Remembrance Sunday is a significant and solemn event in the British calendar. The annual tributes have been observed in The United Kingdom, and some other Commonwealth countries, since 1919, when the first Armistice Sunday was held on the 11th November and people across the UK held a commemorative silence, on the 11th minute, of the 11th hour. This is a tradition that continues to be observed today.
The event is dedicated to honouring and remember the members of the armed forces who lost their lives in the line of duty, during World War l, and subsequent conflicts, including World War ll, The Korean War, The Falklands War, The Gulf War, and various peacekeeping missions.
The red poppy flower is commonly worn in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday and on the day itself, as a symbol of remembrance and respect for the fallen. This tradition is based on the famous war poem, “In Flanders Fields” by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, in which poppies are associated with the graves of soldiers.
Having existed through both World Wars, and witnessed several conflicts since, Armistice Sunday is a very important event for Henry Winning. We see Remembrance Sunday as a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who serve, and have served in the armed forces, and an opportunity to express gratitude for their service. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance to strive for peace.
‘They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.’