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Soldiers' standing ovation at Ewood Park
12:20pm Sunday 4th May 2008
Comments (82)SOLDIERS back from Iraq said they "felt like superstars" after being given a five-minute standing ovation from 26,000 thousand fans at Ewood Park.
Twenty soldiers of Burma Company, 1st Battalion the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, were presented with service medals on the pitch at half-time on Saturday.
It comes after Lieutenant Colonel Gary Deakin, chief of the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment 1st Battalion told the Lancashire Telegraph last year that his soldiers back from Iraq deserved more respect.
And the crowd at Ewood Park certainly showed them that, with a rapturous standing ovation as well as a round of applause for each soldier as his name was announced over the tanoy.
Both the Blackburn Rovers fans and Derby County supporters were equal in their appreciation of the soldiers.
The presentation was the first of its kind for the club and the regiment.
The soldiers - many of whom are Rovers fans - were also given free tickets to watch the match against Derby County.
Lieutenant Henry Russell-Blackburn said: "We weren't expecting it to be as good at it was.
"There was a long round of applause as they read everyone's name out over the loud speakers.
"We felt like superstars.
"The lads were waving to their families in the crowd like they were footballers."
He told how the event came about: "My dad knew a few guys here who he did business with and it was an idea suggested before we went to Iraq.
"Blackburn Rovers were glad to do it and we have managed to make it here."
The soldiers received service medals recognising service on Operation TELIC, the British military operation in Iraq, from Gordon Taylor, chief executive of the Professional Footballers Association.
Kingsman Dave Moretta, 21, from Rishton has been a Blackburn Rovers fan all of his life and attends matches when he is at home.
He said: "It's a brilliant idea and there should be more of these type of things."
Lance Corporal Martin Duckworth, 27, from Livesey Branch Road, said: "It's an honour. It's like Christmas!
"It's good to do things like this to gain soldiers some recognition."
Major Tony Royce said: "I think it's nice that guys who have been life-long Blackburn fans are presented with their medals at Ewood.
"It's an opportunity for people to show their appreciation of soldiers even if they don't approve of the war."
The battalion has spent three months in Iraq teaching the Iraqi army and police the western way of operating.
They have worked on operations to stop the smuggling of weapons and have carried out patrols outside Basra looking for mortar teams.
Army spokesman Kevin Hegarty added: "This is a tremendous gesture by the club and will offer thousands of Lancastrians the chance to show their appreciation of the work carried out by our Armed Forces in difficult and testing environments."
Your Say YourLancashire Telegraph
Michael, says...
7:17pm Sat 3 May 08
alfie, blackburn says...
9:02pm Sat 3 May 08
Woody, Blackburn says...
11:55pm Sat 3 May 08
burger, barlick says...
12:21am Sun 4 May 08
Wayne Kerr, says...
1:41am Sun 4 May 08
Someone should have a word with Manchester University though.
They have just banned the Armed Forces from attending their careers days and trying to recruit people as it offended some of their students!!
It's good to see at least one organisation giving these boys & girls the respect they deserve!
formerpara, blackburn says...
11:34am Sun 4 May 08
Pushed the boat out there didn't they.
Kerr Ching, says...
12:44pm Sun 4 May 08
Wayne Kerr wrote:
What a top idea and long over due.
Someone should have a word with Manchester University though.
They have just banned the Armed Forces from attending their careers days and trying to recruit people as it offended some of their students!!
It's good to see at least one organisation giving these boys & girls the respect they deserve!
MANCHESTER students have voted not to ban the armed forces from their campus.
At the packed union meeting today, University of Manchester students cheered and clapped as the motion to ban Army, RAF and Navy recruiting officers from university premises was thrown out.
http://www.mancheste
reveningnews.co.uk/n
ews/s/1047737_studen
ts_vote_against_army
_ban
phil, burnley says...
12:55pm Sun 4 May 08
Alex_S, Leeds says...
1:13pm Sun 4 May 08
phil wrote:Good money? I know of private soldiers getting less than £1000 pounds a month to fight on that front line in a war zone on these 'trips abroad', some of which come back horribly injured or dont come back at all. Maybe if it bothers you so much you should get a better job.
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
Steve, Baghdad says...
1:30pm Sun 4 May 08
phil wrote:Oy Muppet! If its that cushy may I direct you to the careers office so you too can get brassed up all day and EARN a round of applause when you get back. Its because these guys are there that you can sit on your fat one all day!
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
WayneKerr, says...
2:11pm Sun 4 May 08
phil wrote:YOU NOB!!
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
emma jayne, says...
2:34pm Sun 4 May 08
and you phil hav the nerve to say they r wrkin like everybody else?! everybody else isnt shipped away from there family amd friends for mnths on end. the money they get is nowhere near wot they deserve! so phil dnt ramble on about things u dnt know....go hav a quiet word with yourself and be quiet u ungreatful little man!
Ruth, Blackburn says...
2:49pm Sun 4 May 08
robert England, manchester says...
2:58pm Sun 4 May 08
Robert England, manchester says...
3:00pm Sun 4 May 08
karen, Blackburn says...
