Do You Think James Mcclean Has A Point In Not Wearing A Poppy?

[sp1814]

I think for him, given his background, it makes sense - and I have a degree of sympathy for him, because at this time of year the 'poppy fascists' come out in force.

I always buy a few each year (one for each suit I wear to work), but I understand that others may view poppies as a symbol of support of our military - where in fact, it's supposed to honour all those that have died in conflict (including civilians).

What are your thoughts?

[viv41]

I have NEVER in all my life met a 'poppy fascist' !!

[douglas9401]

Background schmackground. If a person doesn't want to wear a poppy it's nothing to to with small minded boors with opinions on everything.
The world seemed a nicer place when those who criticise could only bore their mates in the pub with their drivel.

[woofgang]

As I said, in some organisations, poppy wearing while at work is a corporate thing, I guess that might be the case at the Beeb.....actually given that the Beeb is in part publicly funded and is to an extent the public face of British media, I think its fair enough that they should have a corporate line on it.

[ichkeria]

I have to say that 'small minded boor' sums James McClean up nicely
Mind you it's worth repeating that it's his business whether he wears a poppy ir not

[douglas9401]

For the avoidance of doubt, I wasn't referring to him, rather his critics.

[ichkeria]

Yes I know.

[sp1814]

vetuste_ennemi

Let me explain - the reason I gave that 'Best Answer' is because we have fought wars to ensure our freedom. Think about the enemies Britain has been to war with - all of whom threatened our freedom and way of life.

And freedom to choose whether or not to wear a poppy is important.

James Maclean has received death threat for taking this stance.

That to me, has the definite smell of fascism to me.

[retrocop]

Just-Jude

The poppy wearing fascists gave us the chance to enjoy our current lifestyle.
Who cares about the pond life ?

[Mamyalynne]

It's my opinion that those who may boo him or threaten him, are simply that sort of person - not someone shouting for respect or observance.

[Ringlet]

James McClean should realise that had it not been for the British Army fighting fascism in Europe, the residents of Derry/Londonderry and every other city in the UK would be labouring under Hitler's yoke. McClean and his fellow countrymen would be suffering a very different lifestyle from the one they now enjoy. A little gratitude would not go amiss.

[naomi24]

He says it’s "for all the conflicts that Britain has been involved in", but I disagree. It’s in memory of all who lost their lives in war. An important difference.

He doesn’t have a point – but he has a choice.

[Khandro]

Considering how many millions of pounds are raised if divided among the injured and widows of those fallen in modern warfare, which is tiny compared with those of WWs I and II, it would give them a tidy sum I imagine.
My Grandfather was wounded in the trenches of Flanders and had a leg amputated at 19 years of age, he worked for the rest of his life but received no money whatsoever from this charity, he did get a miniscule amount from something called BLESMA - the British Limbless Ex Serviceman's Assoc. though. When he died Grandma got nothing. My father served in the RAF throughout WWII, - 5 years +, fortunately wasn't seriously injured, worked the rest of his life and also when he died, my widowed mother got nothing from this charity.

So where did it all go, and where is it now going?

[PankySmooch]

It's his choice and should be left at that.

Khandro, like a lot of charities, people that run them sort themselves out first

[retrocop]

10Clarion Street
With that we are in accordance. Well written.

[retrocop]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
@ 1827

[Khandro]

I forgot to point out that the "miniscule amount from something called BLESMA -" my grandfather received, was unbelievably, to pay for the cost of his artificial leg !! on which he managed to get to work for the next 40 odd years without complaint.
When I see some of the types not working and claiming invalidity benefits today for "bad backs" etc. I want to scream, but it would do no good.

[tonyav]

Ah Mcclean again, he has history in being offencive.