Letter from John Hart, Chair of Devon County Council

When we turn our televisions on today, we are seeing countries in conflict across the world and it reminds us of the sacrifice our families have made in trying to keep peace over past years. As a country we remember these events on the eleventh day of the eleventh month of every year.

This year the Royal British Legion will be holding numerous events across Devon to commemorate the fallen in two World Wars and subsequent military engagements. In Remembrance we keep their memory alive and acknowledge the devastating acts of the past.

For many people, Remembrance is associated with the fallen of the First and Second World Wars to whom we owe an incalculable debt of gratitude.

This year marks the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, the Battles of Monte Cassino, Kohima, Imphal and Scheldt and the end of Operation Market Garden.

The practical nature of conflict may have changed but the fundamental horror of war is no different. It is important that we take the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice of those who served in more recent conflicts including the Falklands, Iraq and Afghanistan. With so much turmoil and strife around the globe we are also thankful for the diligence of those who ensure our safety today: to our current servicemen and women and the dedicated Blue Light services as well as the families who support them.

I know the people of Devon will, as always, wear their Poppy with pride this year and remember family members, friends and loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. However you choose to mark this solemn occasion, I wish you well and urge you all to look out for one another.

Yours faithfully

Councillor John Hart

Chair of Devon County Council