3:53pm Sun 4 May 08
mb, blackburn says...
6:36pm Sun 4 May 08
boycott, stockport says...
7:06pm Sun 4 May 08
Finger Bang, Blackburn says...
7:24pm Sun 4 May 08
Finger Bang, Blackburn says...
7:28pm Sun 4 May 08
phil wrote:Come back to us when your life is in danger on a day to day basis eh you clown!
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
Finger Bang, Blackburn says...
7:34pm Sun 4 May 08
Robert England wrote:Can I suggest that you smoke less weed, as you are clearly making no sense.
People, people, people lets not get to carried away...first of all, because of this war we are in recession. and we are on the brink of political bancrupcy...all because we wanted heads up Americas back side. therefore this is a great way of us everyday people coming to terms with our money being lost. yet we have nothing to show for it. Also this is a great way of passing the blame on migration. Yet its our own goverment who's taking the hard earned food out of ordinary British people.Therefore giving our boys a great welcome really means a great good bye to our money.
Phil, lancs says...
7:36pm Sun 4 May 08
Ruth wrote:More fool you for putting your sons in harms way then. What mother would send their sons out to be cannon fodder (great parenting).
well done lads,Ihave two sons in the army,you deserve every penny you get.Wonder if that Phil risks HIS life every day at work ?
Karen - Get a grip its their choice to get shot at. And most squaddies are thick as hell, they know what their getting themselves in2.
Emma Jayne - your the most pathetic though I think hero worshiping these losers. Their not hero's you know there just trained to shoot people. Most of them leave to become security gaurds at primark when the Army have finished with them, prob the same fate that awaits your boyfriend if he lasts that long.
top cat, burnley says...
7:43pm Sun 4 May 08
BigPete, darwen says...
8:26pm Sun 4 May 08
Don't ever degrade anyone who does any job, no matter how high or how low on the social scale. They all take skill and application. Individuals do these jobs to earn a living to support their families and have a better life, sometimes there are high prices to be paid for doing the job they choose to do.
Phil, you belittle yourself with your comments
Pete, blackburn says...
8:41pm Sun 4 May 08
top cat, burnley says...
9:07pm Sun 4 May 08
bluenwhite, says...
10:21pm Sun 4 May 08
FRANK, BB6 says...
10:38pm Sun 4 May 08
emma jayne, preston says...
12:43am Mon 5 May 08
Phil wrote:phil are you for real?! what exactly have you done that warrents you to get on your high horse and start goin on like you hav ever done anything that warrents you havin ur say about who or wot people shud class as a hero!! coz i for one, and alot of people class wot the lads in iraq are doin as heroic! so what if its their choice to join the army, whould you rather them be spoungin on the dole like u obiously are! its readin wot loons like you hav wrote that makes me think that u shud b sent there n see how long you last!! not long.
Ruth wrote: well done lads,Ihave two sons in the army,you deserve every penny you get.Wonder if that Phil risks HIS life every day at work ?More fool you for putting your sons in harms way then. What mother would send their sons out to be cannon fodder (great parenting). Karen - Get a grip its their choice to get shot at. And most squaddies are thick as hell, they know what their getting themselves in2. Emma Jayne - your the most pathetic though I think hero worshiping these losers. Their not hero's you know there just trained to shoot people. Most of them leave to become security gaurds at primark when the Army have finished with them, prob the same fate that awaits your boyfriend if he lasts that long.
and who cares wot job they do when they **** out because wotever it is its gota b better than what your doin you dole dossin bum! get a life and show some respect...****!
MIKEOXLONG, says...
1:31am Mon 5 May 08
Phil wrote:I hope these brave lads of ours find out where you live and go round and fill you in you worthless sub-human dickless piece of Scum!
Ruth wrote: well done lads,Ihave two sons in the army,you deserve every penny you get.Wonder if that Phil risks HIS life every day at work ?More fool you for putting your sons in harms way then. What mother would send their sons out to be cannon fodder (great parenting). Karen - Get a grip its their choice to get shot at. And most squaddies are thick as hell, they know what their getting themselves in2. Emma Jayne - your the most pathetic though I think hero worshiping these losers. Their not hero's you know there just trained to shoot people. Most of them leave to become security gaurds at primark when the Army have finished with them, prob the same fate that awaits your boyfriend if he lasts that long.
Many years ago people like you would have been locked up for treason. I hope you're proud of yourself for posting that comment
Russ_G, at home in front of fire says...
1:45am Mon 5 May 08
Phil wrote:Just 2 syllables to put together for you phil - the 1st is wan and no.2 is ker. IF , one day, you ever get the charisma or looks to form a relationship with the fairer sex which results in the bringing up of "desired" offspring, I hope they join the forces and let you know how it feels to have a loved one putting their neck on the line for scrotes like you. A big THANK YOU to a)the boys appearing at half time at Ewood Park yesterday and b) beyond. Your efforts are appreciated by the majority of us.
