SIR

In response to Gary Whitcombe's letter in last week's Beacon I would like to say that many of us remember him serving on Monmouth Town Council.

During the Second World War countless people did not serve in the armed forces, but were still able to make useful contributions to their local community and the country.

I remember two local young men, slightly older than I, who spent the war as civilians based in Gloucester, servicing and repairing critically damaged fighters and bomber aircraft.

From this, and adjoining counties, hundreds of people travelled by train daily to work at the ROF, Glascoed just outside Usk.

There were a vast number of young men conscripted with no option as Bevin Boys to work underground.

In addition there were engine-drivers, firemen and goods guards who transported munitian trains to far reaching destinations.

I was aware of many farm workers volunteering to join the army but were turned down due to their reserved occupation being of national importance.

While in the army I encountered people like you who were labelled Barrack Room Lawyers – all they achieved was to spread doom and gloom.

Mr Whitcombe, the time has come to put the lid on it.

W E Barnard

(Usk)