How many really appreciate veterans?

TWO letters published in the

Western Morning News on 7th October deserve applause and attention by the general public and our elected representatives.

Edward Kynaston echoed the opinions expressed and previously published in the WMN when he argues that the UK should be a more disciplined country, but not one where its leaders enforce discipline as in China and certain other dictatorships.

In a country whose population too often fails to see the selfishness of disobeying laws, regulations imposed by Parliament for the benefit of the majority (eg the Covid-19 regulations), a country where those who disobey such wellintentioned restrictions often take for granted the valuable contribution to our nation’s health which is given by the NHS and the currently overstretched medical profession.

The Military (mostly the Army) helped to build the Nightingale Hospitals, were/are invaluable in assisting in the Covid-19 testing operation so vital to the Test and Trace routine, which identifies vectors of the virus and others affected when in close proximity to said vectors; and the military are supporting the nation in this manner whilst fulfilling the numerous international obligations imposed upon them by past and present Governments.

Those serving in submarines, aboard Royal Navy warships or operating from airfields or barracks in areas of conflict are disciplined to obey orders, however difficult and risky may be the allocated task.

Yes, a Civil Defence Service may sound more palatable than a National Service but such bodies would understand the meaning of respect and the value of obedience.

Yes, serving personnel would be required to train such an establishment which is so essential to defend our nation, our health, our economy.

As for G Brown’s letter arguing for free TV licences for those over the age of 75, those who have contributed so much to the benefit of the younger generation makes one ask as the November Remembrance Day approaches… how many really appreciate the value of veterans?

Lord Clifford Ugbrooke, Chudleigh