Former soldier is a social media hit with incredible tribute to the fallen

"That's what we fight for: to protect the future of our children and grandchildren," says a former soldier who's gone viral with his moving Remembrance performance with schoolchildren.

- by Katy Wheeler

Former soldier Joe McMillar with pupils from St Joseph's.

Joe McMillan, 57, who lives in Seaham but is originally from Hartlepool, served 24 years in the Light Infantry and The Rifles, reaching the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major, conducting many operational tours of places including Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone and Iraq.

During that time, he would often sing for his mates in the back of a truck or on the table in the 'Naffy.'

After performing in his local pub, The Mallard, three years ago, and getting a great reception, the army veteran turned his passion into a part-time job, performing at pubs, care homes and more under his stage name of SoldierMac.