Ruth wrote: well done lads,Ihave two sons in the army,you deserve every penny you get.Wonder if that Phil risks HIS life every day at work ?More fool you for putting your sons in harms way then. What mother would send their sons out to be cannon fodder (great parenting). Karen - Get a grip its their choice to get shot at. And most squaddies are thick as hell, they know what their getting themselves in2. Emma Jayne - your the most pathetic though I think hero worshiping these losers. Their not hero's you know there just trained to shoot people. Most of them leave to become security gaurds at primark when the Army have finished with them, prob the same fate that awaits your boyfriend if he lasts that long.
Phil, Lancs says...
2:20am Mon 5 May 08
Maybe if we shaved their heads and started shooting at taliban soldiers we might get a hearty round of applause.
I've got 2 great kids and when there old enough to decide what they want to do i will ensure that it envolves saving lives as oppose to taking it.
Save your worship for the true hero's performing miracles everyday. Perhaps you should read my posts again and re-**** the way you hypocrites determine what you would class as hero's.
By the way ive saved about 16 lives year to date, the last one was a 14 yr old boy who'd been in a car crash on the M6 southbound on sat afternoon while you lot were enjoying the football match.
emma jayne, preston says...
3:12am Mon 5 May 08
Phil wrote:yes phil and im a nurse....so what exactly gives you the right to call the squaddies that recived their medals that saterday??!! do you even know that they werent in fact fightin anybody but were in fact TRAINING the iraqis to protect the border against bombs ect being smuggled in!! so before you reply with any snide comments about them you want to use ur brain to realise that. they are not jus running around with guns or shavin their heads, they were there for a real cause!!!! and their medals were well deserved for what they risked. they arnt trianed to kill but pretect! you know fine well the risks of your job...as i do mine! but it didnt stop us from doin it, so why shud they b any diferant!
If you realy want to know what i do im an ambulanceman, squaddies, paid to kill recieve a hero\'s welcome. Surreal how all the Dr\'s nurses and surgeons, at the local hospital who are curing and treating you and your family members dont get any form of recognition. Maybe if we shaved their heads and started shooting at taliban soldiers we might get a hearty round of applause. I\'ve got 2 great kids and when there old enough to decide what they want to do i will ensure that it envolves saving lives as oppose to taking it. Save your worship for the true hero\'s performing miracles everyday. Perhaps you should read my posts again and re-**** the way you hypocrites determine what you would class as hero\'s. By the way ive saved about 16 lives year to date, the last one was a 14 yr old boy who\'d been in a car crash on the M6 southbound on sat afternoon while you lot were enjoying the football match.
SRN, says...
8:53am Mon 5 May 08
emma jayne wrote:How the hell did you become a nurse with spelling like that? I hope you never have to write out a prescription for me I could die from taking the wrong drug!!
Phil wrote: If you realy want to know what i do im an ambulanceman, squaddies, paid to kill recieve a hero\\\'s welcome. Surreal how all the Dr\\\'s nurses and surgeons, at the local hospital who are curing and treating you and your family members dont get any form of recognition. Maybe if we shaved their heads and started shooting at taliban soldiers we might get a hearty round of applause. I\\\'ve got 2 great kids and when there old enough to decide what they want to do i will ensure that it envolves saving lives as oppose to taking it. Save your worship for the true hero\\\'s performing miracles everyday. Perhaps you should read my posts again and re-**** the way you hypocrites determine what you would class as hero\\\'s. By the way ive saved about 16 lives year to date, the last one was a 14 yr old boy who\\\'d been in a car crash on the M6 southbound on sat afternoon while you lot were enjoying the football match.yes phil and im a nurse....so what exactly gives you the right to call the squaddies that recived their medals that saterday??!! do you even know that they werent in fact fightin anybody but were in fact TRAINING the iraqis to protect the border against bombs ect being smuggled in!! so before you reply with any snide comments about them you want to use ur brain to realise that. they are not jus running around with guns or shavin their heads, they were there for a real cause!!!! and their medals were well deserved for what they risked. they arnt trianed to kill but pretect! you know fine well the risks of your job...as i do mine! but it didnt stop us from doin it, so why shud they b any diferant!
Nashie, wigan says...
9:22am Mon 5 May 08
Emma Jayne likewise!I do hope that EJ makes a better effort at writing/spelling if she has to make out medical instructions!
You will both get medals on your retirement,for long service! That does not
necessarily imply good
or courageous work.
Regarding servicemen in the armed forces a medal is only a token!
It may be for bravery
in the course of duty
or for 'just being there'ie.a Campaign medal.My uncle could have had a drawer full!My dad,perhaps a handful, and I one,for National Service 1956/58,RAF!Three trips to Malta rest of the time in Huntingdonshire,and that was 'rough'.
John, says...
9:55am Mon 5 May 08
Anon, says...
