There is something utterly shaming in the RAF uniform story. However isolated the instances of mockery near RAF Wittering, one is too many. Those who put their lives on the line to protect the nation should be feted and honoured by civilians – not urged to wear their uniform with discretion so as not to provoke the public. It says a lot about the hollowing out of patriotism that this is even an issue: we celebrate British sport, pop music and fashion but not, it would seem, the valour of British servicemen.
I am reminded of Wilfred Owen’s poem, The Send-Off:
Down the close, darkening lanes they sang their way
To the siding-shed,
And lined the train with faces grimly gay.
Their breasts were stuck all white with wreath and spray
As men’s are, dead.
Dull porters watched them, and a casual tramp
Stood staring hard,
Sorry to miss them from the upland camp.
Then, unmoved, signals nodded, and a lamp
Winked to the guard.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in