Sir,

The recent tragic loss of young lives in our forces deployed in Afghanistan brings to mind the words of Rev. G. A. Studdert-Kennedy written during his time as a chaplain on the front line in the 1914-18 war. He became known as 'Woodbine Willie' as he carried a packet of cigarettes and offered them (thought to be a kindness at that time) to the injured and dying. He wrote:

Waste

Waste of Muscle, waste of Brain

Waste of Patience, waste of Pain

Waste of Manhood, waste of Health

Waste of Beauty, waste of Wealth

Waste of Blood, waste of Tears

Waste of Youths most precious years

Waste of ways the Saints have trod,

Waste of Glory, waste of God - War

Bob Storey,

Saundersfoot.