Fifty years ago the armed forces undoubtedly held a higher profile in the public consciousness. Most people had at least one friend or family member who had served in the military; and in naval or garrison towns, the site of servicemen in their uniform was common place. 

With the decline of the British Empire and the end of the Cold War the armed forces are far smaller. The inevitable result is the public are far less familiar with the work they do.  

Some steps have already been made to rectify this situation: following the IRA ceasefire, the ban on wearing military uniforms in public was lifted and recently, following a call from the Chief of the General Staff, units returning from Iraq and Afghanistan have been greeted by homecoming parades. 

However, it is clear that more needs to be done. There is plenty of debate in the media over the relationship between government and the armed forces – but the standing of the armed forces in wider society is just as important, and that is why the Prime Minister has appointed Quentin Davies MP to lead an inquiry into this matter.   

But what do you think? 

How can the public be better informed about the work of the armed forces? Perhaps you have previously attended Navy Days or Heritage Open Days in Plymouth. What role do they play in achieving a positive recognition for the role of the Navy? Could this be done differently or with better effect (always remembering that budgets matters!)? 

How can communities recognise the work of the armed forces? Should service personnel have access to a greater range of benefits such as commercial discounts? Should we introduce a medal or other form of commemoration for those wounded or killed in action (like the America Purple Heart)? What can we do to mark Veterans Day in 2008?

Please feel free to leave any comments, opinions or ideas below.