My grandfather was Harold William Gay. Like Pte Harold Gay, he also was an Army private and served in WW1. Unlike Pte Harold, my grandfather survived the two World Wars and went on to live a full life. How different it could have been. I could today be commemorating his memory as a young man who surrendered his life in the trenches instead of surrendering it on his bed at home in old age. I salute you and your commitment and your bravery and the part you tried to play in making this world a better and safer place to live.

STUART GAY