“War is an ugly thing, but not the ugliest of things; the decayed and degraded state of moral and patriotic feeling which thinks nothing worth a war, is worse. A man who has nothing which he cares more about than he does about his personal safety is a miserable creature who has no chance at being free, unless made and kept so by the exertions of better men than himself.”

John Stuart Mill

Across the United Kingdom right now there is a sharp division between two groups marching behind very different banners. Those of us, whether in uniform or not, who stand in defence of liberty versus those who seek to destroy it.

We should be thankful, especially on this anniversary, that our freedom is defended, first and foremost, by the current generation of our Armed Forces, and also by the clear majority of those at home who support them. On Armistice Day we remember and honour those whom, for generations, have sought to defend us.

At no time in history has the contrast between those who support freedom, and those who want to tear it down, been so striking.

Despite this contrast, we stand proud and free because our Army, the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and the RAF have stood bravely in harm’s way – now and for generations past. These men and women have heeded the call to serve others before self, and have sacrificed accordingly. For their steadfast devotion to duty, honour and country, we offer our humble gratitude and heartfelt thanks.

Lest We Forget