THE aftermath of the General Election sadly meant the three-day weekend celebrating this year’s anniversary of VE Day went largely unnoticed.

Many did mark the historic occasion of the 70th anniversary, but it was overshadowed because the focus was on the new government.

That made it all the more important to mark Armed Forces Week and then Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

Events and parades were organised in towns and cities across the country including in Brighton and Hove, Seaford, Littlehampton, Crawley and Fontwell.

It was a chance to show support for war veterans, cadets and those who are currently serving their country.

In the 70th year since the end of the Second World War we have to remember and show our gratitude.

Without those fighting on our behalf, we would not know freedom, and we would not have anyone to protect us should that freedom be challenged again.

At the moment you cannot fail to pick up a newspaper or watch the news without learning of bloodshed or tensions rising in another part of the world, and also closer to home.

And the threat of terrorism reared its head again last week.

Despite the uncertainty, there are still those who join the Armed Forces, immediately putting their lives on the line. 

It is a step of bravery and sacrifice many of us will never have to make and will never have the courage to.

This was a chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Our admiration, as the country marks this occasion, should extend also to the families of those serving. They too show immense strength in standing by their relatives as they take on this responsibility.