THE unveiling of the Bomber Command Memorial in Green Park, London was delayed many years allegedly due to feelings for 600,000 civilian casualties; the memorial does commemorate all those from all countries who lost lives in the conflict.

Do not be mislead by the estimated figure of 600,000 casualties.

Germany, Britain and all countries involved in the Second World War conscripted 100 per cent of the able and “of age” civilian population to work in factories producing aircraft, tanks, guns, ammunition and all things necessary for maximum war effort.

These establishments, legitimate targets, were embedded in every town possible which would consequently put the civilians in the front line of air raids.

Sympathy and respect is certainly afforded to the civilian deaths, but put no blame on those volunteers who died or were horrifically injured carrying out orders without question.

J Beisly, Osprey Close, York.