REMEMBERING those who have lost their lives in conflict to protect the freedom and security we enjoy today is more than the two-minute silence on Armistice Sunday.

It is more than laying a wreath or wearing a poppy. Remembrance is a time that we carve out of our busy lives to reflect upon the sacrifice that has been made by those individuals who were called up to serve and lost their lives, by their families who have lived in fear of never seeing their loved ones again, of families being denied all those happy moments with parents, brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, and the community that is forever changed because it grieves for all those who are missing.

I recently attended the Festival of Remembrance Concert in Aberdare where I along with many others enjoyed the Regimental band and corps of drums of the Royal Welsh, singing from children who attend Y Pant school, Pontyclun and singing from the Cardiff Military Wives Choir. Both the participation and turnout of the event - I am pleased to say - shows that the sacrifice given by so many for our country is still properly recognised and remains a focal point for communities to come together in gratitude.

I was also very privileged to be able to help at the Royal British Legion stall in Aberdare Tesco and be able to meet and talk with members of the public. I was touched by the personal thoughts and stories which were shared with me and how the public recognised the work of The Royal British Legion in helping and supporting thousands of serving and ex-serving personnel and their families. The RBL is undoubtedly a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable in our society, be it older veterans, those who are suffering from social isolation, or those who are simply overwhelmed by the challenges they face post-military service, and the financial support they receive from our donations is vital for the RBL being able to offer this support to them.

A few years ago I use to volunteer as a caseworker for the RBL and know first-hand the complexity of some of the issues that face ex-serving personnel, and whilst some may seem strong and independent they can also be some of the hardest hit in terms of mental and physical health and living with the consequences of war.

While we remember those who have served and died for our nation we must also remember those from other countries who have also stood up and sacrificed to protect their freedom. We are currently living in the shadow of the current Russian -Ukraine conflict and this is a brutal reminder that we must not take our freedom for granted and that it is right that we support countries in their struggle for freedom. I, therefore, wear my red poppy with absolute pride not only as a symbol to remember the sacrifice and lives which have been sadly lost but also as a symbol of hope and peace for the future.