The United Kingdom remains as one of the oldest monarchies in the world, with a strong democratic political foundation. The armed forces namely Army, Navy and Air force have played very crucial roles in the defence and development of the country. These institutions are purely non-political entities and Her Majesty the Queen is the Supreme Commander of the Armed forces. Historically the British armed forces had outstanding roles in the expansion and consolidation of the Empire. During the Second World War British armed forces made positive contributions for the success of the Allied forces. After the war these forces are protecting the country from external and internal enemies. British soldiers also serve the United Nations forces which are deputed for peace keeping in many countries affected by civil wars.

Generally people are proud to be associated with the defence forces. Importance given to the personnel in the armed forces is reflected in the various welfare measures established by both the state and civil society. Special considerations are given to the employment of ex-service personnel. The serving and retired defense personnel receive preferential treatments when the state initiate welfare programmes. The forces on their part have earned universal recognition as an effective and reliable group who rendered invaluable services during war and peace. This is more relevant during natural disasters like storms, heavy snowfalls, cyclones and landslides. In the recent past defence forces are playing strategic roles in the anti-terrorism activities.

The British armed forces have 194,440 regular troops and 39420 volunteers according to reliable estimates. In addition to the above there are 191,300 regular reserves also. It is the second largest force in the European Union. As for Navy and Air force they are the second largest among the European Union countries. The services offered by the British forces to the NATO initiatives in Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan are remarkable. Every year the country recruits about 200,000 regular soldiers to serve in the three arms. Successive governments in the United Kingdom have taken special care to support the defence forces. As already mentioned the defense personnel are offered good remuneration and retirement benefits. Efforts are made to rehabilitate ex-service personnel as a measure of social security. The present coalition Government have recently introduced the Armed Forces Bill in the parliament. Members of the Parliament irrespective of their party affiliations have expressed strong views against dilution of welfare measures to the armed forces in the process of economic reforms.

It has been proven through many studies and researches that military-friendly online colleges and universities provide the much needed support and help for veterans to make a smooth transition to a civilian life. Joining one of the top online military-friendly universities will help to hone their educational stock and build their confidence. Most online universities for military veterans offer several degree programs in different areas of study from which veterans can make a choice that best suits to their area of interests. The experience that they gain in one of these online programs will help to prepare them to excel in a job of their particular field of interest.

American Military University was established by a former military officer and specializes in offering degree programs that are best suited for military veterans. Their program schedules are flexible such that veterans can complete their chosen programs at their own pace. Their tuition fees are affordable and concur with a number of veterans benefit programs. Norwich University programs are designed to make a veterans transition from military to civilian life as smooth as possible. It is also one of the first colleges to be established for military veterans. They offer a number of online degree programs for veterans including engineering, justice, business, diplomacy, nursing, military history and more. At Norwich military veterans can be assured that their military experience will be recognized and used effectively to enhance their chosen program.

AIU Online allows veterans to pursue their degree programs in their own pace. Their online degree programs are highly flexible and include visual communication, business administration and information technology. AIU Online also supports many veteran education assistance programs. The GI Jobs Magazine has recognized Saint Leo University as one of the Top Military Friendly Schools of 2010. They are known for their quality academic programs and for their recognition of the experience of military veterans. They also offer campus education and support the post 9/11 GI Bills Yellow Ribbon Program.

Liberty University is one of the top online universities for military veterans, Liberty offers numerous benefits not only to military veterans but also to other military personnel who are looking for quality educational programs to achieve their goals. Heroes Fund Scholarship, Tuition Assistance and Military tuition discount are just a few of the benefits offered by Liberty University. The Department of Military Education of the Colorado Tech Online offers several online programs for military veterans who are looking for quality education to achieve their professional goals as civilians.