Remembrance

I seem to have more early starts since I retired than I ever did working. Today was no exception, Up at 4:00am and on the road for 5:00am. I arrived at the National Arboretum In Alrewas Staffordshire for the Op Banner 50 Commemoration.
Op Banner is more commonly known as the Northern Ireland Conflict, lasting for thirty-eight years, it remains the UK Armed Force longest continuous conflict.
It has been a remarkable day spent in the company of ordinary people who did extraordinary things over a thirty-eight year period and now, through their service, have become extraordinary people leading ordinary lives.
Sat in the rain listening to the service, the music, the stories and tributes to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
A Northern Ireland day, wet and windy but not uncomfortable, spent amongst old friends, new friends and comrades.