This coming Wednesday marks 97 years since the armistice was signed and at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, the guns fell silent and world war one ended. Armistice day was originally a day to remember those who died during the first world war.
After World War Two, November 11th also became Remembrance Day, some of you may know it simply as Poppy Day. At 11am the country will fall silent for two minutes as we bow our heads and remember those who fought bravely and gave their lives during both world wars and in any conflicts since such as in Korea, Northerrn Ireland the two Gulf Wars, Afghanistan and The Falklands.
Today is Remembrance Sunday. This morning, up and down the country, and across the commonwealth, parades were held, poppies were pinned to coats and wreaths & wooden crosses were laid at cenotaphs to mark our remembrance of those who have fallen in battle.
For the younger generations, who have never seen the threat of war face to face. These parades and silences may seem unimportant. Something ‘not for them’ but for the older generation. Some people even believe that enough time has passed that we should lay the World Wars to rest.
Whilst it is true that the ranks of world war veterans decreases with each passing parade, each year sees more and more younger veterans joining those ranks, they have lost brothers in arms too. Some people don’t seem to realise that this is a time to remember all those who have died in recent history, in the last few decades, are still dying now, to make the world a better place. For us, for everyone. Should we forget them too?
Although the fighting today is nothing more than an image on a TV screen for most, no worse than most films and computer games, it doesn’t make it any less relevant. It doesn’t mean we should forget. If anything it means we should make a concious effort to teach them about the world wars, the whys and the wherefores (age appropriately of course). We should ensure the memories are never forgotten to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
This morning E&Ff took part in their first remembrance parade. They have learnt about the wars in school for many years now, but today was their first chance to stand with their fellow army cadets to pay their tribute. I did the same when I was a cadet, as did Lee. I was so very proud to see them marching with their detachment.
Did you or your children take part in a remembrance parade or service today? Do you believe we should continue to remember those who have died in battle on November 11th?
Our little Poppy was born around this time three years ago, which is how she got her name. This week Lili came home from school and asked if she could have some money to buy a Poppy. I asked her if she knew what it was for and her answer shocked me, she said “yes, it’s to remember all the soldiers that died to save our country”. This from a five year old – amazing, I felt really proud and gave her a pound to buy a poppy.
Heledd – Running in Lavender recently posted…Things I’m Loving Lately {October}
Oh it breaks my heart year after year…will ensure my children understand too
Becky recently posted…Mayalma – artisan crafted home accessories
It breaks my heart every time it comes around, and it’s something we should always remember!
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Oh you must have been so proud – I don’t think I will ever forget the Remembrance Sunday I spent in Belgium while at school x
Sarah Bailey recently posted…Win a Ragdale Experience Day
How very true! Little thought is given to recent wars on this day, which is a shame as so many have given their lives to the service in places such as Afghanistan etc..
Laura Hartley recently posted…HOLYBELLY REVIEW – AMERICAN BRUNCH IN PARIS
It is so important that we remember. I make sure I buy a poppy every year (in fact, I end up buying four or five as the little buggers end up getting lost).
Tori Gabriel recently posted…Parenting Superpowers!
Oh how proud you must be! We must remember thise who died for our country. I used to take part in the service with The Guides but my children haven’t. Kaz x
Ickle Pickle recently posted…James Bond Gift Ideas
My Daughter has taken part in parades in the past when she was in cubs and scouts, I have told her about what the days is and what rememberance day is all about, and she has always brought her own poppy.
StressedMum recently posted…Wax Crayon Christmas Review
You must have been so proud, those men sacrificed a lot to save their country and secure the safety of the generations to come.
Ana De- Jesus recently posted…Redefining Feminism
We must continue to remember those who gave their lives so we might live.
Stella recently posted…Product Review: OGX Coconut Milk Hair Range
I think it’s incredibly important to remember the sacrifice each year. My family and I always go and watch the parade in our town.
I think Remembrance Day is really important. I was a little upset that my son had assembly on the 11th and it was all about Divali rather than Remembrance Day.
Jenny recently posted…Gingerbread jumping jack decoration
The look so smart….You must have been so proud!
It is so important to remember this each year!
Kim Carberry recently posted…This week has been a struggle but it’s not all bad! – WotW
You must have been so proud 🙂 I think its so important for younger generations to know about the war and those who protect our country xxx