Buying a poppy respects the dead and supports the living (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Buying a poppy respects the dead and supports the living

4:51pm Wednesday 5th November 2008 in Epping Forest

I WOULD like to use the letters page to ask people to support the 2008 Poppy Appeal. This year sees the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War, in which hundreds of young men in the Epping district fought.

Among them were members of Epping Cricket Club and Epping Football Club, and former members of the Epping Scout Group; most had attended local schools.

Before joining up they had been employed with local businesses, such as Cottis & Sons and Whiffins, or worked on the Copped Hall Estate, or in local shops.

Very few had left Epping before, and saw the chance to go to war as a great adventure. They were immensely proud to go and do their bit for king and country, blissfully unaware of the horrors to come.

Sadly, many did not come back, and are commemorated today on the various war memorials around the district.

Many more left Epping in the Second World War, and suffered the same fate.

They are all remembered at this time of year by the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. The Epping and District Branch has supported the families of those who lost their lives, and also the men and women who did come home, since 1929.

The Poppy Appeal also supports the men and women who are serving their country today, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Barely a week goes past without the news of the tragic loss of another member of Britain’s armed forces.

Many come home suffering from terrible wounds, and are unable to find work or even a place to live.

The money you donate in exchange for your poppy will make a huge difference to them and their families.

At this time we remember the dead, and support the living. Wear your poppy with pride.

John Duffell, branch secretary, The Royal British Legion, Epping and District branch.