10:43am Mon 5 May 08
Phil wrote:Phil
If you realy want to know what i do im an ambulanceman, squaddies, paid to kill recieve a hero's welcome. Surreal how all the Dr's nurses and surgeons, at the local hospital who are curing and treating you and your family members dont get any form of recognition. Maybe if we shaved their heads and started shooting at taliban soldiers we might get a hearty round of applause. I've got 2 great kids and when there old enough to decide what they want to do i will ensure that it envolves saving lives as oppose to taking it. Save your worship for the true hero's performing miracles everyday. Perhaps you should read my posts again and re-**** the way you hypocrites determine what you would class as hero's. By the way ive saved about 16 lives year to date, the last one was a 14 yr old boy who'd been in a car crash on the M6 southbound on sat afternoon while you lot were enjoying the football match.
You talk sh1t. You may have great kids as do all the parents of servicemen. The difference is, when they made their choice of profession they were supported by their family. Unlike you. When your kids make their decision you wouldn't be happy cause you are saying in your comments that only if they are saving lives would you be happy.
It may have escaped your attention, but most service personel undergo medical training so that they can save lives as well. Both in war time and peace.
On a seperate note, your boss isn't ex military is he? giving you a hard time is he?
I hope your never in an accident and need the assistance of an off duty serviceman. That would be irronic. ha ha.
All The Wise Men, Blackburn says...
11:13am Mon 5 May 08
JUST REMEMBER THIS MY SON HOW ALL WARS ARE WON
YOUR GREAT GRANDPAPA DIED IN THE FIELDS OF THE SOMME NOW HIS SUN IS SET
THE GREAT WISE MEN A PROMISED THEN THAT THE GREAT SACRIFICE WAS DONE
THEN A CAME THE 39 & MY PAPA WAS A SENT TO GUN
CLEAR A PIECE OF THIS DARK WORLD & ALL YOUR FREEDOM WILL BE WON
BEST TO REMEMBER THEM OR ALL HONOR WILL BE DONE
SO REMEMBER THOSE TODAY DYING FOR YOU & YOUR SETTING SUN
THEN CAME A 45 & ALL FACISCM WAS DONE
MRS BRITISH TOMMY STOOD BY THE DOOR WAITING FOR HER SON
THERE'S MANY BLANK SPACES IN TOWNS WERE THE BOYS HAVE FELL RIGHT DOWN
BUT EVEN SO THE PEOPLE SAID THERE IS PEACE IN THE SUN
MORE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE BOYS WHO FOUGHT & WON
YOU SEE THE SOLES ON THEM SHOES SHOW THE CLASS SYSTEM STILL WON
THE GREAT LEADER OF THE DAY SAID SON YOU CAN FLY TO THE SUN
I'M SAT UPON THIS MOUNTAIN RANGE
HAVE TO SAY IT EVERYTHING STILL LOOKS THE SAME
THERE STILL FIGHTING DYING IN A FAR AWAY PLACE
& I CAN SEE NO JUSTIFICATION PLEASE.......
I KNOW THIS IS THE 21st CENTURY
HERE THE WISE MEN SAYING AGAING THE BAD MAN IS ON THE RUN
& NOW YOUR GREAT GRANDSON IS FIGHTING ON THE FRONT LINE AGAIN
SOUNDS TO ME LIKE WE DONT WANNA LIVE WANNA LIVE AS ONE
SO HERE THE SOUNDS AGIAN MY SON THEY WANT YOU TO TAKE UP YOUR GUN
BUT ASK A POLITICIAN THIS IS YOUR CHILD ON THE FRONT LINE TOO?
SO REMEMBER THIS TODAY THE PROPHECY AS FINALLY BEGUN...............
....................
.COPYRIGHT 2008 M.J.W .
War is no fairytale....ever!!
If you cant support the sons & daughters then you should hold off with your comments against them & put into writing or whatever it maybe & voice your disapproval at the main antagonists -
the dirty politicians with hidden agenda's.....
Top Dog, Burnley says...
2:01pm Mon 5 May 08
First of all the soldiers went there by their own decision. No one made them join the army and they should know what they are getting themselves in to. I have no problem giving them a cheer at half time at a football match but let us not forget that Iraq was no threat to us and the Government lied to the public to convince us that they were.
Soldiers are underpaid and undervalued but this is by a Government who treats its citizens (or subjects) as expendible.
JOHN DOYLE, Doyles gay bar shadsworth says...
2:28pm Mon 5 May 08
Phil wrote:HERE HERE PHIL.... I totally agree with you .... These fools dissing you saying that you aint got a clue as to what its like... They get paid to kill innocent people and YOU get paid to save people... Its about time the SQUADDIES CAME HOME as the british fools in government stuck they're heads so far up the arse of the americans .. that they had to follow like little lost sheeeep (baaaa) and go into a war that wasn't theirs in the firsat place BRING THE BOYS HOME NOW.... !!!
If you realy want to know what i do im an ambulanceman, squaddies, paid to kill recieve a hero's welcome. Surreal how all the Dr's nurses and surgeons, at the local hospital who are curing and treating you and your family members dont get any form of recognition. Maybe if we shaved their heads and started shooting at taliban soldiers we might get a hearty round of applause. I've got 2 great kids and when there old enough to decide what they want to do i will ensure that it envolves saving lives as oppose to taking it. Save your worship for the true hero's performing miracles everyday. Perhaps you should read my posts again and re-**** the way you hypocrites determine what you would class as hero's. By the way ive saved about 16 lives year to date, the last one was a 14 yr old boy who'd been in a car crash on the M6 southbound on sat afternoon while you lot were enjoying the football match.
