Remembrance day has been observed since the end of the first world war. The poppy symbol is a reference to the wildflowers in the fields in which so many died on both sides.
There is now almost no direct personal connection with WW1 - combatants are all gone, children of combatants would likely now be 80-90+. In 20 years time memories of WW2 will go the same way - the few surviving veterans are now aged 85+.
There is a place for preserving the memory of those brave in our defence in all wars. But looking to the future it would be far better to use the opportunity to remember the inhumanity that war brings to all concerned.
Germany and Japan are very different places 80 years on. I can understand why some with more personal memories may have very strong feelings. But it is more important to ensure those below the age of 50 are aware of their shared history in the hope that they may avoid the same stupidity in the future.
S0o invite the Japs!!
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