The popular comedian met with members of Warrnambool’s Young Veterans support group on Saturday.

 Hughes said he was more than happy to hang out with the veterans and hear some of their stories.

“You can’t imagine what they’ve gone through,” he said.

“They need to know that they’re not alone and we appreciate what they’ve done.

“I can’t imagine the trauma they’ve been through.

“It sounds corny but they have served our nation and they deserve all the respect in the world.”

Support group member Adam Kent thanked Hughes for dropping in and said the group had received great support from the community, including free gym sessions at Snap Fitness.

“It was just an idea to have a laugh with Hughesy,” he said.

“I told him a few of the young ones have been doing it a bit tough and humour is a great way to relieve stress.”