OnTheWight always welcomes a Letter to the Editor to share with our readers – unsurprisingly they don’t always reflect the views of this publication. If you have something you’d like to share, get in touch and of course, your considered comments are welcome below.
This from Judith Chambers, St Helens. Ed
I write with a bit of praise at a time, where oft the news is full of doom and gloom, following a gathering that the Islanders can be truly proud of.
Although thoroughly deserving, for years Armed Forces Day focused purely on veterans. Indeed it was originally called Veterans Day, with the first one in 2006.
It was only later in 2009,that it changed to Armed Forces Day.
Struggled to adapt
Veterans are of course part of the rich tapestry, but others, like the cadets and reservists, were being over looked. My own observation, is that over the years, the Isle of Wight struggled with this change and didn’t, or perhaps couldn’t adapt.
Only in recent years has Armed Forces Day on the Island begun to catch up with its Mainland counterparts. In honesty, and judging on the past two years, surpassing many in the UK.
All brought together on an equal footing
It’s clear that organiser Mr Ian Dore, recognised that change was needed,and set about to redress the balance, bringing all together on an equal footing.
A fine example of this was the salute to the final parachute display team.
Instead of rolling out a dignitary, an attention seeking councillor, or even himself; the message came over the tannoy system that children were being sought to take the salute.
What followed was for me at least, one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Captured on film
A plethora of excited youngsters, from all ages, descended onto the sands to stand proud, in front of the team as they landed. Incredibly, the Isle of Wight Film school caught this moment on film and its doing the rounds on social media now.
Look at the faces, the smiles and the feeling of inclusion. It was a moment of pure joy for all involved.
A personal thank you
I would like to say a personal thank you as one of my grandchildren was present. It made their day and an incredible memory for years to come.
Although we rightly honour and remember the veterans of yesteryear, let’s also celebrate those of the now and those of the future.
Congratulations to all involved, it was a magnificent event.
