ONCE again rightful tribute was given on November 11 and 12 to the men and women who took part in those dreadful wars. For the first time, the Korean veterans were given the recognition for 'The Forgotten War,' as it is generally known, but not once in any parade, memorial, or broadcast, did the Malayan veterans get honoured or mentioned.

The Government still deny that this 'war' ever took place, but while the Korean war was taking place, young men of 19 amd 20, with no fighting or jungle experience, were thrown piecemeal into a situation that saw them die rather cruelly.

The graves of our comrades in the cemeteries are forgotten and in disrepair. Headstones are crumbling because of inferior materials.

The Malayan campaign was designated 'a non-war' and, as such, the Government wash their hands of any responsibility to the men and women who died. It lasted for 12 years, more than the Korean and Vietnam wars, more than Bosnia, the Falklands and the others. But you won't see our dead honoured.

Our association spans the world. We have more than 6,000 members and everywhere else but this country honours the fallen of Malaya.

Within the next year it is hoped that a plaque will be placed in Westminster Abbey to commemorate the young men who died.

Our dead heroes, who lie forgotten in Malaya, should be given the same honours as the ones that are feted every year.

JOHN MARTLAND, Assistant Secretary, National Malaya and Borneo Veterans Association, DeWint Avenue, Lincoln.