Shake a soldier by the hand

10:00am Thursday 3rd July 2008

ON a recent visit to America I met two soldiers, different ages, different wars but same treatment.

One a Vietnam veteran, the other on 18 days' leave from a 15 month tour in Iraq. Both men fighting for the honour of his country.

As old men start wars for young men to fight in, it is academic to know if the Bush/Blair coalition was right to interfere in the politics of other countries, it is a fact however, that young men die or become badly wounded should receive praise and appreciation from his fellow countrymen for showing courage without fear in carrying out his duties however dangerous or unsavoury they should be. To be called baby killers and be spat in the face is infamous conduct.

The Americans show pride and loyalty to their flag and their military more than us.

So the next time you meet a squaddie on leave from Iraq or Afghanistan, shake his hand firmly and tell him thanks for a job well done. It is the least you can do and I am sure that he would appreciate it!

JOHN RIDDETT, Southampton.