Sir,
I vividly recall serving in the Territorial Army the last time training was curtailed through defence cuts.
Nothing has a more debilitating effect on morale than being unable to carry out the task for which you joined in the first place.
Vehicles stood around unused, soldiers were underemployed and recruitment came to a standstill.
Even employers noticed the negative effects on staff whose dedication to TA service had mysteriously become so worthless.
The difference between now and then, though, is that the TA now performs a more vital active service role in conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan. My own regiment has seen more action in the last 10 years than at any stage since World War Two.
So, it with a sense of relief that we should read about the government's complete u-turn on TA training. Last week it was to be cut by £20 million, this week we are back where we were before.
What is disturbing, though, is the fact that this shambles happened at all. The role and worth of the TA could not have evaporated and reappeared in the space of a few days. The TA's role in current activity is vital and appreciated, especially that of our local Regiment in Carmarthen and Haverfordwest.
Whoever is in government has a duty to ensure that the army does not become a political football. When lives are at risk, we should not even consider action that compromises those whose job it is to defend our interests either at home or abroad.
With Remembrance Day upon us, the reasons for this must be even more obvious than ever.
Simon Hart,
PPC Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire