Remembering the fallen

Published on 8th November 2007 in Letters

Sir - As we approach the time of Remembrance, it is with the knowledge that more than 150 serviceman and women have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan since these operations began. The names of these people will go down in history with millions of others who have made the ultimate sacrifice serving their country. On 11 November the nation will pause and remember them with respect and grateful thanks.

These young men and women are our most recent losses but war is not new and nor are many of the problems it creates. Emotional strain and relationship difficulties, mental instability and physical scars are but a few of the challenges that individuals and families face during and after operations. Fortunately, at these difficult times, SSAFA (the Soldiers', Sailors', Airmen and Families' Association) Forces Help is here to assist. And the charity is not new, either. It has been helping service families for more than 120 years.

SSAFA uses its experience of the past and its knowledge of the present day service life to help ex-servicemen, women and their families, and with the dignity they deserve. Whilst soldiers face danger in deserts far from home, sometimes it is the tiny, seemingly insignificant, details of domestic life that cause greater personal struggle. Indeed, many personal battles begin long after the wars are over.

Last year the East Yorkshire Branch helped 400 people. The support provided may have been practical, financial or emotional. Our trained volunteers, known as 'caseworkers', meet and talk in confidence to each person needing our assistance. Their assessed needs may range from something as simple as a replacement washing machine or to help with mobility problems. Most importantly, we give individuals a chance to talk about the difficulties they face, which in turn often helps to ease their burden.

Anyone who has served for one day in any of Britain's Armed Forces is entitled to a lifetime of support from SSAFA Forces Help. We also assist National Servicemen, members of the Territorial Army and our reserves forces. Many of the latter are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

To learn more about volunteering for SSAFA, or to ask for assistance please call the East Yorkshire Branch on 01964 552837 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk

M. R. Rogers

(Divisional Secretary, Howden and Goole, SSAFA Forces Help)