ON June 29, Devon will be celebrating Armed Forces Day. This is a chance to support our Armed Forces and remember the contribution that they make to the nation.

Whilst enjoying the celebrations, we should also remember the personal cost that is so often paid by our servicemen, women and their families.

It is also a good time to remember all of those who have served before. Next month is the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. It was a conflict that cost the lives of 1,139 British Service personnel from the Navy, Army and Royal Air Force. Thousands of others were imprisoned or injured.

Many of those who fought were National Servicemen, young men called up for duty without option. For many of those who served, the mental and physical wounds of this so-called 'forgotten war' have left lifelong scars.

SSAFA is here for all those who serve, or have served, in our Armed Forces, regardless of conflict. The network of trained volunteers work locally to make sure help is always close at hand.

If you would like to find out more about the help we offer or would like to become a volunteer for SSAFA, please call 01392 254611 (Devon) or 01736 333051(Cornwall).

David Fisher

SSAFA West Devon