Today we report on good news at the Royal British Legion in Benson.
A year ago it looked like the village would be holding its final Remembrance Sunday parade.
There simply were not enough people to organise the important event.
It would have been a catastrophe had Benson not marked the occasion with a parade.
The RAF has been based in the area for decades and it is a vital hub for the force’s helicopter fleet.
So, it is with great pleasure we learn volunteers have been found to carry on the great tradition.
However, there is an important lesson from the turmoil.
Many Legion members – I’m sure they won’t mind us saying – are not getting any younger.
Their passion and commitment now needs to be matched by younger generations.
In the Oxford Mail we have tragically reported about many young soldiers who have been killed in action.
The sombre pictures of repatriation ceremonies at the John Radcliffe Hospital have become too familiar.
These are young people, who are being killed fighting for their country.
Those of us who are lucky enough not to have endure the nightmare of combat could perhaps lend some time to remember those who do.
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