The letter by John T Walker (Oxford Mail Viewpoints, August 2) regarding justification of the medal awards made to members of the Parachute Regiment bears a considerable amount of wrong assertions and to put the record straight I would ask the writer the following questions: How many of these medals were issued recently for Services to the Parachute Regiment Association since the Second World War?

Why has Major-General JD Shaw waited 65 years (since the Second World War ended) to award such a medal ?

What is the inscription upon the medal issued?

As a former serviceman (RAF, 1954-1957) I refute the suggestions of Mr Walker that I have offended all those ex-service personnel and members of the public who voluntarily give up their time to pay solemn respect to our fallen comrades as their corteges pass through Headley Way, as I know that many other ex-service personnel are disgusted with the timing and publicity of this medal award.

Maybe the answers to the above questions will clarify this issue but if they are not convincing let’s award a medal to all of the dedicated personnel attending these sad repatriation days.

Michael R Rhymes, Warborough Court, Kidlington