26/01/2026
Recent comments about British troops in Afghanistan have caused measurable hurt and anger among service personnel, veterans, and families.
The British Armed Forces had, has, and always will have a disproportionately large role in securing the universal human right to freedom and peace.
Those who served did so because their country asked them to. Decisions about where troops go, and what roles they perform, are made far away from the men and women who put on the uniform. Service personnel do not choose war. They carry out their duty with discipline, skill, and courage.
UK troops served on the front line and in support of it, from the sharpest edge of the sword, to medical, engineering, intelligence, and more. Allied forces around the world respect British troops for their professionalism, bravery, and dedication. That respect was earned in Afghanistan.
Four hundred and fifty-seven UK service personnel lost their lives there. They did not die at a distance.
Many more came home carrying the effects of war. Long-term studies show rising rates of PTSD and other mental health conditions among those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Long after the political class have forgotten what that sacrifice looks and feels like, this nation's heroes still carry the cost of that service.
To every serving member of the Armed Forces, every veteran, and every family who has paid the price of service: please do not measure your worth by the words of a distanced few.
Your service matters. Your sacrifice matters. Your country knows this. You stepped forward in a way most people never will, and thanks to you, will never have to. You served with courage, loyalty, and pride.
You are respected. You are valued. You are remembered and revered.
You have, and always will be, the best of British.
If you or someone you love is struggling with this latest commentary on Afghanistan, help is available. You do not have to deal with it alone.
The Royal British Legion offers support with mental health, finances, housing, and family needs for serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
NHS Veterans’ Mental Health Services provide specialist care for veterans, including treatment for PTSD and complex trauma. You can self-refer in many areas.
The Forcer Protocol exists to support the rapid response to missing or vulnerable veterans and serving personnel, helping families and authorities act quickly when someone is at risk.
Beacon Alert works to raise awareness and support families when veterans or serving personnel go missing or are at risk, because every life matters.
If you are in immediate danger or feel unsafe, please contact emergency services.
Asking for help is not weakness. It is strength.
