The campaign to deny the men of Bomber Command their own medal, in light of these losses and the courage of those involved who night after night climbed into their aircraft faced with the virtual certainty of their death, was spiteful. Every man a volunteer with an average age of 21. This country, or at least its political leaders, turned its back on their heroism and many of the veterans went to their deaths keeping quiet about their wartime contribution. Only in recent years has it become ok to admit to being involved and there are still those who believe the strategic bombing campaign was a war crime.
Perhaps it’s not too late for the handful of veterans still alive to finally receive the thanks of a grateful nation?