EVEN some of the ardent opponents of the military action in Iraq had little but admiration for the members of the armed forces who took part.

The British Army, Navy and Air Force delivered what was asked of them. They freed the people of Iraq from the shackles of a repressive regime.

The task of creating a democratic government in the country has now been transferred to the political leaders of the Coalition and the United Nations.

With the military action at an end, it is now time to consider the most appropriate way to pay tribute to those who took part in the war.

A fully-fledged military victory parade, like the one which followed the Falklands War, is out of the question.

Throughout the Iraq conflict Britain stressed that it was not part of an invasion, but a catalyst for liberation. As such, there is no victory to celebrate.

However, there needs to be a ceremony of some kind to honour those men and women who were prepared to put their lives on the line. And that ceremony needs also to reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Perhaps a service which serves as a memorial to those who lost their lives and a thanksgiving for those who returned safely will be the most fitting occasion.