Let us not forget misery of Falklands War

Argentines born after the conflict have been burning British flags. As for those old enough to remember, how soon some forget the horrors of war (250 Britons lost their lives over a few weeks and Argentinian “casualties” amounted to 650, while many more have since taken their own life suffering post- traumatic stress syndrome).

But, as with all wars, there awful aspects are mixed with compassion. At the British medical facilities at Ajax Bay (East Falkland), the team was responsible for saving the lives of men with, in most cases, horrendous injuries, carrying out surgical procedures with astonishing success in quite inadequate circumstances.

Surgeon Commander Jolly, who led the team, was decorated by both sides after the conflict in recognition of his leadership, pioneering surgical methods and life- saving record.

Why both sides? The British medics treated several injured Argentinians with every bit as much care as they treated their own, although some were kept under armed watch.

Enemy soldiers found this attention to their needs quite astonishing. In such poor condition, they remained grateful.

Argentinian jets targeted this facility (clearly marked as a medical unit) unaware that they were bombing injured comrades.

Surgical procedures continued, despite unexploded bombs lodged within the buildings. Had these exploded it was unlikely anyone – medical staff or the injured would have survived – yet the teams continued to work in the interest of saving lives; all lives.

How soon we forget. So a plea from my heart: let us please resolve this latest dispute through diplomacy, remembering that war never determines who is right, only who is left.

Gordon Y Watson

Craigleith Hill Loan

Edinburgh