise in the Pacific, and the Type 45 Destroyer HMS Defender and Type 23 Frigate HMS Montrose over in the Gulf.
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Although some troops will be on homeland, that doesn't mean their work stops over the festive period. The Squadrons of the UK's Quick Reaction Alert are on guard at RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Coningsby, as well as troops of the Household Division, keeping guard outside royal buildings in London and Windsor.
Speaking with Metro, Rear Admiral John Weale, head of the Submarine Service, said: "While everybody is enjoying their Christmas, I ask that you remember those submariners we have deployed. We have submarines deployed 24/7, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
"They will not be able to dial home this Christmas, so to their family members I wish you all a happy Christmas and to all submariners, thank you and happy Christmas."
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Meanwhile, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "We should all take a moment to think of our armed forces personnel and their families, whose selflessness and support at this time of year is vital.
"This Christmas, like any other day, our servicemen and women will be displaying their unique professionalism around the world and at home.
"To the entire Armed Forces community, I wish you all the happiest possible Christmas and thank you for your remarkable service."
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