No peace for veterans

SIR – Sixty-five years ago, I served in the Korean War. Like many others who took part in that conflict, I received a letter of thanks early in March this year from the Korean ambassador, who had just completed his tour of duty and was returning home.

A few days later, I received a letter from the Ministry of Defence warning me that, as I had served in Northern Ireland in 1971, I would be required to provide a statement for a forthcoming inquiry. Although our Armed Forces appear to be more popular with the public than ever, the political classes show no gratitude towards those who have served in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan and Iraq. They are being subjected to a witch-hunt, as in the case of Major Robert Campbell (report, April 4), who has been investigated and cleared seven times in 15 years.

This week we have heard justifiable praise in Parliament for the aircrew who took part in the raid on Syria. Similar praise has been lavished on our Forces at times of crisis, but once normality returns they become fodder for the political classes.

Lieutenant Colonel Roger Jones Odiham, Hampshire