Ralph Walker says National Service training does not mould character, (Sept 2), but he is wrong.
I have seen many a troublemaker licked into shape during National Service and they have turned out to be fine men.
He said you learn to do bad things well, but he is wrong on this count too.
I learnt to touch type in my training and drive many kinds of vehicles.
Finally, he said it holds up a career. It certainly did in my cousin’s case – he lies under Malaysian soil, slaughtered at 19, during his National Service.
On October 11, we will be commemorating 60 years since his untimely death.
Ralph Walker can meet me at the Naval and Military Club in Southend and I’d be pleased to show him some fine men who served as National Servicemen on conscription.
Fred Schofield
Lifstan Way
Southchurch
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here