Top Dog, Burnley says...
2:39pm Mon 5 May 08
It is more a sad reflection on the supporters who get ripped off by the football clubs and dont even realise it.
Sad that those on here give Phill a hard time for his opinions when really they should wake up and smell the coffee and wonder why their own life is so rubbish.
Cory, Blackburn says...
3:03pm Mon 5 May 08
Linda, USA says...
3:38pm Mon 5 May 08
Peter D-B, Blackburn says...
3:55pm Mon 5 May 08
To the rest of you Thank you for your wonderful support on Saturday, it made some young Soldiers feel fantastic along with us the relatives who were left behind worrying about them whilst our goverment put them in harms way.
Thank you all!
Johnnyboy, Beautiful Blackburn says...
5:34pm Mon 5 May 08
Maybe Phil is slighltly bitter that he hasnt received the same sort of recognition for his work in saving lives, but maybe in all of this is there is an opportunity for Rovers to parade local heros at the next game so we can all show our appreciation for the work that they do.
Sophie, says...
6:26pm Mon 5 May 08
FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS
YES
LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!!
I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED.
IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!
Ruth, Blackburn says...
7:20pm Mon 5 May 08
Andy Millar, Buffalo NY says...
8:16pm Mon 5 May 08
Sophie wrote:You are either naive or just plain stupid! The soldiers didn't choose to go to Iraq they were told to go.
YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!
These brave men and women do what they do so pathetic losers like you can have the freedom of speech! What have you ever done for your country?
TOM JUNIOR, burnley says...
9:57pm Mon 5 May 08
Owdfettler, Blackburn End says...
10:02pm Mon 5 May 08
If you can read this ... thank a teacher.
It's in English so ...thank a soldier.
janinemac, Catterick ex darwener says...
10:36pm Mon 5 May 08
Andy Millar wrote:andy, u took the words right out of my mouth.
Sophie wrote: YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!You are either naive or just plain stupid! The soldiers didn\'t choose to go to Iraq they were told to go. These brave men and women do what they do so pathetic losers like you can have the freedom of speech! What have you ever done for your country?
my husband has been in Iraq since the begining of november. All of his family are so proud of him and what our lads have done over the past 7 month.
I pray for the safe return of our lads who are still out there.
Sophie, says...
11:48pm Mon 5 May 08
Andy Millar wrote:EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT IS A LIE.....THESE SOLDIERS CHOSE TO GO IN THESE ILLEGAL WARS......I'D RATHER FIND ANOTHER JOB; BE COURT-MARTIALED THAN KILL INNOCENT PEOPLE; LIKE SOME BRAVE SOLDIERS WHO REFUSED TO GO TO IRAQ.
Sophie wrote: YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!You are either naive or just plain stupid! The soldiers didn\'t choose to go to Iraq they were told to go. These brave men and women do what they do so pathetic losers like you can have the freedom of speech! What have you ever done for your country?
"FREEDOM OF SPEECH" DONT MAKE ME LAUGH IRAQI PEOPLE ARE MORE OPRESSED NOW THAN EVER BEFORE......WHY DONT THESE SOLDIERS HELP ZIMBABWE......OH NO.....THEY HAVE NO OIL.....NOTHING TO OFFER......EXCEPT THEIR POVERTY & DISTRESS.
Jamie, wrexham says...
12:10am Tue 6 May 08
Ruth wrote:I have to partialy agree with Phil here. Im sure soldiers do a good job but in terms of how many lives they save, Im strugling to think of a scenario where they would be in a position to.
Just to put you straight Phil,I did not PUT my sons in the army they were both in their twenties when they CHOSE to go and do a more worth while job and within ten years have both risen to officer rank but of course they would never boast about it or about how many lives they save,soldiers dont do that.I only hope that any mother who has lost a son or daughter,does not read your comment or wish to come any where near you,THEY ARE THERE TO DEFEND against the aggressor,not destroy,you would need them if there was ever another war here or would you emigrate Iam a Christian but not a pasifist and I would not hesitate to hand you a white feather
Ambulance-men/women Dr's and Nurses (basicly anyone in thecaring profession are the real hero's on a diliy basis, I wouldnt consider soldiers to be hero's from any point of view anymore than I would consider electricians, plumbers or joiners hero's.
You said If we went to war we'd need them. Hate to break this to you, WWII was the last major war we will ever see due to every major nation having the security of neclear weapons. Wars nowardays are political and economic driven excercises.
Dean, Blackburn says...
8:40am Tue 6 May 08
Sophie wrote:Ok you silly girl, have you EVER been to iraq? Have you ever seen a war torn country? My guessing is that you have not!!!! I also guess that you are making these judgements off what you have read or seen on the news!!!! My dad is from South Africa and served in the Rhodisian and British Army, so you could say he did help. Have Zimbabwe asked for British help? And if we only go to war for oil, what about Afgan, Kosavo, Northern Ireland, Falklands....People come on here and talk about stuff they know little about! I agree, send all these do gooders to iraq and show them what our troops actually do!!!
