WE'VE heard much over the past three weeks about giving your all for your country in the sporting arena. This weekend we have been reminded that in the theatre of war, giving your all means risking, and sometimes losing, your life.
Lieutenant Andrew Chesterman was not known to many of us personally, but he wore the uniform of the British Army, and even those who disagree with our presence in Afghanistan cannot dispute the bravery and commitment of our armed forces.
In recent years Bristol has been largely spared the sight of its soldiers coming home in coffins compared to other English cities, but that is no consolation when faced with the death of a young man whose family now grieve his loss.
Lt Chesterman's death also reminds us that serving in a conflict zone means putting yourself in the path of danger.
When his convoy was attacked he, as the man leading the patrol, did not flinch but went forward to take control of the situation. He was following his training no doubt, but we should never take such bravery for granted.
As both our country and the United States count down to a withdrawal from Afghanistan, it's easy to forget the men and women still serving there, constantly threatened by a largely unseen and vicious enemy.
Lt Chesterman's death should compel us to remember them.
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