British veterans and officials have reacted strongly to JD Vance’s derogatory remarks about the UK’s military sacrifices in Iraq and Afghanistan, where 636 British soldiers died. Vance’s comments dismissing UK contributions to Ukraine have drawn condemnation from notable figures, highlighting the need to respect the military history and sacrifices of those involved in conflicts alongside American forces.
British heroes have expressed their outrage at US politician JD Vance after he insulted the sacrifices of 636 UK soldiers who died in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. During an interview, Vance described the UK as “some random country that hasn’t fought a war in 30 or 40 years,” dismissing UK plans to contribute troops to Ukraine, which ignited further backlash from UK veterans and officials.
Former Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer, himself a veteran, condemned Vance’s remarks. He stated, “Vance needs to wind his neck in” and urged him to show respect for those who served. Andy McNab, a decorated SAS veteran, invited Vance to visit the UK’s war memorials to better understand the sacrifices made by soldiers alongside American forces.
General Sir Patrick Sanders, a former Army chief, expressed concern over Vance’s comments, insisting that they do not represent the view of those who fought alongside the US. He cautioned against excessive public criticism, noting the challenges facing UK politics amid the military conflict. Vance, who served a short tenure in the US Marine Corps, dismissed international contributions to Ukraine.
Ex-soldier Shaun Pinner, who has fought in Ukraine, criticized Vance as a “political Neanderthal” and highlighted the ongoing realities of warfare that the American public may not fully grasp. Pinner emphasized that historical context is essential when discussing military matters, particularly as the US has not faced contemporary trench warfare.
Ben McBean, a former Royal Marine who lost limbs in Afghanistan, harshly dismissed Vance, asserting that he has no real experience of combat. McBean, hailed a hero by Prince Harry, urged Vance to refrain from discussing conflict without firsthand knowledge, branding him a “sausage boy” and contending that his military service was limited to public relations.
Admiral Lord West, former First Sea Lord, starkly condemned Vance’s comments, labeling them “utterly disgraceful.” He reminded the public of the significant British sacrifices in Afghanistan and argued that dismissing this history is unacceptable. He criticized Vance’s superficial military experience, indicating that he was not involved in combat but focused on public relations.
General Lord Richard Dannatt also expressed disbelief at Vance’s remarks. He questioned Vance’s understanding of military history and the sacrifices made in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, reiterating the importance of recognition for both the fallen and the living who served honorably during these conflicts.
The UK has engaged in several military conflicts since 1990, notably in Iraq and Afghanistan, where British forces have fought alongside US troops. In Afghanistan, 457 British service members lost their lives, risking personal safety to combat the Taliban and restore order. Meanwhile, the Iraq War saw 179 British soldiers killed, procured under the assumption of a nuclear threat, leading to prolonged conflict and significant instability.
In summary, the backlash against JD Vance underscores deep-seated sentiments among British veterans regarding the sacrifices made during recent conflicts. Distinguished figures have voiced their discontent and called for respect towards those who served. Describing the UK’s military contributions as negligible is historically misleading and undermines the sacrifices of countless brave individuals. Vance’s comments have sparked a necessary dialogue about the importance of honoring the sacrifices of allied forces in contemporary and historical military engagements.
Original Source: www.thesun.co.uk