Andy Millar wrote:EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT IS A LIE.....THESE SOLDIERS CHOSE TO GO IN THESE ILLEGAL WARS......I'D RATHER FIND ANOTHER JOB; BE COURT-MARTIALED THAN KILL INNOCENT PEOPLE; LIKE SOME BRAVE SOLDIERS WHO REFUSED TO GO TO IRAQ. "FREEDOM OF SPEECH" DONT MAKE ME LAUGH IRAQI PEOPLE ARE MORE OPRESSED NOW THAN EVER BEFORE......WHY DONT THESE SOLDIERS HELP ZIMBABWE......OH NO.....THEY HAVE NO OIL.....NOTHING TO OFFER......EXCEPT THEIR POVERTY & DISTRESS.Sophie wrote: YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!You are either naive or just plain stupid! The soldiers didn\'t choose to go to Iraq they were told to go. These brave men and women do what they do so pathetic losers like you can have the freedom of speech! What have you ever done for your country?
sid, says...
9:36am Tue 6 May 08
Sophie wrote:You really don't have a clue what ur talking about do u?
YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!
If another army ever invaded great britain, who would u rely on to protect u and ur familly?
and Phil, if ur stupid enough to do ur job for £2 an hour, then more fool u.
If it wasen't for the british army in the world wars, we may be living in a third world country, with no bright futures.
I suggest you watch the ross kemp tv documetry on afganistan, to get a real insight into the lifes of these brave men
Danny Riley, Blackburn says...
1:47pm Tue 6 May 08
I am truely happy that these lads have come home safe.
Ignore the spiteful idiots... WELL DONE!
Karen, says...
4:50pm Tue 6 May 08
Jamie, Wrexham says...
7:23pm Tue 6 May 08
Karen wrote:Karen your making yourself look silly with these comments by justifying the work soldiers do by saying that they were useful in WW1 and 2. They happened 70 years ago.
I have worked for the NHS for over 20 years, I\'ve worked long and antisocial hours but I always go to go home. These people go to fight for months on end and dont get to come home for months on end. It doesnt matter where they are in afghanistan or Iraq, the signed up to fight for Queen and COUNTRY...CONTRY means you and me, these people will gladly put themselves in front of us to defend these lands we live in...Dont you remember world wars 1 and 2, trust me I would rather have a soldier by my side in war than an ambulance driver
And you say ud rather have a soldier by ur side as oppose to an ambulace driver, in what situation would that be?? If another world war breaks out??
Ur a clown and a disgrace to your proffession although i very much doubt you work in a significant area of the NHS if any making comments like this.
Shaz, says...
11:21pm Tue 6 May 08
Soldiers arent helping anyone.......Saddam is dead what are they still doing their.......please tell me? Iraq poverty has increased, all historic sites destroyed, then we complain about immigrants......we destroy their families and homes and in return refuse to take them as refugees......
The British Army is a disgrace!!!
Dean, Blackburn says...
8:36am Wed 7 May 08
Jamie wrote:Jamie, it's pr1ks like you who need to be sent out onto the front line. I would rather have a soldier next to me rather than an ambulance driver. Karen didnt state what kind of soldier JUST a soldier. You can get medics in the army that can 1) SAVE your life and 2)SAVE your life!!! A normal Ambulance driver can 1)SAVE your life.
Karen wrote: I have worked for the NHS for over 20 years, I\'ve worked long and antisocial hours but I always go to go home. These people go to fight for months on end and dont get to come home for months on end. It doesnt matter where they are in afghanistan or Iraq, the signed up to fight for Queen and COUNTRY...CONTRY means you and me, these people will gladly put themselves in front of us to defend these lands we live in...Dont you remember world wars 1 and 2, trust me I would rather have a soldier by my side in war than an ambulance driverKaren your making yourself look silly with these comments by justifying the work soldiers do by saying that they were useful in WW1 and 2. They happened 70 years ago. And you say ud rather have a soldier by ur side as oppose to an ambulace driver, in what situation would that be?? If another world war breaks out?? Ur a clown and a disgrace to your proffession although i very much doubt you work in a significant area of the NHS if any making comments like this.
If anyone is the clown, it's you....
All people see in this country is what you hear and see on the news, and what the government want you to know. What you dont see is the children and mothers thanking British troops for what they have done. You dont see all the rebuilding of houses, bridges, hospitals that the AMERICANS blew up!!!
I have a friend that had to watch a 3 year old CHILD being shot to death because they are told not to fire unless fired upon. Have you Jamie EVER had to watch and live with that for the rest of your life.....i DOUBT it very much, cause your prob sat in the comfort of your own home with only what your going to have for your tea to worry about.
Rob, Accrington says...
10:01am Wed 7 May 08
These lads and lasses are heroes. If/when we do have a muslim Prime Minister how much tolerance do you think will be shown to differing/controvers
ial opinion then eh?
About nil, thats how much.
