Less than 100 per cent effort (From Malvern Gazette)

Less than 100 per cent effort

11:03am Friday 13th July 2007 in Letters

HAVING just returned from the Freedom of the Town ceremony to honour HMS Ledbury, I write to say it is unfortunate that the town could not present itself in a better light.

The Marines and ship's company are all volunteers who today help protect the freedoms earned by previous servicemen and women and carry on the traditions of true citizenship, that of being prepared to lay down your life for your country in time of war.

They deserved better, in particular the poor turn-out of the cadet forces, the Sea Cadets being the better of the two units which did turn out, being noticeable in at least trying to present as a cohesive unit.

The Army Cadet unit made minimal effort even to the point of chewing gum whilst on parade and, judging by their poor attention span, were obviously there because it's a laugh.

Although I commend them for their efforts to join a youth organisation rather than watch TV and slouch, I ask you who choose to wear the Queen's uniform and regimental badges, please do not dishonour us who fought and lived, those that fought and died and those who may have to die in the future by not giving it your 100 per cent effort.

A couple of hours of your time and effort is nothing concerned to those who died for your freedom.

TIM RAE-CLARKE, (2nd Batt Parachute Regt Retd), Homend Crescent, Ledbury.