🇬🇧 I’d go so my children wouldn’t have to 🫡 I watched Alex Armstrong last night saying he couldn’t fight for his country, followed by a pile-on from the older generation on the panel. I can see both sides. The older generation believes we have a duty to defend our country, while the younger generation is asking why they should risk their lives for a government they feel has treated the working class with contempt. As a veteran who has served on three operational tours, I understand the complexities of military service. I didn’t deploy to Iraq or Afghanistan as a soldier, although I worked in Afghanistan as a close protection officer. I would never presume to speak for those who endured countless tours, lost friends or returned with lifelong physical and psychological injuries. I work with veterans, and I know the sacrifices don’t end when the fighting stops. This isn’t necessarily about young people refusing to defend their country. It’s about a generation who feel their country no longer respects them. Many have been criticised simply for displaying patriotism, yet could one day be expected to put on a uniform and make the ultimate sacrifice. That’s a conversation worth having, rather than dismissing their concerns. Would I fight for my country again? Yes. But not for any government. I’d fight for the men and women standing beside me, for my family and for the generations coming after us. And perhaps this is where my answer becomes personal. I’d rather they sent me than my children. I’ve lived my life. I want my children to live theirs, to marry, have children of their own and grow old. If sacrificing my life meant my children, or someone else’s children, could have that future, I’d do it. So I understand Alex, and I understand the older generation on that panel. Patriotism, duty, sacrifice and trust in government are not the same thing. You can love your country while feeling profoundly let down by those governing it. For me, the answer is simple, even if the question isn’t. I’d go so my children wouldn’t have to.

What Maria said 🫡🇬🇧