Armistice Day is celebrated on November 11th every year, as well as on the second Sunday in November, (known as Remembrance Sunday).
This is a day to celebrate, give thanks and remember the individuals who have served and/or serving in the armed forces or emergency services, families of those with members serving and/or served, and those who have lost their lives in acts of service, acts of terrorism or conflict.
The day sees a 2-minute silence held at the 11th hour. This is a time of thought, reflection, and thanks.
Many Remembrance Services across the country, commonwealth, and nations observe a Bugler play the ‘Last Post’ before a 2-minute silence is held and the ‘Reveille’ to conclude the moments of silence.
Remembrance Sunday is on Sunday 9th November, and this will see the Cenotaph Parade take place in London, as well as the National Remembrance service too. This service provides a physical reminder of those of have served and sacrificed to ensure that no one is forgotten.
The Poppy:
Individuals may choose to wear a ‘Poppy’. This is a personal choice. The poppy is a symbol of remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. It’s important to know that there is no ‘correct’ way to wear a poppy and for those who wish to wear a poppy, this can be reflective on personal experiences and memories and reflection. You can learn more about the poppy and what is symbolises on the Royal British Legion (RBL) site by following this link: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/remembrance/the-poppy/how-do-you-wear-your-poppy
The poppy was adapted as the symbol for Remembrance for over 100 year. The Royal British Legion (RBL) launch their “Poppy Appeal” every year since 1921. As a Union we are offering students the opportunity to purchase a poppy from The Lounge and SU reception – we are also offering the opportunity to be out in the community selling poppies as well. This is a great way to spread word to the local community about the poppy.
The use of the poppy as a symbol of Remembrance was also inspired by the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’. Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae wrote his famous poem inspired by the site of the flowers growing on the battlefield, but the symbolic notion was borne from the actions of Moina Michael (American War Secretary) who had raised money for servicemen in need after the Frist World War by selling poppies. This then developed and was adopted by the RBL in 1921 where they ordered poppies from Anna Guérin.
You can find out about the history of the poppy in more detail on the RBL website as well. https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/remembrance/the-poppy/11-things-you-might-not-know-about-the-poppy
Remembrance Services:
You can get involved with the RBL Remembrance Events or however you choose to be. The RBL have list of events taking place and how you can be involved check out their page here: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/events/remembrance-events
You can also check out your local councils and parish council to see what events are on in your local community to observe or if you are able to participate (you’d need to check the criteria for this).
You can view all the resources that the Royal British Legion provides, as well as read more information about the incredible work they do as well. https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/remembrance
“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.”