It was claimed to be "virtue signalling" - in effect to label people as insincere, holier than thou show-offs - for someone to dare express an opinion which is different from the mainstream view.
Most people have had relatives who fought in the two world wars, and those who feel differently about the style and content of these commemorations are equally sad about the people who have died in wars. To imply otherwise is insulting.
Commemorating the lives lost to war should not be about ostentatious public displays of grief, who wore the most "tasteful" attire, who performed the wreath-laying with the greatest finesse, etc, etc. In my view, it should be an opportunity to reflect, without pomp and ceremony, on the horrors of wars - and a real desire to reject the industries that profit from them.
Neither should a variety of war-themed events be used as a marketing opportunity for the arms industry, companies selling war-related memorabilia and elaborately crafted poppies to be worn as fashion accessories.
Among the commemorative events in 2020 is The War and Peace Show. This is an example of how the tragedy of war has been re-packaged as "entertainment", the horrors of war having been completely erased - as its promotional blurb demonstrates:
"A five-day military and vintage festival at The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, Kent, will be packed full of education and entertainment bringing the Dunkirk Spirit to this historic corner of Kent.
"Visitors to The War and Peace Revival will be able to catch up with friends while watching the incredible action-packed battle re-enactments – not just a group of people running around playing soldiers but a full-scale choreographed battle to give you a taste of the action at the Front! Get right up close to the action, but through a safe and vehicle-free zone. Thousands of military vehicles are expected to gather at the new venue from around the world representing the armies of the 20th century. Look out for tanks, artillery, armoured and amphibious vehicles, cars, Jeeps, bicycles and motorbikes, emergency and commercial vehicles – and lots more. Living History scenes will provide a unique picture of life in conflict with depictions from WW1 to the present – see the British living in trenches, GIs in Vietnam, Russians relaxing with an accordion after a hard day in battle, or Germans plotting their next moves! At all times our re-enactors will adhere to a strict moral code in their displays.
"Trade stalls will give collectors and shoppers the opportunity to browse through marquees packed full of treasures including militaria, antiquities, vehicle parts, books, memorabilia, clothing and uniforms and all manner of essential finds for the discerning enthusiast – everything from a shirt button to a tank! For the modellers, an extensive display of some top class models will be on display, bringing enthusiasts from around the world – and the craftsmen are always willing to share their knowledge and experience. For modellers, The War and Peace Revival is a unique opportunity to see the full-sized versions of their models just by walking outside!
"For those who want a little more glamour in their lives and perhaps a welcome break from the ‘sea of green’, both people and vehicles, (ladies!), then head for the Vintage Village by the Victory Marquee (previously the V Marquee). Here you’ll find an exciting focus to the ‘Peace’ element of the Show’s title. You can happily leave the boys with their toys, and shop ’till you drop for that complete look in our dedicated vintage market place. Once you have found your perfect outfit for the evening you can also book to have a vintage hairstyle to match from one of the hairdressers in the area so you will look and feel like a million dollars! Not forgetting you chaps, there is also a 1940’s barber here too. The Vintage Village also hosts top-class dealers in vintage home ware and civilian memorabilia from around the world. After all that shopping, head to the Victory Marquee for free day-time vintage-themed entertainment, mainly from the 1940’s and 1950’s, which you can enjoy with a meal or a cream tea. You can even learn how to Jive from the simple lessons offered by professional dancers to get you in the mood for the big night ahead… will it be cocktails in the Gentleman’s Marquee first before returning to the Victory Marquee for a romantic dinner dance to a full Swing Big Band ...."
War is not a game, and guns, bombs, bayonets and tanks are not "toys". What sort of message do these types of commemorative events - and I include fly-pasts - give to children and young people who attend? That war is exciting and fun.
How insulting to the many soldiers and civilians who died in WWII to speak about the "Dunkirk Spirit" and "a taste of the action at the Front!" (note the exclamation mark) in such a flippant way. Guns, bombs, bayonets and tanks are not "boys' toys" - they rip apart the bodies and minds of soldiers' and families' lives - and Dunkirk was not a jolly jape.
Among the many listed "exhibitors" of war memorabilia and equipment is RBL Poppy which presumably finds it appropriate to participate in this "show", in the same way that they found it appropriate to accept sponsorship from the arms industry.
People have the right to buy and wear a red poppy but those who choose not to have the right to do so without having their characters impugned.
I also believe the the right not to wear a poppy should be extended to anyone holding public office or appearing on television.