Having served in the Army, and been on numerous overseas tours, worked alongside officers from various countries including Germans, French and Irish. I find this thread very sad. Remebrance Day is where we should understand the sacrifice that people have given. When you join the military, you write a blank cheque, and the ultimate price may be your life.
The poppey was a flower that grew in the fields of death at Ypes which most people cannot even comprehend. It flourished despite the appalling conditions - it’s a sign of hope.
‘Profits’ from poppy sales go to the Royal British Legion who support our veterans, many of which need help and support.
I am extremely proud of my personal history. I respect anyone’s decision to not wear a poppey, it’s not compulsory. As a country I am proud that we have a couple of weeks each year where we remember our brave heroes, and it’s not just WW1 or WW2 - there have been very few years since 1946 where we have not seen the death of a British service person in conflict.
Thank goodness we still have people who are willing to put their lives on the line for their friends, their family, their country - they will continue to do this, whether you respect them on not, whether you are thankful for them or not. These are the people who help protect your freedoms, no matter their own politics, no matter which party is in power or what policies the government pursue. They are prepared to give their lives to protect yours - no matter what you think of them.
Wear a poppey with pride, or decide not to, you have the freedom to decide.