Day: May 17, 2023

Contentious argument

One of the first things I heard on the BBC this morning was a reference to the anniversary of “the infamous dam buster raid”.

I thought the BBC was supposed to be impartial in its news reporting, so I object to the word “infamous”, which means “well known to be bad or evil”.

My feelings about recent stories relating to Russia’s perceived plan to destroy dams in Ukraine have led me to reconsider the rights and wrongs of Operation Chastise with the following conclusion. The aim of the raid was to strike at German industry, both its power source and water needs, as well as to disrupt water transport. Compared with the concurrent carpet bombing of cities I believe it to have been a better method. It was certainly not evil in intent or operation.

Another, more uplifting quote heard on the BBC this morning was: “The mind is like a parachute – it only works when it is open.” I want to remember that one.

It’s a beautiful sunny day and the horses are exchanging their raincoats for fly sheets and masks., along with fly-repellent ointment in sensitive areas.

I had a full eye test today and, as expected, my prescription has changed considerably since the last operation to reduce swelling of the left eyeball. New spectacles have set me back over £500. The new frames are so light I can imagine myself searching for my specs while they are on my nose.

A programme on TV about the untold Falklands War reminded me of an acquaintance in the Special Boat Service, Royal Marines, who was suddenly sent to Gibraltar to set up extra communications links with the South Atlantic one month before the surprise attack by the Argentinians. It is clear now that both side’s governments needed a war to distract their people from domestic problems.

I drove to Guildford for a meeting this evening. Traffic was so bad in the town that most of the extra 30 minutes driving time I had allowed was used up. I found a nearby car park and rushed to the hall. It was my first time in the area. Later, leaving the hall from the opposite end I could not find the car park. A local helpfully sent me in the wrong direction. Eventually I found the hall again and followed the one-way road system until I came upon the car park. Ah well, an unexpected extra 25 minutes walking exercise.