And any steps that our Government takes to prevent this from happening, and to stamp on barbaric regimes and religions (not races) gets my vote, even if the wars are illegal or not.
Big decisions are made by people who know a whole lot more than you or I. And rightly so.
And the lads who have the balls to defend our modern, free society from medieval morons deserve all the thanks in the world.
Well done to all the brave boys and girls in our services everywhere.
God Save the Queen.
Shawn, Oklahoma says...
2:30pm Wed 7 May 08
Yes I was in the Army and yes it was my choice, and i would do it all again, just to say I have done it is not enough, I am proud of what I did and what the boys/girls are doing now.
Salma, says...
11:58pm Thu 8 May 08
BUT HAVENT SEEN ANY REBUILDING!!! ACCORDING TO A RECENT POLL THE IRAQI CITIZENS 70%+ SAID THAT THEY DIDNT WANT SOLDIERS IN THEIR COUNTRY.....SOME PEOPLE CANT GET THE MESSAGE!! ARMY FOOLS....
adam, London says...
12:02am Fri 9 May 08
Are you sure you can read at work? I would be afraid of you giving injections to people.
janinemac, catterick ex darwener says...
3:58pm Fri 9 May 08
WELL DONE LADS, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND COME HOME SAFE!!!!1
Kale, Preston says...
5:37pm Sat 10 May 08
phil wrote:Phil
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
You say you work your backside off, well bully for you my love. You may do a good job, but do you carry out your job under the threat of small arms fire or risk being blown up by an IED or have rockets and motars fired at you at least 6 or 7 times a day?... Hmm I think I can answer that... NO you don't so don't you dare sit there in your ivory tower and say that they get paid a good job for a 'jolly' trip abroad.. if you call £1000 per month a good wage for putting your life on the line for your country.. then why not sign up yourself and join them otherwise keep your mouth shut.
Proud mum of a serving soldier.!
Kale, Preston says...
5:50pm Sat 10 May 08
Andy Millar wrote:Andy
Sophie wrote: YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!You are either naive or just plain stupid! The soldiers didn\'t choose to go to Iraq they were told to go. These brave men and women do what they do so pathetic losers like you can have the freedom of speech! What have you ever done for your country?
Well said that man... our soldiers do not choose where they are posted, they are told where to go as do the American soldiers. As for them being losers... I think people like Sophie are losers... I wonder if there was a major catastrophe here whether she would think that our soldiers would be losers then.
Thanks for your support Andy
Kale.. proud mum of a serving soldier.
Sarah proud fiance of a serving soldier, says...
6:22pm Sat 10 May 08
Sarah- proud fiance of a serving soldier
Kale, Preston says...
8:17pm Sat 10 May 08
Sophie wrote:Sophie
Andy Millar wrote:EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT IS A LIE.....THESE SOLDIERS CHOSE TO GO IN THESE ILLEGAL WARS......I\'D RATHER FIND ANOTHER JOB; BE COURT-MARTIALED THAN KILL INNOCENT PEOPLE; LIKE SOME BRAVE SOLDIERS WHO REFUSED TO GO TO IRAQ. \"FREEDOM OF SPEECH\" DONT MAKE ME LAUGH IRAQI PEOPLE ARE MORE OPRESSED NOW THAN EVER BEFORE......WHY DONT THESE SOLDIERS HELP ZIMBABWE......OH NO.....THEY HAVE NO OIL.....NOTHING TO OFFER......EXCEPT THEIR POVERTY & DISTRESS.Sophie wrote: YEAH APPLAUD THESE SOLDIERS, BUT FOR WHAT EXACTLY.....? FOR HAVING AN ILLEGAL WAR......FOR KILLING INNOCENT MEMBERS OF FAMILY........FOR ALL THOSE GIRLS THAT HAVE BEEN RAPED.......FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BECOME ORPHANS........ FOR ALL THOSE BURNT AND LIMBLESS YES LETS APPLAUD THEM; THEY DID A GREAT JOB!!! I DONT KNOW HOW THESE PEOPLE CAN RAISE THEIR HEADS....... LET ALONE BE APPLAUDED. IRAQ IS TEN TIMES WORSE THAN IT WAS; EVERYBODY KNOWS ITS ALL ABOUT OIL/POLITICS. NOT HELPING ANYONE BUT OURSELVES!!!You are either naive or just plain stupid! The soldiers didn\\\'t choose to go to Iraq they were told to go. These brave men and women do what they do so pathetic losers like you can have the freedom of speech! What have you ever done for your country?
If you honestly believe that our soldiers CHOSE to be sent to Iraq or Afghanistan or any other operational tour for that mind, then you are seriously mistaken. Have you EVER taken the time to actually speak to a soldier and ask them their opinion or ask them exactly what they are doing whilst out on operations... I doubt it...
You post about freedom of speech and don't make you laugh... just what exactly are you doing posting on here then if you don't have freedom of speech. I suggest you re-read your history books my love and this time digest everything you read not just skim over the top.
Get a life.
Kale, Preston says...
8:26pm Sat 10 May 08
Kale - Proud mum of a serving soldier
Kale, Preston says...
