At this time, let us remember the families of the 453 service men and women who died, plus the thousands maimed in Afghanistan.

A war that the majority of British people believe was a tragic and expensive waste.

Let us remember that, as they return, many more will suffer post traumatic stress disorders that will also effect those close to them often for years to come. The support services for them are still woefully inadequate.

Ex-military personnel make up high percentages of the homeless and prison populations.

Millions of us were against the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan but believe we must demand all the support that is needed by those damaged by these wars. The question has been asked, ‘Will we ever have another Iraq or Afghanistan type of war’?

Well, yes, as long as our foreign policy is dictated by Washington and the politicians in Westminster who send them to war, knowing it is not going to be their own children and families who will pay the ultimate price.

Tony Martin Muirfield Crescent Gullane