Remembrance Day.
In the USA the 11th of November is Veterans day and I feel that it is only right that I say something regarding the service men who both have served and who are currently serving their countries in many foreign fields across the globe.
Perhaps the timing makes it necessary that I write this article (whether you agree with it or not the country is at war), or maybe its because recently I have been employed in a veterans hospital and now so often see the horrors of war first hand.
Needless to say, whatever the fact is, every year I feel the need to pay at least some form of tribute and this year more then ever I think it is especially important to say a big thank you to the lads and lasses serving overseas.
For me, seeing those serving in the armed forces always reminds me of my grandfather who past away several years ago. Like so many others from Sunderland in WWII he was taken away from his home to fight in the deserts of Africa, the beaches and hills of Sicily and the mountains of Italy. Sunderland after all has had a proud history of service, from Young Crawford nailing the colors to the mast through the Maritime Navy and their dangerous convoy duties and to the present day Navy and HMS Ocean. Regiments like the Durham Light Infantry, Coldstreams and Northumbrians will always be remembered, as will those who are and were left behind, as always having to deal with the horrific aftermath of war; fighting their own battles on the home front.
Yet there is another reason why I should be thankful as it is to my grandfather especially to whom I owe my support of Sunderland AFC, essentially he is the reason that I am able to write this section.
For those who have not yet seen it to see how Remembrance Day effects us all, especially to those from Sunderland (to whom this page is dedicated), I suggest you check out the following message board link (thanks to Tasmanpaddler for starting this truly gold thread). Click here.
Lest we not forget.
D.Robson
Coldstream Guards.
Black Cat forever.
Thank You Grandfather.