As a comparatively recent (1976) serving soldier I can say that contrary to popular opinion, very few soldiers have ever laid down their lives for their country.
They may have enlisted in order to serve their country if they joined up in time of war, but they died for their mates, just as their mates would have died for them.
It is easier to understand as a civilian if you think of the army/navy/air force as a 'family'.
Once you realise that, it is easier to see why a soldier is willing to die for his/her brother/sister. It may sound trite, but it is perfectly true.
Home, England, Glory, Duty. Just words to the soldier.
What counts is not letting his brother down. He is covering your back and you are covering his.

As for the treatment of returning 'heroes' nothing has changed since Queen Elizabeth 1 watched as her seamen who had destroyed the Spanish Armada died of disease & starvation after the battle, or the survivors of the Light Brigade who were reduced to begging in the streets after the Crimean War - it has ever been thus, despite posturing by politicians who tell lies to win votes.

White poppies? Why?
Red poppies are for remembrance and are worn on Remembrance Day. Not, in my opinion, the White poppy.
The red poppy is not just for the military but also the civilian casualties.
The White poppy is for Peace and should be worn on World Peace Day.
I would happily wear one on that date, but NOT on Remembrance Day

I wont go on about what I think of the RBL or that bunch of crooks who call themselves Help4Heroes as that would take anothe couple of pages and might very well lead to my computer blowing a fuse.

Signed
'Disgusted' of Kent.