Today was a special day in the nation’s calendar. It’s Remembrance Sunday – a day that marks and commemorates the contribution of British (and Commonwealth) military servicemen and women to the two World Wars, and later conflicts. It’s always held on the closest Sunday to the 11th November – Armistice Day, or the end of fighting in World War One – 11:00am on the 11th November in 1918.

Across Wales the day is commemorated by special services and events in churches, chapels and at the war memorials in cities, towns and villages. It’s a day of remembrance and reflection as tribute and honour is paid to those who gave their lives to protect our freedom. Two minutes’ silence is held at 11 am before wreaths are laid on the memorials. In London, the National Ceremony takes place at the Whitehall Cenotaph in the centre of the city. The first wreath is traditionally laid by the Queen, followed by the Duke of Edinburgh and then by other Royals.

The flower of Remembrance Day is the gorgeous red poppy. It’s been used since 1921 to symbolise the bravery of those who have fought. Said to have been inspired by Canadian poet and Lieutenant John McCrae’s poem “In Flander’s Field”. In Britain, bright paper poppies are sold in the run-up to Remembrance Sunday, so that people can wear them as a mark of respect. Donations are received by the British Legion to their Poppy Appeal.

So on this solemn, but special day, why not wear your poppy with pride, and take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices, bravery and dedication of all the servicemen and women of our country, both past and present…….

Lest we forget on Remembrance Sunday…..

In Flanders Field

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

John McCrae

Image by POA(Phot) Mez Merrill/MOD on wiki commons