Key Highlights
- Mervyn Kersh, a 101-year-old D-Day veteran, was awarded the British Empire Medal for his service to Holocaust remembrance and education.
- Kersh expressed disappointment with modern Britain, likening it to the period before World War Two and citing rising antisemitism as a concern.
- The veteran highlighted the importance of defence spending and warned against complacency in current international relations, comparing Western leaders to Neville Chamberlain.
A Veteran’s Reflections on Modern Britain
Mervyn Kersh, an 101-year-old D-Day veteran who was honored with the British Empire Medal for his service to Holocaust remembrance and education, has expressed deep disappointment with modern Britain. Speaking about his experiences, Kersh said, “It’s disappointing what’s turned out now.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among veterans and historians regarding the state of contemporary society.
Rising Antisemitism and Concerns for Defence
Kersh’s remarks come at a time when antisemitic incidents are on the rise in the United Kingdom. The veteran, who has dedicated significant efforts to speaking about the Holocaust, emphasized that “antisemitism is everywhere” and expressed his fears for the future. He likened the current state of affairs to the pre-World War Two period, warning that history could repeat itself if not addressed properly.
Defence Spending and International Relations
In a wider context, Kersh’s concerns extend beyond domestic issues. He believes that defence spending should be prioritized over other areas, stating, “The top budget should be defence.” This view aligns with the recent announcements by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) regarding a new “gap year” scheme and the prime minister’s call for increased readiness in defence against emerging threats.
Reflecting on current leaders, Kersh drew parallels between them and Neville Chamberlain, whose appeasement policies towards Nazi Germany led to disaster. He warned that “They think they’ve just got to hope and make speeches,” suggesting a need for more assertive action from political leadership.
The Legacy of D-Day
Mervyn Kersh’s journey is as poignant as it is inspiring. Arriving in Normandy at the age of 19, three days after the start of the D-Day invasion in June 1944, he served as a technical clerk for the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, organizing vehicle support. He was later stationed near Bergen-Belsen when the camp was liberated by British troops in April 1945.
Reflecting on his service, Kersh stated, “There’d be no need for a war now, we’ve got the wrong attitude.” His words underscore the complex legacy of conflict and peace that continues to shape contemporary discussions on defence and international relations.
Despite the accolades, Kersh’s reflections serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by modern societies.
The British Empire Medal is an esteemed honor within the UK honours system, recognizing distinguished civil or military service. Other notable recipients in this year’s New Year Honours include Amanda Pritchard, made Dame Commander for services to the NHS, and various individuals recognized for their contributions across different fields such as sports, entertainment, and business.
As the country continues to navigate complex domestic and international challenges, Kersh’s perspective offers a valuable historical context and a call to action. The legacy of D-Day veterans like him remains a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance in preserving peace and preventing history from repeating itself.
