FADED film footage and ever- fading human memories are still capable of bringing home the awful reality of the Second World War to those fortunate generations that played no part in it.

From the baby-boomers onwards, the conflict of 1939-45 has dominated the collective consciousness like no other, thanks mainly to the movie camera.

But while we have all seen the Messerschmitts blasted out of the sky and Desert Rats capturing one of Rommel's tanks, how often have we appreciated the human side of war?

The answer is rarely. But occasionally, we are brought face-to-face with the heartache endured by ordinary people who were abruptly separated from their loved ones during this dark period in history.

Today's story of the lovesick RAF romeo provides an illuminating insight regarding the hopes and fears of those who answered the call to arms.

For even after more than 60 years, Cyril Spragg's love letters to his wife retain a poignancy that defies the passage of time.

The serviceman, posted to the wilds of Scotland, is wracked with insecurity as he speaks of his love for "darling Pippy". How he longs to be with her and their young daughter, to hold them in his arms... and then prays that no one will take his place during his absence.

As we know, Nazi tyranny was ultimately defeated by courage and fortitude. But this evil also foundered thanks to the devotion of men like Cyril Spragg who did his duty... even though his heart was breaking.