AFP

The archipelago were today honoured for the "personal commitment" they showed in defending their right of self-determination during the 1982 war.

The South Atlantic medal was handed to almost 30,000 troops and civilians who served in the operation to liberate the Falklands from Argentine forces.

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said: "I am pleased to inform the House that in 2015 the South Atlantic Medal will be presented, on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen, to the Falkland Islands, in recognition of the assistance provided to the Forces of the United Kingdom during the liberation of the Islands in 1982.

"The Islanders' individual acts of courage exemplified the indomitable will and personal commitment to defending the Islands' right of self determination."

Prime Minister David Cameron will honour the people of the Falklands Islands during his annual Christmas message to them.

PA

Three decades ago, UK forces stood with the islanders as they faced a direct and grave threat to their sovereignty

Prime Minister David Cameron

The Conservative leader will say: "Three decades ago, UK forces stood with the islanders as they faced a direct and grave threat to their sovereignty and it is absolutely right that we will be recognising this next year, when your islands will collectively receive the South Atlantic Medal."

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Falkland Islands given medal for showing 'indomitable will' during Argentine invasion