8:32pm Sat 10 May 08
phil wrote:Hey Phil... you wouldn't be jealous by any chance woudld you?... As an abmbulance man, do you not have medical training? Tell you what... If you are bored with your current employment why not join the army and save some lives.. or do you not think you would be able to cope under fire?
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
Any profession that puts their lives on the line to protect others deserves resepct... so ARMY, RAF, NAVY, POLICE, FIREMEN, DRs & NURSES, MOUNTAIN RESUCE TEAMS, RNLI TEAMS... etc...you all deserve respect...
deb, kent says...
10:50pm Sat 10 May 08
phil wrote:what a bunch of retards........... if it wasnt for a soldier you would be talking a different language, i think the whole country should get behind them lads,they deserve all the credit they can get, you wanna slate someone for them being deployed go take your prostests to the govt, i would like to see half of you lot take on half the job them lads do, maybe then you wouldnt have so much time to talk twaddle on here !!
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
jacky bagtoy, burnley says...
11:08pm Sat 10 May 08
janinemac, catterick ex darwener says...
7:52pm Sun 11 May 08
Sarah proud fiance of a serving soldier wrote:sarah, I'm married to a british soldier who is curently serving in Iraq. He has been there since the begining of november last year. I totally agree with every word u wrote. our serving men and women deserve a lot more respect!!!!! I pray they all come home safe to there families. keep up the good work
Our soldiers do so much that you do not see or hear about. They are under paid, they go to places such as iraq and afghan OUT OF DUTY not out of choice. Many of our servicemen and women return injured, or dont return at all. For 6 months of the year families and friends live in turmoil. Our soldiers need our support whether or not you agree with the war doesnt matter, they are doing their job- and in doing so are protecting our country. To those who support our troops thank you, and keep doing so. Sarah- proud fiance of a serving soldier
TJ, Blackburn says...
8:21pm Sun 11 May 08
to those who have left positive comments - thank you everyone, your remarks are greatly appreciated by the troops and their families.
to those who have left negative comments - !"£$%^&*()+{}:@~<>?=
[];'#,./
From the proud mum of a soldier recently returned from Afghanistan who has been rebuilding the infrastructure for the Afghan people and trying to remove the Taliban and their heroin growing regime.
janinemac, catterick ex darwener says...
8:46pm Sun 11 May 08
Salma wrote:AND PROBABLY 90%+ OF OUR SERVING SOLDIERS DON'T WANT TO BE IN IRAQ OR AFGANISTAN EITHER BUT DO U REALLY THINK THEY ENJOY BEING AWAY FROM THEIR LOVED ONES????? I THINK NOT.
HOW COME EVERYBODY HAS ONLY SEEN THE DESTRUCTION......... BUT HAVENT SEEN ANY REBUILDING!!! ACCORDING TO A RECENT POLL THE IRAQI CITIZENS 70%+ SAID THAT THEY DIDNT WANT SOLDIERS IN THEIR COUNTRY.....SOME PEOPLE CANT GET THE MESSAGE!! ARMY FOOLS....
THERES A LOT OF PEOPLE THAT WE DON'T WANT IN OUR COUNTRY BUT THEY'RE STILL HERE!!!
Top Dog, Burnley says...
2:34pm Mon 12 May 08
Top Dog, Burnley says...
2:36pm Mon 12 May 08
proud wife of a serving british soldier, right here says...
3:58pm Mon 12 May 08
Top Dog wrote:wot and your a saint!!!! don't make me laugh!!!
Personally I'm glad these lads sign up for the army. If they were in civvy street they would only be causing more trouble at home, getting drunk and causing fights. Go to Aldershot on a Friday night to see what I mean. Maybe if their parents had brought them up properly instead of being drunken layabouts who couldn't give a toss about their children's upbringing, they may have done better at school and not had to join the army because they could have done better in life than taking the Queens shilling to go murder innocent people in the so called name of democracy. It's about time you ignorant rabble learnt something from history instead of being more concerned with the lives of football players and soap stars. Britain has gone to the dogs !
not all soldiers join the army due to not doing well at school and joining the army has nothing what so ever to do with the way they are brought up by there parents!!!
I bet most of the british soldiers know what the word "respect" actually means. its just a shame that u obviously don't!!!
TO ALL OUR SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN..... WELL DONE AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK !!!
sandra, Ewood says...
11:46pm Mon 12 May 08
phil wrote:Not even brave enough to put your full name, never mind protect your country, address would be even better, you thick, jealous,unappreciati
They get paid good money to take these trips abroad, i work my backside off day in and day out and nobody gives me any applause, they are just doing their job, let not get carried away.
ve sour grape!!!
Peter D-B, Blackburn says...
10:34am Tue 13 May 08
God Save the Queen and the Lord protect ALL our service men and women. I am a proud father of a proud Army Officer, who has brought his men back from Basrah without any injuries from their tour of duty.
BIG HAND: The soldiers salute the fans after they were given a five-minute standing ovation at Ewood
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Peter Cornwell, Great Harwood says...
5:54pm Sat 3 May 08