Sir, – As the 65th anniversary of D-Day approaches, it is a time to reflect on the courage of those who fought so bravely to protect our way of life.

On June 6, 1944, the Allies landed more than 150,000 troops on the beaches of Normandy in northern France.

Thousands of young men were lost that day but it was to be a significant turning point in the Second World War and we owe all those who risked their lives a great debt.

More than six decades later, many of those veterans may now need our help. The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help supports those who serve, those who used to serve and the families of both.

We have proudly assisted thousands of servicemen and women and their families in times of need, from the war widow facing hardship to the elderly veteran with crippling mobility problems.

And at a time when British troops are once again facing terrible danger, SSAFA continues to provide vital support when and where it is most needed, recently opening accommodation for the relatives of young servicemen and women returning home from overseas operations with serious and lifethreatening injuries.

Each year, the charity’s dedicated staff and volunteers assist more than 50,000 people nationwide.

In 2008, SSAFA Forces Help’s Cleveland branch assisted over 500 people with a range of needs, providing mobility vehicles and home adaptations for the elderly and disabled, assisting those entitled to apply for benefits and war pensions and making friendship visits to the lonely, ill or bereaved. We have offices in Middlesbrough and Stockton and will shortly be opening an office and charity shop in Redcar.

Just one day’s paid service in any of our Armed Forces or Reserve Forces qualifies you for a lifetime of support from SSAFA.

This includes anyone who has done National Service, close relatives, widows and widowers.

If you think SSAFA Forces Help can assist you or someone you know please contact the Cleveland Branch on 01642 217440 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk for further information.

ALAN CROSSKILL Cleveland branch PRO