Clinton Rogers on Respecting Armistice Day
Clinton Rogers reflects on the significance of Armistice Day and the traditions of remembrance in the UK, emphasizing the importance of honoring war veterans.
Memorable Encounters with Veterans
Throughout his extensive career with the BBC, Rogers found the most pride in stories about war veterans. One profound experience was meeting Harry Patch, the last surviving World War One trench veteran. Until his death at 111, Patch spoke about the futility of war and insisted on respecting all those who lost their lives, irrespective of sides.
"War was a 'licence to murder'. Why should the British government call me up and take me out to a battlefield to shoot a man I never knew, whose language I couldn't speak?"
Visiting Normandy with D-Day Veterans
Trips to Normandy with veterans from D-Day remain vivid in Rogers’ memory. He recalls their modesty about their bravery and their remarkable ability to enjoy life, noting their camaraderie and good spirits.
Lessons from More Recent Conflicts
Interviews with veterans from the Falklands War and the Gulf Wars highlighted to Rogers the failure of world leaders to learn from history. Despite WWI being called "the war to end all wars," conflicts have persisted, raising concerns about the future in an unstable global landscape.
Final Reflection
Putting politics aside, Rogers insists that we must never forget those who fought to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.
"We must never forget those who fought for the freedoms we still enjoy today."
Author’s summary: Remembering the sacrifices of war veterans remains vital, as their stories remind us of war’s futility and the enduring importance of honoring freedom.